Soldier Record

Richard Henry Webb joined the 4th Dragoon Guards in December 1908, lying about his age. He was transferred to the Army Reserve in February 1914 and was mobilised at the outbreak of the Great War. He was in action at Mons, and then following the German advance, he and a comrade became cut off behind enemy lines. (On his service records he was recorded as being killed on 29 August 1914.)

Hidden behind German lines for over two years.

For over two years, helped by friendly farmers, they managed to avoid the Gremans, but were eventually captured. They were taken to Avesnes and tried as spies, found guilty and sentenced to death. This was appealed by their defending officer. The charge was then changed to living in an occupied country and not surrendering and again they were found guilty and the death sentence passed. Again this was appealed and the sentence was changed to 15 years imprisonment.

On November 11th Pte Webb escaped from the camp, where he was being held, and made his way to Bremen where he gave himself up to the Revolutionary Council. He was given a permit to travel to Holland and was put on a train. Subsequently he rejoined his regiment and shortly afterwards returned home.

His story was published in the Birmingham Post in December 1918.