The Carlow War Dead E-Book

Tom Burnell

• Herausgeber: THP Ireland
• Kategorie: Geisteswissenschaft
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 416

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2011

Beschreibung

Following on from the success of the War Dead series in counties Tipperary, Wexford, Wicklow ,and Offaly, Tom Burnell now turns his attention to County Carlow and the unfortunate soldiers from this area who lost their lived during the First World War. After tireless research Tom Burnell has put together a comprehensive record of the soldiers, officers, sailors, airmen and nursing sisters, who listed their next of kin as being from Carlow. The men and women honoured in The Carlow War Dead died in the service of the British Army, the Australian Army, the New Zealand Army, the American Army, the Indian Army, the Canadian Army, the South African Army, the Royal Navy or the British Mercantile Marine. Such a list, combined with intricate data and never-before-seen correspondence and photographs, is an essential addition to any local historian or military enthusiast's bookshelf.

Leseprobe

Many thanks to Carmel Flahavan, Local Studies, Carlow County Library.

Contents

Title Page

Dedication

Foreword

Sources

Abbreviations & Terminology

A-Z List of Carlow War Dead

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

V

W

Copyright

Foreword

This book is a record of the 556 Carlow men and women who died in the military and associated services during and just after the Great War. This list includes personnel buried in Carlow from other locations. They died in the service of the British Army, the Australian Army, the New Zealand Army, the American Army, the Indian Army, the Canadian Army, the South African Army, the Royal Navy and the British Mercantile Marine and various war worker and nursing services. In the words of Kevin Myers, ‘the only axe being ground in these pages which follow is that of the steel of truth, tempered as it has been by decades of falsehood and neglect about the Irish involvement in the Great War.’

Sources

Blackrock College Roll of Honour, Bond of Sacrifice, British Medical Journal, Carloviana, Carlow County Library, Carlow Nationalist, Carlow Sentinel, Commonwealth War Graves Commission registers for the Irish Free State, De Ruvignys Roll of Honour, Death in the Irish Sea, by Roy Stokes, Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow, and ‘Irelands Memorial Records’, Kilkenny Journal, Kilkenny People, King’s County Chronicle, Leinster Express, London Gazette, Munster Express, Nationalist and Leinster Times, New Zealand Roll of Honour, Nominal Rolls of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force.

Officers died in the Great War, Our Heroes, Scarborough Evening News, Soldiers Died in the Great War, Soldiers of the Great War, The Commonwealth War Graves Commission, The National Archives of Australia, The New Library and Archives Canada, The Offaly War Dead, The People, The Tipperary War Dead, The War Graves of the British Empire, The Waterford News, The Wexford War Dead, The Wicklow War Dead.

Abbreviations & Terminology

CWGC: Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

ODGW: Officers Died in the Great War.

SDGW: Soldiers Died in the Great War.

IMR: Ireland’s Memorial Records.

Killed in action: The soldier was killed during engagement with the enemy.

Died of wounds: The soldier was not killed outright and may have made it back to the Regiments Aid Post or Casualty Clearing Station before he eventually died of his wounds.

Died at home: Death by drowning, suicide, accident or illness in the UK. Home in these cases means back in England and not necessarily where he lived. Many times I have come across this and it turned out to be that the soldier died in a UK hospital.

Died of wounds at home: The soldier was not killed outright and may have made it back to the Regiments Aid post or Casualty Clearing Station before he eventually died of his wounds back in the UK or Ireland.

Died: Death by drowning, suicide, accident or illness.

A

ABEL, GEORGE: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Royal Munster Fusiliers. Unit: 2nd Battalion. Date of death: 22 March 1918 (SDGW, CWGC, IMR), 22 March 1916 (Great War Memorial, Milford Street). Age at death: 19. Service No.: 18135. Formerly he was with the Royal Army Service Corps where his number was 66615. Born in Carlow. Enlisted in Shirehampton, Bristol while living in Celbridge, County Kildare. Killed in action.

Supplementary information: Son of Mary Abel, of Main Street, Celbridge, County Kildare, and the late William Abel.

Grave or memorial reference: Panel 78 and 79. Memorial: Pozieres Memorial in France. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

ALBOROUGH, GEORGE: Rank: Sergeant. Regiment or service: King’s Royal Rifle Corps. Unit: 3rd Battalion. Date of death: 3 February 1915. Age at death: 31. Service No.: 1774. Born in Carlow. Enlisted in Carlow while living in Winchester, Hants. Killed in action.

Supplementary information: Son of George James and Annie Alborough, of 3 Greyfriars Terrace. Winchester.

Grave or memorial reference: Panel 51 and 53. Memorial: Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

ALEXANDER, DAVID: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Australian Infantry, AIF. Unit: 13th Battalion. Date of death: 15 August 1915. Service No.: 1509. Died of wounds. Born, St Mullins, later changed to Clonygoose, and again to Ballytiglea, Borris, County Carlow. Occupation on enlistment: Barman, and Farmer. Age on enlistment: 24 years, 10 months.

Supplementary infortmation: Son of Mrs Annie Sophia Alexander, Ballytiglea (mentioned in his will as Balytighe and in a letter by his mother as Ballytiglea), Borris, County Carlow. Educated at the National School, Borris and the Christian Brothers School, Bagenalstown. Age on entering Australia: 22. He was very fond of sports and excelled in boxing, handball and cycling, and won many prizes and competitions and could speak Latin and French fluently and won two scholarships, also medals. Place and date of enlistment: 24 December 1914 at Liverpool, N. S. W. Weight, 9st 12lbs. Height, 5 feet, 5 inches. Complexion, dark. Eyes, blue. Hair, brown. Wounded in at Suvla Bay, Gallipoli on 15 August 1915 by a shrapnel wound to the side. Evacuated to the hospital ship ‘REWA’. Died and was buried at sea the next day by Reverend V. L. Keelan. A pension of £2 per fortnight was awarded to his mother from 19 September 1915. The missing articles in the image above were never found.

Pte David Alexander, letter from records.

Grave or memorial reference: 36. He has no known grave but is listed on the Lone Pine Memorial in Turkey. Also listed under Borris/Ballyellin on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

ALEXANDER, WALTER LORENZO: Rank: Lieutenant Colonel. Regiment or service: Yorkshire Regiment. Unit: Cdg. 2nd Battalion. Date of death: 14 May 1915. Age at death: 42. Killed in action.

