Military History

Harry is listed as being killed in action on 2nd November 1914 during the First Battle of Ypres. The 2nd Battalion war diary entry for that day is transcribed below.

2/11/14 – Veldhoek: Early in the morning movements of the enemy on the right front of our position were noticed and the left of D Company was brought back so as to form a continuous line and connect up with "C" Company. The Battalion formed the night of 20th Brigade.

At about 10am a terrific shelling commenced and was continued until about 3 hrs - very little damage was done. Shortly after 3pm bugles were heard and the enemy charged. (it is noteworthy to record that the noise made by them charging so alarmed the Reserve body of troops that they were fell in and prepared to assist us) – but the Battalion withheld its fire until the enemy was almost on top of us – then the signal was give and a terrific fire was poured in. The number killed is almost impossible to state but a rough estimate: about 200 to 300 killed on our front alone. The enemy retired under the cover of woods.

Again the Bugles sounded and again the same scene enacted – but with the difference that the troops on our right gave way. The Battalion was in danger of being surrounded and Sgt Booth noticing this left his trench and gallantly led up two sections which were in reserve, occupied the trenches which had been vacated [on the right], and so kept the line intact until reinforcements came up 3 hours later. The enemy were compelled to desist.

The Battalion was relieved at night and retired to woods near Ypres road as reserve.

Casualties on this day were Lt H V Gerrard killed, 2 Lt G H Hodgson severely wounded [died of wounds 6/11/15], 14 killed and 35 wounded [other ranks]