Friends of the Somme - Mid Ulster Branch  
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Date Name Information
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds The CWGC record Private Hamilton McReynolds as the youngest son of Hugh and Jean McReynolds of Killymoon Street, Cookstown, County Tyrone.
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds Private Hamilton McReynolds is commemorated locally on Stewartstown Cenotaph and Donaghendry Church of Ireland Roll of Honour, Stewartstown.
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds Private Hamilton McReynolds is buried in Doullens Communal Cemetery Extension No 1 at the Somme in France. The inscription on his grave reads:- YOUNGER SON OF HUGH & JEAN McREYNOLDS KILLYMOON STREET, COOKSTOWN IRELAND
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds Private Hamilton McReynolds was severely wounded by shrapnel from enemy shell fire on the 9th March 1916 and taken to Number 19 Casualty Clearing station where he died of wounds on Sunday 12th March 1916.
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds Hamilton McReynolds enlisted with the 12th Battalion Inniskillings on 15th May 1915 and later transferred to the 9th Battalion when they were posted to France with the Ulster Division.
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds Prior to enlistment Hamilton was employed by Mr Glendinning at Sessiagh, Stewartstown.
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds Hamilton McReynolds was a member of L.O.L. No 126.
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds Hamilton was a popular member of the Sherrygroom section of the Ulster Volunteer Force.
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds The 1911 census lists Hamilton as age 14, living with the family at house 20 in Donaghey, Stewartstown. Hamilton was still at school. His father was an agricultural labourer.
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds Family: Hugh McReynolds, Jane McReynolds, William McReynolds (born 7th September 1893), Hamilton Patterson McReynolds (born 10th March 1897), Jane Boyd McReynolds (born 12th February 1899), Catherine McReynolds (born 19th March 1901).
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds The 1901 census lists Hamilton as age 4, living with the family at house 2 in Ross, Stewartstown. Hugh McReynolds was a farm servant.
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds Hamilton Patterson McReynolds was born at Donaghey, Sherrygroom on 10th March 1897. He was the second of four children.
30/03/2018 Pte. Hamilton Patterson McReynolds Hamilton McReynolds was the youngest son of Hugh and Jean McReynolds. Hugh McReynolds and Jean Spratt were married on 17th May 1892 in the district of Cookstown.
30/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. The 1911 census does not list Robert as living with his wife and in-laws at house 13 in Killymoon Demesne in Cookstown. This seems to suggest that he may have already joined the army.
30/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Robert McNicol and Elizabeth Lyttle were married on 25th August 1910 in the district of Cookstown.
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29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Robert’s younger brother also served. Lance Corporal Daniel McNicol, of the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, was wounded for a second time in France in early 1916. He was severely wounded during the war, resulting in the loss of one of his legs. Daniel survived the war and returned to Killycurragh.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Private McNicol M.M. is also commemorated on Cookstown Cenotaph.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Private Robert McNicol M.M. has no known grave and is commemorated on panel 79 - 80 at Pozieres Memorial in France.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Acting Corporal Robert McNicol M.M. was serving with the 1st Battalion of the Royal Dublin Fusiliers when he was listed as missing, killed in action on Saturday 30th March 1918, during the German Spring Offensive of 1918.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. The London and Edinburgh Gazette announced the award of his Military Medal (without an accompanying citation) in November 1916.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Acting Corporal Robert McNicol was awarded the Military Medal. The Military Medal was awarded to men and women who had shown individual or associated acts of bravery and at least 115,000 were awarded during the First World War.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Robert McNicol was invalided from the Dardanelles after being recommended for gallantry.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Private Robert McNicol transferred to the Royal Dublin Fusiliers.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Private Robert McNicol served for a time with the Royal Garrison Artillery, having the Regimental No. 29639.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Robert enlisted in Cookstown.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. The 1911 census does not list Robert as living with the family at house 13 in Killycurragh, Orritor. His father was a farm servant.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. The 1901 census does not list Robert as living with the family at house 12 in Killycurragh, Orritor, Cookstown. Daniel McNicol was a labourer.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Family: Daniel McNicol, Bridget McNicol, Martha McNicol (born 20th November 1882), William McNicol (born 1st April 1884), Mary McNicol (born 28th November 1885), Robert McNicol (born 19th May 1887), Lily McNicol (born 7th February 1889), Margaret McNicol (born 15th January 1891), Daniel McNicol (born 20th April 1892)
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Robert McNicol was born on 19th May 1887 in the Cookstown area, probably in the Killycurragh area. He was the middle child of seven.
29/03/2018 Pte. Robert McNicol M.M. Robert McNicol was the son of Daniel and Brigid McNicol. Daniel McNicol and Bridget ‘Biddy’ Maye were married on 19th November 1881 in the district of Cookstown.
28/03/2018 Pte. William James McMinn Before enlisting, he had moved to Scotland and was living in Motherwell. He was employed on munitions.
28/03/2018 Pte. William James McMinn William was a member of the Ulster Volunteer Force.
28/03/2018 Pte. William James McMinn William was a member of Coalisland L.O.L. No 93.
28/03/2018 Pte. William James McMinn The 1911 census lists William James as age 12 living with the family at house 35 in Derry, Tullyniskane, County Tyrone. William was still at school.
28/03/2018 Pte. William James McMinn Family: John McMinn, Mary Jane McMinn, Robert John McMinn (born 21st March 1897), William James McMinn (born 11th September 1898), Frederick George McMinn (born 26th April 1900), Albert Edward McMinn (born 18th July 1902), Samuel Joseph McMinn (born 21st August 1905).
28/03/2018 Pte. William James McMinn The 1901 census lists William James as age 2 living with the family at house 22 in Derry, Tullyniskane, County Tyrone. His father, John McMinn, was a spade finisher.
28/03/2018 Pte. William James McMinn William McMinn was born on 11th September 1898. Military records suggest he was born in the parish of Derryloran, Cookstown. However, GRONI record him as being born in the Coalisland area of Dungannon.
28/03/2018 Pte. William James McMinn William James McMinn was the second son of John and Mary Jane McMinn. John McMinn and Mary Jane McMinn (nee McMinn) were married on 6th April 1896 in the district of Dungannon.
28/03/2018 Pte. William James McMinn William McMinn enlisted in Hamilton, Scotland with the 1st Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers sometime in late 1916.
28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy 01426
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28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy Private David McMenemy has no known grave and is commemorated on panel 5 at Ploegsteert Memorial, Belgium. He is also commemorated on Cookstown Cenotaph.
28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy Three of David’s brothers – John McMenemy, Robert McMenemy and Samuel McMenemy, also served during the First World War. John had been wounded in action at Gallipoli and again at the Somme. Robert and Samuel had both been gassed but recovered.
28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy Private David McMenemy was serving with the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers when he was killed in action on Wednesday 21st October 1914. He was 21 years old.
28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy On the 21st October 1914, the 2nd Battalion were involved in a very heavy German attack which drove them back about three hundred yards. The Battalion held their position from 5.15pm to after midnight when they were able to re-take their former trench.
28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy David McMenemy enlisted in Cookstown and joined the Royal Inniskillings Fusiliers Special Reserve in January 1914 and was called up on the outbreak of hostilities and sent to the Western Front with the first draft.
28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy David McMenemy was regarded as a popular young man in the district and a valued member of L.O.L. 111.
28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy The 1911 census records David as 17 years old, living with the family at Donaghrisk, Tullaghoge, County Tyrone. David was working as a farm servant.
28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy Family: Samuel McMenemy, Margaret Ann McMenemy, John McMenemy (born 13th June 1888?), Samuel McMenemy (born 8th January 1890), Margaret McMenemy (born about 1892), David McMenemy (born 20th August 1893), Robert McMenemy (born 12th January 1895), Mary Jane McMenemy (born 15th May 1896), Alexander McMenemy (born about 1898), Martha McMenemy (born about 1901), Joseph McMenemy (born 21st April 1900), Edward McMenemy (born 10th October 1902, died 1st May 1905, age 2), Charles McMenemy (born 12th June 1906).
28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy The 1901 census records David as 7 years old. The family lived in Tullyhogue. His father Samuel was a farm servant. Both his elder brothers had left school and were working as linen weavers.
28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy His father, Samuel, had previously spent twenty years serving in the British Army.
28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy David was born on 20th August 1893 in Tullyhogue, Cookstown. He was one of at least eleven children, nine surviving.
28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy David McMenemy was the third son of Samuel and Margaret Ann McMenemy. Samuel McMenemy and Margaret Ann Campbell were married on 7th May 1887 in the district of Cookstown.
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28/03/2018 Pte. David McMenemy The CWGC record Private David McMenemy as the son of Samuel and M A McMenemy, of Tullyhogue, Dungannon, County Tyrone
26/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McLernon Known family: Alexander McLernon, Jane McLernon, James McLernon (born 29th January 1902), Matilda McLernon (born 14th October 1904), Sarah McLernon (born 23rd January 1907), Mary Elizabeth McLernon (born 28th November 1908), Alexander McLernon (born 7th January 1911), Henry McLernon (born 24th January 1912).
