My Great Uncle Len, was killed in action during the first world war.  He died after becoming wounded in the 3rd Battle of Ypres. The nurse who tended to him in his dying hours wrote the following to my Great Grandmother -

Dear Mrs Hancox

Yours son Cpl Hancox was admitted into my ward during the night of the 22nd!  He was very badly wounded in both legs and right arm and his condition on admission was very serious.  He picked up a bit for a short time but then became gradually worse and died at 3.30am on the 23rd.

He was a very good boy and did not complain of anything except that he was very tired.  I told him that I would write to you and he was very pleased.  He sent his love to all at home and hoped that you would not fret too much.  As I said before he was a good chap and such a fine looking boy and you must feel his loss very much.

He was buried in the English cemetery close by here.  His grave will be marked with a wooden cross bearing his name and his regiment.

All his personal belongings were handed in and you will I hope receive them in due course.

Perhaps these few lines will be a little comfort to you.  I thought you would like to hear from some one who had seen your boy returned to comfort during his last few hours. 

I am very sorry indeed to give you such sad news of your boy he who has done so much for us all.

With most sincere sympathy 

Yours truly 

Sister J S B Brotchie of No10 Casualty Clearing 

Ian Jones