Two Sections

Section 1 – Meath War Dead – World War 1

Section 2 – Articles on Various Meath aspects of the War

Stained Glass window, Slane

Meath Men who died in the Great War 1914-1919

Noel French

New material from astreetnearyou.org

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Captain Frank Fairlie
Royal Scots Fusiliers
Date of death: 23/10/1914 (aged 36)
Husband of Sarah Hilda Fairlie, of Newcastle House, Kilmainhamwood, Co. Meath.

The objective of this book is to record and remember  the names of the Meath men who lost their lives  fighting in the Great War, World War I, 1914-1918.

These men were not just statistics, each was an individual living human being. Not only are the dates and places of deaths of each man recorded but the author attempts to give some background details including parents, dates of baptisms, occupations of their parents and their own occupations.

As a result of the war five hundred men from Meath lie in graveyards  from Basra to Bermuda, from Jerusalem to Gallipoli, from Ypres to Teltown and everywhere in between.

Meath War Dead

Meath men who died in the Great War

1914-1919



It is too late now to retrieve
A fallen dream, too late to grieve
A name unmade, but not too late
To thank the gods for what is great;
A keen-edged sword, a soldier’s heart,
Is greater than a poet’s art.
And greater than a poet’s fame
A little grave that has no name.

                              Francis Ledwidge

Sources and Further Information

Michael McGoona, Meath Great War Dead, Meath Chronicle, 31 July and 7 August 2004

A.J. Horneck, Roll of Honour, (Navan, 1916).

Ireland’s Memorial Record, World War I, 1914-1918

Marquis de Ruvigny’s The Roll of Honour, 1914-1924: a biographical record of members of His Majesty’s naval and military forces who fell in the Great War.

Donal Hall, The Unreturned Army County Louth Dead in the Great War 1914-1918. (Dundalk, 2005)

Meath Chronicle

Drogheda Independent

National Archives, Kew Medal Lists

National Archives, Service Records

Soldiers Died in the Great War, 1914-1919.

Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

David Robertson, Deeds not Words. Irish soldiers, sailors and airmen of two world wars (Multyfarnham, 1998)

Library and Archives, Canada.

Australian Service Records

Census 1901 and 1911

Parish Registers

Introduction

The following is a list of the Meath men who died in World War I. Included in the list are all who were born in Meath, who were living in Meath when they enlisted or had parents, wives or primary family in the county and those commemorated in memorials in the county,

Some addresses are mis-spelled, these have been corrected where possible but in case where it is unclear the spellings have been left as they were in the original documents. Caution should be exercised in using the addresses given in the records as sometimes these are temporary or accommodation addresses.

When searching through the names please do search variant spelling such as Smith and Smyth and McGuire and Maguire. Records may be under a slightly different spelling.

Not all information is completely accurate. Some sources give conflicting information and some information is speculative. There are sometimes differing details with regard to battalions, dates of death and other details. In some cases different versions have been left and in other cases the records appear as they do in the majority of the sources.

The term France & Flanders includes all French and Belgian battlefields. Home can mean at their own home or in Ireland or Britain and sometimes a hospital in Britain or Ireland.

For some individuals there was not sufficient information to make a definite connection to a baptism or census entry. There may have been no information or conflicting information.

The men who enlisted were Roman Catholic, Church of Ireland and Presbyterian. Baptism records come from the Catholic and Church of Ireland parish records.

I have only recorded the deaths up to the end of 1919. There were additional deaths in the 1920s as a result of injuries received in the War.

Some men documented were born in the county but their families were not long residing in the county and may have moved on before the men signed up for war. Some Meath families emigrated to England, Wales, Scotland, Canada and Australia and the men enlisted there.

The list is incomplete due to the difficulty of tracing men who enlisted in Australia, Canada and America. Records for the Royal Navy have also been difficult to source.

The breakdown by district is approximate and does not include all the entries.

I would like to thank Tom French, Local Studies Section, Meath County Library, Commonwealth War Graves Commission, the staff of the Meath Heritage Centre and in particular Maura Maguire and Carmel Rice, John McManus, Lesley Whiteside, Archivist, The King’s Hospital, Palmerstown, Andrew Whiteside, Philip Cantwell, O’Dare family, Oliver Fallon, Connaught Rangers, Tadhg Moloney, Royal Munster Fusiliers Association, Terence Nelson, Royal Irish Rifles, Geoffrey J. Crump, Cheshire Regimental Museum, Meath Chronicle, Meath County Library and all the other people who have contributed to this book.

 

Meath War Dead

AHEARNE, Michael James. Seaman, Royal Naval Reserve, H.M.S. “Viknor”. Baptised St. Mary’s, Drogheda, 24 May 1894. Son of David J. and Teresa Ahearne, nee Connell, Woodside, Bettystown, Drogheda. Father’s occupation: Wine and Spirit Merchant. Drowned, 13 January 1915, vessel lost off Irish coast. Memorial: M.R.3; Portsmouth Naval Memorial.

ALLEN, John. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 16754. Born: Trim. Enlistment location: Dublin. Died, France & Flanders, 25 November 1916. Memorial: B.37, Fillievres British Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

ALLEN, Patrick Christopher. Able Seaman, Royal Navy, H.M.S. “Arabis”, 181318. Son of James and Bridget Allen, nee Rice, Mooretown, Dunshaughlin. Killed in action, with T.B.D. in North Sea, 11 February 1916. Age: 40. Memorial: 11, Plymouth Naval Memorial.

ARMSTRONG, John, Private. Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 10665. Born: Lisburn, Co. Antrim. Son of William and Kate Armstrong, Lower Fennor, Oldcastle. Brother, William, also killed in the war. Residence: Oldcastle. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 24 November 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 16 May 1915. Age: 17. Memorial: Panel 16 and 17, Le Touret Memorial.

ARMSTRONG, William M. Acting Sergeant, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 7/8th Battalion, 9614. Son of William and Kate Armstrong, Lower Fennor, Oldcastle. Brother, John, also killed in the war. Husband of Mary Armstrong, nee Newman, Knockshangan, Athboy. Enlistment location: Finner Camp, Co. Donegal. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 22 August 1917. Age: 28. Awards: Military Medal. Memorial: XI.C.3; Harlebeke New British Cemetery.

“Lance-Corporal Wm. Armstrong, Inniskilling Fusiliers, a native of Oldcastle, in a letter to his sister states he won two boxing contests – a heavy and middleweight, out in France.” Meath Chronicle 26 May 1917.

AUGHEY, John. Corporal, Royal Irish Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 9542. Baptised Kells, 7 January 1886. Son of John and Catherine Aughey, nee Smith. Brother, Owen, also killed in the war. Enlistment location: Rochdale, Lancashire. Served in France from 13 August 1914. Killed in action. France & Flanders, 21 March 1918. Memorial: Panel 30 and 31, Pozieres Memorial.

“Sergt. John Aughey, of Columba Terrace, Kells, was mentioned in despatches for gallant conduct in the field.” Meath Chronicle 21 April 1917.

AUGHEY, Owen. Private, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, 1st/8th Battalion, S/15602. Baptised Kells, 22 December 1895. Son of John and Catherine Aughey, nee Smith. Brother, John, also killed in the war. Occupation: Labourer. Enlisted: 15 December 1915. Enlistment location: Stirling. Age at enlistment: 19. Residence at enlistment: 186 Bury Rd, Rochdale, Lancashire. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 16 May 1917. Memorial: II.E.31; Brown’s Copse Cemetery, Roeux.

BARNARD, William. Private, Northumberland Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 3469. Born: Summerhill. Son of Thomas and Sarah Barnard. Father’s occupation: Bailiff on the Summerhill Estate. Father had served in Northumberland Fusiliers. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 13 August 1914. Killed in action, Neuve Chapelle, 11 March 1915. Age: 18. Memorial: Panel 8 and 12; Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial. Agher churchyard.

Barnard, W. Private, Northumberland Fus. (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

 Hi Noel
We would be very grateful if you could send the book regarding
my uncle’s death notice,I would reimburse you for any expenses
incurred.
best regards.
   William Barnard.
address 29 hillside crescent
                 Moy  Dungannon
                     Co Tyrone.
                       BT717SS

BARNES, Peter Joseph. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 19644. Baptised Carnaross, 20 May 1883. Son of Bryan or Bernard and Annie Barnes, nee Smyth, Carnaross, Kells. Residence: Kells. Enlistment location: Cardiff. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 8 November 1918. Age: 35. Memorial: In north-east part, Floursies Churchyard.

BARNEWALL, The Hon. Reginald Nicholas Francis Mary. Captain, Leinster Regiment, 5th Battalion, attached to 2nd Battalion, Son of Charles Aloysius Barnewall, 18th Baron Trimlestown, Wilmount, Kells. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 24 March 1918. Age: 20. Memorial: II.E.41; Bronfay Farm Military Cemetery, Bray-Sur-Somme.

BAYLY, Maurice Fitzgerald. Sapper, Canadian Engineers, 1st Battalion, 507701. Born: Moylough, Co. Galway, 19 February 1889. Son of Maurice Spring and Jeanie Theodora Bayly, Lisclogher, Athboy. Occupation: Miner. Enlisted: 17 December 1916. Enlistment location: Crowborough. Height: 6 foot 1½ inches. Complexion: Fair. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Brown. Died of shell shock, France & Flanders, 6 August 1918. Age: 27. Memorial: II.A.21; Ligny-St. Flochel British Cemetery, Averdoingt.

BEHAN, Thomas. Private, Cameron Highlanders, 7th Battalion, S/27054. Formerly Lovat Scouts, 5913. Baptised Trim, 12 July 1892. Son of John and Bridget Behan, nee O’Toole. Residence: Glasgow. Enlistment location: Glasgow. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 August 1918. Age: 25. Memorial: III.A.6; Hersin Communal Cemetery Extension.

BENNETT, James. Private, also listed as Company Sergeant-Major, Leinster Regiment, 3rd Battalion, 5396. Born: Kells. Enlistment location: Birr. Died of wounds, home, 21 November 1917. Awards: C.S.M., D.C.M. Memorial: CE. 669, Grangegorman Military Cemetery.

BERGIN, Joseph. Oldcastle.

“Oldcastle Men killed in the War

Deep regret has been occasioned in the Oldcastle district by the news that John Gaughran, Ballinlough; Private Smith, Fennor and Joseph Bergin, Oldcastle have been killed in the war.” Meath Chronicle 3 October 1914.

Harry Berry on his last home leave (Courtesy Meath County Library)

BERRY, Harry Albert. Sergeant, The London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers), 1st/2nd Battalion, 230396. Born: Loughcrew, 9 December 1894. Eldest son of James William and Mary Ellen Berry, nee Coggins, Loughcrew, Oldcastle. Father’s occupation: Groom and Domestic Servant. Educated Loughcrew and Skerry’s College, Dublin. Occupation: Civil Service Clerk. Residence: Loughcrew. Enlistment location: Westminster, 5 August 1914. Went to Malta, September 1914. Sent to France in January 1915. Wounded at Hooge in July 1915 and on recovery in December served with the Egyptian Expeditionary Force in Egypt and Palestine. Returned to France in May 1916 and was reported as missing after the fighting at Glencorse Wood, 16 August 1917. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 16 August 1917. Age: 23. Awards: Mentioned in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service in the field and was awarded the Military Cross for his assistance to wounded under heavy shell fire, while severely wounded himself. Unmarried. Memorial: Panel 52, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

Sergt Harry Berry – M.M. R.F. (First World War Memorial, St. Kieran’s Church, Loughcrew)

“As a result of the recent “big push” on the Western Front, many Oldcastle names occur in the casualty lists, including Mr. Webb, Hilltown, Mr. Berry, Loughcrew, also a man named Tuite, who belonged to the Australian contingent.” Meath Chronicle 22 September 1917.

BIRD, Michael. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 6th Battalion, 23269. Born: Trim. Baptised Trim, 29 January 1880. Son of Michael and Elizabeth Bird, nee Cook, Scarlett Street, Trim. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Michael Bird married Julia Curtis, both of Church Street, on 2 July 1899 at Trim. Children: Michael, John, James, Kathleen, Patrick, Elizabeth Mary, Evelyn and Thomas. Residence: Haggard Street. Occupation: Bread Van Driver. Enlistment location: Dublin. Died, Balkans, 8 September 1917. Age: 37. Memorial: 1178, Salonika (Lembet Road) Military Cemetery.

Bird, M. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

BLAKE, John. Lance Corporal, Leinster Regiment, 1st Battalion, 5544. Born: Navan, about 1885. Son of John and Margaret Blake, Flower Hill, Navan. Husband of Rose Anne Blake, nee McGillick, Cannon Row, Navan. Employed as billiard marker before becoming employee of Meath County Council for 16 years. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of sickness, 17 October 1918. Age 33. Memorial: S.3. Ramleh War Cemetery, Israel.

BLIGH, Frederick Arthur, Major, Royal Field Artillery, “B” Bty. 154th Bde. Formerly with the R.H.A. Rejoined on the outbreak of war after 21 years of retirement. Born: 3 July 1861, only son of Major Frederick Cherburgh Bligh and Emily Matilda East, Brittas, Nobber. Born: Farnham, Surrey, 3 July 1861. Educated: Cheltenham College and the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich. Gazetted Lieutenant R.A. 1881, and later Captain. Served in Chestnut Troop R.H.A. and retired in 1895 after twelve years service. Succeeded his father in the Brittas estates 30 November 1901. Justice of the Peace. High Sheriff 1904. Married Mary Wentworth-Forbes at Rochester Cathedral, 22 June 1898. Left a daughter, Gwendolen Mary, born 19 January 1905. Volunteered his services on the outbreak of the European War and in June 1915 was called upon to train “B” Battery, 154th Brigade, R.F.A.”in connection with the Ulster Division” at Okehampton. Though there was hardly a trained man among them when it started they were ready for the front at the end of October 1915. On the last day of training he fell ill with appendicitis and died soon afterwards. Died in hospital, on active service, 15 November 1915. Age: 54. His wife died 4 November 1928 and is buried in the same grave. Memorial: New. 17.56; Headley (All Saints) Churchyard.