Supplementary information: Son of George and Susan Alexander, of Erindale, County Carlow; husband of Mrs A. M. Alexander, of The Thatched Cottage, Northiam, Sussex. From Bond of Sacrifice:

Lieutenant-Colonel Walter Lorenzo Alexander, Commanding 2nd Battalion, Alexandra, Princess of Wales’s Own (Yorkshire Regiment). Born at Rathvindon, County Carlow, on the 8th September, 1872, was the youngest son of George Alexander, of Rathvindon, and a cousin of Major John Alexander, of Milford, County Carlow. He was educated at Densotone College, and the R. M. C., Sandhurst, from which he was gazetted to the Yorkshire Regiment in May, 1892, becoming Lieutenant in July, 1896, and Captain in 1900. In the Tirah Camapign of 1897–8 he was present with his battalion at the capture of Sampagha and Arhanga Passes, and took part in the reconnaissance of the Saran Sar and the attack of the 9th November, 1897, in the operations against Khani Kel Chamkunis; and in the Bazar Valley, also at the affair of Shinkamar, on the 28th January, 1898. For his services in the campaign he received the medal with two clasps.

Lt Col. Alexander, from Bond of Sacrifice.

Becoming Major in February, 1898, he succeeded to the command of the 2nd Battalion of his Regiment in September, 1914, and proceeded to France. Lieutenant-Colonel Alexander was wounded at Ypres in October, but returned to the front towards the end of December, and led his Battalion during the hard fighting at Neuve Chapelle in March. He was killed on the 14th may, 1915, during the fighting south of the River Lys. For his services in the field Lieutenant-Colonel Alexander was mentioned in Sir John French’s Despatches of the 31st May, and the 30th November, 1915.

Lieutenant-Colonel Alexander, who was a member of the Army and Navy Club, married Mabel, daughter of Colonel Maurice Tweedle, late Indian Army, and left one son.

From Carlow Sentinel, May 1915:

Lieutenant-Colonel Alexander. Carlow is contributing a heavy toll to the “Roll of Honor”, both amongst Officers and Rank and File. To-day we regret having to add to the list Lieutenant-Colonel W. L. Alexander, Yorks Regiment, who was killed in action in France on 14th inst, was the youngest son of the late Mr George Alexander, Rathvindon, Carlow, and cousin of Major Alexander, Milford House. He was 43 years of age and had seen much service in India, winning the medal with two clasps for gallantry.

Grave or memorial reference: II. D. 11. Cemetery; Le Touret Military Cemetery, Richebourg-L’Avoue in France. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

APPLEBY, PATRICK: Rank: Unknown. Regiment or service: Rifle Brigade. Date of death: 6 November 1922. Recorded in an article by John Kenna in Carlowviana 2003. Born: 4 August 1888 in Carlow.

Supplementary information: Son of Edward and Alice Appleby (listed in the 1911 census in Kilcarrig Street, Bagenalstown and brother of Mary Alice, Nellie and Maggie Appleby). Suffered from the effects of poison gas. Died after discharge on 6 November 1922 and buried in Dunleckney Cemetery, Bagenalstown, County Carlow.

ASHMORE, LUKE: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Irish Guards. Unit: 3rd Reserve Battalion. Date of death: 3 September 1915. Age at death: 26. Service No.: 8815. Born in Palatine, Carlow. Enlisted in Naas, County Kildare. Died at home.

Supplementary information: Son of Mrs Florence Loftus, of Knockbane House, Palatine, Carlow. Alternative Commemoration – buried in Joyce Green Cemetery.

Grave or memorial reference: Screen Wall. Cemetery: Gravesend Cemetery in Kent. Also listed under Palatine/Urglin on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

ASPLE, MICHAEL: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. Unit: 8th Battalion. Date of death: 15 March 1917 Service No.: 80321(CWGC) and 40321(SDGW). Age at death: 21. Born in Borris, County Carlow. Enlisted in Kilkenny while living in Borris, County Carlow. Died. Formerly he was with the Royal Dublin Fusiliers where his number was 19460.

Supplementary information: Son of Patrick and Margaret Asple, of Borris, County Carlow.

Grave or memorial reference: Panel 22. Memorial: Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium. Also listed under Borris/Ballyellin on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

ATKINSON, WILLIAM: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Australian Infantry, A. I. F. Unit: 53rd Battalion. Date of death: 27 April 1918. Age at death: 23, also listed as 24. Service No.: 2552.

Supplementary information: Son of Samuel and Jeanie Atkinson, of Hillview, Bilboa, Carlow, Ireland. Born, listed as Hillview, Bilboa and Cloydah, Carlow, Queen’s County(sic), Ireland. Educated at the nationals school at Bilboa. Age on entering Australia: 21. No previous military experience. Before leaving for Australia he was a crack shot with a shotgun, was fond of riding horses and was a fairly good photographer. Occupation on enlistment: Tram guard, conductor on tramway in Sydney, N. S. W. Age on enlistment: 23 years. Among other debilities he suffered from pulmonary T. B. S., tonsilitis and bronchitis during his service. Next of kin details; Samuel Atkinson, of Hillview, Bilboa, Carlow, Ireland. Effects sent to Edith Atkinson at the same address. Place and date of enlistment: 14 June 1916 in Liverpool, N. S. W. Weight, 138lbs. Height, 5 feet, 5¾ inches. Complexion, fresh. Eyes, brown. Hair, brown. Killed in action and initially (the same day) buried in an isolated grave 1 mile west of Hamel, 1¾ miles east south east of Corbie and transferred to Villers-Brettonneux Military Cemetery in October 1923. An application for a pension by his mother was rejected in September 1918 as she was not dependent on him.

Pte Atkinson’s Will.

Grave or memorial reference: II. A. 3. Cemetery: Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery in France. Also listed under Leighlinbridge/Old Leighlin on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

AYLWARD, EDWARD: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Irish Guards. Unit: 2nd Battalion. Date of death: 28 October 1918. Service No.: 2255. Born in Carlow. Enlisted in Dublin. Died at home. Grave or memorial reference: In the North East part. Cemetery: Coon Catholic Churchyard in Kilkenny. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

B

BAILEY, ALEXANDER: Rank: lance Corporal. Regiment or service: Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (Eastern Ontario Regiment). Unit: No 4 Company. Date of death: 7 May 1915. Age at death: 27. Service No.: 1570.