26/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McLernon Alexander McLernon was the son of James and Matilda McLernon (nee Dougal). They were married on 27th November 1873 in Cookstown.
26/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McKinney The CWGC record Private Alexander McKinney as the son of A McKinney.
26/03/2018 Carp Crew Thomas McKeown The CWGC record Carpenters Crew Thomas McKeown as the son of Samuel McKeown of Burn Road, Cookstown, County Tyrone.
26/03/2018 Carp Crew Thomas McKeown Family: Samuel McKeown, Sarah McKeown, Samuel McKeown (born 16th May 1885), Margaret McKeown (born 11th December 1886), Robert McKeown (born 21st January 1889), Thomas McKeown (born 31st July 1890), Fredrick McKeown (born 21st January 1892).
26/03/2018 Carp Crew Thomas McKeown Samuel McKeown and Isabella McKeown (nee McKeown) were married on 9th July 1892 in the district of Cookstown.
26/03/2018 Carp Crew Thomas McKeown Thomas’s mother died around 1892.
26/03/2018 Carp Crew Thomas McKeown Thomas was born on 31st July 1890 in Cookstown. He was the second youngest of five children, all surviving.
26/03/2018 Carp Crew Thomas McKeown Thomas McKeown was the son of Samuel and Sarah McKeown. Samuel McKeown and Sarah Brown were married on 14th January 1885 in the district of Cookstown.
26/03/2018 Pte. Hugh McKeown Private Hugh McKeown has no known grave and is commemorated on panel 4D-5B on the Thiepval Memorial in France.
26/03/2018 Pte. Hugh McKeown Private McKeown was part of a night patrol lead by Lieutenant Cecil W Glenn when the 1st Battalion attacked enemy positions on 28th January 1917, south Le Transloy. Even though the mission was a success, the battalion lost eighteen men.
26/03/2018 Pte. Hugh McKeown Private Hugh McKeown was serving with the 1st Battalion of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers when he was killed in action in France on 28th January 1917.
26/03/2018 Pte. Hugh McKeown Hugh enlisted in Cookstown.
26/03/2018 Pte. John McKenna Last Will and Testament of Private John McKenna:
26/03/2018 Pte. John McKenna The Glasgow Evening Times Roll of Honour 1914-15 does not list John McKenna. The Glasgow Roll of Honour book does not list John McKenna.
26/03/2018 Pte. John McKenna Private John McKenna has no known grave and is commemorated on panel 4D-5B on Thiepval Memorial, France.
26/03/2018 Pte. John McKenna In his Will, he left all to his mother, Catherine, who was living in Upper Killeenan, Kildress, Cookstown.
26/03/2018 Pte. John McKenna Private John McKenna was serving with the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers when he was killed in action on Tuesday 23rd November 1915.
26/03/2018 Pte. John McKenna On 16th November 1915 the 2nd Battalion Royal Inniskillings were posted to 14th Infantry Brigade, 5th Division, and held the position at Suzanne, on the Somme.
26/03/2018 Pte. John McKenna John McKenna was working in Govan, Scotland when he enlisted in the army at the outbreak of war.
26/03/2018 Pte. John McKenna John was born in Kildress, Cookstown, County Tyrone.
26/03/2018 Pte. John McKenna John McKenna was the son of Mrs Catherine McKenna.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay Lieutenant James Greer McKay was serving with the Australian Machine Gun Corps when he was killed in action on 19th August 1916 close to Mouquet Farm, know as Mucky Farm to allied troops.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay James was promoted to Lieutenant on 2nd July 1916
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay He then went with his brigade to France and came unharmed through the Battle of the Somme.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay After leaving Gallipoli he was sent to France, where he was attached to the 1st Battalion of the Australian Machine Gun Corps.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay Private McKay landed at Gallipoli and served throughout. After Gallipoli he received his commission for services in the field.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay Private McKay left Australia with the 4th Light Horse Regiment on HMAT Wiltshire (A.18) on 19th October 1914.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay At the outbreak of the First World War he enlisted at Broadmeadows as a private on 27th August 1914. His attestation papers show that he was 6 feet tall.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay When war was declared he first thought of returning to England and re-joining his own regiment. When Australia joined the war, James joined the Australians.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay He came to Australia, and the open free life of the farmer appealing to him, he made up his mind to gain experience and then settle on a farm.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay He served with the territorial regiment, Yorkshire Hussars before he emigrated to Australia in 1909.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay James was also actively associated with Cavendish Road Presbyterian Church, and was a member of the choir.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay James was educated at Belle Vue Road School and Leeds Central High School.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay The family left Cookstown for Leeds. They lived at Consort Terrace, Leeds and later of 8 St John’s Terrace, Belle Vue Road, Leeds.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay Known family: William McKay, Annie McKay, Eleanor McKay (born 20th September 1875), Hugh Malcolm Gracey McKay (born 17th August 1877), Caroline McKay (born 20th June 1879), Herbert McKay (born 28th May 1881), William E McKay (born 13th June 1883), James Greer McKay (born 7th July 1885), Margaret McKay (born 26th June 1887), Ann McKay (born 8th September 1889), Ernest Laurence McKay (born July 1891, Leeds).
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay The family were prominently connected with First Presbyterian Church, Cookstown.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay His father and maternal grandfather, Samuel Smart, were in business in the town for many years.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay James Greer McKay was born in Cookstown, County Tyrone on 7th July 1885.
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay James Greer McKay was the son of William and Annie McKay. William McKay and Annie Smart were married on 8th October 1874 in the district of Cookstown.
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25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay On Sunday, November 17, at the Drummartin Methodist Church, an ‘In Memorial’ service to the late Lieutenant James Greer McKay was conducted by the Rev. T. B. Lancaster. The pulpit was suitably draped with the Union Jack and Australian flag. A large congregation assembled to honour the memory of the brave soldier, who during his short residence in the district, had endeared himself to all with whom he came in contact by his agreeable manner and cheery disposition. The preacher, in opening his address, said that he wished to take the opportunity of giving a summary of the life of a departed friend, and by a life so unselfish, so noble, given up in the cause of righteousness and Christianity when it held in store for him many hopes, to draw some lessons that would urge others to follow his example not only on the "field of honour," but, in the performance of the daily round and common task. His watchword was ever "Duty First'. When war was declared he first thought of returning England and re-joining his own regiment. When Australia offered assistance to the Motherland he, after careful consideration of the matter, decided to offer his services to the Commonwealth. His previous military training and fine physique enabled him to join the First Expeditionary Force, and he sailed for Egypt in October. He took part in the memorable landing at Anzac and fought valiantly right through that campaign, and won his commission for his conduct and gallantry on the battlefield. He went with his brigade to France and shared with other Anzac heroes the privilege of taking his turn in the "first line" of trenches facing the enemy. He came unharmed through the terrible Battle of the Somme, and later on the Battle of Pozieres, and wrote praising the heroism of the men he led into action in these important engagements, concluding with the statement that none of them wished to be out of it until Britain stood victorious over her enemy. Although an Irishman by birth he spent most of his life at Leeds in England. He came to Australia, and the open free life of the farmer appealing to him, he made up his mind to gain experience and then settle on a farm. He cheerfully answered Australia's calls to arms to defend her liberty, and his name is written on Australia's scroll of honour, the pages of which will never dim while descendants of the noble Anzacs people our sunny land. In conclusion the Rev. gentleman extended to the relatives in England and here heartfelt sympathy in the loss of the dear one, and also referred to the later bereavement sustained by the death of Corporal Alan McKay, son of Mr and Mrs N. B. McKay, and nephew of Miss Essie McKay. At the conclusion of the service The Dead March in Saul" was effectively rendered by Miss Nessie Nicholls, the congregation standing while the last tribute of honour was paid to the dead.
