Military History

Herbert is listed as being killed on or after 19 Jun 1917. His service record contains a document which suggests that he may have died in Germany and the Red Cross sent a list of men who the German's had identified as being killed to the British Arm. Click for the Red Cross Record. A letter was sent by the Army to Herbert's widow Ethel stating that they accepted that he died on or about 19 Jun 1917.

The 1st/6th Battalion war diary entries for the 18th and 19th June 1917 are transcribed below and it shows that on the 19th efforts were being made to find missing men.

In the Line at Lebucquiere - June 18th: A & D Coys attacked enemy post K.1.b.8.7 in Cambrai Road. A Coy with platoons each side of Road, D Coy in support and covering flanks. Creeping artillery barrage, M.G. barrage and Stokes Mortars on post and flanks. Platoons on left of road reached objective with few casualties, those on the right heavy casualties from our barrage and met considerable opposition, reinforced by supports reached objected and crater 200 yards in rear.

1 Officer and 10 O.R. of enemy captured and considerable casualties inflicted. Our casualties Capt G. Linford, 2^nd Lts Grant and Dowsett wounded. 38 O.R< wounded and 10 O.R. missing [including Herbert?]

In the Line at Lebucquiere - June 19th: C.S.M Gowdie and 3 O.R. supported by 3 platoons D Coy under Capt H.A. Linfoot searched ground beyond Cross Roads for traces of missing men. Pte Creek was brought in wounded. Patrol under heavy fire returned with 2 slight casualties.