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period in 1916. It was during this convalescent period that he learned of his
brothers death.
The unit war diary for the date of his death describes the action in which
a number of men lost their lives. Christpoher’s commanding ofcer was
unable to provide his family with details of how he lost his life, sadly a
common occurance.
Unit War Diary:
21 Mar-18 - VAULX.
On the 20th March at midnight a telephone message was received from
the Brigade Major ordering the Battalion to “Stand To” in battle positions
at 5.30am on the 21st March in accordance with instructions laid down
in the 71st Infantry Brigade Defence Scheme. At the time working parties
were out as follows:- 6 ofcers and 216 other ranks from B, D and HQ’s
Company’s. 1 ofcer and 76 other ranks from A Company. 1 ofcer and 76
other ranks from C Company. Working parties were ordered to return by
Brigade Major.
At 4.30am B and A Company’s left camp for the assembly area (I.3.C.) 5
ofcers and 110 other ranks strong. The working parties not having returned
from work.
At 5.30am the positions were taken up in the assembly area, C Company
were already in position. A heavy bombardment commenced at 5.00am.
Apparently the alarm this time was a genuine one.