Soldier Record

Regimental number: 34474

Great Uncle Walter

Death of Pte W J Back - Much sorrow and regret was felt in the village and surrounding district when the news arrived that Pte W J Back Somerset Light Infantry had died at the Station Hospital, Ambala India, on the 27th October 1918. Death was due to Pneumonia following influenza. Pte Back joined the Colours about two years before, and after recieving most of his training on Salisbury Plain he sailed from Plymouth in March 1917, en route for India, and during his stay there he was on three occasions laid up with fever. In civil life he was employed at the Rose Mill Lace Facotory, and was an ardent worker at the Wesleyan Church. He was well-known and highly respected thoughout a large area. He was aged 33 years. Much sympathy was felt with the parents and other relatives and friends in thier sad bereavement. Mr and Mrs Back have two other sons serving - one in Itlay and the other in France. Another son has served three years but has now been discharged. A memorial service for the deceased soldier was held at the Weslyan Church.