Military History

Ernest is listed as being killed in action on 21 Nov 1917 having originally been reported as missing in action. The 2nd Battalion war diary for that day is transcribed below.

Marcoing, 20 Nov 1918 - 2300: The Bn received orders to hold itself in readiness to renew the attack at dawn on the Rumilly trenches and village. During the night the hour of attack was postponed till 11am, the order also stated they 9 tanks would assist with the attack.

Marcoing, 21 Nov 1918 - 0600: At 6am no further information having been received about the tanks, an attempt was made to get in touch with them. No information could be obtained in Marcoing but 7 tanks were found belonging to A Bn who were willing to assist even though they had been fighting all day before the Tank officers came forward to arrange details of the advance & at 12 noon the advance started. At the time of the attack Masnieres was still not occupied by our troops.

After the attack at about 2pm the Bn occupied the line G.20.b.6.0 - G.20.a.3.7, C Coy on the left & the remaining Companies who were much mixed up holding the rest of the line to the Cambrai Road. Bn HQ about 200yds back in an old ammunition pit. After the attack had failed orders were received from Brigade to return to our original position but this was cancelled when it was known what line the Bn had taken up.

The end houses of Masnieres had not been entered & after dark a special party was sent to clear them out if occupied and establish a post there. This was done. 1 German and 3 civilians were found there and sent back. The Bn was not in touch with any troops on our right. END