Supplementary information: Son of the Reverend Robert Taylor Bailey, MA and Alice Magil, his wife. Ex-member of R. N. W. M. P. and Legion of Frontiersmen. Sub-manager of Royal Trust Company, Winnipeg. Enlisted in 1914. Born in Strangford in 1887, County Down. Enlisted in Ottowa, 21 August 1914. Height, 5 feet 7 inches. Complexion, fair. Hair, dark brown. Eyes, grey. Next of kin listed as Reverend R. J. Bailey, MA, The Manse, Carlow. Occupation on enlistment, Clerk with the Royal Trust Company. Spent two years serving with the Royal North West Mounted Police. From Carlow Sentinel, May, 1915:

Lance Corporal Alex Bailey.

The recent casualties also include Alexander Bailey, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry. He was elder son of the late Rev. R. T. Bailey, M. A., Carlow, and grandson of Rev. George Magill, D. D., senior minister of Cliftonville Presbyterian Chirch, Belfast. When war was proclaimed Mr Bailey was in a responsible and lucrative situation in Winnipeg, Canada. As is well-known a wave of local enthusiasm swept over the Dominion, and Mr Bailey, with many personal friends, volunteered as a private in the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry. Though he might have had a commission in another regiment he preferred to serve in the now famous corps. He was sent to the front before Christmas. After being some time in the trenches, enduring the hardships of trench life, he caught enteric, and was sent to hospital. On recovery he was granted a short leave to see his friends in Ireland. He left his grandfather’s house about four weeks ago, and returned to duty full of health and hope.

News just arrived that he was killed last week by a shell. Mr bailey was a young man of great promise, who has left no enemies or bitter memories behind him. To Dr Magil—the highly-respected “father” of the Presbytery of Belfast—and the other relatives deep sympathy will be extended in their bereavement.

Grave or memorial reference: Panel 10. Memorial: Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium.

BAILEY, PATRICK: Rank: Lance Corporal. Regiment or service: Royal Dublin Fusiliers. Unit: 2nd Battalion. Date of death: 22 May 1915. Age at death: 19. Service No.: 11641. Born in Clonmore, County Wicklow. Enlisted in Carlow. Killed in action.

Supplementary information: Son of Christopher and Margaret Bailey, of Arnold, Coolkenno, Tullow, County Carlow. Effects and property received by: (Mother) Mrs Bailey, Aghold, Coolkenno, Tullow, County Carlow.

Grave or memorial reference: He has no known grave but is listed on Panel 44 and 46 on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium. Also listed under Clonmore on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BAIRD, DAVID EUGENE: Rank: Company Sergeant Major. Regiment or service: Border Regiment. Unit: 1st Battalion. Date of death: 6 July 1916. Age at death: 34. Service No.: 7516. Born; Aldershot, Hants. Enlisted in Woolwich in Kent while he was living in Borris County Carlow. Died of wounds.

Supplementary information: Son of Captain David Baird, of Ullard House, Borris, County Carlow; husband of Elizabeth M. F. Baird, of Ash Brook, Roscrea, County Tipperary.

Grave or memorial reference: F. 7. Cemetery; Beauval Communal Cemetery in France.

BARNES, JOHN: Rank: Sapper. Regiment or service: Royal Engineers. Unit: 264th Railway Construction Company. Date of death: 16 August 1917. Age at death: 42. Service No.: 267176(CWGC), 267167. Enlisted in Newtownbarry, County Wexford while living in Clonegal, County Carlow. Killed in action. Formerly he was with the Royal Irish Rifles where his number was 6079.

Supplementary information: Son of James Barnes and Ellen Barnes (née Smyth); husband of Margaret Barnes, of Johnstown, Clonegal, County Carlow.

Grave or memorial reference: IV. B. 36. Cemetery: Bard Cottage Cemetery in Belgium. Also listed under Clonegal/Kildavin on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BARRON, WILLIAM W.: Rank: Gunner. Regiment or service: Royal Garrison Artillery. Unit: 38th Siege Battery. Date of death: 17 July 1917. Age at death: 24. Service No.: 38573. Born in Ballyellen, County Carlow. Enlisted in Carlow. Died of wounds.

Supplementary information: Son of Mrs James Barron, of Ballyellin, Goresbridge.

Grave or memorial reference: In north-west corner. Cemetery: Ballyellin Cemetery, County Carlow. Also listed under Borris/Ballyellin on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BECKER, JOHN: Rank: Lance Corporal. Regiment or service: Royal Irish Regiment. Unit: 3rd Battalion. Date of death: 1 June 1917. Age at death: 36. Service No.: 7739 Born in Carlow. Enlisted in Carlow. Died at home. From Nationalist and Leinster Times, June 1917:

BECKER--In loving memory of Lance-Corporal John Becker, 18th Royal irish Regiment, of Pollerton Road, Carlow, who died of Dysentery in Tipperary Hospital on the 1st June, 1917. Interred in St Mary’s Cemetery, Carlow. On whose soul, Sweet Jesus, have mercy.

I stood beside your dying bed,

To take a last farewell,

With tearful eyes I watched you,

And say you pass away.

Although I dearly loved you.

I could not make you stay

Dearest husband, thou hast left us,

And thy loss we deeply feel,

But the God that hath bereft us,

He can all our sorrows heal.

May his spirit now repose,

In thy great protecting arms.

Free from care and earthly woes.

Inserted by his sorrowing wife and children.

Grave or memorial reference: 5. 3. 14. Cemetery: Carlow (St Mary’s) Cemetery, County Carlow. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BELL, RICHARD: Rank: Corporal. Regiment or service: Royal Horse Artillery and Royal Field Artillery. Unit: 5th Divisonal Ammunition Column. Date of death: 17 March 1915. Age at death: 34. Service No.: 10622. Born in Dublin. Enlisted in Dublin. Died at home.

Supplementary information: Husband of Agnes M. Power (formerly Bell), of 20 Coral Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock, Manchester.

Grave or memorial reference: RC. 445. Cemetery: Grangegorman Military Cemetery, Dublin. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BENSON, MICHAEL VINCENT FRANCIS: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Cheshire Regiment. Unit: 15th Battalion. Date of death: 19 July 1916. Age at death: 25. Service No.: 19043. Born in Carlow, County Kildare (sic). Enlisted in Birkenhead. Killed in action.

Supplementary information: Son of Mrs C. Benson, of Staplestown Road, Carlow.

Grave or memorial reference: Pier and Face 3 C and 4 A. Memorial: Thiepval Memorial in France. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BERNARD, ROBERT: Rank: Lieutenant. Regiment or service: Royal Dublin Fusiliers. Unit: 1st Battalion. Date of death: 25 April 1915. Age at death: 23. Killed in action.

