Military History

Ernest is recorded as dying from wounds on 8 Sep 1916 and he was buried at Heilly Station Cemetery. At the time of his death Heilly was the base for three Casualty Clearing Stations, the 36th, 38th and 2/2nd London. We have not found any records to show which of the three Ernest died at. Additionally the Battalion War Diary does not reveal on which day Ernest was wounded. The entries covering the 1st to 9th Septemeber are transcribed below and they show that he was likely wounded between the 1st & 4th inclusive:

Mametz Wood - 1/9/16: - In support in Mametz Wood, resting. During the night our area was severely shelled with gas shells causing two deaths.

Bazentine le Grand 2/9/16: Moved up in support to 1st Black Watch with C&D Companies attached to them

Bazentine le Grand 3/9/16: In support to 1st Black Watch who attacked High Wood. This attack failed and during the day A&B Companies were later moved up to immediate support line.

High Wood 4/9/16: Took over front line in High Wood with two companies of 1st Black Watch loaned to us.

Becourt Wood 5/9/16: Relieved by 2nd Brigade & moved back to reserve in Becourt Wood where the Battalion rested until 9/9/16.

High Wood 9/9/16: Battalion loaned to 3rd Brigade with whom it attacked the German Line in High Wood. Very little notice was given of this attack & the assaulting companies (C&D) only got into position just before Zero. The attack failed, the casualties amounting to 4 Officers and 118 other ranks.