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RICHARD WILLIAM ROBY FLETCHER
Private G/849
Duke Of Cambridge`s Own (Middlesex Regiment 17th Battalion)
Died Of Wounds 30/07/1916
Age 18
CORBIE COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, Plot 1. Row H. Grave 10.
Details of the Cemetery can be found here (Opens in a new window)
Son of Richard Arthur and Margaret Fletcher, of 58, Bateman Road, London.
Born: Highgate, Middlesex Enlisted: Kingsway, Middlesex Residence: Walthamstow, Essex
Regimental War Diary information
The 17th Battalion, Middlesex Regiment, were ordered to enter the infamous Delville Wood on the 28th July and defend it from German counter attack.
Along with the 2nd South Stafford`s they were the only 2 battalions in the wood on the 28th. Throughout the day the enemy shell fire was heavy, but became more intense that night.
The Germans then counter attacked fiercely but were pushed back by the 2 battalions in the wood.
The 29th was another day of trial and `sticking it out` for again the enemy guns poured a merciless stream of shell on the wood. On the night of the 29th July, at 9pm they were relieved by the 13th Essex at Delville Wood, so most likely Private Fletcher was wounded and died as a result on the 30th July after they had been moved out of the front line.
For more information on Delville Wood go here(Opens in a new window) |