Supplementary information: Son of the Most Reverend and Right Honourable J. H. Bernard, DD, and Maud, his wife, of Provost’s House, Trinity College, Dublin. Educated at Marlborough College and Sandhurst. From Carlow Sentinel, May 1915:

Lieutenant Robert Bernard.

The casualties announced on Monday include the name of Lieutenant Robert Bernard, younger son of the Bishop of Ossory, Ferns and Leighlin, and Mrs Bernard, the Palace, Kilkenny, who was killed in action on Sunday, 25th April. He was born 21st, December, 1891, and was gazetted from Sandhurst Second Lieutenant, Royal Dublin Fusiliers in March, 1912, and promoted Lieutenant November, 1913.

On Sunday last, previous to the 11. 30 o’clock Service in St Canice’s Cathedral, a muffled peal was rung by the members of the Change Ringers Society as a mark of respect to the memory of the deceased.

From Kilkenny People, May 1915:

The Late Lieutenant Robert Bernard.

At a meeting of the County Kilkenny Relief Committee held in the Assembly Room, City Hall, on Monday last, the Mayor, Mt John Magennis, P. L. G., who resided, proposed the following resolution; -- “That we, the members of the County Kilkenny Relief Committee, respectfully tender to His Lordship the Right Rev Dr. Bernarg, Bishop of Ossory, and esteemed member of this committee, and expression of our sincere condolence and sympathy in the great loss he has sustained by the death of his gallant son, Lieutenant Robert Bernard, who nobly fell in action in the Dardanelles, and that this meeting be adjourned as a mark of respect.”

Very Rev. Dean Barry, D. D. P. P., V. F., Ballyragget, seconded the resolution which was passed in silence.

Grave or memorial reference: Special Memorial A. 6. Cemetery: V. Beach Cemetery in Turkey. He is also commemorated on the Great War Memorial in St Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny… ‘To the Glory of God and in loving memory of the following members of the Diocese of Ossory who gave their lives for their country in the Great War 1914–1918’.

BERRY, THOMAS: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Royal Irish Regiment. Unit: 2nd Battalion. Date of death: 19 October 1914. Age at death: 38. Service No.: 7253. Born in St Marys, Wexford. Enlisted in Enniscorthy while living in Tullow, County Carlow. Killed in action.

Supplementary information: Husband of Margaret Jordan (formerly Berry) of 18 Married Quarters, 8th Hussars, Cavalry Barracks, York. Date of will: 9 August 1918. Effects and property received by: (Wife) Mrs Margaret Barry, Bridge Street, Tullow, County Carlow. From an article in a Wexford newspaper:

Private Thomas Berry, Royal Irish Regiment is a native of Newtownbarry district. He had eleven years’ service with the colours and had been stationed in India. At the outbreak of the war his regiment was drafted out to Flanders, and in the terrible combats in the earlier stages of the war Private Berry took part. After the second Battle of Mons Private Berry was reported missing. His brother, Patrick, who has had twelve years service with the 11th Hussars, is also in the firing line, where on two occasions he was wounded. [See Patrick Berry in the Wexford War Dead.]

Grave or memorial reference: Has no known grave but is commemorated on Panel 11 and 12. Memorial: Le Touret Memorial in France. Also listed under Tullow on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BLACKETT, WILLIAM STEWART BURDETT: Rank: Lieutenant. Regiment or service: Household Cavalry and Cavalry of the line including the Yeomanry and Imperial Camel Corps. Unit: Leicestershire Yeomanry. Date of death: 25 November 1914. Age at death: 41.

Supplementary information: Son of Captain Blackett (RN); husband of Mrs Blackett Swiny, of Arbigland, Dumfries. Served in the South African Campaign with Grenadier Guards. From De Ruvignys Roll of Honour:

… of Arbigland, co, Dubfries, and Manton Grange, Oakham, co. Rutland, Captain, Leicestershire Yeomanry, late Grenadier Guards, eldest son of the late Captain Archibald Campbell Stewart Blackett, R. N., by his wife, Clara Blanche Harriet, eldest daughter of Lieutenant Colonel Charles Sedley Burdett, Coldstream Guards, and nephew and heir of Christopher Edward Blackett of Arbigland, J. P., Lieutenant Colonel, 26th and 93rd Regiments, and Coldstream Guards (a cadet of the family of Blackett, of Wylam, co. Northumberland. Born in London, 24 October 1873. Educated at Wellington and Sandhurst. Joined the 3rd Grenadier Guards, 8th May, 1895, becoming Lieutenant, 12 February, 1898, and Captain, 1901. He served through the South African War, 1899–1902, in the 8th Division under General Rundle. Was present at the Battle of Biddulphsberg, and received the King’s medal with two clasps. He retired in 1903, but on the outbreak of war joined the Leicestershire Yeomanry, and was gazetted, 15th August, 1914. He went to France with the Expeditionary Force, was wounded in action near Ypres on 20 November 1914, and died in a French hospital at Poperinghe, 24 November following, and was buried there. He married at Staplestown Church, Carlow, 6th April, 1907, Kathleen Prudence Eiene (Arbigland, Dumfries), daughter of Beauchamp Frederick Bagenal, of Benekerry House, County Carlow, D. L., and had a son, Christopher William Stewart Blackett, now of Arbigland, born 27 April 1908.

He is also listed (with a different photograph) in Our Heroes with no further information. Kathlene Prudence Eirene Bagenal is listed in the 1901 census under Prudence Bagenal, born in Carlow. From the Carlow Sentinel, and the Nationalist and Leinster Times, December 1914:

Roll of Honour.

We regret to find in the list of casualties issued this week, the name of Captain William Stewart Burdett Blackett [late Grenadier Guards], of Arbigland, Dunfries, and Matnon[?] Grange, Oakham. While serving with the Leicestershire Yeomanry he was wounded about November 21st, 1914, died in Hospital de Notre Dame, in Poperinghe, on November 24th, and buried there on Noveber 26th, aged 41 years. He was married in 1907 to the youngest daughter of Mr Beauchamp F. Bagenal, D. L., Bennekerry House, Carlow.

From Bond of Sacrifice, Volume 1:

… born in 1873, and was the only son of Commander A. S. Blackett, R. N. Captain Blackett was the nephew and heir of his uncle, Colonel Blackett, of Arbigland, Dumfries. He was educated at Wellington College, and at the R. M. C., Sandhurst, and joined the Grenadier Guards in May, 1895, being promoted Lieutenant in February, 1898, and Captain in May, 1900. With the 3rd Battalion, he served during the whole of the South African War, for which he received the Queen’s medal with three clasps, and the King’s medal with two clasps. In the Great War he was attached for service to the Leicestershire Yeomanry, a died on the 24th November.

