Killed in Action whilst caring for his men

Killed in Action whilst caring for his men

In late April whilst in the front lines near Armentieres, the Battalion became aware of the German’s preparing for an assault. For several days the German guns seemed to be rehearsing a range of tactical barrages on the British front line and communication trenches, heightening concerns of a forthcoming attack. The morning and afternoon of 26 April was quiet although from 5pm onwards the front line was relentlessly bombarded again which left the trenches in ruins. At 8pm German infantry launched an attack. Despite no-man’s land being covered in a thick smoke, the Battalion’s Lewis guns opened fire into the gloom and managed to slow the attack. A number of enemy troops reached the shattered trenches but were swiftly thrown back. During the bombardment that day, Harry left the shelter of his dugout to check that the men under his command were safe. Having made his way through the trenches, he was caught by the blast of a shell as he leaned back on the parapet to talk to his men and was instantly killed by the concussion.

Created by: , James126456

  • Profile picture for Harry Thornton Pickles

    Born 1890

    Died 1916

    British Army Second Lieutenant West Riding Regiment 11th Battalion. attd. 9th Battalion

    British Army Private West Riding Regiment 10th Battalion

    British Army Second Lieutenant Duke of Wellingtons (West Riding Regiment) 9th (Service) Battalion