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25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay From the Bendigo Independent, dated 22nd December 1916: Lieutenant J G McKay
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25/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McIlree All seven other sons survived the war
25/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McIlree Alexander Sandy McIlree (Private, 1st Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, died)
25/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McIlree Leslie McIlree (Private, 6th Royal Irish Fusiliers / Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers)
25/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McIlree Samuel McIlree (Royal Field Artillery)
25/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McIlree David McIlree (Corporal, 9th Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers)
25/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McIlree Robert McIlree
25/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McIlree William McIlree (Welsh Mountain Artillery)
25/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McIlree John McIlree (Private, 6th Royal Irish Fusiliers)
25/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McIlree Andrew McIlree (1st Royal Irish Fusiliers / North Irish Horse)
25/03/2018 Pte. Alexander McIlree Herbert McIlree (North Irish Horse)
25/03/2018 Lieut James Greer McKay 01415
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk 01414
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk The CWGC record Private Michael McGurk as the son of Alice McGurk of Belfast. He is also recorded as the husband of Mary Ellen McGurk of 61 Norfolk Street, Belfast.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk Private Michael McGurk is buried in Wimereux Communal Cemetery in France. Oddly he is listed on his headstone as being with the Leinster Regiment.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk Private Michael McGurk was serving with the 712th Company of the Labour Corps when he died of his wounds at Wimereux on Thursday 18th April 1918.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk In early April 1918 Private McGurk was seriously wounded and taken to hospital at Wimereux.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk Private McGurk later transferred to the Labour Corps.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk Michael McGurk enlisted in Belfast, joining the Leinster Regiment, Regimental No. 1732. There is some confusion regarding this as his National Archive medal card states he joined the Leicestershire Regiment. This seems unlikely.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk The 1911 census also records that his mother and sister were living at house 46 in Norfolk Street, just a few doors away.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk The 1911 census lists Michael as age 25, living with his wife at house 53 in Norfolk Street, Falls, Belfast. He was a flax rougher. Two of his brother-in-laws were also living with them.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk It is believed they may have gone on to have up to four children, although this cannot be confirmed currently.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk Michael McGurk and Mary Ellen Bloomer were married on 6th June 1909 in Belfast.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk The 1901 census lists Michael as age 15, living with the family at house 14 in Lanark Street, Woodvale Ward, Belfast. He had left school and was a general labourer.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk The family moved to Belfast.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk Family: Alice McGurk, James McGurk (born about 1881), Mary McGurk (born about 1884), Michael McGurk (born about 1886).
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk Michael was born about 1886 in Pomeroy, County Tyrone. He was one of at least three children.
25/03/2018 Pte. Michael McGurk Michael McGurk was the son of Alice McGurk.
24/03/2018 L/Corp James McGuckin There is also a Lance Corporal James McGuckin in Magherafelt War Dead. He was from Ballinderry and served with the 11th Inniskillings.
24/03/2018 L/Corp James McGuckin Lance Corporal James McGuckin is buried in Caterpillar Valley Cemetery in France.
24/03/2018 L/Corp James McGuckin There is a listing for a Private James McGucken, Cameronians (Scottish Rifles), on page 86 of the City of Glasgow Roll of Honour. He was living at 9 Norman Street, Bridgeton.
24/03/2018 L/Corp James McGuckin James is not listed in Glasgow Evening Times Roll of Honour May to July 1916, nor the Glasgow Evening Times Roll of Honour 1916 (soldiers from Glasgow).
24/03/2018 L/Corp James McGuckin By the 20th July the Cameronians were engaged in very heavy fighting in a desperate attempt to take High Wood and Delville Wood. 107 men of the Battalion were killed, including James McGuckin.
24/03/2018 L/Corp James McGuckin Lance Corporal James McGuckin was serving with the 1st Battalion of the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) when he was killed in action on Thursday 20th July 1916.
24/03/2018 L/Corp James McGuckin James had gained promotion to Lance Corporal and it is thought he joined the 1st Battalion early in 1916.
24/03/2018 L/Corp James McGuckin James McGuckin enlisted in Hamilton, Scotland with the Cameronians. They were formed at Hamilton and landed at Le Havre on 15th August 1914.
24/03/2018 L/Corp James McGuckin At the outbreak of the war James was living in Glasgow.
24/03/2018 L/Corp James McGuckin James McGuckin was born in Stewartstown, County Tyrone.
24/03/2018 Pte. William McGookin Private William McGookin is commemorated locally on Cookstown Cenotaph and also on the WW1 Roll of Honour in Desertcreat Parish Church.
22/03/2018 L/Corp William John Campbell William’s older brother Thomas also served. Thomas was injured at Gallipoli.
21/03/2018 L/Corp William John Campbell Intimation has been received from the Infantry Record Office, Dublin, that his brother, Thomas Timoney, of the same battalion, is ill and has been admitted to the First Canadian Stationary Hospital suffering from dysentery. In a letter dated 3rd September, however, he writes to his father that he need not worry about him as he thinks he will be all right and is getting on well. He does not want anything sent to him as he gets all he wants. He adds:- ‘Brown and Tommy Campbell are shot, poor fellows, and Charles Coey is wounded. Our Division has made a good name for itself, especially the 16th Battalion, as they were all brave men, all of them. The Turks ran away from us pretty fast.’ The Brown referred to is, we understand, John Brown, who belongs to South Derry, and was employed by William J Henry, Cloghog, at the time he joined the Army. Tommy Campbell is a son of Mr William Campbell, the Blue Doors, Cookstown. He was in the employment of Messrs Adair’s before enlistment. His parents have not yet had any intimation that he is in the casualty list.
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21/03/2018 L/Corp William John Campbell From the Mid Ulster Mail dated 25th September 1915: The Brothers Timoney, Loy Street, Cookstown
21/03/2018 L/Sgt Edward Joseph Timoney Intimation has been received from the Infantry Record Office, Dublin, that his brother, Thomas Timoney, of the same battalion, is ill and has been admitted to the First Canadian Stationary Hospital suffering from dysentery. In a letter dated 3rd September, however, he writes to his father that he need not worry about him as he thinks he will be all right and is getting on well. He does not want anything sent to him as he gets all he wants. He adds:- ‘Brown and Tommy Campbell are shot, poor fellows, and Charles Coey is wounded. Our Division has made a good name for itself, especially the 16th Battalion, as they were all brave men, all of them. The Turks ran away from us pretty fast.’ The Brown referred to is, we understand, John Brown, who belongs to South Derry, and was employed by William J Henry, Cloghog, at the time he joined the Army. Tommy Campbell is a son of Mr William Campbell, the Blue Doors, Cookstown. He was in the employment of Messrs Adair’s before enlistment. His parents have not yet had any intimation that he is in the casualty list.
21/03/2018 L/Sgt Edward Joseph Timoney Private Joseph Timoney, B Company, 6th Inniskillings, with the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force, writing to his father, Mr Edward Timoney, Loy street, Cookstown, on 30th August, says he has been in hospital suffering from shrapnel wound and has recovered. He says the shrapnel went in at the left side of his neck and he had to undergo and operation to have it removed from where it was lodged near the right shoulder blade. He has the bit of shrapnel and would like to send it home as a souvenir. James Shiels, of the Chapel Hill, was the only Cookstown man wounded at the same time as he was. He belonged to the Munsters. They see each other regularly. Private Timoney adds that he wishes he could see the Mid Ulster Mail to get the local news. In a further undated letter he writes asking for some cigarettes.
21/03/2018 L/Sgt Edward Joseph Timoney 01413
21/03/2018 L/Sgt Edward Joseph Timoney From the Mid Ulster Mail dated 25th September 1915: The Brothers Timoney, Loy Street, Cookstown
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham William worked in the Greenvale Mill until shortly before the war.
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham 01412
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham Only Corporal Thomas Graham is commemorated on Lisburn War Memorial, presumably because Private William Graham did not go and live with the family in Dunmurry.
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham Another brother served with the 5th Inniskillings and an uncle was with the 10th Inniskillings (Derry Volunteers).
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham Once recovered, Private Graham was sent to join the 1st Battalion at Gallipoli.
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham In February he was wounded and in hospital for a couple of months, afterwards paying a visit to his friends.
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham Private William George Graham was initially reported missing on 20th August.
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham Private William George Graham went to the front in October 1914.
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham William Graham was on the reserve of the 3rd Battalion of the Inniskillings.
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham William was also a member of Strifehill L.O.L.
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham William was a member of Killymoon Conservative Flute Band, which had ten members serving with the colours by December 1915.
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham Private William G Grahame, 3rd Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, who has been missing since 20th August. Private Grahame was born in Cookstown, and worked in Greenvale mill until shortly before the war, when the family went to Dunmurry, where his mother now resides. He was a member of Killymoon Conservative Flute Band, which has ten members serving with the colours, and he was also a member of Strifehill L.O.L. Private Graham was on the reserve of the 3rd Battalion of the Inniskillings, and went to the front in October 1914. In February he was wounded and in hospital for a couple of months, afterwards paying a visit to his friends. Then he was sent to join the 1st Battalion at Gallipoli, and on 20th August he was reported as missing. His mother will gladly receive any information regarding him. He has two brothers with the colours, on in the 5th Inniskillings and the other with the 11th Rifles (South Antrim Volunteers), and an uncle is with the 10th Inniskillings (Derry Volunteers).
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham 01411
21/03/2018 Pte. William George Graham From the Mid Ulster Mail dated Saturday 18th December 1915: Private William G Grahame
21/03/2018 Ab Sea Malachy Hannon Malachy Hannon, Hawke Battalion, British Navy, son of Mr James Hannon, Railway Cottage, Stewartstown, who volunteered in Glasgow at the outbreak of the war, and was sent out to the Dardanelles, received a slight shrapnel wound on the right side of the face and right shoulder on 18th November, and he is at present in hospital in Malta. He is only twenty years of age. A letter from the War Office states he is progressing satisfactorily.
21/03/2018 Ab Sea Malachy Hannon 01410
21/03/2018 Ab Sea Malachy Hannon From the Mid Ulster Mail dated Saturday 11th December 1915: Stewartstown Man Wounded at the Dardanelles
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele The CWGC record Private Thomas Steele as the son of Mrs Catherine Martin of Desertcreat, Tullyhogue, County Tyrone.