Captain Blackett was a keen fisherman and cricketer, and fond of hunting and shooting. He was a member of the Guards’, Bachelors’, and Army and Navy Clubs.

He married Kathleen Prudence Eirene, youngest daughter of B. F. Bagenal, D. L., of Benekerry, Carlow, and left one son, C. W. S. Blackett, born 1908.

Lt Blackett, from De Ruvinys Roll of Honour, Volume 1.

Grave or memorial reference: I. B. 1. Cemetery: Poperinghe Communal Cemetery in Belgium.

BOLGER, JAMES: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Durham Light Infantry. Unit: 15th Battalion. Date of death: 12 September 1918. Age at death: 20. Service No.: G/385(CWGC), 91358 (SDGW). Born in Tullow, County Carlow. Enlisted in Naas while living in Tullow, County Carlow. Died of wounds. Formerly he was with the Royal Dublin Fusiliers where his number was 43095.

Supplementary information: Foster son of Bridget Bolger, of Paulville, Tullow, County Carlow.

Grave or memorial reference: III. L. 10. Cemetery: Varennes Military Cemetery in France. Also listed under Tullow on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BOLGER, KATIE: Rank: Staff Nurse. Regiment or service: Queen Alexandra’s Imperial Military Nursing Service. Date of death: 5 March 1916. Age at death: 30. Service No.: 2/Res/B/1257.

Supplementary information: Died of pneumonia. Daughter of Edward and Margret Bolger, of Tullow, County Carlow. From the Nationalist and Leinster Times, 1916:

The Late Nurse Bolger. Interred with Full Honours.

Mr T Bolger, Downings, Tullow, has received the following from Father Corcoran;

London Irish Rifles, No 6 Camp. Suttonveny, Warminster, Wilts.

6th March, 1916.

Dear Mr Bolger—As Senior Catholic Chaplain who attended your sister in her last illness, I write to tell you how highly Sister Bolger was appreciated by all with whom she came in contact—a fact which was clearly evidenced at her funeral. At the same time a short account of what happened may help to comfort you in your great loss. Katie Bolger came to Suttonveny Military Hospital about four months ago, to take up the duties of Staff Sister, with the military rank of Lieutenant. Her bright and happy disposition son made her a favourite, not only with the Matron and staff, but particularly with the patients, and her loss is greatly felt by all. She contracted pneumonia only a week ago, and although she received every care and attention, she passed away on Sunday evening last, fortified with all the rites of the Holy Church. As she had expressed a wish to be buried in the local Churchyard, her desire was acceded to. The funeral procession fell in at 10 o’clock, March 7th, in the hospital grounds, to proceed to Suttonveny Church.

As she had the military status of officer, an officer of the 15th London Regiment was in command of the firing party, which headed to procession with reversed arms. Next came the coffin, covered with the Union Jack and Flag of the R. A. M. C., hidden with wreaths, and carried on a gun carriage, drawn by black horses of the 12th London F. A. Immediately behind were Mr Bolger, brother of the deceased, and Father R. Corcoran, S. C. F., London Irish Rifles. The bearer party furnished by the sergeant of the R. A. M. C., walked on either side of the gun carriage. Then followed the Matron, Staff Sisters and Nurses of the Hospital, and the War Office was represented by Miss Tours, Principal Matron. The Band of the R. A. M. C., kindly lent by the Colonel Segbie, Salisbury Training Centre, played the Dead March on the way to the Churchyard, and the procession was completed by 250 men of the R. A. M. C., under the command of Lieutenant J. D. Ryan, R. A. M. C., the colonel and other officers of the Corps being also present. When the funeral party arrived at the Church, the body was met and blessed by Father Corcoran, and carried to the graveside. Here the hospital staff—firing party—buglers and men were formed up and listened attentively to the solemn words of the funeral service. When the priest had concluded his duties, the firing party discharged three volleys, and the buglers sounded the Last Post, a sad and mournful note—heard by the soldiers every evening—and sounded finally over his grave. Thus was laid to rest, with full military honours, the body of Sister Bolger.

At a time, when every man and woman is needed to combat an inhuman foe, she bravely came forward to do her share, and sacrificed her life in the service of her fellows. Example will lend others to do likewise. May we hope that her “greater love hath no man than this.” In return her country honoured her, she died as a soldier, she was buried as a soldier; all along the line of march were officers and men of all Nationalities standing at attention as she passed on her last journey. May God rest her soul. The many beautiful wreaths which covered the coffin and gun carriage were sent by the following; --The Matron and Sisters, the Colonel and Officers, R. A. M. C., R. A. M. C. Regimental Crest, Sergeants Mess, Wreath, Corporals and Lance Corporals; White Lillies and Shamrock Wreath, Orderlies and G. D. O. s; Wreath, from Servants of Sisters Quarters, etc. The arrangements were most efficiently carried out by Dr and Lieutenant J. D. Ryan, of Rathdrum, County Wicklow, himself almost a neighbour of Sister Bolger, at home. From beginning of the war he has also afforded an example of the duty incumbent on all Irishmen at the present crisis, and whose services have been particularly at the disposal of his countrymen and countrywomen in the British Army.

Yours very sincerely.

Richard Corcoran, S. C. F.

London Irish Rifles.

Grave or memorial reference: 411. Cemetery: Sutton Veny (St John) Churchyard, Wiltshire, UK.

BOLGER, PATRICK: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Royal Dublin Fusiliers. Unit: 2nd Battalion. Date of death: 24 May 1915. Age at death: 22. Service No.: 11479. Born in Borris, County Carlow. Enlisted in Naas while living in Borris, County Carlow. Killed in action.

Supplementary information: Son of James and Mary Dowling Bolger, of Inch, Ballymurphy, Borris, County Carlow.

Grave or memorial reference: Panel 44 and 46. Memorial: Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium. Also listed under Borris/Ballyellin on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BOLGER, PIERCE: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Machine Gun Corps (Infantry). Unit: 89th Company. Date of death: 12 October 1916 (CWGC, SDGW, IMR) 12 December 1916 (Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge). Service No.: 36402. Born in Graiguenaugh, County Kilkenny. Enlisted in Dublin while living in Graiguenanaugh, County Kilkenny. Killed in action. Formerly he was with the Royal Irish Regiment where his number was 9802.

Supplementary information: Brother of William Bolger, of Tinnahinch East, Graiguenamanagh, County Kilkenny.