“Death of Major F.A. Bligh R.F.A.

The news of the death of Major Frederick Arthur Bligh R.F.A. of Brittas, Nobber, which took place at Oakhampton on Monday after an operation for appendicitis contracted while on duty, was heard with much regret by the people of Nobber and neighbourhood. He belonged formerly to the Chestnut Troop R.H.A. but had retired for some years. When the war broke out he offered his services to his old corps and trained a battery of field artillery in connection with the Ulster Division. A military funeral took place at Headley, Hants, on Thursday.” Meath Chronicle 20 November 1915.

BLIGH, John. Private, Northumberland Fusiliers, 26th Tyneside Irish Battalion, 26/799. Secondary Regiment: Labour Corps, transfered to 396904, 783rd Area Employment Coy. Born: Dublin, 1878. Brother of Patrick Bligh, Kilmer, Ballivor. Enlistment location: East Street, South Shields. Enlisted 10 December 1914, aged 36. Occupation: Labourer. Height: 5 foot 8 inches. Died as a result of a fractured skull, 1st Northern General Hospital, 17 March 1918. Age: 51. Memorial: Q.U.372; Newcastle-upon-Tyne (St. Andrew’s and Jesmond) Cemetery.

BLIGH, Thomas. Private, Coldstream Guards, 2nd Battalion, 2829. Baptised Ballivor, 25 May 1878. Son of Andrew and Anne Bligh, nee Kearney, Ballivor. Residence: Ballivor. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 August 1918. Age: 40. Memorial: III.A.22; Croisilles British Cemetery.

BOHAN, Robert Joseph. Private, Royal Army Service Corps, T1/4242. Born: Kentstown. Baptised Beauparc, 1 April 1891. Son of John and Bridget Bohan, nee Keating, Flemingstown. Brother, William, also killed in the war. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Occupation: Labourer. Enlisted 13 August 1914. Enlistment location: Kilcaldy. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Dark Brown. Served in France from 29 May 1915. Discharge unfit due to diabetes, 21 March 1918. Died 13 April 1919. Age: 27. Memorial: Danestown Graveyard.

BOHAN, William. Private, Cheshire Regiment, 13th Battalion, W/925. Born: Kentstown. Baptised Beauparc, 27 February 1885. Son of John and Bridget Bohan, nee Keating, Horsestown. Brother, Robert, also killed in the war. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Enlistment location: Port Sunlight. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 19 January 1918. Age: 33. Memorial: X.D.5; Grevillers British Cemetery.

BOND, Alfred. Lance-Corporal, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5364. Baptised Kells, 24 May 1898. Son of George and Anne Bond, nee Dolan. Residence: Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 4 September 1918. Memorial: V.C.4, Wulverghem-Lindenhoek Road Military Cemetery.

BOURKE – SEE LEGGE-BOURKE

BOYLAN, Joseph. Lance-Sergeant, York and Lancaster Regiment, 6th Battalion, 10721. Joseph was the son of Andrew Boylan and Annie Kelly born 19 Jun 1890. Residence: Sandymount, Navan. Occupation: Labourer. Enlisted: 22 April 1917. Height: 5 foot 6½ inches. He and Annie Finney were married on 16 Oct 1912 at the Church of Navan, County Meath. They had two children, Andrew (b. 30 Mar 1913) and Joseph (b. 2 Aug 1915). Killed in action, France & Flanders, 9 October 1917. Memorial: Panel 125 to 128, Tyne Cot Memorial. Old Athlumney graveyard.

BRADY, Edward. Driver, Royal Field Artillery. 62837. Born: Kells. Son of Mrs Jane Brady, 26 Richmont Place, Edinburgh, Scotland. Enlistment location: Edinburgh. Died, home, 15 September 1916. Memorial: III. 81; Glasgow (St. Kentigern’s) Roman Catholic Cemetery.

BRADY, Francis. Private, Connaught Rangers, 2nd Battalion, 8722. Residence: Kells. Enlisted: 6 February 1906. Enlistment location: Kells. Served in India 1906-1912. Discharged to Reserves. Recalled in 1914. Wounded at Mons. Invalided home due to poor health in December 1914. Discharged from Army May 1915. Died of TB, home, 17 August 1915. Age: 31. Memorial: in south east part of St. John’s Burial Ground, Kells.

St. John’s Graveyard Kells – 2872 Private F. Brady, Connaught Rangers, Date of Death: 17 August 1915 aged 31.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

BRADY, James. Lance-Sergeant, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 3881. Born: Ratoath. Possibly born 22nd March 1900, baptised 25th March. The son of Michael and Catherine (nee Lawless), Brady of Ballymore, Ratoath. Possibly married in 1916, aged 16?. Husband of Mrs James Brady, Santry Demesne, Santry, County Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Age at Enlistment: 18 years. Occupation at enlistment: Farm Labourer. Died at sea, 10 October 1918. Ship torpedoed Memorial: Hollybrook Memorial, Southampton.

BRADY, John. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 1st Battalion, 9618. Born: Dunderry. Residence: Nobber. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 October 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 15A and 15 B, Thiepval Memorial.

BRENNAN, James John. Lance Corporal, North Staffordshire Regiment, 7th Battalion, 10469. Born: Dundalk. Son of Mrs. Margaret Brennan, Blackrock, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Residence: Julianstown. Enlistment location: Leeks, Staffordshire. Served in Balkans from 2 July 1915. Died of wounds, Gallipoli, 14 August 1915. Age: 20. Memorial: Panel 170 and 171, Helles Memorial.

BRENNAN, Patrick. Private, Household Cavalry and Cavalry of the Line, incl. Yeomanry and Imperial Camel Corps., (Prince of Wales’ Own Royal) Hussars, 10th Battalion, 73697. Formerly South Irish Horse. Baptised Navan, 1 August 1888. Son of Patrick and Mary A. Brennan, nee Gough, High Park, Athlumney, Navan. Father’s occupation: Groom. Occupation: General Labourer. Residence: Navan. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 9 October 1918. Memorial: II.A.13; Honnechy British Cemetery.

BRIEN, John. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 7028. Born: Kingscourt, Co. Cavan. Son of Jane Mary Brien, The Deans, Duleek. Enlistment location: Drogheda, Co. Louth. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 8 September 1917. Age: 30. Memorial: I.H.50; Bleuet Farm Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

BRIEN, William Thomas. Private, Royal Irish Regiment, “A” Coy. 5th Battalion, 3428. Born: Randalstown, Navan. Son of William Thomas and Sarah Sophia Brien, Ardkeen, Waterford. Residence: Portlaw, Co. Waterford. Enlistment location: Longford. Killed in action, Gallipoli, 16 August 1915. Memorial: Panel 55, Helles Memorial.

BRODIGAN, Francis John. Captain, Gloucestershire Regiment, 1st Battalion. Born: Portsmouth. Son of Col. Francis Brodigan (28th Gloucestershire Regt.) and Alice Brodigan, Piltown House, Drogheda, Co. Meath. Occupation: 2nd Meath Militia. Killed in action at Festubert, France, 9 May 1915. Age: 31. Memorial: Panel 17, Le Touret Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

Francis John Brodigan, Captain, Gloucestershire Regiment, killed in action at Festubert 9 May 1915. (Julianstown Church – Stained Glass Window)

“Captain Francis J. Brodigan of the 1st Battalion, Gloucestershire Regiment, was killed in action on the 9th inst. He was 31 years of age, and until recently was detained at home in training the New Army. His father, the late Colonel Francis Brodigan, of Piltown House, Drogheda, died in the year 1910. He had been an officer who earned great distinction during the Crimean War, where he fought in the same regiment as that to which his son afterwards belonged.” Drogheda Independent 15 May 1915.

BROGAN, William Bernard. Acting Corporal, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 10th Battalion, 26384. Baptised Trim, 21 August 1895. Son of Michael and Bridget Brogan, nee Blake, Philistown, Trim. Residence: Trim. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 22 November 1916. Age: 21. Memorial: VII.D.203; Boulogne Eastern Cemetery.

Brogan, W. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

“Recruits from Trim and District

…Wm. J. Brogan, Phylistown, Trim, entered the Dublin Fusiliers …” Meath Chronicle 18 March 1916.

“Deep regret has been evoked in Trim by the tidings of the death of Private Wm. Brogan, (nephew of Rev. J. Brogan P.P., Moynalty) who succumbed on 22nd Nov., at Boulogne to wounds received in action. Solemn Office and High Mass for the eternal repose of his soul were celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Trim last Monday.” Meath Chronicle 2 December 1916.

BRUTON, Charles. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 7859. Baptised Beauparc, 6 October 1890. Son of Michael and Catherine Bruton, nee Brien, Drumree, Dunshaughlin. The family also lived at Sarney, Dunboyne, Graigs, Navan, Batterstown, Powderlough and Kilmur. Father’s occupation, Farm Labourer, Shepherd. Occupation: Assistant Shepherd. Enlistment location: Dublin. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 22 September 1916. Age: 24. Memorial: B.20.69; St. Sever Cemetery, Rouen.

BYRNE, George, Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 4108. Born: Donore, 31 March 1891. Son of George and Margaret Byrne, nee Reilly, Staleen. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Member of Drogheda Division. Killed in action, Mons, France, 8 November 1914. Memorial: Special Memorial 13, Ypres Town Cemetery Extension. Drogheda War Memorial.

CAHILL, James. Shoeing Smith, Army Service Corps, TS/7267. Husband of Sarah Cahill, 22 St. Patrick’s Terrace, Navan. Three children in 1911 census. Occupation: Blacksmith. Died 27 October 1917. Age: 52. Memorial: Donaghmore Graveyard.

CAHILL, Stanislaus, Served as Matthews. Private, Connaught Rangers, 6th Battalion, 5160. Born: Navan. Son of John and Ellen Cahill, nee Matthews, Barrack Street, Navan. Residence: Navan. Occupation: Butcher. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in the Balkans. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 6 March 1916. Age: 27. Memorial: V.A.74; Bethune Town Cemetery.

“Intelligence reached Navan during the week of the death in action of Privates Stanislaus Cahill and J. O’Connor, of Navan. Cahill was in the Leinster Regiment and transferred to the Connaught Rangers, and was a native of Navan.” Meath Chronicle 18 March 1916.

CAIRNES, William Jameson. Captain, Royal Flying Corps, 74th Squadron, Royal Air Force. 2nd Lieutenant, 5th Battalion, Leinster Regiment. Born 7 June 1898. Son of William Plunket and Alice Jane Cairnes, nee Algar, Stameen, Drogheda, Co. Meath. Father’s occupation: Governor of the Bank of Ireland, Chairman Great Northern Railway and Chairman Cairnes (Brewers) Ltd. His brother, Tom Algar Elliott Cairnes, also served in the Royal Flying Corps and another brother, Francis Herbert, served with the Inniskilling Fusiliers, both survived the war. Educated at Rugby and Cambridge. Serving in 5th Leinster Regiment in September 1914. Joined the Royal Flying Corps in Egypt and became a Flying Officer on 6 November 1916. He was promoted to Captain on 20 December 1916. After scoring 4 victories with 19 Squadron, Cairnes was appointed Flight Commander on 1 February 1918. In the spring of 1918, he scored 2 more victories with 74 Squadron before he was killed in action. Killed in air combat, over Estaires, France, 6 June 1918. Age: 20. Memorial: Arras Flying Service Memorial, Pas de Calais. Drogheda War Memorial.

“In loving memory of William Jameson Cairnes, Capt. Royal Air Force & Leinster Regiment. Killed in air fight over Estaires on June 1st 1918 in his 22nd year. Much loved youngest son of William & Alice Cairnes.” St. Mary’s Church of Ireland Church, Drogheda.

CALLAGHAN, John. Wireless Operator, Mercantile Marine, S.S. “Newminster Abbey”, Newcastle-on-Tyne. Baptised Castletown Kilpatrick, 27 September 1892. Son of James and Anne Callaghan, nee Carpenter, Knightstown, Navan. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Died in hospital at Perpignan, as a result of an attack by enemy submarine in the Mediterranean, 11 March 1918. Age: 25. Memorial: Tower Hill Memorial.

CALLAGHAN, Michael. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 4772. Baptised Oristown, 29 September 1882. Son of Michael and Anne Callaghan, nee Horan, Oristown, Kells. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died, France & Flanders, 21 March 1918. Memorial: Sp. Mem. 6, Tinourt New British Cemetery.

CALLAN, Leo. Served as Smith. Fireman, Mercantile Marine, S.S. “Norwegian”, Liverpool. Son of Patrick Callan, Breslanstown, Drumconrath. Killed as a result of an attack by an enemy submarine or mine, 13 March 1917. Age: 28. Memorial: Tower Hill Memorial, London.

CAMPBELL, Hugh. Private, Seaforth Highlanders, 7th Battalion, S/27866. Son of Hugh and Margaret Campbell, Beauport, Drogheda. Father’s occupation: Land Steward. Died of wounds, received in action, France & Flanders, 27 October 1918. Age: 21. Memorial: IV.I.21; Duhallow A.D.S. Cemetery, Ieper. Drogheda War Memorial.

CAMPBELL, James. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 4121. Born: Sheephouse, Drogheda, 25 July 1890. Son of Michael and Jane Campbell, nee Kelly, Tubberfinn, Donore. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Educated at Donore National School. Enlisted 20 May 1912. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, Givenchy, France, 11 March 1915. Age: 25. Not married. Memorial: I.D.21; Guards Cemetery, Windy Corner, Guinchy. Drogheda War Memorial.

CAREY, Edward. Lance-Corporal. Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 3490. Baptised Rathkenny, 27 July 1888. Son of Nicholas and Elizabeth Carey, nee Sherlock, Ladyrath, Rathkenny. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 18 May 1915. Age: 26. Memorial: IV.K.40; Guards Cemetery, Windy Corner, Guinchy. Drogheda War Memorial.