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele Ever remembered by his loving mother, brothers and sisters, Church Street, Cookstown.
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele What nobler death could he die.'
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele He gave his life for his country’s cause,
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele My loving son doth lie;
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele Away in a ?camalion? grave in France,
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele Though he died one year ago.
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele For memory keeps that loved one near to me,
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele Tears in silence often flow,
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele STEELE – In loving memory of No 11376, Private Thomas W Steele, 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers, who was killed in action in France 16 October 1914.
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele 01409
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele From the Mid Ulster Mail dated Saturday 23rd October 1915:
19/03/2018 Pte. Thomas William Steele ‘Days of sadness will come over me,
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery Who gave for him and others, His own beloved Son.'
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery How hard it was to give him, but he went at the call of One,
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery And fought and died for Britain and the honour of his race.
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery In the blood red field of battle, he calmly took his place
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery To meet the cruel foeman, to conquer or to fall
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery ‘Your King and country need you. He answered the call
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery LAVERY – In loving memory of James S Lavery, killed in action in France, 21st October 1914, eldest son of William J and E Lavery, Oldtown, Cookstown.
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery 01408
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery From the Mid Ulster Mail dated Saturday 23rd October 1915:
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery Inserted by his little son, James Cecil Lavery. 470 Kippochhill Road, Glasgow.
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery Till we meet in god’s home above.’
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery That binds us together, heart to heart,
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery And strong is the chain of love
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery Oh! Hard was the blow, but he died for the right
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery By the Man who died for men.
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery His duty done, he was welcomed home,
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery And we meet not on earth again.
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery ‘He answered the call and surrendered all,
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery LAVERY – In fond and loving memory of James S Lavery, who was killed in action in France on 21st October 1914, husband of Edith Lavery, Oldtown, Cookstown.
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery 01407
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery From the Mid Ulster Mail dated Saturday 23rd October 1915:
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery Last Will and Testament of Private James Lavery dated 7th August 1914:
19/03/2018 Pte. James Sterling Lavery In his Will, he left all to his wife, Edith Lavery. She was living with the Gildea’s in Millburn Street.
19/03/2018 L/Corp Bryce M Gilmour Official intimation has been received by Mr Bryce Gilmour, Charlotte Street, Ballymoney, that his third son, Corporal Bryce Gilmour, 2nd Battalion Irish Guards, was killed in action in France on the 30th September. He was a constable in the R.I.C. stationed in Cookstown, and joined the Irish Guards in February last, as a result of a third application, his first and second being refused. Another constable who was in the same battalion as Corporal Gilmour wrote about a week ago informing Mr Gilmour that his son had been seriously wounded in a bayonet charge in which the Guards covered themselves in glory, taking the third line of German trenches. Constable Gilmour’s character may be gauged by a statement made by him to a friend by way of explanation why he had volunteered for active service. He said he thought he ought to be doing more for his country at this crisis than hanging about street corners in Cookstown. It will be recollected that he got a very enthusiastic send-off when he left Cookstown last February, and his death is mourned by a wide circle. Mr Gilmour has another son on active service with the Canadian Expeditionary Force.
19/03/2018 L/Corp Bryce M Gilmour 01406
19/03/2018 L/Corp Bryce M Gilmour From the Mid Ulster Mail dated Saturday 23rd October 1915: Constable Bryce Gilmour
18/03/2018 L/Corp Bryce M Gilmour Gilmour – 30th September, somewhere in France, the result of bayonet wounds, Corporal Bryce Gilmour, 2nd Battalion Irish Guards, third son of Bryce Gilmour, Ballymoney, and until February last a Constable of R.I.C. at Cookstown.
18/03/2018 L/Corp Bryce M Gilmour 01405
18/03/2018 L/Corp Bryce M Gilmour From the Mid Ulster Mail dated Saturday 23rd October 1915:
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls 01404
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls Tragically, his great friend Private William Nixon died on the same day, but he is buried in Esnes Communal Cemetery, France.
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls Loved, mourned, and sadly missed by his mother, brothers and sisters, Blue Doors, Cookstown.
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls He died a hero’s death – a true and British soldier.
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls I will remember thee.
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls As long as life and memory last,
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls And your grave I cannot see,
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls Although I am in a far off land,
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls I still remember well.
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls The shock which I received that day
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls Since this great sorrow fell;
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls FALLS – In loving and affectionate remembrance of No 7881 Private Robert Falls, C Company, 2nd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, who was killed in action about the 18th October 1914, at the Battle of Mons.
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls 01403
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls From the Mid Ulster Mail dated Saturday 23rd October 1915:
18/03/2018 Pte. Robert Falls ‘Some long and dreary weeks have passed
17/03/2018 Pte. Patrick Murphy Mrs Murphy, Chapel Street, Cookstown, has received intimation from the War Office that her son, Private Patrick Murphy, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, has been killed in action at the Dardanelles on 21st August. He joined the army at the beginning of the war, being then seventeen years and three months old, so he was only a little over eighteen years of age at his death. Prior to enlistment, he was in the employment of Messrs Thomas Adair & Sons. Of a kindly and obliging disposition, he was popular with all who knew him. He possessed considerable ability as a humorous vocalist, and was ever ready to assist on the programme of public entertainments. His father is an old army man, also on the Inniskillings, and went through the Boer war. His time was expired and he was employed at Messrs Adair’s since his coming to Cookstown from Bailieborough a few years ago with his family. He rejoined at the beginning of the war, and is at present in Londonderry. General sympathy is expressed with the parents and other relatives of the young soldier who has met his end at so early an age. The sympathy of the King and Queen has been expressed in a note from Lord Kitchener.
17/03/2018 Pte. Patrick Murphy 01403
17/03/2018 Pte. Patrick Murphy From the Mid Ulster Mail dated 19th September 1915: Private Patrick Murphy
17/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane 01402
17/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane From the Mid Ulster Mail dated 18th September 1915: Private Samuel MacFarlane
16/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland Wesley’s brother, Herbert McClelland, served with the Canadian Corps of Royal Engineers during the war.
16/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland It is just nine years since Herbert McClelland, son of Sloan McClelland, The White House, Cookstown, went out to Canada. He was engaged in railway extension work there and making good, when some months ago volunteers were asked for from the railwaymen to form a Canadian Corps of Royal Engineers for service at the front. About 15,000 responded out of which 540 were selected, one of whom was young McClelland. After partial training in Canada, the corps came over to England in June, and were encamped at Longmore, some forty miles from London. Royal Engineer McClelland spent a few days leave renewing old acquaintances in his native town recently, returning to England on Monday last. He expects soon to go on active service with his corps, either to France or the Dardanelles. His brother, Wesley, is on the North Irish Horse and is one of Sir John French’s bodyguard.
16/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland 01401
16/03/2018 Pte. John McBride Writing on the same day to his sister, he stated:- ‘All the Cookstown boys here are still kicking. If the war lasts much longer, there will be no turkeys for Christmas. We are now back in our little homes, and this leaves me well.’
16/03/2018 Pte. John McBride ‘Just a few lines to let you know I am getting along fine up to the present. I am up in the trenches now for the second time. We were fifteen days in them the first time. The weather is fine out here now with very strong sun during the day. The enemy never trouble us during the day except for a few snipers. But night is the time we want to watch them. I am writing this in my dug-out and they are still sniping away over my head. They start shelling about 5 o’clock every day. Cigarettes and notepaper are very short here, so don’t forget to send me some. Remember me to all my old friends.’
16/03/2018 Pte. John McBride Mr Hugh McBride, William Street, Cookstown, has received official confirmation from the Infantry Record Office, Dublin, that his brother Private John McBride, 1st Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, had been killed in action at the Dardanelles on 13th June. Private McBride was the youngest son of the late Mr Hugh McBride, Cookstown, was only 23 years of age. He had completed his term of seven years in October last and had been in India for the past four years. He arrived in England in January and got home for four days leave. He has taken part in several engagements at the Dardanelles. In writing to his brother on the 19th May, he said:-
16/03/2018 Pte. John McBride 01400
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece It is strongly suspected that Private William McAleece and Lance Corporal James McAleece were brothers. However, no definitive proof has been found to confirm this.
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece William was home on leave in late 1915.
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece Private McAleece and went on to take part in engagements at Le Cateau, The Marne, The Aisne, Meteren, Armentieres, Douvre Farm and Ploegsteert Wood in 1914. In January 1915 the Battalion was posted to the 5th Infantry Brigade, 2nd Division was saw action at Festubert and Richebourg.
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece Private William McAleece was serving with the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers when they landed at Le Havre on 22nd August 1914.
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece William enlisted in the army in Cookstown.
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece The 1911 census lists William as age 17 living with his mother at house 6 in Ballyveeny, Ballyclog, Stewartstown. His father had died. His mother worked as a domestic servant. William worked on a farm.
