My paternal Grandfather fought with the 8th KOYLIs (King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry) on the First Day of the Somme, where he was seriously wounded. When he died we found these documents in his papers. I think they speak for themselves.
He survived the war and ended up as a Sergeant in the Department of the Military Secretary. He lived to the age of 94. He was instrumental in organising the 8th KOYLI reunion dinners every year until at least the mid 60's. If you want anything done, give it to an NCO.
He survived the war and ended up as a Sergeant in the Department of the Military Secretary. He lived to the age of 94. He was instrumental in organising the 8th KOYLI reunion dinners every year until at least the mid 60's. If you want anything done, give it to an NCO.
What a wonderful set of documents! They will always serve as a means by which you can remember your grandfather and the service he performed.
ReplyDeleteI have his "Blue Form" as well, but alas too fragile to scan and some others as well. He also wrote a memoitr "One of One Hundred Thousand" which is almost in a fit state to be published. Actually it has been for quite a few years. Now I have more time on my hands perrhaps I'll finish it.
DeleteI have my great-grandfather's discharge papers from the US Army. He served in WWI as well, but he was already gone by the time I came on the scene. Have to wonder what stories he might have told? Family history also alludes that he served during WWII as well, and was rewarded with citizenship afterward (he was an Italian immigrant, came here to the US before WWI). One day I'd like to research his service further...
ReplyDeleteBy the time your great-grandfather arrived my grandfather was doing a desk job in London as he wasn't fit enough to return to active duty.
DeleteIt is an irony that being wounded in a way made his fortune. He went on from the desk job to taking the civil service examinations and becoming reasonable senior manager in the civil service.
If you are going to research his service start now. Don't leave it until some half daft relative puts what remains through the shredder.
I'm very lucky with what we have been left, but we know some has gone. We (my brother and I) are now working on how to share what we have with the rest of the family.