“Carey – Killed in action in France, May 18th 1915, Lance-Corporal Edward Carey, 1st Battalion No 1 Company Irish Guards, aged 26, third eldest son of the late Nicholas Carey, Ladyrath, Rathkinnay, Co. Meath. Deeply regretted by his fond mother and brothers and a large circle of friends. Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on his dear soul. Our Lady, Queen of May, pray for him. RIP.” Drogheda Independent 5 June 1915.

CAROLAN, Laurence. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles. 2nd Battalion, 9975. Baptised Slane, 15 August 1890. Son of Patrick and Mary Carolan, nee McGeough, Dowth. Residence: Swords, Co. Dublin. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders. 27 October 1914. Memorial: Panels 42 and 43, Le Touret Memorial, Pas-de-Calais. Drogheda War Memorial.

CAROLAN, Terence. Lance-Corporal, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 5531. Born: Barley Hill, Ardagh, Co. Meath. Baptised Drumconrath, 24 February 1894. Son of James and Jane Carolan, nee MacIneany, Barley Hill, Kingscourt, Co. Meath. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Enlistment location: Dundalk, Co. Louth. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 31 July 1917. Age: 20. Memorial: Panel 11, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

CARR, John. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 3332. Born: Ashbourne. Baptised Curraha, 7 January 1889. Son of Lawrence and Kate Carr, nee Veldon, Kilbrew, Curraha. Mother’s occupation: Charwoman. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 6 November 1914. Age: 26. Memorial: Panel 11, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

CARR, Patrick. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 3848. Born: Stamullin. Residence: Mullingar, Co. Westmeath. Enlistment location: Wigan, Lancashire. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 6 November 1914. Memorial: Panel 11, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

CARROLL, Christopher. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 23218. Baptised Trim, 6 May 1893. Son of Christopher and Mary Carroll, nee Weldon, The Green, Newhaggard Road, Trim. Mother’s occupation: Domestic Servant. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 29 April 1916. Age: 23. Memorial: Panel 127 to 129, Loos Memorial.

Carroll, C. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

“Trim Man’s War Experience

Private Carroll, Trim of the King’s Liverpool Regiment, who was wounded by a bullet in the left leg in Flanders and who is now in Ipswich Hospital, states in a letter to his mother: ‘Most of my mates have been shot dead but the Germans got it worse than we did. It was awful to see some poor fellows. I myself had to crawl for nearly a mile on my stomach to get safe. We chased the Germans back three miles and captured their trenches. It is terrible to see what the Germans are doing here: blowing down the large Catholic Churches, leaving them in ruins.’ Meath Chronicle 5 June 1915

“Meath Soldiers Wounded

“… Mrs. Mary Carroll, Trim, has also been notified that her son, Private Carroll, King’s Liverpool Regiment, is at present at Ipswich recovering from a wound received while charging the German trenches” Meath Chronicle 15 June 1915

F.S. Carroll

CARROLL, Frederick Stanley. Second Lieutenant, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 7th Battalion. Baptised Kells, 28 November 1895. Son of James and Mary Carroll, nee Forsythe. Father’s occupation: Auctioneer. Educated: St Patrick’s Cathedral School, Dublin and Kells. Residence: Newmarket Street, Kells. Occupation: Clerk in the Hibernian Bank, Head Office and Drogheda. Joined the 7th Leinster Cadet Corps, February 1915. Gazetted 2nd Lieutenant August 1916 to 7th Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. Went to France with his Battalion, in early 1916, was gassed in April and invalided home to hospital for one month. Afterwards he was posted to the Reserve Battalion, of the regiment, returned to France to the 1st Battalion, in October 1916. Killed in action, beyond Guillemont, France, while endeavouring to relieve some men who were isolated, 21 November 1916. A shell fell beside him killing him instantly along with an orderly who was with him. He was buried that night. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 21 November 1916. Age: 20. Memorial XXVI.G.6; Caterpillar Valley Cemetery, Longueval. Unmarried.

His Colonel wrote: “He was a very gallant officer and we all miss him very much”. His Captain also wrote: “I never knew a braver man.”

2nd Lieutenant F. S. Carroll, Royal Inniskilling Fus. (War Memorial, 1914 – 1918, Kells Church of Ireland)

“Second-Lieutenant Frederick S. Carroll (son of Mr. James Carroll, Newmarket Street, Kells) is in hospital, suffering from the effects of a gas attack.” Meath Chronicle 13 May 1916.

“Kells Officer Killed in Action

We much regret to state that Lieutenant Frederick S. Carroll, fourth son of Mr. James Carroll, Kells, has been killed in action. The sad news reached his parents by wire last Saturday morning. Beyond stating that the gallant young lieutenant was killed on the 21st November, the telegram gave no details. Mr and Mrs Carroll have received numerous messages of condolence and it should be added that deep sympathy for them is felt amongst every class in the community. Lieutenant Carroll, who wanted a few days of 21 years, was on the staff of the Hibernian Bank at Drogheda when the war broke out. He had previously been attached to the Head Office in Dublin. Shortly after the commencement of the war he enlisted and was gazetted a lieutenancy in the Inniskilling Fusiliers. Having undergone the usual course of training, he went to the front sometime this year. He had not been long in the field of action when he was “gassed,” as a result of which he was rendered unfit for service for some considerable time. Having recuperated he returned to France a few weeks ago. He went away in the highest spirits, little dreaming that his career was so soon to end. By his brother officers and comrades his loss will sincerely deplored. He was of a singularly bright and winning disposition, and as manly and chivalourous as he was gentle, guiless and unassuming.” Meath Chronicle 2 December 1916.

“Mr. James Carroll, Newmarket Street, Kells has received a telegram from the King and Queen warmly sympathising with him and his relatives on the loss of his son Lieutenant Frederick S. Carroll recently killed in action. Mr. Carroll has also received the following letter:-

2nd December 1916

Dear Mr. Carroll,

I regret very much to tell you that your son Lieut. F.S. Carroll was killed on the 21st of November. He was arranging about a relief. A chance shell killed him instantaneously and fatally wounded an orderly who was with him. We buried him that night near where he was killed just behind our front line trenches. He was a promising and gallant officer and we all miss him very much.

Yours truly,

Hardress Llyod

Lt. Col. 1st Iniskillings”

Meath Chronicle 16 December 1916

CARROLL, J. Private, Leinster Regiment. 3474. Secondary Regiment: Labour Corps. 487906. Died: 6 May 1919. Memorial: Plot A. 710, Navan New Cemetery.

CARROLL, Matthew. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 8385. Baptised Navan, 30 August 1886. Son of Mathew and Kate Carroll, nee Briody, Academy Street, Navan. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Residence: Alexander Reid, Athlumney. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 October 1914. Age: 28. Memorial: Panel 10, Ploegstreet Memorial.

CASEY, Christopher. Private, Leinster Regiment, 1st Battalion, 10239. Born: Navan. Enlistment location: Birr. Killed in action, Salonica, 30 May 1917. Memorial: VII.B.1; Struma Military Cemetery.

CASSERLY, Edward. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 13414. Baptised Bohermeen, 4 January 1889. Son of David and Catherine Casserly, nee Brady, Jamestown, Bohermeen. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Died 27 April 1916. Age: 24. Memorial: Panel 127 to 129, Loos Memorial.

CASSIDY, Edward. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 13414. Baptised Bohermeen, 30 January 1868. Son of Thomas and Mary Cassidy, nee Harte. Residence: Jamestown, Co. Meath. Enlistment location: Coatsbridge. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 April 1916.

“A heavy toll of killed, wounded and missing has resulted from the recent fighting in Flanders. The casualty list contains the following names – … Pte. E. Cassidy, Navan, Dublin Fusiliers …” Meath Chronicle 27 May 1915.

CASSIDY, James Joseph. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 20636. Born: Ross, Co. Meath. Son of James Cassidy, Glasslough Street, Monaghan. Residence: Monaghan. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 10 September 1918. Age: 21. Memorial: VII.A.8; Arneke British Cemetery.

CASSIDY, Joseph. Private, King’s Shropshire Light Infantry, 8th Battalion, 13742. Born: Navan. Residence: Navan. Enlistment location: Wrexham. Killed in action, Salonica, 27 November 1916. Age: 49. Memorial: Doiran Memorial.

CASSIDY, Richard. Private, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 5th Battalion, 20076. Baptised Drumconrath 15 November 1891. Son of Richard and Ellen Cassidy, nee Keenan, Summerhill, Drumcorath. Enlistment location: Clydebank. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 10 October 1918. Memorial: 7, Reumont Churchyard.

CASSIDY, Thomas. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 3452. Born: Harristown. Enlistment location: Navan. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 9 November 1914. Memorial: IV.D.11; Larch Wood (Railway Cutting) Cemetery.

CERUMNEY, James. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 16199. Born: Athboy. Son of James and Annie Cerumney (or Crummey), Martinstown, Athboy. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Residence: Athboy. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 6 April 1916. Age: 26. Memorial: Panel 127 to 129, Loos Memorial.

CHAMBERS, Edward Chandos Elliott. Second Lieutenant, Lancashire Fusiliers, “A” Coy. 19th (Service) Battalion, Only son of Richard Edward Elliot Chambers and Edith Frances Chambers. Educated at Marlborough, Paris and Oxford, where he joined the Army through the O.T.C. 15th June, 1915. Died, 1 July 1916. Age: 20. Memorial: I.A.13; Bouzincourt Communal Cemetery Extension.

 “Second-Lt. E. Chandos E. Chambers, Lancs. Fusrs., killed at the age of 20 years, was the only son of Mr and Mrs. R.E. Chambers of Fosterstown, Trim.” Meath Chronicle 15 July 1916.

“Chambers, Edward Chandos Elliot, 2nd Lieutenant, 19th Service Battalion, The Lancashire Fusiliers, only son of Richard Edward Elliot Chambers of Fosterstown, Trim, Co. Meath, resident in England and now of Lyme Regis, Co. Dorset by his wife, Edith Frances, 4th and youngest surviving daughter of the late Henry Chandos-Pole-Gell of Hopton Hall, Co. Derby. Born during his parents’ temporary residence in South Africa, at Ailwal North, Cape Colony, 4 April 1896. Educated at Mr. Douglas’s, Malvern Link, 5th May 1905-28 July 1909, where he was captain of the school and at Marlborough College, 17 September 1909 – 19 December 1913, where in the Modern Sixth he obtained “Honourable Mention” as second in the senior Modern Scholarship Examination, and won the Dutton French Prize in 1913. He was in the Marlborough O.T.C. for over three years, and in 1913 was one of the “Cock House” (Sandford’s) Cricket XI. and Football XV. After studying in Paris, he obtained on 29 May 1914, a First Class Certificate of the Association Phonétique Internationale, and on 23 June 1914, was elected to an Exhibition in French Language and Literature at St. John’s College, Oxford where his grandfather Edward Elliott Chambers had graduated with Classical Honours in 1834. There he passed all his examinations except the Final Honour School when, having reached the age of nineteen he was, as a cadet from the Oxford O.T.C., gazetted 2nd Lieutenant 19th (Service) Battalion, Lancanshire Fusiliers 15 June 1915, a Battalion, which some of his Oxford friends were then joining. He joined his regiment on 10 July, at Catterick, in Yorkshire, passed through a course at the Mersey School of Instruction at Formby, in Lancashire (12 July-9 August) and from the second week in August was in training with his regiment for over three months at Codford St. Mary, on Salisbury Plain. After a week’s bombing course he was appointed early in September, Battalion Bombing Officer, but resigned this some two months later, as training the Grenadiers had prevented his going for further bombing courses, and he was commanding No. 4 Platoon of A Coy, before landing at Havre with his regiment on 22 November 1915. He was in the trenches for the first time on 1 December between La Boiselle and Bécourt, near Albert, that being his furthest point south in the firing line, and when in the trenches was always between Aucre and the Somme, and except for a week’s leave in May, served continuously in that part of Picardy. In January he was attached for one month to the 1st Dorsets, who from that time, with the 2nd Manchesters, 19th Lancashire Fusiliers, and 15th Highland Light Infantry formed the 14th Brigade of the 32nd Division. On the morning of the great assault, 1 July, his regiment formed part of one of the leading brigades, and advanced to attack through Authuille Wood, going out from it at the north-east in rushes or waves of five men at a time into open rising ground enfiladed by machine-gun fire. Leading the first wave of his men, he was hit by a machine-gun bullet in the forehead, some thirty-five yards out from the edge of the wood and killed instantaneously “whilst gallantly leading his men to the attack of the German trenches,” wrote his Colonel. This was about 9.40 a.m. during the first assault on the Leipzic Redoubt, and about three-quarters of a mile south-south west of Thiepval. He was buried on 3 July, in Bouzincourt Cemetery about two and a quarter miles north-west of Albert. “All the many and warm-hearted testimonies of his brother officers bear witness to the bright and lovable qualities which earned for him the affection of all who knew him at Oxford,” says the notice of him in “The Oxford Magazine Extra Number,” 10 November 1916. The Rev. H.A. James D.D., President of St. John’s College, Oxford wrote: “It is our loss, too, for your son was a man of much promise intellectually, bore the highest character, and won the esteem and liking both of his contemporaries among the undergraduates and of his tutors and myself.” A Senior Officer wrote: “He had been for a long time now in “A” Coy (my old company) and was a very popular officer; his place will be hard to fill; we are all grieved at the great loss the Battalion, has sustained.” The Commanding Officer of his company on 1 July, wrote of “ your very gallant son” and that he had never lived with anyone “more cheery and good-natured, and one who did his duty so cheerily and thoroughly, and his loss was very much mourned by all the officers and men of the Battalion, … He did all that any man could do, and helped a great many by his optimism and unselfishness.” Another says: “He was the best friend anybody could wish for, a fine officer, and knew no fear.” Of Oxford friends and brother officers one wrote: “He was afraid of nothing and kept everybody’s spirits up by his constant cheerfulness, particularly in the trying conditions of the winter, when we were all new to trench work. I have lost a great friend… and the regiment has lost a splendid officer.” Another a graduate some years senior: “I am bound to say what I know of your son’s gallant conduct … I always admired – some sort of envy – his invincible cheerfulness in the trenches, and the matter-of-fact way in which he went out bombing or with a wiring party into No Man’s Land. He was a good officer, a brave man and a gentleman … He never spared himself and I know that he himself did not grudge the supreme sacrifice. Though I know nothing can make good your loss, yet it will be something to know that his example will live always in the minds of his men and brother officers, as it will live also in the minds of all who knew him in his short but fruitful life.” De Ruvigny’s Roll of Honour, 1914-1924, Volume 2, Pages 64-5.

