Soldier Record

Arthur's last letter to his young sister Marjorie was written only twelve days before he was killed. The address given is Machine Gun Coy., 5th Brigade, A Section. 18th July 1916. He wrote that he was 'pretty well and manage to pull along all right, of course, with a lot of grumbling etc - that's only natural for a Tommy. I hope though that the war will be over before the winter, as I shouldn't like another one out here.' He also wrote that he was pleased to get Marjorie's letter and added, 'I was in the trenches at the time but am not at present. The village our Coy. is billeted in only boasts one small shop, but never mind I don't suppose we shall remain here long.' The rest of the letter consists of cheerful and kindly teasing comments to his two little sisters and ends, 'I am your affectionate Bro. Art xxxx.' In 1992 Marjorie, then 85 years old, produced three well worn and treasured letters - they had never left her since 1916.

I don't suppose we shall remain here long

Arthur was killed in action on 30th July 1916 during the Battle of the Somme aged just 22. Arthur has no known grave but his name is recorded on the Theipval Memorial in France.