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece Known family: James McAleece, Isabella McAleece, William McAleece (born 2nd April 1894), James McAleece (born 22nd May 1896), Matilda McAleece (born 3rd March 1899), Isabella McAleece (9th December 1901), Anna McAleece (born 19th August 1905).
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece The 1901 census lists William as age 6, living with the family at house 13 in Ballyveeny, Ballyclog. His father James McAleece was a farmer.
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece William was born in Ballyclog, Stewartstown, County Tyrone on 2nd April 1894. He was the eldest of five children.
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece William McAleece was the eldest son of James and Isabella McAleece. James McAleece and Isabella McCord were married on 21st February 1894.
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece By December 1915 the Battalion was posted to the 96th Brigade, 32nd Division and took part in the Somme offensive in July 1916.
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece Going to France on 7th August 1914, and almost immediately being engaged with his battalion (the 2nd Inniskillings) and passing through exactly twelve months of active service without a scratch, Private William McAleece was enabled to spend four days with his mother at Ballyveeny last week. He has back to the front again. Of the horrors of the ten days and nights reluctant retreat from Mons he speaks with bated breath, but describes with satisfaction the terrible punishment inflicted on the enemy when at last permission was given to advance and the Germans were driven back to the Marne. He agrees with those who have described the Germans as cowards. They may be brave enough in a mass at a distance, but they stand in mortal terror of the bayonet. Private McAleece says he was very near to where poisonous gas was used, but was fortunate enough to escape it. He was quite close to Lord Northland when he was shot and saw him fall. Replying to a question, the seasoned looking young soldier said he was going back to the front willingly and gladly and would not remain away if he could.
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece 01399
16/03/2018 Pte. William McAleece From the Mid Ulster Mail unknown date in late 1915: Private William McAleece
16/03/2018 Sgt. William R Bridgett James Bridgett, Coagh Street, Cookstown, for many years carter to Mr John Todd, merchant, met with a serious accident on Monday evening. Mr Bridgett, who has lost an eye years ago, and usually wore glasses, while about his ordinary duties, was struck on the spectacles from a stone when passing some boys who were amusing themselves throwing stones on the street. The glass was broken, and many small pieces knocked into his sound eye. He suffered intense pain, and it was feared that he had been totally blinded. Drs Knight and Elliott were quickly in attendance and the broken glass was removed and the eye bandaged. On Tuesday, Rev Robert Hyndman and Mr Todd procured a motor car, and Mr Hyndman and John Bridgett, his son, accompanied the injured man to Belfast for treatment. Dr Killen, having made a careful examination, was able to announce that the sight had not been destroyed, and that the injured man would soon be all right. Rev Mr Hyndman, on his return, delivered this cheering news to Mrs Bridgett and family, who were naturally greatly alarmed at the accident. The injured man remains in Belfast for treatment. It may be mentioned that three of Mr Bridgett’s sons are at present in the army, and that one was killed in South Africa.
16/03/2018 Sgt. William R Bridgett 01398
16/03/2018 Sgt. William R Bridgett From the Mid Ulster Mail unknown date in 1915: Serious accident in Cookstown
16/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland Family: Sloan McClelland, Sarah McClelland, Margaret Maud McClelland (born 5th March 1881), Robert McClelland (born 20th December 1882), Sarah McClelland (born 16th September 1884), Teresa McClelland (born 16th September 1886), Herbert McClelland (born 16th May 1888), Wesley Charles McClelland (born 31st January 1890), Edmond McClelland (born 12th August 1892), Rebecca / Ruby McClelland (born 28th December 1894), Sidney McClelland (born 21st September 1896), James / Dawson McClelland (born 22nd October 1898), Fredrick McClelland (born 15th March 1901), Hugh Ernest McClelland (born 27th November 1903).
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee Last Will and Testament of Private James McGhee dated 4th February 1915:
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee The CWGC record Private James McGhee as the son of John McGhee.
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee James McGhee is listed on Cookstown War Memorial as J Magee.
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee Private James McGhee has no known grave and is commemorated on Special Memorial C295 in Twelve Tree Copse Cemetery, Turkey.
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee In his will, James left all to his mother Lizzie, who was living in Rosgarland, Magherafelt.
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee The 1911 census lists James as age 15, living with the family at house 8 in Luney, Desertmartin. James had left school and was a general labourer. His father was a flax scutcher.
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee Known family: John McGhee, Elizabeth McGhee, Patrick McGhee (born about 1889, America), Robert McGhee (born 2nd May 1890, Dungannon), John McGhee (born 1st July 1894, Magherafelt), James McGhee (born 28th July 1896, Magherafelt), Sarah McGhee (born 21st June 1899, Magherafelt), Elizabeth McGhee (born 26th December 1902, Magherafelt), William McGhee (born 27th July 1905, Magherafelt).
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee The 1901 census records James as 4 years old, living with the family in Luney, Desertmartin. James’ father was a scutcher.
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee The spelling of the surname changes throughout. In his will, James spells it as McGhee.
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee James was born in Desertmartin on 28th July 1896. He was one of eight children, six surviving.
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee Their second son was born in Dungannon.
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee James and Elizabeth spent a time in America, where their first son was born around 1889.
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee James McGhee was a son of John and Elizabeth McGhee. John McGhee and Elizabeth Lucas were married on 31st January 1886 in the district of Dungannon.
15/03/2018 Pte. James McGhee Private James McGhee was serving with the 1st Battalion of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers when he was killed in action in Gallipoli during the Battle of Gully Ravine on Monday 28th June 1915. He was just two days short of his 21st birthday.
14/03/2018 Pte. Edward McGeown The CWGC record Private Edward McGeown as the son of James and Mary Jane McGeown of 27 Milfort Avenue, Dunmurry, County Antrim.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne The CWGC record Rifleman John Mayne as the husband of Sarah J Mayne of 46 Union Street, Cookstown, County Tyrone.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne Rifleman John Mayne is commemorated on Cookstown Cenotaph and First Presbyterian Roll of Honour, Cookstown.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne Rifleman John Mayne is buried in Mill Road Cemetery at Thiepval in France.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne Rifleman John Mayne was serving with the 13th Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles when he was killed in action on the first day of the Battle of the Somme on Saturday 1st July 1916.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne John had a sister employed as a forewoman in Hopper Brothers in Cookstown, in the dressmaking department. May Anna Mayne is described in the 1911 census as a dressmaker.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne John’s eldest daughter, assumed to be Hester, found work in Mr Hugh McAdoo’s drapery department.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne Soon after, John’s wife and family returned to Cookstown from Rostrevor. Sara Jane lived at Union Street, Cookstown. His mother, sisters and brothers lived in Church Street.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne ‘Rostrevor people gave a most cordial welcome to Private John Mayne on his recent visit direct from the front trenches in France. He is a married man with wife and seven children. He was living happily and comfortably at the outbreak of war. He was not a reservist, but he heard the call and decided on doing his bit for the protection of the country, his wife and children, and at once joined the 13th Royal Irish Rifles, Ulster Division. Private Mayne is a splendid fellow and suggests the fellowship that exists among men at the front, who are determined to fight for their country, their women and children, and incidentally for the young slackers at home. A married man with a wife and seven children doing his duty! What about the single young men? What is keeping you back from joining the army? Married folk say you are afraid – are you?’
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne Rifleman Mayne was home on leave in February of 1916. The following piece was published in the Newry Telegraph when he returned:
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne John Mayne enlisted in Newry. He was living in Rostrevor at the time.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne For several years prior to joining the army he was foreman finisher with Martin’s in Rostrevor. His seventh and final child was born in Rostrevor in 1913.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne The 1911 census lists John as age 39, living with his family at house 18 in Edenderry, Banbridge, County Down. He was a cloth finisher. His sixth child was born in Banbridge in 1911.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne John spent fourteen years at Stevensons of Moygashel, Dungannon.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne The 1901 census lists John as age 30, living with his family at house 9 in Benburb Town, County Tyrone. He was employed as a beetler.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne The first five children were all born in Dungannon, the last been born in 1906.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne Family: John Mayne, Sarah Jane Mayne, Hester M Mayne (born 25th April 1898, Dungannon), Sarah E Mayne (born 22nd April 1900, Dungannon), Matilda Mayne (born 27th April 1902, Dungannon), Annie Mayne (born 13th July 1904, Dungannon), Samuel Mayne (born 9th July 1906, Dungannon), Eveline Mayne (born 25th April 1911, Banbridge), John Mayne (born 29th December 1913, Rostrevor).
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne John Mayne and Sara Jane Reilly were married on 8th July 1896 in the district of Cookstown. They went on to have seven children.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne John Mayne served his time to the linen trade with Adair’s Mills, Greenvale, Cookstown.