CLARKE, Cornelius. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 4581. Born: Duleek. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 4 September 1914. Memorial: 28, Guards’ Grave, Villers Cotterets Forest, Aisne.

CLARKE, James. See Lane, James.

CLARKE, Joseph. Private, The East Lancashire Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 9381. Born: Ratoath. Residence: Rochdale, Lancashire. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 10 July 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 6 C, Thiepval Memorial.

CLARKE, Lawrence. Corporal, Royal Irish Rifles, 2nd Battalion, 4981. Formerly Hussars, 13229. Born: Stamullin. Son of Patrick and Bridget Clarke, Gormanstown. Husband of Teresa Clarke, 47, St. Joseph’s Place, Dorset Street, Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 24 March 1918. Age: 30. Award: Military Medal. Memorial: Panel 74 to 76, Pozieres Memorial.

CLARKE, Michael Joseph. Able Seaman. Royal Navy, H.M.S. “Defence”, 223863. Baptised Ratoath, 24 October 1886. Son of Michael and Mary Anne Clarke, nee Smyth, 16 North Street, Rochdale, Lancashire. Killed in action at Battle of Jutland, 31 June 1916. Age: 30. Memorial: 11, Plymouth Naval Memorial.

Patrick Clarke

CLARKE, Patrick. Lance-Corporal, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 1813. Born: Drangan, Co. Tipperary. Son of Laurence and Catherine Clarke, Shanbally, Clogheen, Co. Tipperary. Residence: Trim. Enlisted 4 November 1903.  Enlistment location: Clonmel, Co. Tipperary. Age at enlistment 22 years 2 months. Height: 5 foot 7¾ inches. Complexion: Fresh. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Briown. Married Bridget Ashdale? , widow, Trim on 23 February 1914. Husband of Bridget Clarke, 10 Castle Street, Trim. Son, Patrick Laurance, born Trim,  16 February 1918. Appointed Lance-Corporal 23 August 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 1 December 1917. Age: 36. Memorial: Panel 2 and 3 Cambrai Memorial, Louverval.

Clarke, P. Sgt, Irish Guards (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

“Lance-Cpl. P. Clarke, Trim and Private T. McCormack, Kells, both of the Irish Guards, have been officially reported as missing.” Meath Chronicle 26 January 1918.

CLARKE, Stephen. Rev. Chaplain 4th Class, Army Chaplains’ Department, Lancashire Fusiliers, attached 9th Battalion. Born about 1886. In 1901 he was attending St. Patrick’s College, Cavan and in 1911 he was attending St. Patrick’s College, Maynooth. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 4 October 1917. Memorial: Panel 160, Tyne Cot Memorial.

“Solemn Office and Requiem Mass was celebrated last week in Bruskey, Ballintemple R.C. church for the repose of the soul of the late Rev. Captain Stephen Clarke, a native of Tierworker, Co. Meath, who was killed in the war.” Meath Chronicle 15 December 1917.

CLARKE, William Byrne. Sergeant, 6th Dragoons (Inniskilling). 2103. Also Household Cavalry and Cavalry of the Line, incl. Yeomanry and Imperial Camel Corps. Born: Ballycastle, Co. Mayo. Residence: Clonmellon, Co. Westmeath. Enlistment Location: Bombay, India. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 28 June 1916. Age: 33. Memorial: Pier and Face 1 A, Thiepval Memorial.

 “Wednesday’s list of casualties contained the names of W.B. Clarke, Athboy (killed) and…” Meath Chronicle 22 July 1916.

CLARKIN, Patrick. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 6719. Baptised Dunderry, 7 March 1891. Son of Philip and Anne Clarkin, nee Loughran, Shambo, Robinstown, Navan. Father’s occupation: Farmer and Contractor. Husband of Mary Ann Clarkin, Grennan, Oldcastle. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 30 September 1915. Age: 27. Memorial: Panel 9 and 10, Loos Memorial.

CLINTON, Thomas. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, “C” Coy. 5616. Baptised Navan, 21 September 1896. Son of Laurence and Catherine Clinton, nee Kerly, Brewshill, Navan and later of 10 Luke Street, Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 25 April 1915. Age: 18. Memorial: Panel 44 and 46, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

CODDINGTON, Hubert John. Captain, Durham Light Infantry, 2nd Battalion. Born: 1877. Residence: Oldbridge. Served in South Africa War 1898-1901. Killed in action at Ypres, France, 7 July 1915. Memorial: I.N.31., La Brique Military Cemetery No. 2. Drogheda War Memorial.

Hubert John Coddington Captain Durham Light Infantry killed in action Ypres 7th July 1915. (Julianstown Church, Stained Glass Window)

Capt. Hubert J. Coddington 2nd D.L.I. (First World War Memorial, St. Kieran’s Church, Loughcrew.)

COLCLOUGH, Michael Joseph. Lance-Corporal, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 6908. Born: Navan, about 1891. Son of James and Margaret Colclough, Kells Road, Navan. Father’s occupation: Gatekeeper, Railway. Served in Navan Irish National Volunteers. Enlistment location: Drogheda, Co. Louth. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 1 October 1915. Age: 24. Memorial: IV.H.4; Etaples Military Cemetery.

“Navan Soldier’s Story

A Navan gentleman has received the following letter from Corpl. Colclough of the Irish Guards, dated “France 9th Sept – I suppose you have been watching a line from me for many a day. I take this opportunity of dropping you a line. I am quite well and rather enjoying this new experience. We find things rough betimes, but you have one consolation – when you are finished duty you are finished till the next day. We met the 1st Battalion, some time ago. I was speaking to Pat Fox. He is well and you would think it was in the ‘Mollies’ we were again, we settled down so comfortably for a chat. He is slightly thinner than usual but otherwise seems as good as ever. He wishes to be remembered to you. I also met young McIneeny, who was in the Post Office. I saw him as we passed through the town in which he is stationed. I called him. He was quite surprised to see me. He also looks fit.

This is a fine country for agriculture. All around you as far as you can reach is nothing but crops in their various stages. The people are very hard-working. They begin their days about 5.30 a.m. and finish often about 7 or 8 o’clock that evening. Here and there are patches of clover, in which cattle, mostly milch cows, are tethered out. I have spent a couple of evenings giving the people with whom we are billeted a hand to get in the corn. We have a Catholic chaplain attached to our regiment. He is a fine man and ranks as captain. We have Mass every Sunday and there is every opportunity given to fulfil your other religious duties. Any evening we happen to be in billets we have Rosary and Benediction in the local church. The country around simply teems with religious emblems. At every cross roads you find huge crosses and here and there along the road are small shrines, as well as statues of the Blessed Virgin set in the gable ends of many houses. Pig rearing also seems to be an industry in this part of the country.

John Sherlock has transferred to the 1st Battalion. He is a signaller. We went for a swim one day and one of our fellows got into difficulties and caught hold of a swimmer who happened to be passing and I believe Sherlock brought both in. The river was narrow but very deep: but you would know anyone who learned swimming at the Metal Bridge could never be beaten in a stiff stream. There is a little more noise out here than we used to make when we were shooting at the slopes.” Meath Chronicle 2 October 1915. Colclough was dead the day before the date of issue of the paper.

“Lance Copl. Michael Colclough, aged 24, Navan, 2nd Batt. Irish Guards, has died in France of wounds received in action on October 29th. The deceased was much esteemed in Navan, where the sad news evoked keen regret, and occasioned deep sympathy with members of his family.” Meath Chronicle 4 December 1915.

COLEMAN, Thomas. Private, Leinster Regiment, “D” Coy. 2nd Battalion, 9834. Born: Dublin. Residence: Athboy. Son of Mary Coleman, nee McCormick, Bridge Street, Athboy. Mother’s occupation: District Nurse. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 October 1914. Age: 20. Memorial: Panel 10, Ploegsteert Memorial.

COLGAN, John. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 23559. Baptised Rathmolyon, 19 June 1888. Son of Patrick and Margaret Colgan, nee Farrelly, Ballindern, Enfield. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 1 April 1916. Age: 27. Memorial: C.5, Bois-Carre Military Cemetery, Haisnes.

COLLINS, George. Private, Guards Machine Gun Regiment, 4th Battalion, 1031. Formerly Irish Guards, 1002. Born: Lucan, Co. Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Husband of Anne Collins, Knockumber, Navan. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 12 October 1918. Age: 37. Memorial: I.A.1; Carnieres Communal Cemetery Extension.

COLLINS, James. Private, Connaught Rangers, 1st Battalion, 9224. Born: Ballinabrackey, Kinnegad, Co. Meath. Residence: Tipperary. Enlistment location: Mullingar. Collins and the 1st Battalion came from India and landed at Marseilles in September 1914. Collins went back thorugh Marseilles in December 1915 when the Connaught Rangers were sent to Mesopotamia. Died on a hospital ship while being invalided/evacuated from Basra to India, most likely a victim of cholera. Died at sea, 10 August 1916. Memorial: Panel 40 and 64, Basra Memorial.

Collins, John Gerrard, Major, MAJOR J. G. COLLINS

Killed 27th Septemeber 1915 Holhenzollern Redoubt 8th Batt Black Watch Royal Highlanders.

Royal Highlanders

The Knoll 82^-853 Aged 47 September 27th, 191 5

Son of Joseph Clarke Collins, of Ardsallagh, Navan, Co. Meath, and of

his wife, Eleanor Gerrard.

Son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Collins; husband of Mrs. Wilmot Gertrude Collins, of Boyne Hill, Navan, Co. Meath.

Married the third daughter of Lieut.-Colonel Grenville-Charlton, and

leaves a daughter.

Major Collins joined the Black Watch, at Gibraltar, in 1890, and became

Adjutant of his Regiment. He served through the South African War,

being promoted Captain in February, 1900, when he retired. On the out-

break of the War he rejoined as Captain in the Reserve of Officers and was

appointed Major and Second-in-Command of the 8th Black Watch in

October, 1914. On September 27th, 1915, he was reported as * missing,

believed killed,’ under circumstances which are described in the following

letter from his Adjutant to his widow : —

” I am extremely sorry to have to write and tell you Major Collins is

missing, and I can hold out very little hope for you. I was not beside him

myself when he was last seen, as I was in another part of the line, but I have

questioned every possible man 1 can think of, and the ground where he was

seen has been searched as much as possible, but as it was shortly afterwards

in German hands, this could not really be satisfactorily accomplished.

” The facts as I have heard them are these : About 4.30 p.m. on the 27th

of September, I left Major Collins to take a message from him to the

General and we were at that time under heavy fire. . . . When I returned

about an hour later, I found that the Germans had gained a footing between

our part of the line and the place where I had left the Major, so I could

not get to him, but some men who were with him, or near him, whom I

questioned stated that they had seen the Major killed by a German bomb.

However I refused to believe them and hoped for the best, but no further

news or trace has been got, so I very much fear we must resign ourselves

to accept the worst verdict. . . . Your husband commanded the Regiment

from 7.30 a.m. on the 25th all that day and night through the fighting. . . .

Through this trying and most critical time Major Collins commanded with

the utmost ability and coolness, with no thought for his own personal safety,

but only thinking of the welfare and honour of the Regiment under his

command, and 1 may well say, as a proof of his work, the Regiment covered

itself with glory and was commended by Sir John French personally. . . .

A more gallant Officer never served in the ranks of the 42nd.”

Memorial: Donaghpatrick church, interior window

COLLINS, JOHN GERRARDMajor27/09/191548Black Watch (Royal Highlanders)United KingdomPanel 78 to 83.LOOS MEMORIAL

CONLON, Owen. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 5016. Baptised: Ballivor, 4 January 1890. Son of John and Elizabeth Conlon, nee Dempsey, Ballivor village. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Residence: Ballivor. Occupation: Farm Servant. Enlistment location: Trim. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 8 March 1917. Memorial: K.5; Pond Farm Cemetery.

CONLON, Richard. Private, Connaught Rangers, 5th Battalion, 15322. Formerly Leinster Regiment, 4317. Born: Co. Carlow. Nephew of Nicholas Simmons, Addinstown, Co. Westmeath. Brother of Mrs. May Branley, Suffolk Street, Kells. Residence: Athboy. Occupation: Farm Servant. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, 8 October 1918. Memorial: A. 22, Serain Communal Extension.

CONLON, Thomas. Private Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 23914. Baptised Duleek, 5 June 1896. Son of Richard and Bridgid Conlon, nee McCabe, Larrix Street, Duleek. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Residence: Duleek. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 6 September 1916. Age: 20. Memorial: XIV.E.4; Guillemont Road Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

CONNOLLY, James. Lance-Sergeant, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 6452. Born: Moate, Co. Meath. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 March 1918. Memorial: Bay 1, Arras Memorial.

CONNOLLY, Laurence. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 22151. Baptised Navan, 13 October 1882. Parents: Michael and Kate Connolly, nee Kennedy, Chapel Lane, Navan. Father’s occupation: Sheep Dealer. Residence: Navan. In 1911 boarding in Poolboy Street with Patrick Ratty. Occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 August 1916. Age: 33. Memorial: Panel 127 to 129, Loos Memorial.

“Pte. L. Connolly of Navan is believed to be missing.” Meath Chronicle 28 October 1916.

CONNOLLY, Patrick. Private, The Lancashire Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 4317. Baptised Athboy, 11 July 1890. Son of Joseph and Anne Connolly, nee McGovern, The Green, Athboy. Father’s occupation: Horse Trainer. Residence: St. Helens, Lancashire. Enlistment location: Liverpool. Killed in action, Gallipoli, 14 June 1915. Memorial: XI.E.17; Twelve Tree Copse Cemetery.

