Military History

William is listed as being killed in action 17 Apr 1918. The 2nd Battalion war diary entries for the 16th and 17th April are transcribed.

Croix de Poperinghe - 16th April 1918: Nothing much to do in our new positions except to await events. Towards the evening the enemy attacked twice after a sharp bombardment which caused casualties to the 9th N.F. and 10th Lincs who held the left of the 103rd Bde. The enemy failed to penetrate our lines.

Croix de Poperinghe - 17th April 1918: About 3.30am a request came down from the O.C. 9th N. F's for the support of two company's of this Bn and Y & Z Coys were sent forward. They came under heavy fire all day and sustained casualties

At 5pm the enemy again attacked, Capt Ogier? who commanded the two companies Y & Z forestalled a wavering in the front line by at one advancing his Company and meeting the enemy in the front line. This action undoubtedly saved a breach in the line. Throughout operations Capt Ogier greatly distinguished himself showing great powers of command and initiative. Unfortunately the services of of this gallant officer will not be available in the near future as he received a bullet wound in the leg. He did not leave his Company however till all was settled and dusk had fallen.

In the evening the Battalion moved forward to relief the 9th N.F and a company of the 10th Lincs. The night was exceedingly dark and the position of the ourpost exceedingly difficult to find. At this period the Battalion was reduced to 7 Officers all told.

Casualties: Other Ranks - 10 killed, 29 wounded, 3 hospital (sick). Capt Ogier & 2nd Lt J R Hatch wounded.