Lives of the First World War

This pencil message, partly indecipherable, was sent on the rear of the previous photograph.

This certificate shows his first period of service with the Lancashire Fusiliers from 9th January 1909 until 8th January 1921. Included are references to medals, chevrons and wound stripes. It is followed by two other certificates for service in the army reserve and territorial army, up to 23rd January 1936.

This certificate was awarded to 1795 Private J Gibson, 1st Lancashire Fusiliers in India, on 21st October 1913

This records the marriage on 11th April 1916 of my grandfather James Anthony Gibson to my grandmother Laura Jane Davis

According to the message on the rear of the card, "all these men were wounded on the first day's fighting (April 25th) and the majority are fit to go back". From the date, I assume this refers to 1915 and the Dardanelles campaign. My grandfather was with 1st Lancashire Fusiliers, who I understand were brought back from India and took part in the initial landings at Gallipoli. I do not know the location of this hospital but guess it was local to the campaign or possibly Egypt. The message also identifies the sender as" the one with the flower on his cap" (standing to the right of the group).

In hospital recovering from wounds received April 25th 1915, in the Gallipoli landings.

Form issued by Urmston UDC to my Grandmother Laura Jane Gibson. Can only assume that this was shortly after the death of my grandfather Sjt James Gibson

Hand written addendum reads "Produced for internment of the late Laura J. Gibson, 9th August 1951.

Cap badge of my grandfather Sjt James Gibson, passed down to me by my late father - James Anthony Gibson. I can't be sure this was issued on first enlistment and carried right through to discharge 12 years later.

Collar badge passed down to me by my late father.