My great uncle Arthur was born on 22 July 1897 in Lambeth, London, England. He enlisted aged just 17 along with his two older brothers, Albert and Joseph who survived both world wars, living until they were aged 92 and 80 respectively. Arthur died aged 19, just six weeks after his birthday. His death cast a shadow on the family that his parents and siblings never recovered from. Arthur is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial Pier and Face 16 B and 16 C; sadly, none of his brothers or sisters was able to pay their respects during their lifetime, as they never knew where he was buried. Something his great niece and great nephew plan to address during this 100th year commemoration. Gone, but never forgotten.

Lesley Perry