Soldier Record
James Purvis
Contributed by: Don Wood, on 2008-11-11
| Rank | |
|---|---|
| First Name | James |
| Surname | Purvis |
| Year of Birth | 1880 |
| Year of Death | 1966 |
| Regiment | Royal Northumberland Fusiliers |
| Place of Wartime Residence | Durham |
James's Story
Aged 35 with two children when he volunteered for 18th Battallion Northumberland Fusillers (Pioneers). Did not seem to be in the Frontline frequently, but seemed to have his mining skills used in work on trenches and burial parties. First day of the Somme saw him at Becourt near Ovillers. His platoon ("D") supported Tunnelling Company in Digging mines under Lochnagar and "Y" SAP. He was in the line supporting Canadians when the first ever Tank attack happened. Saw service on Vimy Ridge, Arras, Ypres and Armentieres. Temporarily lost sight and voice in Gas Attack at Erquingham near Armentieres in German push April 1918. Released from hospital in Blackpool in 1919. Returned to work as a miner at Victoria Garesfield.
No additional memories have been submitted