Military History

Edward is listed as being Killed in Action of 3 Sep 1916. The 15th Battalion war diary entries for the 2nd and 3rd September are transcribed below.

N of Maricourt - 2/9/16: Preparations for going into the line at night. Men equipped & inspected in Battle Order. Moved off at 9.45pm. Bright star light night & progress easy. Although slow owing to large amount to be carried - two days rations, tools, extra S.A.A, flares, lights etc.

Operation orders for the attack on the 3rd arrive & arrangments made accordingly Battalion in assembly positions by 2am.

Trenches - Angle Wood - 3/9/16: Dispositions, the Battalion supporting 2/K.O.S.B:

A Coy on right in support trench behind road (B.2.c.3.4 to B.1.d.9.8)

B on left in support trench behind road (B.2.c.3.4 to B.1.d.9.8)

C in trench at bottom of ridge 50 yards in rear

D in trench at Angle Wood

9am: 2/K.O.S.B attacked Falfemont Farm. Attack failed owing to heavy Machine Gun fire. Received orders to repeat the attack at 1pm at the same hour as the general attack with the French on our right and 14/R War R on our left. Men went over splendily but M.G. fire again held up the advance & line to come back. Casualties heavy. Officer casualties unfortunately several fell before attack was actually launched. No question as to the courage of the men and not their fault that the attack did not suceed. Reinforced by 1/Cheshires. Remains of Bn reorganised and eventually withdrawn to support line, the Cheshires taking over. During these operations the Bn formed the extreme right of the British line. Liasons kept up with the French by means of interpreters and runners.

Casualties: Officers - 1 killed 1 and 7 wounded. Other Ranks: 30 killed, 144 wounded & 49 missing. Total 231

N of Maricourt - 4/9/16: At 3am received orders to withdraw to Casement Trench. Arrived there at dawn. Hot tea and sleep

Carrying parties for the 15th Brigade in the evening.

News received of success of 5th Division. Objectives taken. Also success of the French.