14/03/2018 R/man John Mayne John Mayne was the son of Eliza Mayne. He was born about 1871 in Cookstown.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) 01397
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) In the event of my death, I give the whole of my property and effects to my father, Henry McGhie, Coalisland, County Tyrone, Ireland.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) 01396
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) 01395
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) Last Will and Testament of Private James Joseph McGhie dated 11th November 1916:
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) The CWGC record Private J J McGhie as the son of Henry Magee of Gortgonis, Coalisland, County Tyrone.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) Private James Joseph Magee is listed on Dungannon War Memorial, as Lance Corporal J J Magee.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) Private J J McGhie is buried Hyde Park Corner (Royal Berks) Cemetery at Ploegsteert in Belgium. The inscription on his grave reads: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) In his Will, James left all to his father Henry, who was living in Coalisland.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) Private James Joseph McGhie was serving with the 11th Battalion of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers when he killed in action by rifle fire on Thursday 7th December 1916. He was the only man from the battalion to die that day.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) The next day, the 6th, was quiet.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) On the 4th December 1916 the 11th Battalion left Wakefield Huts, Dranoutre, at 2.15pm and marched via Neuve Eglise to Bulford Camp, Kortepyp, remaining there for the night. Next day they left Bulford Camp at 10.00am and marched via Red Lodge to relieve the 8th South Lancashire Regiment in the trenches, taking over the Douve sector in the Bois de Ploegsteert. Relief was completed by 12.00 noon.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) The CWGC have the Regimental Number as 26910, but his medal card and Ireland’s Memorial Records record it as 28910.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) James enlisted in Motherwell, Scotland, where he had been working.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) Documents have the name spelt as Magee up until he enlisted. Thereafter he became McGhie, including his handwritten Will.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) The 1911 census lists Jim Joe as age 22, living with his step-family at house 10 in Gortgonis, Tullyniskane, Coalisland. Jim was a farm labourer. His father was now described as a dealer.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) Known family: Henry Magee, Mary Magee, Mary Magee (born 25th October 1903), Rachel Magee (born 27th January 1905), Margaret Magee (born 18th October 1906), Unknown female (born 20th April 1909, 20th April 1909), Asicus Magee (born 26th April 1910, 27th April 1910), Henry Magee (born 23rd April 1911), Anne Magee (born 13th June 1913), Robert Magee (born 6th January 1916).
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) Henry Magee remarried just a few months later. Henry Magee married Mary Wallace on 9th October 1902 in the district of Dungannon. They went on to have at least eight children, six surviving.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) James’ mother, Teresa Magee, died on 18th April 1902 in Coalisland, age 42.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) The 1901 census lists Jim Joe as age 10, living with the family at house 105 in Coalisland, Tullyniskane, County Tyrone. Jim was still at school. His father was a fish dealer.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) Family: Henry Magee. Teresa Magee, Patrick Magee (born 16th March 1883), William John Magee (born 24th January 1885), Henry Magee (born 17th February 1889),James Joseph Magee (born 31st January 1891), Susan Magee (born 26th June 1892), Thomas Magee (born 27th December 1893).
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) James Joseph Magee was born is Stewartstown on 31st January 1891. He was one of at least six children.
10/03/2018 Pte. James Joseph McGhee (McGhie) James Joseph Magee was the son of Henry and Teresa Magee.
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law 01394
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law William J Law is listed on page 192 of the book ‘A Call to Arms, Portadown and the Great War’ by Richard Edgar.
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law 01393
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law Lieutenant Colonel W J Law, Lancashire Fusiliers (killed), son of Mr Thomas Law, Margaretta Terrace, Portadown, has been further mentioned in despatches in connection with the Mediterranean operations.
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law From the Portadown News dated 29th July 1916:
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law There is a W J Hall on the Lurgan War Memorial.
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law Lieutenant Colonel-William John Law is listed on the Portadown War Memorial.
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law Lieutenant Colonel-William John Law does not seem to be listed on the Reading Rooms Memorial at Trinity College.
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law Lieutenant Colonel-William John Law was posthumously awarded the Croix de Guerre by the President of the French Republic in February 1916.
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law His father was a Royal Irish Constabulary Sergeant and an assistant Petty Sessions clerk of Portadown.
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law Known Family: Thomas Law, Margaretta Law, William John Law (born 10th April 1879), Mary Georgina Law (born 8th September 1881)?, Harriet E Law (born 16th October 1884).
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law William Law was born in Cookstown on 10th April 1879. All three known children were born in Cookstown.
10/03/2018 Lieut Col William John Law William John Law was the only son of Thomas and Margaretta Law.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane 01392
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane 01391
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane In his Will, Samuel left all to his mother.
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10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane The CWGC record Private Samuel James MacFarlane as the son of James and Sarah MacFarlane of Skerry-Bhan, Portrush, Ireland.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Private Samuel MacFarlane is also commemorated in Portrush Presbyterian Church.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Private Samuel MacFarlane is also commemorated locally on Portrush War Memorial.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Private Samuel James MacFarlane is reported to have been recommended for a medal, although no record of this can be found.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Private Samuel James MacFarlane is commemorated on Lone Pine Memorial at Gallipoli in Turkey.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Private MacFarlane was buried at sea later that day.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Private Samuel James MacFarlane was serving with the 13th Battalion of the Australian Infantry when he died of his wounds on the ship on 20th August 1915.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Private MacFarlane was evacuated to the Australian Hospital Ship ‘Valdivia’.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Private Samuel James MacFarlane was wounded at Gallipoli on 15th August 1915. He received a gunshot wound to the head.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Private MacFarlane was at first posted to Cairo and then Gallipoli.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Samuel MacFarlane re-enlisted on the 2nd February 1915 in Liverpool, New South Wales.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane On his return to Australia he was offered a commission if he would return for a further three months to assist in training other volunteers. He preferred, however, to volunteer for active service in Europe
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Private MacFarlane took part in the New Guinea Campaign.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Samuel MacFarlane initially enlisted in Sydney on the outbreak of war on 16th August 1914. He gave his next of kin as his mother, and her address as Skerry Bhan, Portrush.
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10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane 01390
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane 01387
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10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane 01385
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10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane 01383
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane On a visit home in 1913 he assisted in the training of the Signalling Corps of the Ulster Volunteers at Portrush.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Samuel was a lifelong abstainer and an ardent unionist. In 1912 he signed the Ulster Covenant in Portrush along with this brother Charles John.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane On leaving school he served his apprenticeship as a mid-shipman with the Henderson Line of Steamers, trading between Glasgow and Rangoon.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane The family owned the Skerry Bhan Hotel in Portrush.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane The 1911 census does not list Samuel as living with the family at house 3 in Lansdowne Crescent, Portrush Town, County Antrim. All members of the family were described as hotel owners.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Samuel received his education at the Royal Academical Institution, Belfast and then at Coleraine Academy.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane The 1901 census lists Samuel as 7 years old living with the family at house 4 in Doons, Orritor, Cookstown. His father was a farmer and mill owner.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Family: James MacFarlane, Sarah MacFarlane, Andrew Dickson MacFarlane (born 3rd February 1886), Letitia Jane MacFarlane (born 13th June 1887), Charles John MacFarlane (born 4th October 1888), Margaretta Sinclair MacFarlane (born 16th December 1889), Sarah MacFarlane (born 22nd June 1892, died 21st June 1893, age 1), Samuel James MacFarlane (born 17th March 1894).
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Samuel MacFarlane was born at Doons, Orritor, Cookstown on 17th March 1894. He was the youngest of six children, five surviving.
10/03/2018 Pte. Samuel James MacFarlane Samuel James MacFarlane was the youngest son of James and Sarah McFarlane. James McFarlane and Sarah Dickson were married on 24th March 1885 in the district of Cookstown.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn The CWGC record Private Martin McFlinn was the son of Michael and Ellen McFlinn of 58 Annandale Street, Annandale, Sydney, New South Wales.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn Private was originally buried at Hillside cemetery close to Anzac Cove and the Military service was conducted by Reverend J. Green C.F. A wooden cross marked his grave.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn It was at night, when most of the firing had ceased, when a stray bullet hit him in the head, and he died a few hours later.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn Private Martin McFlinn was serving with the 1st Company Div. Train of the Australian Army Service Corps when he died of wounds at Gallipoli on 23rd May 1915.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn Martin served with the Australian Expeditionary Force attached to the Army Medical Corps at Gallipoli.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn By far the greater number of beds presented to Westmead Orphanage have been given as memorials to deceased soldiers. This week the list is added to by a bed, given by his parents, in memory of Private Martin McFlinn, AMC, killed in action in May 1915.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn 01380
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn From the (Sydney) Catholic Press dated 16th November 1915: WESTMEAD BEDS
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn ‘I feel it is my duty to write and explain the circumstances under which your son met his death, as I was his commanding officer. He was working with me in a very exposed part, both to shrapnel and rifle fire, and was carrying on his work in a most able manner, so much so that 1 had occasion to compliment him very highly. He not only attended to many wounded with absolute coolness, relieving many suffering, but saved a man's life earlier in the day by holding his finger over the man's bleeding artery for half an hour under heavy fire until help came - a most excellent piece of work. It was at night, when most of the firing had ceased, that a stray bullet hit him in the head, and he died a few hours later. He never felt any pain, nor could he have realised in any way that he had been hit, as be became instantly unconscious. He was joking as usual with his comrades - and then the end. It is a glorious way to end one's life, and when we think over it, although it is very sad, is the greatest thing one can do. You have given your son so that England, and incidentally Australia, may remain a free country and it so pleased God that you were called upon to make the offer. Don't grieve after the boy, as he carried out his duties excellently, and met his end as a soldier should.’