CONNOR, Christopher. Gunner, Royal Garrison Artillery, 122nd Heavy Bty. 41999. Born: Kilmore. Residence: Kilmore. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 30 September 1917. Memorial: XII.G.21; Vlamertinghe New Military Cemetery.

CONNOR, James. Private, Royal Fusiliers City of London Regiment, 2nd/2nd London, 67495. Formerly A.S.C. S/4/217252. Born: Trim. Enlistment location: Trim. Killed in action, 26 October 1917. Memorial: Panel 28 to 30 and 162 to 162A and 163A, Tyne Cot Memorial.

Possibly – CONNER, Jas. Private, Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

CONNOR, Patrick. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 10th Battalion, 6897. Born: Skryne. Enlistment location: Naas, Co. Kildare. Died, France & Flanders, 19 March 1918. Memorial: 76.K.10; Grimsby (Scartho Road) Cemetery.

CONNORS, Joseph. Private, Connaught Rangers, 1st Battalion, 8716. Born: Trim. Residence: Trim. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 November 1914.

Possibly: CONNER, Jos. Private, Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

CONNORTON, W. Trimmer, Mercantile Marine, S.S. “Vedamore” Liverpool. Born in Co. Meath. Drowned as result of an attack by an enemy submarine or a mine, 7 February 1917. Age: 32. Memorial: Tower Hill Memorial, London.

CONYNGHAM, Victor George Henry Francis, Lieutenant, Royal Irish Regiment, 7th South Irish Horse Battalion, 5th Marquess of Conyngham. Eldest son of Henry Francis, 4th Marquess Conyngham, and his wife Frances Elizabeth Sarah Eveleigh De Moleyns, Slane Castle. Died 9 November 1918. Age: 35. Memorial: Slane, St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland churchyard in north-west corner. Inscription reads: “In loving memory of Victor George Henry Francis, 7th Baron, 5th Marquess Conyngham. Lieutenant, South Irish Horse. Born in London, January 1883. Died at Dringthorpe, York, November 1918.”

Victor George Henry Francis Conyngham, 5th Marquess Conyngham was born on 30 January 1883 at Charles Street, Berkeley Square, London. He was the son of Henry Francis Conyngham, 4th Marquess Conyngham and Hon Frances Elizabeth Sarah Eveleigh-de Moleyns. He was baptised on 17 March 1883 at Patrixbourne, Kent. He was styled as “Earl of Mount Charles” between 1883 and 1897. He was educated between 1896 and 1899 at Eton College. He succeeded to the title of “5th Marquess of Conyngham” on 28 August 1897. He gained the rank of Lieutenant in the service of the 3rd Battalion, Wiltshire Regiment. He fought in the Boer War in 1902. He died on 9 November 1918 at age 35, unmarried. His brother, Frederick William Burton Conyngham, 6th Marquess Conyngham, who also fought in the war, succeeded him as Marquess.

COOGAN, Michael. Private, Leinster Regiment, 5th Battalion, 5716. Born: Donore, 23 October 1900. Son of Laurence and Mary Coogan, nee Craven, Oldbridge and later of 98 Scarlet Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Father’s occupation: Shepherd. Residence: Drogheda. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died at home. 22 February 1918. Age: 19. Memorial: In south corner of Haddington Roman Catholic Graveyard, East Lothian. Drogheda War Memorial.

COWLEY, Joseph. Private, Leinster Regiment, 1st Battalion, 4901. Born: Navan, about 1876. Son of John Cowley, 1 Rafferty’s Lane, Navan. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Navan. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 19 March 1915. Memorial: J.41; Bailleul Communal Cemetery (Nord).

COX, Patrick. Private, King’s Liverpool Regiment, 2/8th Battalion, 308700. Baptised Trim, 5 May 1896. Son of Peter and Elizabeth Cox, nee Wiley. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 31 October 1917. Memorial: III.A.6; Cement House Cemetery.

COYLE, Michael. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 9402. Born: Cortown. Baptised Girley, 4 December 1893. Son of John and Mary Coyle, nee Healow, Balrathboyne, Cortown, Kells. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 28 September 1916. Age: 23. Memorial: I.D.7; Abbeville Communal Cemetery Extension.

COYLE, Patrick. Private, Royal Marine Light Infantry, 2nd Royal Marine Battalion, Born Donore, 2 February 1896. Occupation: Indoor Servant. Enlisted: 7 October 1913. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served at Plymouth, Mudros and Salonika bases. Joined 2nd Royal Marines 21 August 1916 until he was wounded 28 October 1916. Invalided back to Britain on 6 November 1916. Died from Addisons disease at 4.32 p.m. on 3 December 1916, on R.N. Hospital Haslar. Next of kin: Friend, Mrs. K. Kelly, Joint School, Co. Meath. Memorial: B.16.1; Haslar Royal Naval Cemetery.

CREGAN, Patrick Joseph. Private, Leinster Regiment, 6th Battalion, 151. Son of Patrick and Ellen Cregan, Infirmary Hill and later of Circular Road, Navan. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Residence: Navan. Died at sea on the Hospital Ship Grantully Castle, 27 October 1915. Age: 19. Memorial: 1591, Salonika (Lembet Road) Military Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

CRINION, Michael. Driver, Royal Field Artillery, 2nd Division Ammunition Column. 33988. Born Kentstown, Navan. Baptised Beauparc, 5 December 1880. Son of Patrick and Margaret Crinion, nee Mullen, Carranstown, Duleek. Father’s occupation: Farm Servant. Occupation: Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Enlisted: 1897. Age at enlistment: 18 years. Also served in Mesopotamia. Died 4 November 1918. Age: 37. Memorial: S.II.P.15; St. Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen. Drogheda War Memorial.

CRONE, David. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 5366. Baptised Dunboyne, 30 September 1893. Son of John and Anne Crone, nee Coady, Castlefarm. Father’s occupation: Caretaker and Stud Groom. Mother’s occupation: National School Teacher. Residence: Newtown Park, Leixlip, County Kildare. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 12 July 1916. Memorial: I.X.7; La Brique Military Cemetery No. 2.

CRONIN, Gerald George. Private, Somerset Light Infantry, 8th Battalion, 34224. Formerly 968 North Somerset Yeomanry. Baptised Slane, 8 November 1885. Seventh son of Richard Cronin M.D. J.P and Flora Mary Cronin, nee Hutchin, Slane. One of six brothers who served. Residence: Wincanton, Somerset. Enlistment location: Bath. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 4 October 1917. Age: 32. Memorial: Panel 41 to 42 and 163A, Tyne Cot Memorial.

CROSBY, Hugh. Private, King’s Liverpool Regiment, 5th Battalion, 307584. Born: Trim. Son of John Crosby, Chapel Street, Tullamore. Residence: Liverpool. Enlistment location: Liverpool. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 8 August 1916. Age: 34. Memorial: Pier and Face 1 D, 8 B and 8 C, Thiepval Memorial.

CRYAN, Patrick. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 2679. Born: Enfield. Residence: Dublin. Served in France from 17 September 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 13 September 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 7 D, Thiepval Memorial.

CULLITON, Edward. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, attached 1st Battalion, 25995. Baptised Drumconrath, 9 February 1897. Son of Edward and Margaret Culliton, nee Martin, Kellystown, Drumconrath. Father’s occupation: Plasterer. Enlistment location: Newcastle-on-Tyne. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 6 September 1916. Age: 18. Memorial: XXV.J.7; Serre Road Cemetery No. 2.

John Cunniffe (Courtesy of Janice Matthews)

CUNNIFFE, John (Jack). Private, Royal Munster Fusiliers, 2nd/4th Battalion, 18291. Formerly Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 10th Battalion, 25123. Baptised Athboy, 20 January 1887. Son of Michael and Elizabeth Cunniffe, Clifton Lodge, Athboy and later of Cloughbrack, Ballivor. Father’s occupation: (1901) Land Steward, (1911) Farmer. Occupation: Clerk. He had passed two exams in accountancy when he joined the Dubliners in 1914. His brothers, James and Michael, also fought in the war and survived. Enlistment location: Ranelagh, Dublin. He was engaged in the battle of Beaumont Hamel in March 1918. Surviving the battle he was mortally wounded near St. Omar and died in St. Omar Hospital. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 24 April 1918. Age: 31. His remains were repatriated to Athboy for burial in the family plot. Memorial: V.A.68, Longuenesse (St. Omer) Souvenir Cemetery.

CURTIS, Bernard. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 6th Battalion, 17726. Baptised Drumconrath, 21 June 1895. Son of William and Elizabeth Curtis, nee Flanagan, The Baun, Drumconrath, Ardee, Co. Louth. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in the Balkans from 7 August 1915. Killed in action, Gallipoli, 9 August 1915. Age: 20. Memorial: Panel 178 to 180, Helles Memorial.

DALY, James. Fireman, Mercantile Marine, S.S. “Brantingham”, Leith. Baptised Moynalty, 3 March 1895. Son of William and Annie Daly, nee Lynch, Leitrim Upper. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Occupation: Farmer’s son. Presumed drowned, 4 October 1916. Age: 21. Memorial: Tower Hill Memorial, London.

DALY, John. Private, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry), 1st Battalion, 71666. Formerly Leinster Regiment, 5013. Born: Monkstown. Enlistment location: Mullingar, Co. Westmeath. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 21 September or 23 November 1918. Memorial: II.F.15; Temple-le Guerard British Cemetery.

DARBY, John. Private, Leinster Regiment, “A” Coy. 2nd Battalion, 9991. Born: Kinnegad, Co. Meath. Son of James and Kate Darby, Rosan, Kinnegad, Co. Westmeath. Residence: Mullingar, Co. Westmeath. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 October 1914. Age: 18. First battle of the 2nd Battalion, took place 18-20 October 1914 at Armentieres. Memorial: Panel 10, Ploegsteert Memorial.

Ciarán Conlan

tS1ponsrorehhdl  ·

This is my Great Grand Uncle John Darby he was born in Hardwood, Kinnegad, County Meath, Ireland on the 12 May 1895. His parents were James Darby and Catherine Hamilton he was 1 of 12 children. He joined the Leinster Regiment 2nd Battalion at Mullingar, County Westmeath, Ireland in 1914 and his Regimental Number was 9991. He died in the Battle of Premesques in the Armentieres area of France on the 20 October 1914. He was shot through the head and it was instant death thank God. His 2 brothers were beside John when he was shot James Darby my Great Grandfather Service Number 10057 and William Darby Service Number 9990 both in the Leinster Regiment also. John Darby is remembered on the Ploegstreert Memorial Panel 10. He died 106 years ago today R.I.P. Brave Soldier.

DARBY, Patrick. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 24805. Baptised Johnstown, 22 January 1883. Son of Nicholas and Mary Darby, nee Finnegan. Occupation: Groom. Residence: Alexander Reid, Athlumney. Served in France from 8 September 1914. Died of wounds, War Hospital, Guise, France 28 March 1918. Memorial: Allied Sect. 1126, Guise (La Desolation) French National Cemetery, Flavigny-le-Petit.

DEASE, Maurice James. Lieutenant, Royal Fusiliers, 4th Battalion, Only son of Edmund F. and Katherine M. Dease, of Levington, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath and Culmullen House, Dunshaughlin. One of the first British officer battle casualties of the war and the first posthumous recipient of the Victoria Cross of the war. Killed in action at Nimy during the Battle of Mons, 23 August 1914. Age: 24. Memorial: V.B.2, St. Symphorien Military Cemetery.

“Though two or three times badly wounded he continued to control the fire of his machine guns at Mons on 23rd Aug., until all his men were shot. He died of his wounds.” The Victoria Cross citation records: “On 23rd August 1914 at Mons, Belgium, Nimy Bridge was being defended by a single company of Royal Fusiliers and a machine gun section with Lieutenant Dease in command. The gunfire was intense, and the casualties were heavy, but the Lieutenant went on firing in spite of his wounds, until he was hit for the 5th time and was carried away to a place of safety where he died. A private (S F Godley) of the same Battalion, who had been assisting the Lieutenant while he was still able to operate the guns, took over, and alone he used the gun to such a good effect that he covered the retreat of his comrades.” The London Gazette, 16 November 1914.

“Lieutenant Maurice James Dease, 4th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers.

During the action at Nimy, north of Mons, on August 23rd, 1914, the machine guns were protecting the crossing over a canal bridge, and Lieutenant Dease was several times severely wounded, but refused to leave the guns. He remained at his post until all the men of his detachment were either killed or wounded, and the guns put out of action by the enemy’s fire. Lieutenant Dease was the first officer to gain the Victoria Cross in the war. He was the only son of Mr. Edmund F. Dease, Culmullen, Drumree, Co. Meath. He was killed in the action at Nimy.” What the Irish Regiments Have Done by S. Parnell Kerr (1916)

“Dease, Maurice James. V.C. Lieutenant 4th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers, only son of Edmund Fitzlaurence Dease, of Culmullen, Drumree, Co. Meath, J.P. and grandson of James Arthur Dease of Turbotston, J.P. D.L., Vice-Lieutenant of Cavan. Born Gaulstown, Coole, Co. Westmeath 28 September 1889. Educated Frognal Park, Hampstead, Stonyhurst College (1903), Army College, Wimbledon, and Military College, Sandhurst. Gazetted 2nd Lieutenant 27 May 1910, promoted Lieutenant 19 April 1912 and on the outbreak of war proceeded with his regiment to France. On 23 August Lieutenant Dease, who was Machine Gun Officer, was in command of the section placed to protect the crossing of a bridge at Nimy, north of Mons. During the action his position was heavily shelled by the enemy, all his men being either killed or incapacitated; he was several times seriously wounded but refused to leave the guns, remaining near and working them until he fell mortally wounded. For this he was specially mentioned in Field Marshal Sir John French’s Despatch of 7 September and was awarded the Victoria Cross, 16 November 1914, the first officer to receive this distinction in the war. The action is thus officially described: Though two or three times wounded, he continued to control the fire of his machine guns at Mons on 23 August until all his men were shot. He died of his wounds.” His commanding officer wrote: “Lieutenant Dease was wounded, and man after man of his detachment was hit. He appears to have received a second wound after neglecting a first wound in the leg; taking a little time to recover, he managed to return to the gun and kept it in action. He was then incapacitated by a third wound. Thus his conduct was heroic indeed, and of the greatest service in delaying the crossing of the enemy, which it was our object to effect… I have brought his conspicuous gallantry to notice.” De Ruvigny’s Roll of Honour, 1914-1924, volume 1, page 109.