Grave or memorial reference: Pier and Face 5 C and 12 C. Memorial: Thiepval Memorial in France. Also listed under Tinnehinch on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BOLGER, THOMAS: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Leinster Regiment. Unit: A Company. 1st Battalion. Date of death: 19 May 1915 (SDGW, CWGC), 18 May 1915 (IMR, Great War Memorial, Milford Street). Age at death: 18. Service No.: 3407. Born in Tullow, County Carlow. Enlisted in Maryborough. Died of wounds.

Supplementary information: Son of Sarah Bolger, of Barrack Street, Tullow, County Carlow, and the late Edward Bolger. From the Nationalist and Leinster Times, May 1915:

Tullow Soldier’s Death.

Mr P Bolger, Barrack Street, Tullow, has received the following letter; --

Dear Mrs Bolger—I regret to announce the death of your son, No 3407, Private Thomas Bolger, who was killed in action on the 19th inst. We were holding a osition a short distance behind the firing line. He was struck by a stray bullet, and expired shortly afterwards. His death is much regretted by the officers and men of his regiment; he is laid to rest in the wood where he fell, an a cross has been erected to his memory. I am forwarding you photographs which were found upon him. I may point out that on the previous night he took part with his company in a fierce attack on a German position, and proved himself a brave soldier and a man. On behalf of officers and men of “A” Company, we tender you, in this your great trouble, our deepest sympathy. —I remain, yours sincerely,

J. Matthews

Company Sergeant Major,

1st Leinster Regiment.

Grave or memorial reference: Panel 44. Memorial: Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium. Also listed under Tullow on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BOLTON, HENRY: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Royal Irish Regiment. Unit: 2nd Battalion. Date of death: 13 November 1918 (two days after the war ended). Service No.: 12336. Formerly he was with the Royal Dublin Fusiliers where his number was 29096. Born in Bagenalstown, County Carlow. Enlisted in Carlow while living in Bagenalstown, County Carlow. Died of wounds. After his death his effects and property were received by: (Wife) Mrs H Bolton, Clowater, Gores Bridge, County Kilkenny, Ireland. Grave or memorial reference: I. C. 33. Cemetery: Cemetery: Valenciennes (St Roch) Communal Cemetery in France. Also listed under Bagenalstown/Fenagh on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BOURKE, BERTRAM WALTER: Rank: Captain. Regiment or service: Royal Dublin Fusiliers. Unit: 5th Battalion, attached to the 2nd Battalion. Date of death: 9 May 1915. Age at death: 33. Born in Mayo. Killed in action.

Supplementary information: Son of Major William H. Bourke (Connaught Rangers), of Heathfield, Ballina, County Mayo; husband of Eileen N. Newsam (formerly Bourke, née Ussher). From De Ruvignys Roll of Honour:

… only surviving son of the late Major William Henry Bourke, of Heathfield, Ballina, County Mayo, Connaught Rangers, by his wife, Sarah Louisa, daughter of James John Young. Born 09-December–1882. Educated in Saint Servant, France. Served with the Royal Engineers (Militia) from which he exchanged into the 5th Battalion, Royal Dublin Fusiliers in 1904. Passed the school of instruction for employment with the Regular Forces, and obtained the rank of Captain, 24-February–1912. He left for the front on 2-May–1915, was attached to the 2nd Battalion, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, and was killed in action while gallantly leading his men near Ypres, just a week later, 09-May–1915. Captain Bourke married at Staplestown, Carlow, 19-April–1913, Eileen, daughter of George Neville Usher, of Carlow, and had two sons; Vivienne Neville, born 29-January–1911; and Patricia Berttram, born 04-November–1915.

Grave or memorial reference: He has no known grave but is listed on Panel 44 and 46 on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium.

BOWLER, EDWARD (Eddie) ST KENTIGERN: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Machine Gun Corps. Unit: Infantry, 72nd Company. Date of death: 12 August 1916. Age at death: 22/23. Service No.: 27747. Formerly he was with the Royal Irish Rifles where his number was 10728. Born in Keswick (Soldiers died in the Great War), Irelands Memorial Records state he was born in Kings County. Enlisted in Cork. Died of wounds at the Casualty Clearing Station based in Corbie, France.

Supplementary information: Son of Staff QMS Bowler (Royal Army Service Corps) and Mrs W. J. Bowler, of Bough, Rathvilly, County Carlow.

Grave or memorial reference: Plot 2 Row A Grave 90. Cemetery: Corbie Communal Cemetery Extension in France.

BRADY, JOHN: Rank: Rifleman. Regiment or service: London Regiment. Unit: 18th (County of London) Battalion (London Irish Rifles). Date of death: 7 November 1917. Service No.: 502946(SDGW), 592946(CWGC). Formerly he was with the Royal Army Medical Corps where his number was 44209. Born in Dublin. Enlisted in Dublin while living in Carlow. Killed in action in Egypt. Grave or memorial reference: 51. Cemetery: Jerusalem War Cemetery, Israel. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BRAY, EDWARD: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Royal Irish Regiment. Unit: 6th Battalion. Date of death: 9 September 1916. Age at death: 34. Service No.: 2751. Born in Ballincarrig, County Carlow. Enlisted in Carlow while living in Ballincarrig. Killed in action. Grave or memorial reference: Pier and Face 3 A and 4 A. Memorial: Thiepval Memorial in France. Also listed under Tinryland on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BREEN, JOSEPH: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Royal Irish Regiment. Unit: 1st Battalion. Date of death: 24 April 1915 (IMR, CWGC, SDGW) 24 May 1915 (Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow). Age at death: 18. Service No.: 4660. Born in Bride Street Wexford. Enlisted in Wexford while living in Tullow, County Carlow. Killed in action.

Supplementary information: Son of Moses and Annie Breen of 7 Ruskin Avenue, Rock Ferry, Birkenhead. From a newspaper article:

Mr Moses Breen of King Street, has been notified by the War Office that his son Joseph, a Private in the Royal Irish Regiment, was killed in action.

Only a short time previously another son of Mr Breen’s, John who was also with the Royal Irish- was killed on active service. Both young men were exceedingly popular in Wexford and the greatest sympathy is felt with Mr Breen on his double berevement.

Grave or memorial reference: Has no known grave but is commemorated on Panel 33. Memorial: Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium. Also listed under Tullow on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BRENNAN, JAMES: Rank: Shoeing Smith. Regiment or service: Royal Army Service Corps. Unit: No. 1 Company, 12th Div. Train. Date of death: 10 November 1918 (the day before the war ended). Age at death: 26. Service No.: TS/5925. Born in Donnane, Queen’s County. Enlisted in Carlow while living in Ballickmoyler. Died.