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn Bravery displayed at Gallipoli by Private Martin McFlinn, whose death has been officially reported, has brought the following appreciative letter from an officer to his parents, Mr and Mrs McFlinn, of 58 Annandale street, Annandale (Sydney).
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn 01378
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn From the Bendigo Independent dated 9th August 1915: MERRY, BRAVE FELLOW - JOKING AND THEN THE END
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn PRIVATE MARTIN McFLINN, of the Army Medical Corps, who has died of wounds, was a son of Mr Michael McFlinn of Annandale. He was 23 years of age, an engineer by trade, and was educated at the Christian Brothers' School, Lewisham, and afterwards at the Sydney Technical School. R.I.P.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn 01377
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn From the Melbourne Tribune dated 5th August 1915: Our Roll of Honour - Careers of the Fallen
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn McFLINN. Killed in action at the Dardanelles, Martin McFlinn, A.M.C., only and beloved son of Michael and Ellen McFlinn, 58 Annandale Street, Annandale. R.I.P. Home papers please copy.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn 01379
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn From the (Sydney) Catholic Press dated 1st July 1915:
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn THE FRIENDS of Mr and Mrs MICHAEL McFLINN are kindly invited to attend the Funeral of their late beloved DAUGHTER, Kathleen, which will move from their residence. Dungannon House, 64 Annandale Street. Annandale, THIS (Monday) AFTERNOON, at half-past 1 o'clock, for Petersham Station, thence to Necropolis.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn 01381
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn From the Sydney Morning Herald dated Monday 31 December 1894: Funerals
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn Martin’s attestation papers have been lost, but he enlisted on 1st September 1914, presumably in Sydney, New South Wales.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn Prior to enlisting, Martin was an engineer.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn Martin was educated at the Christian Brothers' School, Lewisham. He then attended Sydney Technical School.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn A report in the Sydney Morning Herald from December 1894 notes that one of the children had died.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn Martin McFlynn was born about 1892 in Australia, probably in Sydney.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn Michael McFlynn married to Ellen McFlynn. They lived in Sydney. Michael started a career as a building contractor.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn His father lived in Keenaghan and served his apprenticeship as a joiner with Mr John Kane, Gortalowry, Cookstown before emigrating with his family to Australia.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn Martin McFlynn was born and raised in Sydney, Australia. He was the son of Michael and Ellen McFlynn.
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn 01382
09/03/2018 Pte. Martin McFlinn 01376
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest George Forrest had a daughter, Linda Elizabeth Forrest, whom he had not seen in many years.
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01375
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01374
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01373
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01372
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01371
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01370
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01369
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01368
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest George Forrest was a brother of John Forrest who lived at High Cross, Tullyhogue.
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01367
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01366
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01365
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01363
09/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01364
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey Private James McCaughey is commemorated on Special Memorial 27 at Bois-Carre Military Cemetery, Haisnes in France.
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey In his Will, James left all to his mother.
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey News of his death was reported to the family in a letter by a fellow soldier who was serving with James before official confirmation arrived.
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey Private James McCaughey serving with the 8th Battalion of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers when he was killed in action on Wednesday 2nd August 1916 in France.
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey James McCaughey enlisted in the army on 12th July 1915 in Cookstown and was subsequently posted to the 8th Battalion of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey The 1911 census lists John James as age 31, living with the family at house 8 in Church Street, Cookstown. He was a labourer.
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey The 1901 census John James as age 20, living with the family at house 3 in Church Street, Cookstown, County Tyrone. Like James, his mother and his brother Francis were farm labourers. His mother was a widow.
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey Family: Catherine McCaughey, John James McCaughey (born about 1881), Francis McCaughey (born about 1883), May Ellen McCaughey (born about 1885), Patrick McCaughey (born about 1888), Maggie Jane McCaughey (born about 1894).
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey James was born in Clogher, County Tyrone about 1881.
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey John James McCaughey was the son Catherine McCaughey.
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey 01362
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey In the event of my death, I give the whole of my personal effects to my mother Catherine McCaughey and all moneys due to me from the army, and in case she dies, to brother and sisters at my home. Signed John J McCaughey, Private 24762, 8th Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey 01361
08/03/2018 Pte. James McCaughey Last Will and Testament of Private James McCaughey dated 17th January 1916:
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 34th Australian Imperial Force. 66 Private G Forrest. A Company, 4th Platoon. Missing in action 7th –11th June 1917. I saw him killed at Messines. I assisted to bury him at place of casualty and the grave was not then marked, but it was seen to have been later. I knew him very well. He was the only man of that name in the Company. Witness: Private A R Pincher 1893, 34th Battalion, A Company, 4th Platoon. 3rd A A Hospital, Dartford.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01249
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest Military Notes:
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest Killed in action 7th June 1917
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01248
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest Military Notes:
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 34th Australian Imperial Force. 66 Private G Forrest. A Company, 3rd Platoon. Missing in action 7th June 1917. Private G Forrest, who was my servant, and a brave good soldier, who had been all through the South African War, was with me in an attack on the Germans at Messines. We went over together and he was never seen again. I do not believe he was taken prisoner, because we were pursuing them long after, and they were too far away. I feel sure he was blown up in our own big mines. I have a photograph of him. Eye witness: Yes. Description: Age about 60, grey moustache, typical Irish face, not very tall. Informant: Captain H W Matthews, 34th Australian Imperial Force, A Company, 3rd Platoon. 3rd General Hospital, G. L. Ward, Wandsworth, London SW. Home address: 3 Hufford Terrace, South Lambeth SW. Dated 7th September 1917.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01247
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest Military Notes:
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 30th Battalion A.I.F. - 66 Private G Forrest - Killed in action 7th June 1917. He was batman to Captain W H Matthews and begged to be allowed to take part in the big advance at Messines on 7th June 1917. By no wish of his Captain did he do so. On the morning of the 7th, between the hours of 3 and 8, he was killed instantly by a shell near Ploegsteert. He was buried next day in company with many others. I was not an eye witness to the burial. Captain Matthews has since returned to Australia and is residing at Wallsend, New South Wales. Private Forrest was described as about 5ft 8 with a heavy grey moustache. He was aged about 59 years old. Home address: Angledool Post Office, New South Wales. Informant: Corporal H W Fraser, 34th Battalion.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest 01246
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest Military Notes:
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest Private George Forrest has no known grave and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest Private George Forrest was buried next day in company with many others. His grave was later lost.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest On the morning of the 7th, between the hours of 3 and 8, Private George Forrest was killed instantly by a shell near Ploegsteert. It is believed he was aged about 60.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest On 2 May 1916, Private Forrest embarked from Sydney on board HMAT Hororata (A20) and arrived for service on the Western Front in November 1916.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest He initially gave his next of kin as John James Forrest, a brother from Newcastle, New South Wales. This was later changed to his daughter, Miss L E Forrest, ‘Duran’ 55 Liverpool Street, Paddington, Sydney, New South Wales.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest From 1899 until 1902, 1090 Gunner Forrest served in South Africa with A Battery Royal Australian Artillery.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest He had served in the Colonial Military Forces in NSW from 1883 and, as 1090 Driver George Forrest, served in an artillery unit in the Sudan from March to June 1885.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest George was listed a 45 year old labourer, but he was in fact 59 years old. He was a widower.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest Forrest was a labourer prior to enlisting in January 1916 and, as stated on his enlistment papers, a member of A Battery, New South Wales, for 19 years and on active service in South Africa.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest George enlisted as a soldier on 19 January 1916 with A Company 34 Battalion of the Australian Infantry. He had begged to be allowed to take part in the big advance at Messines on 7th June 1917. By no wish of his Captain did he do so.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest Private George Forrest was a batman for Captain H W Matthews. George had been with Captain Matthews throughout the South African War.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest George emigrated to Australia.
08/03/2018 Pte. George Forrest George Forrest hailed from Stewartstown, County Tyrone. It is believed he was born about 1857.
08/03/2018 Pte. William McCord The CWGC record Private William McCord as the son of William and Lucinda McCord of Carmean, Moneymore, County Londonderry.
08/03/2018 Pte. William McCord Private William McCord is commemorated on Moneymore War Memorial and also on Desertlyn Church Of Ireland Roll Of Honour WWI in Moneymore.
08/03/2018 Pte. William McCord William McCord is buried in Grand Seraucourt British Cemetery in France.
08/03/2018 Pte. William McCord Private William McCord was serving with the 9th Battalion of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers when he was killed in action near Aisne in France during the German Spring Offensive on Friday 29th March 1918.
08/03/2018 Pte. William McCord The 1911 census lists William as age 2, living with the family at house 6 in Carmean, Brackaghslievegallion. William was still at school. His father was a farm servant.
