Military History

Walter is listed as being killed in action on 5 Aug 1916 during the Battle of Romani which was a failed offensive by the German & Turkish forces aimed at capturing the Suez Canal. In his book The Warwickshire Yeomanry in the Great War The Hon. H.A. Adderley wrote:

"On the day of the Battle of Romani (August 4th, 1916) the Gloucester Squadrons were holding two battalions of the enemy at Hod-Abu-Adi, advancing from Hod-el-Enna, and the Warwicks were ordered to support them.

They came into action at Seifanlya and attacked the Turks who were holding a Ridge at Hod-el-Enna (Mount Royston) With three machine guns and a few riflemen. Although inflicting some loss the advance was checked, and at this point Lieut. Stafford and a few men were wounded; but machine guns were brought into action with success, supported by two troops with rifle fire. At the same time two troops of C Squadron and one of B galloped round on the right flank, and relieved the pressure on the south side, keeping the situation well in hand until the arrival of Squadron Leader Capt. Napier, and eventually the position was taken.

2^nd-Lieut. Lovelock Died of wounds, S.S. Malin was killed, and Lieut. Stafford and four men were wounded.

After the engagement the Troops retired to Pelusium. END