 

DEMPSEY, Patrick. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 18131. Born: St. Mary’s, Meath. Brother of Miss Margaret Dempsey, 2 Eugene Street, off Cork Street, Dublin. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 9 September 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 16 C, Thiepval Memorial.

DE STACPOOLE, Robert Andrew. 2nd Lieutenant, Connaught Rangers, 2nd Battalion, Born: 25 May 1892, Mount Hazel, Woodlawn, Ballymacward, Co. Galway. Fourth son of George, Duke de Stacpoole and Pauline May, nee McEvoy, Mount Hazel, Woodlawn, Co. Galway and Tobertynan House, Longwood. Educated Downside, Wimbledon College and the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. Gazetted 2nd Lieutenant, Connaught Rangers, 20 September 1911 and promoted Lieutenant 22 August 1914. Served with the Expeditionary Force in France and Flanders and was killed in action at Verneuil, during the Battle of the Aisne, 20 September 1914. Age: 22. Unmarried. Memorial: La Ferte-Sous-Jouarre Memorial.

De Stacpoole, R. Lieutenant, Connaught Rangers (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

His elder brother, George Edward Joseph Patrick Stacpoole served as Captain 3rd Battalion, Connaught Rangers during the war and survived. He lived at Tobertynan House. Another elder brother, Edward Hubert Michael Stacpoole, served as a Captain in the Leinster Regiment and survived the war. Another elder brother, Francis Gustave Stacpoole, served in the war as Lieutenant in the Irish Guards and was wounded but survived. A younger brother (see below) was killed in the war.

DE STACPOOLE, Roderick Algernon Anthony. 2nd Lieutenant, Royal Regiment of Artillery (Royal Horse and Royal Field Artillery), 1st Battery. Born: 11 August 1895, Mount Hazel, Woodlawn, Ballymacward, Co. Galway. Fifth and youngest son of George, Duke de Stacpoole and Pauline May, nee McEvoy, Mount Hazel, Woodlawn, Co. Galway and Tobertynan House, Longwood. Educated Downside, Wimbledon College, and the Royal Academy, Woolwich. Gazetted 2nd Lieutenant R.F.A. 11 August 1914 and joined the 1st Battery with which he went to France in November with the 8th Division. Killed in action, Neuve Chapelle, France, 11 March 1915. Age: 19. Unmarried. Awards: Mentioned in dispatches (London Gazette, 22 June 1915) for gallant and distinguished service in the field. Memorial: VI.A.10; Pont-Du-Hem Military Cemetery, La Gorgue.

One of his officers wrote: “If you see Humphries tell him how deeply the whole brigade regret the death of the high-spirited boy de Stacpoole. In years only a child, with the face of a girl, he had the heart of a hero. He was killed carrying a telephone across an open fire-swept field. Having put his men in safety, he took the post of danger himself.” De Ruvigny’s Roll of Honour, 1914-1924, volume 2, page 282.

De Stacpoole, R. A. Second Lieutenant, RFA (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

His elder brother, George Edward Joseph Patrick de Stacpoole served as Captain 3rd Battalion, Connaught Rangers during the war and survived. He lived at Tobertynan House. Another elder brother, Edward Hubert Michael Stacpoole, served as a Captain in the Leinster Regiment and survived the war. Another elder brother, Francis Gustave Stacpoole, served in the war as Lieutenant in the Irish Guards and was wounded but survived. Another elder brother (see above) was killed in the war.

DEVINE, Patrick. Private, Leinster Regiment, 3rd Battalion, 9027. Born: Kells. Enlistment location: Navan. Died, home, 23 May 1915. Age: 24. Memorial: In North-East part of St. John’s Graveyard Kells

 St. John’s Graveyard, Kells – “9072 Private P. Devine, Leinster Regiment. Date of Death: 23 May 1915 age 24.”

DIGNAM, T. Private

“Private T. Dignam of the Leinster Regiment, who belonged to Ballybeg, near Kells, was among the many Irish soldiers who fell in the recent heavy engagements in the Somme region of France.” Meath Chronicle 29 July 1916.

DIXON, Michael. Sergeant, Connaught Rangers, 6th Battalion, 4/5405. Born: Longwood. Enlisted as a war time volunteer but probably had previous military experience. Served in France from December 1915. Died at the Battle of Messines. Kiled in action leading a squad of the Connaught Rangers in an attack on a German pillbox near Wytschaete. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 7 June 1917. Age: 39. Memorial: I.A.9; Wytschaete Military Cemetery.

DODDS, William. Private, Royal Scots, 13th Battalion, 41373. Born: Navan. Son of Alexander and Agnes Dodds. Married 26 April 1912, Selkirk. Husband of Euphemia Dodds, nee Hume, Burn Cottage, Mill Street, Selkirk. Three children, Euphemia, born 1913; Alexander, born 1914 and James born 1916. Residence: Thorburne Buildings, Dalkeith. Occupation: Insurance Agent. Enlisted: 11 December 1915, aged 28 years 8 months. Height: 5 foot 5½ inches. Embarked for France January 1917. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 April 1917. Age: 30. Memorial: I.C.18; Windmill British Cemetery, Monchy-le-Preux.

DOHERTY, Thomas. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 26586. Born: Dunsany. Residence: Clavanstown, Co. Meath. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 3 September 1917. Memorial: I.D.23; Croisilles British Cemetery.

DOLAN. Patrick. See Leddy, Patrick.

DOMEGAN, Christopher Patrick. Lieutenant, Royal Air Force and Royal Irish Fusiliers. Born: Dublin. Son of Patrick and Catherine Domegan, both natives of Meath, 29 North King Street, Dublin. Father’s occupation: Tram Driver. Drowned in the Irish Sea from R.M.S. “Leinster”, 10 October 1918. Age: 22. Memorial: Ardcath Graveyard.

DONNELLY, John. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 20218. Baptised Ratoath, 13 November 1894. Son of Richard and Margaret Donnelly, nee Lynch, Lagore Little, Ratoath. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Occupation: Groom. Residence: Ratoath. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 1 July 1917. Age: 22. Memorial: Panel 44 and 46, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

DONNELLY, Thomas. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 4622. Husband of Mrs. Margaret Donnelly, Barrack Street, Navan. Enlistment location: Mosney Camp, Drogheda. Died of wounds, 18 July 1915. Memorial Reference: BI.5; Potijze Burial Ground Cemetery.

DONOHOE, Joseph. Private, Royal Army Service Corps. M/272403. Baptised Navan, 8 August 1898. Son of Christopher and Mary Anne Donohoe, nee Burke, Cornmarket, Navan. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Residence: Clydebank. Enlistment location: Dumbarton. Died, home, 18 June, 1917. Memorial: Warlingham (All Saint’s) Churchyard, Surrey, England.

DORAN, John J. Private. Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 4729. Born: Dunshaughlin. Son of Thomas and Catherine Doran, Drumree, Dunshaughlin. Father’s occupation: General Dealer. Occupation: General Labourer. Residence: Sallins, Co. Kildare. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 21 September 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 1 February 1916. Age: 24. Award: Mentioned in dispatches. Memorial: VI.J.1; Merville Communal Cemetery.

DOREY, John. Private, King’s Own Scottish Borderers, 6th Battalion, 25646. Born: Dunshaughlin. Residence: Irvine, Ayr. Enlistment location: Irvine, Ayr. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 3 May 1917. Memorial: Bay 6, Arras Memorial.

DOUGHERTY, Thomas. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 7th Battalion. “B” Coy, 12419. Born: Dublin. Son of Thomas and Mary Dougherty, Charlesfort, Kells. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in Balkans from 9 August 1915. Killed in action, Gallipoli, 21 August 1915. Age: 21. Memorial: Panel 190 to 196, Helles Memorial.

DOWNEY, Eugene. Private, King’s Liverpool Regiment, 1st/8th Battalion, 307874. Born: Oldcastle. Son of Andrew and Mary Downey, Ardee Street, Collon, Co. Louth. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Residence: Liverpool. Enlistment location: Seaforth, Lancashire. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 31 July 1917. Age: 22. Memorial: Panel 4 and 6, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

DRUM, Michael. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 265. Baptised Kells, 30 April 1876. Son of John and Bridget Drum, nee Barrington, Circular Road /Newrath, Kells. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Occupation: Labourer. Residence: Drogheda. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in Balkans from 9 July 1915. Wounded in the Dardanelles. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 18 August 1916. Age: 40. Memorial: XXV.E.2/4; Serre Road Cemetery No. 2.

“Killed in Action

In the list of those killed in action is, we are sorry to notice, the name of another young Kells man, Cpl. Michael Drum, of the Leinster Regiment. His father, John Drum, a respectable workman, lives at Newrath, Lloyd. Sometime ago he was wounded at the Dardanelles. On recovering he went to France where he met his death. R.I.P.” Meath Chronicle 23 September 1916

DRUMGOOLE, John. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 8044. Born: Oldcastle. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France from 8 September 1914. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 11 November 1914 Memorial: III.A.16; Lille Southern Cemetery.

DUFF

“Two soldiers from Trim district, named Duff and Nolan, are reported killed in action. This brings the total from Trim and its vicinity who have paid the supreme penalty up to fifteen.” Meath Chronicle 7 October 1916.

DUFFY, Bernard. Rifleman, Rifle Brigade, 13th Battalion, S/3416. Baptised Skryne, 8 September 1888. Son of Joseph and Margaret Duffy, nee Lynch, Colvenstown, Tara. Occupation: Servant. Enlisted: London, 10 September 1914. Age at enlistment: 26 years. Height: 5 foot 7 inches. Complexion: Fresh. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Dark brown. He was wounded in action on 1 April 1916 and spent until 1 August 1916 in hospital due to a shrapnel wound to the abdomen. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 11 April 1917. Age: 28. Memorial: Bay 9, Arras Memorial.

DUFFY, Thomas. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 5965. Born: Navan. Residence: Castletown, Co. Meath. Enlistment location: Liverpool, Lancashire. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 November 1917. Memorial: Panel 2 and 3, Cambrai Memorial, Louverval.

DUIGNAN, Bernard. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 7th Battalion, 4763. Baptised Navan, 11 January 1893. Son of Patrick and Bridget Duignan, nee Forsythe, Cannon Row, Navan. Father’s occupation: Baker. Baptised as Bryan and listed in 1910 census as Brien. In 1911 census listed as Bernard. Occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France from 21 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 9 September 1916. Age: 24. Memorial: Pier and Face 15 A and 15 B, Thiepval Memorial.

DUNNE, Hugh. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 22201. Born: Ardagh, Co. Meath. Baptised Drumconrath, 5 November 1869. Son of Hugh and Kate Dunne, nee McEntee, Barley Hill. Residence: Kingscourt, Co. Cavan. Enlistment location: Dundalk. Served in France from 20 December 1915. Killed in action, 29 April 1916. Age: 50. Memorial: Panel 127 to 129, Loos Memorial.

DUNNE, John Joseph. Petty Officer Stoker, Royal Navy, H.M.S. “Nessus”, 293288. Baptised Curraha, 12 April 1875. Son of James and Ellen Dunne, nee Reilly. Husband of Ellen Maud Dunne, 1 Brooklyn Terrace, Camel’s Head, Devonport. Died 1 June 1916. Age: 43. Memorial: 14 Plymouth Naval Memorial.

DUNNE, Joseph. Private, Leinster Regiment, 5th Battalion, 7381. Born: St. James’, Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Died, home, 4 July 1917. Memorial: Moorechurch Graveyard.

Patrick Dunne (Courtesy Marie Callaghan)

DUNNE, Patrick. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 25051. Born: Warrenstown. Baptised Dunboyne, 15 May 1897. Eldest son of Christopher and Margaret Dunne, nee Smith, Warrenstown, Dunboyne. Residence: Dunboyne. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 May 1917. Age: 20. Memorial: H.58; Kemmel Chateau Military Cemetery.

J.S. Dunville by kind permission

DUNVILLE, John Spencer. Second Lieutenant, Household Cavalry, 1st Royal Dragoons. Born Portland Place, London, 7 May 1896. Second son of John Dunville, Redburn, Holywood, Co. Down, and Sion, Navan Co. Meath and his wife, Violet, daughter of Gustavus Lambart of Beauparc, Co. Meath. His father, John Dunville, managed Dunville and Co., whiskey distillers, Belfast and was master of the Meath Hounds, 1911-15. His brother Robert, also served in World War I and survived. Educated at Eton. Joined the army, initially serving as a Second Lieutenant in the Fifth Reserve Regiment of Cavalry. In April 1915 he applied to join the Royal Flying Corps and was accepted, but his course of instruction in aviation was cancelled a few days before he was due to start. He transferred to the Sixth (Inniskilling) Dragoons and served in France from 6 June 1915. There he took part in the Battle of Loos in September 1915, and transferred to the First Royal Dragoons in January 1916. In April he contracted trench fever and was invalided to England. He returned to France in December. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 25 June 1917. Age: 21. Memorials: A.21, Villers-Faucon Communal Cemetery. A magnificent stained glass window in the grand entrance hall of Redburn House was one of several memorials dedicated to him. Roll of Honour, St. Mary’s Church, Navan. Memorial stone, Holywood Graveyard.

Awards: Victoria Cross. It was awarded, as the official record states:- “For most conspicuous bravery near Epehy, France, on 24th and 25th June, 1917. When in charge of a party consisting of scouts and Royal Engineers engaged in the demolition of the enemy’s wire, this officer displayed great gallantry and disregard of all personal danger. In order to ensure the absolute success of the work entrusted to him, Second-Lieut. Dunville placed himself between an N.C.O. of the Royal Engineers and the enemy’s fire, and thus protected, this N.C.O. was enabled to complete a work of great importance. Second-Lieut. Dunville, although severely wounded, continued to direct his men in the wirecutting and general operations until the raid was successfully completed, thereby setting a magnificent example of courage, determination, and devotion to duty to all ranks under his command. The gallant officer has since succumbed to his wounds.”