08/03/2018 Pte. William McCord Known family: William McCord, Lucinda McCord, William McCord (born 16th October 1898), Samuel McCord (born 31st January 1900), Margaret McCord (born 19th May 1901, died 23rd December 1901), Elizabeth Bessie McCord (born 4th December 1902), Jane McCord (15th February 1904, died 2nd April 1904), Margaret McCord (born 16th August 1905), Lucy McCord (born 16th October 1906, died 29th December 1906), Benjamin McCord (born 22nd December 1907), Sarah McCord (born 12th August 1909), Robert McCord (born 24th May 1911), Hugh McCord (born 12th May 1913), Edward McCord (born 4th July 1914), Thomas McCord (born 20th March 1916).
08/03/2018 Pte. William McCord The 1901 census lists William as age 2, living with the family at house 25 in Carmean, Brackaghslievegallion, County Londonderry. His father was a farmer.
08/03/2018 Pte. William McCord William McCord was born in Desertlyn, Moneymore on 16th October 1898. He was the oldest of at least thirteen children.
08/03/2018 Pte. William McCord William McCord was the eldest son of William and Lucinda McCord. William McCord and Lucinda Wasson were married on 28th September 1897 in the district of Magherafelt.
07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey 01360
07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey 01359
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07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey Private Albert Edward McCluskey is also commemorated on the Winsford War Memorial.
07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey Private Albert McCluskey is commemorated on the War Memorial for Manchester Corporation Tramways. It is located at the entrance to the Bus Depot on Hyde Road, Manchester.
07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey Private Albert McCluskey’s medals were sent Mrs E J Owens (McCluskey) of 70 Warton Road, Winsford, Cheshire.
07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey Private Albert McCluskey is buried in Le Cateau Military Cemetery, France.
07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey Private Albert McCluskey was serving with the 2nd Battalion of the Manchester Regiment when he died in France of wounds received during the Battle of Mons on Wednesday 26th August 1914.
07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey On the 17th August 1914 the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the Manchester Regiment landed at Le Harve and almost immediately were engaged in action at the Battle of Mons. The Battle of Mons was the first engagement between the British and German Forces on the Western Front and began on 23rd August 1914. The Battle comprises one of the so-called Battles of the Frontier that took place during August 1914 at Mulhouse, Lorraine, Ardennes, Charleroi and Mons.
07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey Private Albert McCluskey was posted to France on 15th August 1914.
07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey Albert McCluskey enlisted with the 2nd Battalion of the Manchester Regiment in Manchester.
07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey Albert was a guard on Manchester Corporation Tramways.
07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey Prior to enlisting, Albert was living and working in Winsford, Cheshire.
07/03/2018 Pte. Albert Edward McCluskey Albert McCluskey was born in Stewartstown, County Tyrone.
07/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland Private Wesley McClelland is commemorated on Cookstown Cenotaph as Charles Wesley McClelland.
07/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland Private Wesley McClelland is buried in Ancre British Cemetery, Beaumont-Hamel, France
07/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland Two days later, on the Friday 16th August 1918, Private Wesley McClelland was killed in action as the division prepared for another attack on the Somme.
07/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland After taking part in the action of the German Spring Offensive of March 1918, the Regiment was further reduced when an officer and 13 men were attached to 64th Brigade, 21st Division on 14th August 1918.
07/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland While in France, the Regiment went through many changes. From the original Regiment of North Irish Horse, two Battalions were formed. 1st Battalion were formed on 10th May 1916 and was made up of A, D and E squadrons. 2nd Battalion was raised on 21st June 1916, from the ranks of the original B and C squadrons along with a service squadron from the 6th Inniskilling Dragoons. At the end of August 1917 the 2nd Battalion were temporarily dismounted and became part of the 9th (NIH) Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers. By the beginning of March 1918 the 1st Battalion North Irish Horse became the 5th Cyclist Battalion (North Irish Horse) with its original squadrons unchanged.
07/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland According to his medal card, Wesley McClelland served for a time with the Corps of Hussars. The regiment numbers are reversed however and his Hussars number was 71062 and his NIH number was 663.
07/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland Wesley enlisted in Cookstown with the North Irish Horse, a regiment which formed part of the original British Expeditionary Force that arrived in France in August 1914.
07/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland The 1911 census lists Charles Wesley as age 21, living with the family at house 14 in William Street, Cookstown. Wesley was a baker.
07/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland The 1910 Ulster towns Directory lists Sloan McClelland as being a baker, grocer, and restaurateur at William Street in the town.
07/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland The 1901 census lists Wesley as age 11, living with the family at house 12 in Oldtown Street, Cookstown. Sloan McClelland was a baker and a grocer.
07/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland Wesley Charles McClelland was born on 31st January 1890 in the parish of Derryloran. He was one of twelve children, eleven surviving.
07/03/2018 Pte. Wesley C McClelland Wesley Charles McClelland was the son of Sloan and Sarah McClelland. Sloan McClelland and Sarah Burton were married on 29th May 1880 in Cookstown.
07/03/2018 L/Corp William McCann The CWGC record Corporal William McCann as the son of the late John McCann, of 42 Greenville Road, Bloomfield, Belfast.
07/03/2018 L/Corp William McCann Lance Corporal W McCann has no known grave and is commemorated on Le Touret Memorial in France.
07/03/2018 L/Corp William McCann Lance Corporal William McCann was serving with A Company in the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles when he was killed in action in France on Sunday 25th October 1914.
07/03/2018 L/Corp William McCann William enlisted in Newry, joining the 2nd Royal Irish Rifles and arrived at Rouen, France on 14th August 1914.
07/03/2018 L/Corp William McCann William McCann was the son of John McCann. He was born in Stewartstown about 1889.
06/03/2018 Pte. John Joseph McCaffrey The CWGC record Private J McCaffrey as the son of John and Ann McCaffery of 26 Blackhill, Cookstown, County Tyrone. It also records that he was born at Enniskillen, County Fermanagh.
06/03/2018 Pte. John Joseph McCaffrey Private John McCaffrey is buried in Cite Bonjean Military Cemetery, Armentieres, France.
06/03/2018 Pte. John Joseph McCaffrey The 1911 census lists John Joseph as age 15 living with the family at house 4 in Wilson Street, Portadown, County Armagh. John was working as a flax machine boy. His father was a farm labourer.
06/03/2018 Pte. John Joseph McCaffrey Family: John McCaffery, Anne McCaffery, Mary McCaffery (born 12th October 1893), John McCaffery (born 10th July 1895), Sarah Anne McCaffery (born 17th March 1897), Felix McCaffery (born 24th March 1899), Roselena McCaffery (born 29th June 1901), Patrick McCaffery (born 19th October 1905).
06/03/2018 Pte. John Joseph McCaffrey The 1901 census lists John as age 5 living with the family at house 1 in Clogheragh, Ely, Fermanagh. His father was a labourer. Clogheragh is in the census area of Ely in County Fermanagh. Moneyglass is also in Ely.
06/03/2018 Pte. John Joseph McCaffrey John McCaffrey was born in Moyglass, County Fermanagh on 10th July 1895. He was second of six children, all born in the Ely area.
06/03/2018 Pte. John Joseph McCaffrey John Joseph McCaffery was the eldest son of John and Anne McCaffrey. John McCaffery and Anne McGarvey were married on 10th November 1892 in Fermanagh.
01/03/2018 Sapper John Crilly
01/03/2018 Sapper John Crilly Many thanks to Kenny Farquar for his research on the Dungannon details.
01/03/2018 Sapper John Crilly A son of John Crilly also served. Private Thomas John Crilly, 57245 enlisted with the 4th Rifles (Egypt) on the 28 May 1916. Thomas was born in Dungannon on the 9 February 1899. Thomas was serving with the 11th Light Horse Regiment when he was discharged from Military Service on the 14 September 1919. Thomas next of kin was his sister, Miss Annie M Crilly, also born in Dungannon and living at, Tawanlin, Via Cooroy, Queensland, Australia. He is not recorded by the CWGC as having died in the war.
01/03/2018 Sapper John Crilly John Crilly emigrated to Brisbane, Australia.
01/03/2018 Sapper John Crilly The 1911 census lists John as age 50, living with his family at house 23 in Railway View, Dungannon, County Tyrone. He was a miller.
01/03/2018 Sapper John Crilly The 1901 census lists John as age 40, living with his family at house 7 in Tempanroe, Bernagh, County Tyrone. He was a labourer in corn mill.
01/03/2018 Sapper John Crilly Family: John Crilly, Maria Crilly, William John Crilly (born 25th December 1889), Eliza Jane Crilly (born 7th October 1891), Annie Crilly (born 13th August 1893), Robert Crilly (born 27th December 1895), Thomas Crilly (born 5th June 1898).
01/03/2018 Sapper John Crilly John Crilly and Maria McCollum were married on 27th September 1889 in the district of Dungannon. They went on to have five children, all born in Dungannon.
01/03/2018 Sapper John Crilly John Crilly was born in Dungannon about 1861.
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