Supplementary information: Son of James and Elizabeth Brennan, of Aughaterry, Ballickmoyler, County Carlow.

Grave or memorial reference: D. 1. Cemetery: Brebieres British Cemetery, Pas-de-Calais, France.

BRENNAN, JAMES: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Machine Gun Corps. Unit: 11th Company, Infantry. Date of death: 9 April 1917. Service No.: 36397. Formerly he was with the Leinster Regiment where his number was 5076. Born in Leighlinbridge, County Carlow. Enlisted in Carlow while living in Leighlinbridge. Killed in action. Grave or memorial reference: Bay 10. Memorial: Arras Memorial in France. Also listed under Leighlinbridge/Old Leighlin on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BRENNAN, JAMES: Rank: Gunner. Regiment or service: Royal Garrison Artillery. Unit: 24th Siege Battery. Date of death: 12 September 1916. Service No.: 34541. Born in Mayo, Queen’s County. Enlisted in Carlow while living in Chelland, Lanark. Killed in action. James was brother of Mrs Mulhall, of Ravenshall Cottage, Cleland, with whom he lived. He worked in Howmuir Colliery, Cleland, Lanarkshire, Scotland. Grave or memorial reference: I. G. I. Cemetery: Peronne Road Cemetery, Maricourt in France. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BRENNAN, JOSEPH: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Connaught Rangers. Unit: 1st Battalion. Age at death: 37. Date of death: 19 August 1917. Service No.: 415814(CWGC), 5814(SDGW) 4/5814 (last will and testament). Born in Carlow. Enlisted in Carlow while living in Carlow. Died in Mesopotamia.

Supplementary information: Son of Mrs Ann Brennan, of Barrack Street, Carlow. Date of will: 27 June 1915. Effects and property received by: (Sister) Lizzie Leonard, Pollton Road, Carlow, County Carlow. From the Nationalist and Leinster Times, May 1916:

A Carlow Soldier in the Balkans

Corporal Christy Brennan, 6th Leinster Regiment, Balkan Ex, Force, writes us to thank the Carlow ladies for parcels received. Corporal Brennan, who has served in France, where he received wounds, is a native of Barrack Street, Carlow.

[Christopher Brennan in the above snippet survived the war. He was a younger brother of Joseph.]

Grave or memorial reference: XI. K. 6. Cemetery: Baghdad (North Gate) War Cemetery, Iraq.

BRENNAN, PATRICK: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: King’s Liverpool Regiment. Unit: 19th Battalion. Date of death: 29 April 1918. Age at death: 40. Service No.: 48259. Born in Carlow, Leinster. Enlisted in Liverpool while living in Liverpool. Killed in action.

Supplementary information: Husband of Margaret Brennan, of 3 Ivor Street, Kirkdale, Liverpool.

Grave or memorial reference: XIV. F. 8. Cemetery: Voormezeele Enclosures No. 3 in Belgium. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BRENNAN, PATRICK: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Northumberland Fusiliers. Unit: 9th Battalion. Date of death: 16 May 1917. Service No.: 48467. Formerly he was with the T. RES, where his number was TR/5/52621. Born in Ballyalln(sic), County Carlow. Enlisted in Dublin. Killed in action.

Supplementary information: Son of Mrs A. Brennan, of Bevllafallen, Goresbridge, County Kilkenny.

Grave or memorial reference: I. B. 43. Cemetery: Highland Cemetery, Roclincourt, Pas-de-Calas, France.

BRESLIN, THOMAS: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Australian Infantry, A. I. F. Unit: 59th Battalion. Date of death: 19 July 1916. Service No.: 1914.

Supplementary information: Son of Thomas and Mary Breslin; husband of Mary Breslin, of North Clermiston Farm, Davidson’s Mains, Edinburgh, Scotland. Native of County Clare, Ireland. His records, however, state he was born in Carlow. Died on the Somme. Born, Clonmore, Carlow. Occupation on enlistment: Labourer. Age on enlistment: 25 years 6 months. Next of kin details: (Mother) Mary Breslin. Clonmore, County Carlow. His mother re-married and recoded in the records as Mrs Robert Rutchinson (sic), North Clermirston Farm, Davidsons Mains, Edinburgh, Scotland. Place and date of enlistment, 14 January 1915, Melbourne, Victoria. Weight, 14st 7lbs. Height, 6 feet ¾ inches. Complexion, ruddy. Eyes, blue. Hair, dark brown. Fought in Gallipoli, the Dardanelles and France. Also served in Egypt and Marseilles. Reported ‘wounded in action’ on 28 July 1916. Later changed to ‘wounded and missing in action’ on 15 September 1916. Changed again to ‘Missing’ on 24 October 1916. Changed to ‘Killed in action’ on 29 August 1917 after a court of enquiry held ‘in the field’. ‘Presumed buried in no-man’s-land at approx 5 JGO 43 to 5 K 0. Q. 51.’ Another report; – Graves Regristratuon units, Breslin, 19–7–16 (buried) Ration Farm Military, 1½ miles south of Armentieres.

Pte Breslin, from his records.

Grave or memorial reference: VI. D. 46. Cemetery: Ration Farm Military Cemetery, La Chapelle-Darmentieres, Nord in France.

BRESTLAUN, OWEN: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Royal Dublin Fusiliers. Unit: 1st Battalion. Date of death: 29 June 1915. Age at death: 28. Service No.: 10053. Born in Carnew, Wexford. Enlisted in Carlow while living in Taney, County Wexford. Killed in action in Gallipoli.

Supplementary information: Son of the late Daniel Brestlaun of Ballyellis, Gorey, County Wexford and of Bessie McGuinness (formerly Brestlaun) of Ardoyne, Tullow, County Carlow.

Grave or memorial reference: Panel 190 to 196. Memorial: Helles Memorial in Turkey. Also listed under Tullow on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BRIEN, CHARLES: Rank: Lance Sergeant. Regiment or service: Irish Guards. Unit: 1st Battalion. Date of death: 10 May 1917. Age at death: 24. Service No.: 3790. Born in Killeshin, County Carlow. Enlisted in Carlow. Died of wounds.

Supplementary information: Son of Mrs Sarah Brien, of 5 Sleaty Street, Graigue-Cullen, Carlow. Date of will: 4 August 1917. Effects and property received by: (Mother) Sarah O’Brien, Sleaty Street, Carlow. Witnesses: M. Bruce, Wellington Barracks, H. Richardson, Wellington Barracks. Mother also an executor.