EBBITT, Joseph. Sergeant, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 15797. Born: Longwood. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 20 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 28 March 1918. Award: Military Medal. Memorial: VIII.G.10; Heath Cemetery, Harbonnieres.

ENGLISHBY, James. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 10151. Baptised Nobber, 19 September 1880. Son of Thomas and Mary Englishby, nee Carolan, Possextown, Nobber. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Served in France from 19 December 1914. Died of pneumonia, 14 November 1918. Age: 38. Memorial: XIX.F.10; Gaza War Cemetery.

ENNIS, Michael. Sergeant, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 15951. Baptised Trim, 25 August 1880. Son of Patrick and Mary Ennis, nee Mountain, Brannockstown. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Residence: Rathmolyon. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 12 October 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 15 A, Thiepval Memorial.

FARRELL, Francis. Warrant Officer Class II (Company Sergeant Major) Royal Irish Regiment, 7th Battalion, 25262. Formerly South Irish Horse, 1074. Born: Slane. Son of James and Christina Farrell, Lyons, Hazlehatch, Co. Kildare. Residence: New Ross, Co. Wexford. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 21 March 1918. Age: 23. Memorial: Panels 30 and 31, Pozieres Memorial, Somme. Drogheda War Memorial.

FARRELL, J.

“The names of J. Farrell (Kells), P. Irwin (do.), and W. Moran (Navan), of the Leinster Regiment appeared in Monday’s list of casualties.” Meath Chronicle 22 July 1916. Horneck states Joseph Farrell – 6th Leinsters, Kells district, wounded.

FARRELL, James. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 9499. Born: Oldcastle. Residence: Tue Brook, Liverpool. Enlistment location: Liverpool. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 25 April 1915. Memorial: Panel 42, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

FARRELL, Patrick. Private, Connaught Rangers, “E” Coy. 2nd Battalion, 7116. Baptised Kells, 19 January 1883. Son of James and Bridget Farrell, nee Dempsey, Kells and later of Trim. Residence: Swords, Co. Dublin. Occupation: Labourer. Enlistment location: Dublin. Enlisted: 22 May 1901, aged 18 years 6 months. Height: 5 foot 3¾ inches. Posted to India. He served till November 1908 and then became a reservist. He was mobilized on 7 August 1914 at Galway. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 September 1914. Memorial: La Ferte-sous-Jouarre Memorial.

FARRELL, Paul. Private, Leinster Regiment, 1st Battalion, 4101. Baptised Trim, 21 October 1893. Son of Michael and Mary Farrell, nee Hughes, Patrick Street and later New Haggard Road, Trim. Father’s occupation: Farm Servant. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 17 February 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 29 September 1915. Memorial: VII.C.8; Assevilliers New British Cemetery.

Farrell, Paul, Private, Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

FARRELL, Philip. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 15615. Born: Dangan. Baptised Summerhill, 14 March 1886. Son of Louis and Anne Farrell, nee Elliott. Residence: Doolistown, beside Carey’s Cross. Occupation: Farmer. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France from 19 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 16 August 1917. Memorial: Panel 144 to 145, Tyne Cot Memorial.

Possibly – Farrell, Phil, Private, Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

FARRINGTON, John Joseph. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 9th Battalion,, “D” Coy. 25078. Born: Cloona, Johnstown Bridge, Co. Meath. Son of the Patrick Farrington, Cloona House, Johnstown Bridge, Enfield. Residence: Enfield. Enlistment location: Naas. Killed in action, France & Flanders 12 August 1916. Age: 37. Memorial: I.J.4; Philosophe British Cemetery, Mazingarbe.

FAUGHLIN, Patrick. Private, Leinster Regiment, 3rd Battalion, 2818. Born: 1886, Trim. Son of Thomas and Mary Faughlin, Mill Street, Trim. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Married 28 April 1914. Husband of Mary Faughlin nee Finnegan, Wellington (Emmett) Street, Trim. Sons, Thomas, born 9 February 1913 and Peter born 14 April 1918. Occupation: Labourer. Served in the Militia. Enlisted 1 July 1908. Enlistment location: Mosney. Age at Enlistment: 22 years. Height: 5 foot 6½ inches. Weight 133 lbs. Complexion: Fair. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Light Brown. Mobilised August 1914. In September-October 1916 Faughlin was hospitalised at St. George’s Hospital, Malta for slight malaria. Drowned on RMS Leinster off the Irish coast, 10 October 1918. Age: 31. Memorial: Hollybrook Memorial, Southampton.

Faughlin, P. Private, Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

His widow married Michael Commons and the couple went on to have eight children.

“Letter by Mary Faughlin:

                                                                        The Secty

                                                                        State for War

                                                                        War Office

                                                                        London                      

                                                                        14-11-18

Sir,

I wish to bring to under your notice the fact that my husband No. 2818 Pte Patrick Faughlin 3rd Batt Leinster Regiment was home on furlough and left here to return to his Regt. at Portsmouth on the 8 of Oct. last and since that time I have heard nothing about him and as he was always in the habit of writing to me regular I am very anxious about him and as my Separation Allowance has been stopped myself and my children are in a deplorable state and as food stuffs are so dear and scarce and having no money I do not know what to do as he left to return to his Regt. about the time the Leinster was sunk, I fear something must have happened him. I therefore earnestly implore you to have inquiries made about him and let me know the result as soon as possible so that I may take steps to get my Separation Allowance back or in the case of his death a pension.

                                                            I am Sir

                                                            Your Obt. Servant

                                                            Mary Faughlin

                                                            Wellington St.

                                                            Trim.”

FAY, James. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 6032. Born: Johnstown. Son of Mrs. Mary Fay, Garlow Cross, Navan. Enlistment location: Navan. Reservist. Joined on mobilisation. Served in France from 8 September 1914. Wounded at Mons. Killed in action: France & Flanders, 12 August 1915. Age 35. Memorial: Panel 44, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

“Meathmen Killed and Wounded

… James Fay, of the Leinsters, has been wounded in action in France. He is a native of Garlow Cross. …” Meath Chronicle 28 November 1914.

FAY, Michael. Stoker, 1st Class, Royal Navy, H.M.S. “Brisk”, 21707. Born: Kentstown. Husband of Elizabeth Fay, 3 Aldbrough Avenue, Dublin. Died 2 October 1917. Memorial: 22 Plymouth Naval Memorial.

FEELEY, William. Private, South Lancashire Regiment, 2nd/5th Battalion, 241939. Born: Stackallen, 22 April 1896. Son of William and Julia Feeley, nee Maguire, Rushwee, Stackallen. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Residence: Stackallen. Occupation: Labourer. Enlistment location: St Helens, Lancashire. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 30 December 1917. Age: 22. Memorial: Panel 92 to 93 and 162A, Tyne Cot Memorial.

FINEGAN, William. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 7875. Born: Donore. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 8 September 1914. Killed in action. France & Flanders, 20 October 1914. First battle of the 2nd Battalion, took place 18-20 October 1914 at Armentieres. Memorial: Panel 10, Ploegsteert Memorial, Comines-Warneton, Hainaut. Drogheda War Memorial.

FINNEGAN, Thomas J. Private, Leinster Regiment, 1st Battalion, 4566. Baptised Trim, 1 May 1897. Son of Thomas and Bridget Finnegan, nee Rochfort, Seaton Lane, later of St. Loman Street and later of Wellington Street, Trim. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of wounds, Egypt, 17 March 1918. Age 21. Memorial: Plot Q, Grave 70, Jerusalem War Cemetery.

Finnegan, T. Private, Leinster Regiment. (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

“Private T. Finnegan (Leinsters), of Trim, is officially reported killed in action.” Meath Chronicle 25 May 1918.

FITZPATRICK, Edward. Rifleman, The London Regiment, (Post Office Rifles), 8th Battalion, 372568. Baptised Johnstown, 6 April 1894. Son of Thomas and Rose Fitzpatrick, nee Halton, Kilcarn. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 5 March 1917. Memorial: B.5; Bailleumont Communal Cemetery.

FITZPATRICK, Patrick. Sapper, Royal Engineers, 36480. Son of Martin and Elizabeth Fitzpatrick, nee Smith. Father’s occupation: Labourer in Brickworks. Occupation: General Labourer. Husband of Teresa Fitzpatrick, nee Hickey, Rathdrina, Beauparc. Three children. Enlisted 4 January 1916. Enlistment location: Navan. Died at home of Landry’s Paralysis, 29 December 1919. Age: 32. Memorial: Knockcommon Cemetery.

FITZSIMONS, Frank. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 1st Garrison Battalion, G/1058. Formerly Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 18810. Baptised Navan, 4 March 1883. Son of Thomas and Bridget Fitzsimons, nee Clarke, Athlumney. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Residence: Gorey, Co. Wexford. Enlistment location: Naas, Co. Kildare. Died, India, 13 May 1916. Buried in Cawnpore Cantonment New Cemetery. Memorial: Face 23, Madras 1914-1918 War Memorial, Chennai.

FLANAGAN, James. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 20258. Baptised: Navan, 6 May 1895. Son of Patrick and Mary Flanagan, nee Fitzsimons, Academy Street, Navan. Father’s occupation: Shoemaker. Occupation (1911): Apprentice in woollen mill. Residence: Navan. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 1 July 1916. First day of the Battle of the Somme. Age: 21. Memorial: B.57, Redan Ridge Cemetery No. 2, Beaumont-Hamel. Old Athlumney graveyard.

FLOOD, Michael Joseph. Corporal, Royal Irish Rifles, 7th Battalion, 4564. Born: Slane, 8 February 1899. Son of Thomas and Ellen F. Flood, nee Downey, Slane. Father’s occupation: Draper. Enlistment location: Slane. Served in France from 15 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 16 August 1917. Age: 18. Memorial: Panel 138 to 140 and 162 to 162A and 163A, Tyne Cot Memorial.

“Intelligence has reached his parents during the week of the death in action on the 16th ult. of Lance-Corporal Michael Flood, of R.I.R., a native of Slane.” Meath Chronicle 1 September 1917.

FLOOD, Patrick. Sapper, Royal Engineers, 180th Tunnelling Company. 359658. Formerly Royal Irish Rifles, 7/3942. Born: Slane. Son of Patrick and Mary Flood, Coalpits, Slane. Father’s Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Occupation: (1901) Agricultural Labourer, (1911) Copper Miner. Residence: Slane. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of wounds, General Hospital 10, France, 6 April 1918. Age: 40. Memorial: P.VII.I.9B; St. Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen.

FLYNN, Patrick. Sapper, Royal Engineers, 3rd Field Survey Company. 165918. Born: Longwood. Enlistment location: Battersea, Surrey. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 26 September 1918. Memorial: B.22, Queant Communal Cemetery British Extension.

FOLEY, Christopher. Gunner, Royal Field Artillery, 504th Bty. 65th Bde. 197207. Formerly Horse Keeper, S.E. 15597, Royal Army Veterinary Corps. Born: Meath. Son of Patrick and Bridget Foley, Dunshaughlin. Father’s Occupation: Publican. Occupation: Farmer’s son. Enlistment location: Woolwich. Died, France & Flanders, 10 August 1918. Age: 26. Memorial: IV.A.17; Aire Communal Cemetery.

FORAN, John. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 9605. Born: Boardsmill. Enlistment location: Trim. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 30 March 1918. Memorial: IV.J.6; Douchy-les-Ayette British Cemetery.

Foran, J. Private, Irish Guards (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

FORTUNE, Christopher. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 21060. Formerly Connaught Rangers, 3926. Baptised Ratoath, 30 December 1895. Son of Edward and Mary Fortune, nee Murphy, Ratoath. Father’s occupation: Farm Labourer. Occupation: Labourer. Residence: Ratoath. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in the second battle of Ypres. A personal friend of the poet, Francis Ledwidge, who was killed at the third battle of Ypres. Killed in action, Ypres, 25 April 1916. Age: 20. Memorial: Sp. Mem. 5, Vermelles British Cemetery.

FOWLER, George Glyn, 2nd Lieutenant, King’s Royal Rifle Corps, 2nd Battalion, Born: 21 January 1896. Younger son of Capt. and Mrs. R. H. Fowler, of Rahinston, Enfield. Father’s occupation: Retired Army Captain and J.P. Served in France from 26 January 1915. Died of wounds received at the battle of Loos, 26 September 1915. Age: 19. Memorial: I.C.52; Lapugnoy Military Cemetery.

His brother, Robert St Leger Fowler, served as a captain in World War I, winning a Military Cross during the defence of Amiens against the last German offensive of 1918. Robert died from leukaemia at Rahinstown in 1925

Tablet in Rathmolyon church – George Glyn Fowler, Lieutenant K.R.R.C., born 21 Jan 1896, died of wounds 26 Sept 1915.

Tablet in church at lectern – “To the glory of God and in most loving memory of Lieutenant George Glyn Fowler, 60th Rifles, who gave his life for his country on September 26th 1915 at Loos Aged 19”.

Wooden Cross on south wall – “Lt George Glyn Fowler, 1st Bn K.R.R.C. died of wounds in the battle of Loos 25th September 1915 aged 19.” This cross was moved from the grave at Lapugnoy Military Cemetery (Plot 1 Row C Grave 52) when the permanent headstone was erected.

2nd Lt. G.G. Fowler 60th Rifles K.R.R. (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

“Trim Rural Council

Fell in the War

Mr. Ennis proposed: – The Trim District Council desire to express to Capt. and Mrs Fowler of Rahinstown, their deep sympathy on the death of their son, Lieut. George St. L. Fowler.

Mr. Shannon said that he seconded the resolution with regret. It was more than sad to see such a fine type of manhood taken away. He wished to join in the expression of sympathy with Capt. and Mrs. Fowler.

The Chairman, Mr. King and Mr. Maguire associated themselves with the resolution which was passed.” Meath Chronicle 9 October 1915.

