Thomas, I do not know the precise circumstances of your death, but, as a former Lincolns Lance Corporal myself, doing my National Service in 1950 with the 1st Battalion in the Suez Canal Zone, I can still salute you as the brave young NCO you undoubtedly were, who died in the service of his country. You were laid to rest in Lapugnoy Military  Cemetery, 6km west of Bethune. Two Casualty Clearing Stations, the 18th and the 23rd assisted in dealing with the casualties from the Battle of Arras from April 1917 onwards. You were one of 5 members of the Lincolns who perished and are now at rest here in Lapugnoy. I trust that the Guard of Honour at your graveside fired the traditional salute to a fallen comrade. I can but quote the memorial hymn again, “All you had hoped for, all you had you gave to save mankind – yourself you scorned to save.”   In addition to your gravestone at Lapugnoy, you are also remembered every year at the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance, when the parade is at the attention while the Queen’s Colour and the National Standard are dipped in salute as the Last Post is sounded. I offer my sympathy to your relatives who mourned your sacrifice. Rest in Peace. Harry.

Henry Harrison