Grave or memorial reference: Near the north boundary. Cemetery: Sleaty Old Burial Ground in County Laoise. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BROOKS, JOHN: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Royal Dublin Fusiliers. Unit: 1st Battalion. Date of death: 4 September 1918. Service No.: 5008. He won the Military Medal and is listed in the London Gazette. Born in Carlow. Enlisted in Carlow. Killed in action. Date of will: 1 July 1916. Effects and property received by: (Mother) Mrs M. Brookes, Lowery’s Lane, Carlow. Grave or memorial reference: II. M. 20. Cemetery: Trois Arbres Cemetery, Steenerck in France. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BROPHY, DANIEL: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Machine Gun Corps. Unit: 62nd Battalion, Infantry. Date of death: 4 November 1918. Service No.: 130656. Formerly he was with the Royal Dublin Fusiliers where his number was 30946. Born in St Catherines, Dublin. Enlisted in Carlow while living in Leighlinbridge, County Carlow. Killed in action. Grave or memorial reference: I. D. 1. Cemetery: Ruesnes Communal Cemetery, Nord, France. Also listed under Leighlinbridge/Old Leighlin on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BROPHY, JAMES: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Royal Dublin Fusiliers. Unit: 1st Battalion. Date of death: 30 July 1915. Age at death: 22. Service No.: 19737. Born in Borris, County Carlow. Enlisted in Carlow. Killed in action in Gallipoli.

Supplementary information: Son of Thomas and Elizabeth Brophy, of Borris, County Carlow.

Grave or memorial reference: VII. E. 4. Cemetery: Twelve Tree Copse Cemetery in Turkey. Also listed under Borris/Ballyellin on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BROPHY, MICHAEL: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Royal Irish Regiment. Unit: Depot. Date of death: 19 September 1914. Age at death: 39. Service No.: 8113. Born in Rathue, Gibberstown, County Carlow. Enlisted in Carlow while living in Ballon, County Carlow. Died at home.

Supplementary information: Son of the late John and Brigid Brophy; husband of Brigid Lawless (formerly Brophy). From the Nationalist and Leinster Times, September 1914:

A man named Brophy, a soldier reservist, and a native of Rathrush, County Carlow, was accidentally killed at Newbridge on Saturday last. It appears that the deceased was about to go to Tullow for a few days vacation when the accident occurred at the railway station. An inquest was held on Monday. On Tuesday the remains were conveyed to Tullow by the morning train, and the internment took place at Rathoe immediately afterwards. The deceased leaves a wife and two children to mourn his loss. For them sincere sympathy is felt.

Grave or memorial reference: South-East of Church. Cemetery: Rathtoe Catholic Cemetery, County Carlow. Also listed under Ballon/Rathoe/Aghade on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BROPHY, MICHAEL: Rank: Gunner. Regiment or service: Royal Horse Artillery and Royal Field Artillery. Unit: 2nd Trench Mortar Battery. Date of death: 27 September 1916. Service No.: 46212. Born in Baynalstowe(sic), County Carlow. Enlisted in Milston. Died of wounds. Grave or memorial reference: II. C. 13. Cemetery: Gezaincourt Communal Cemetery Extension in France. Also listed under Bagenalstown/Fenagh on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BROWN, BRIAN STEWART: Rank: Rifleman. Regiment or service: Rifle Brigade Unit: 1/28th Regiment. Date of death: 5 April 1918. Age at death: 21. Service No.: B/201487. Born in County Carlow. Enlisted in Dublin while living in Bagenalstown, County Carlow. Killed in action. Formerly he was with the Royal Army Service Corps where his number was M/2/264388.

Supplementary information: Son of Frank B. and Jane Brown, of Bagenalstown, County Carlow, Ireland.

Grave or memorial reference: II. F. 33/37. Cemetery: Hamel Military Cemetery, Beaumont-Hamel, France. Also listed under Bagenalstown/Fenagh on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BUCHANAN, GEORGE: Rank: Rifleman/Lance Corporal. Regiment or service: King’s Royal Rifle Corps. Unit: 2nd Battalion. Date of death: 14 September 1914. Age at death: 23. Service No.: 7211. Born in Carlow. Enlisted in Carlow. Killed in action. Was a member of the Carlow Company of the Boy’s Brigade.

Supplementary information: Son of Thomas and Mary Buchanan, of 15, Little Barrack Street, Carlow. From Carlow Sentinel, December 1914:

Six Carlow Sons in the Army.

Mr Thomas Buchannan, Little Barrack Street, Carlow (late Sergeant Major, Carlow Rifles), has received the following letter, with reference to which, on the part of Carlow Loyalists, we heartily congratulate him.

Privy Council Office.

Bucking Palace

26 November, 1914.

Sir—I have the honour to inform you that the King has heard with much interest that you have at the present moment, six sons in the Army.

I am commended to express to you the King’s congratulations, and to ensure you that His Majesty much appreciates the spirit of patriotism which prompted this example in one family of loyalty and devotion to their Soverign and Empire—I have the honour to be, Sir,

Your Obedient Servant,

F. M. Ponsonby,

Keeper of the Privy Purse.

Rifleman Buchanan is also listed in De Ruvigny’s Roll of Honour with no new information. Memorial: La Ferte-Sous-Jouarre Memorial in France. Also listed under Carlow/Graigue on the Great War Memorial, Milford Street, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

BURGESS, RUPERT WILLIAM: Rank: Private. Regiment or service: Australian Infantry, A. I. F. Unit: 47th Battalion. Date of death: 7 June 1917. Age at death; 21 years 10 ½ months. Service No.: 1635. Reported ‘missing in action’ 16 June 1917. Proceedings of Court of Enquiry (24 November 1917) ‘in the field’ findings: Killed in action in Messines on the night of 6/7 June 1917.

Supplementary informaion: Born, Tobinstown House, Tullow, Carlow, Ireland. Occupation on enlistment: Labourer. Age on enlistment: 20 years 5 months. Educated at D’Israeli School, Rathvilly, County Carlow. Age entering Australia: 16½ years. Next of kin details: (Mother) Mrs Lucy Williams Burgess, Tobinstown House, Tullow, County Carlow. Place and date of enlistment: Warwick, Queensland, 10 January 1916. Weight, 130¾lbs. Height, 5 feet, 5½ inches. Complexion, dark. Eyes, brown. Hair, dark brown.

Pte Burgess, letter from records.