 

FOX, Patrick. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 5861. Baptised Navan, 29 December 1874. Son of Patrick and Joan Fox, nee Graham, Flower Hill, Navan. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France from 24 May 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 15 September 1916. Age: 40. Memorial: Pier and Face 7 D, Thiepval Memorial.

“At the Navan recruiting meeting Mr. Timmon stated that he had a letter from Mr. P. Fox, who was once a “back” in the Pierce Mahony’s but is now a “forward” at the front scoring points for the English!” Meath Chronicle 31 July 1915.

See M.J. Colclough’s letter.

“News has reached Navan that Private Patk. Fox, Irish Guards, has been killed in action. He was one of the old Pierce Mahony football club.” Meath Chronicle 28 October 1916.

 “News of the death of Pte. Patrick Fox, 1st Batt, Irish Guards, has reached Navan, his native town and aroused much regret amongst his companions and friends. He was killed in action on September 25. His mother and friends reside at Flower Hill.” Meath Chronicle 4 November 1916.

FURLONG, Patrick, Lance-Sergeant, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 6th Battalion, 15818. Baptised Enfield, 6 May 1891. Son of John and Jane Furlong, nee Daly, New Lodge, Clegarrow, Enfield. Father’s occupation: Bricklayer, Stone Mason. Occupation: Stone Mason. Residence: Enfield. Enlisted: Curragh Camp. Served in Balkans from 7 August 1915. Died of wounds, Balkans, 29 March 1916. Age: 26. Memorial: I.B.I; Sofia War Cemetery.

GAFFNEY, John. Private, South Lancashire Regiment, 7th Battalion, 15063. Born: Oldcastle. Son of Peter and Elizabeth Gaffney, Ross. Residence; Ross, Mountnugent. Occupation: Excavator. Enlistment location: Horwich, Lancashire, 5 October 1915, aged 38 years. Height: 5 foot 8¾ inches. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Brown. Served at home from October 1914 to July 1915. Served in France from 18 July 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 18 November 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 7 A and 7 B, Thiepval Memorial.

GAFFNEY, Richard, Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 5086. Born: Collinstown, Co. Westmeath. Residence: Collinstown, Co. Westmeath. Enlistment location: Athboy. Served in France from 17 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 19 April 1916. Memorial: II.L.38, Vermelles British Cemetery.

“Intelligence has reached Athboy that Private Gaffney of the Leinster Regiment, has fallen in Flanders. He was in the employment of Mr. Byrne, druggist, Athboy, prior to the outbreak of the war.” Meath Chronicle 20 May 1916.

R.S. Gaisford

GAISFORD, Robert Sandeman, Captain, Royal Flying Corps, 34th Sqdn. Secondary Regiment: Royal Field Artillery. Born: Guilsfield, Montgomeryshire, 14 January 1896. Son of Lt. Col. and Mrs. D. J. Gaisford, Dollys Grove, Dunboyne, Co. Meath. Older brother, John William Gaisford, joined the Royal Artillery on 17 November 1914, was wounded Gallipoli but survived the war. Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the RFA on 16 September 1914. Promoted Lieutenant 9 June 1915. Received Royal Aero Club Aviators’ Certificate on Maurice Farman Biplane at Military School, Ruislip on 7 June 1917. Seconded to the RFC on 4 August 1917 in the temporary rank of Captain for employment as a Flight Commander. Promoted to Captain on 1 January 1918. Killed over enemy lines, Italy, when engaged with four hostile machines, 30 January 1918. The aeroplane was shot down in flames by Austro-Hungarian anti-aircraft fire over the Piave Sector of the Italian Front on either 29 or 30 January 1918. The RE 8 crashed east of Nervesa and both airmen were killed. Age: 22. Memorial: Plot 5, Row B, Grave 6; Tezze British Cemetery.

GALLIGAN, Patrick. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 1399. Baptised Navan, 13 June 1887. Son of Laurence and Julia Galligan, nee Byrne, Mill Lane, Navan. Father’s occupation: Baker. Occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France from 17 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 8 March 1917. Memorial: Panel 44, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

GALLIGAN, Thomas. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 4733. Baptised Navan, 3 January 1895. Son of Laurence and Julia Galligan, nee Byrne, Barrack Lane, Navan. Father’s occupation: Baker. Occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France from 26 October 1914. Died of wounds, 13 August 1915 Age: 19. Memorial: III. D. 27, Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery.

GANNON, James, Private, Royal Irish Regiment, 7th Batt, 25313. Formerly South Irish Horse, 2102. Born: Dunboyne. Baptised Kilcloon, 18 November 1891. Son of Daniel and Catherine Gannon, nee Martin, Brownrath and later of Quarryland, Dunboyne. Father’s occupation: Shepherd. Occupation: Farm Servant. Residence: Dunboyne. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 21 March 1918. Memorial: Panel 30 and 31, Pozieres Memorial.

GANNON, William. Private, Royal Irish Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5122. Baptised Ballivor, 10 March 1889. Son of Michael and Elizabeth Gannon, nee Kiernan, Ballivor and later of Patrick Street, Athlone, Co. Westmeath. Residence: Warrentown, Co. Meath. Enlistment location: Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 21 March 1918. Age: 29. Memorial: Panel 30 and 31, Pozieres Memorial.

GAUGHRAN, Christopher. Sergeant, Royal Garrison Artillery. 28857. Baptised Trim, 24 December 1889. Son of James and Margaret Gaughran, nee Blake, Corporationland North, Trim. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Died, Trim, 16 November 1918. Award: Military Medal. Memorial: Newtown Cemetery, Trim.

“Pray for the soul of Christopher Gaughran, Trim, who died 16th November 1918 aged 29 years. Erected in remembrance by his comrades of the 200 Siege Battery RCA.” (Newtown Cemetery, Trim)

GAUGHRAN, John,

“Oldcastle Men killed in the War

Deep regret has been occasioned in the Oldcastle district by the news that John Gaughran, Ballinlough; Private Smith, Fennor and Joseph Bergin, Oldcastle have been killed in the war.” Meath Chronicle 3 October 1914.

GAUGHRAN, Thomas. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 6th Battalion, 23596. Baptised Ballinlough, 22 June 1884. Son of Thomas and Rose Gaughran, nee Farrelly, Ballinlough Big. Father’s occupation: Shepherd. Residence: Ballinlough. Enlistment location: Sutton, Co. Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 8 October 1918. Memorial: III.C.16; Prospect Hill Cemetery, Gouy.

GAVIN, James. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 17476. Baptised Duleek, 12 July 1896. Son of Thomas and Mary Ann Gavin, nee Whyte, Platten, Duleek, and later Donore Road, Drogheda. Occupation: (1911) Farm Servant. Enlistment location: Drogheda, January 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 5 May 1915. Age: 19. Memorial: Panel 42, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial. Donore Graveyard.

GEOGHEGAN, Michael. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 7th/8th Battalion, 15971. Residence: Kells. Enlistment location: Tipperary. Died France & Flanders, 6 April 1917.

GERAGHTY, Patrick. Private, Connaught Rangers, 2nd Battalion, 8299. Baptised Kells, 23 May 1880. Son of James and Mary Anne Geraghty, nee Dixon, Church Lane, Kells. Father’s occupation: Butcher. Occupation: Labourer. Residence: Kells. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 14 September 1914. Memorial: II.E.12; Vailly British Cemetery.

“Kells Soldier Missing

On Thursday news reached Kells that a native of the town, Patrick Geraghty of the Connaught Rangers, serving in France, had been killed in the war.

We are glad to learn that so far the report has not been verified. A telegram from the War Office, received by his sister yesterday evening, states that he is missing since September 19th. Geraghty was a well-conducted and industrious lad and his comrades and friends would be glad to learn of his safety.” Meath Chronicle 17 October 1914.

“Kells Man killed in the War

Word has reached Kells from the War Office that Patrick Geraghty, of Kells, who was serving in the war with the Connaught Rangers, was shot dead on September 14th. All who knew the deceased deeply regret the sad event. In the notification a message of deep sympathy with his relatives was enclosed from the King and Queen.” Meath Chronicle 7 November 1914.

“Kell’s Soldier’s Death

A letter addressed to Mr. James Geraghty, Church Lane, Kells has been received from the captain in charge of the Record Office in Cork giving particulars of the death and burial of Private Patrick Geraghty of the 2nd Connaught Rangers, who was killed in action at Soupier Hill on September 14th, 1914. He was found at the top of Soupier Hill together with Grenadier, Coldstream and Irish Guardsmen and Connaught Rangers and a cross was erected to mark the grave. Poor Geraghty who was a reservist left Kells on August 9th to rejoin his regiment.” Meath Chronicle 13 February 1915.

GERRARD, Christopher. Private, South Lancashire Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 17709. Formerly Lancashire Fusiliers, 4794. Baptised Bohermeen, 9 December 1882. Son of Thomas and Anne Gerrard, nee Fitzsimons, White Quarry, Ardbraccan, Navan. Mother’s occupation: Farmer. Occupation in 1901: General Labourer. Occupation at enlistment: Collier. Enlistment location: Wigan, Lancashire, 30 August 1914. Height 5 foot 8¾ inches. Complexion: Pale. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Black. Served in France from 2 April 1915. Died of wounds, 9th General Hospital, Rouen, France, 21 July 1916. Age: 33. Memorial: A.36.7; St. Sever Cemetery, Rouen.

GIBBONS, Patrick. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 11701. Born: Trim. Residence: Trim. Enlistment location: Naas. Served in France from 27 October 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 25 April 1915. Memorial: Panel 44 and 46, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

GIBNEY, John. Driver, 183rd Infantry Bde H.Q. Army Service Corps, T2/015273. Baptised Trim, 2 February 1879. Son of John and Mary Gibney, nee Clarke. Husband of Honora Annie Gibney, The Bungalow, Lenzie, Glasgow. Residence: Lenzie, Glasgow. Enlisted: 9 October 1914. Age given on enlistment: 28. Enlistment location: Inverkeithing. Died in hospital while undergoing operation, Egypt, 12 September 1918. Age: 40. Memorial: C.93; Alexandria (Hadra) War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt.

GIBNEY, James. Petty Officer 1st Class, Royal Navy, H.M.S. “Defence.” 193687. Baptised Oldcastle, 6 July 1881. Son of James and Marcella Gibney, nee Tuite, Lennox Street, Oldcastle. Father’s occupation: Publican and Shopkeeper. Gibney made the highest individual score with Light Quick Firing Guns in the Fleet in 1910; and he passed the professional and educational examinations for Gunner (Warrant Officer) in 1915. Died, 31 May 1916. Age: 35. Memorial: 11, Plymouth Naval Memorial.

 “Oldcastle Seaman lost in Naval Fight

Deep sympathy is felt by the people of Oldcastle for Mrs. Gibney on the death of her son, James Gibney, who was one of the crew of H.M.S. Defence, lost in the great battle of Jutland in the North Sea. Mr. Gibney, who was aged 34 years, was one of the crack gunners of the British Navy. Some time ago we published an account of a test held at the China Station, on which occasion he made the highest percentage of hits and was declared champion of the station. He was also a pugilist of rare ability, and held the middle-weight boxing championship of the navy. A young man of splendid physique, he was of bright and genial manner and made hosts of friends everywhere he went. It is sad to see a career so promising cut short in the bloom of manhood.” Meath Chronicle 17 June 1916.

GIBNEY, John, Private, Leinster Regiment, 1st Battalion, 8535. Born: Duleek. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Brother of Miss Margaret Joseph Gibney, 11 Summer Hill, Killarney, County Kerry. Served in France from 19 December 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 14 February 1915. Memorial: Panel 44, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

GIBSON, Walter David. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 14th Battalion, 18/1730. Born: Oldcastle. Residence: (1901) Drakestown, Castletown, (at enlistment) Devonport. Enlisted: Plymouth, Devon. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 20 August 1917. Age: 27. Memorial: VIII. I. 10, Boulogne Eastern Cemetery.

GILBERT, James. Acting-Wheeler-Corporal, Royal Army Service Corps, 866th H.T. Company. TS/9494. Born: Navan or Wiltshire. Son of William and Sarah Gilbert. Husband of Alice Gilbert, Alpha Cottage, High Street, Crowthorne, Berks. Residence: Crowthorne, Berks. Enlistment location: Camberley, Surrey. Died, home, 10 October 1918. Age: 42. Memorial: Hollybrook Memorial, Southampton.

GILES, Victor Marshall. Second Lieutenant, Royal Irish Rifles 7th Battalion. Baptised Navan, 26 March 1897. Son of Marshall and Ethel Giles, nee Carver, Brewshill, Navan and later of 66 University Street, Belfast. Father’s occupation: Bookkeeper at F.& J. Clayton & Co. Ltd. Entered Blue Coat School in 1911 as King’s Scholar. Left 1914. He relinquished a valuable scholarship at King’s Hospital in order to serve. Served in France from 29 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 28 June 1916. Age: 19. Memorial: IV.A.13; Vermelles British Cemetery. Roll of Honour, St. Mary’s Church, Navan.

GILLIAT, Cecil (“Glennie”) Glendower Percival. Captain, Royal Warwickshire Regiment, 1st Battalion, Eldest son of Cecil Gilliat, Arch Hall, Co. Meath. Born 6 December 1884. Educated: Cheltenham. Gazetted 2nd Lieutenant, Royal Warwickshire Regiment from the Militia, 29 November 1905. Promoted Lieutenant 1 April 1909 and Captain, posthumously, 29 October 1914, antedated to 12 September previously. Served on the North-West Frontier of India 1908, Medal with clasp. Died of wounds, 14 October 1914. Age: 29. Memorial: II. D. 39; Hazebrouck Communal Cemetery.

“Meathmen Killed and Wounded

… Mr. Gilliatt of Archall and Private Wm. Kenny, O’Growney Terrace, Navan of the Dublin Fusiliers, are also reported to have been killed. …” Meath Chronicle 28 November 1914.

GILLIAT, Reginald Horace Crosbie. Captain, Leinster Regiment, 5th Battalion, Attached to the Connaught Rangers, 1st Battalion, formerly 2nd Battalion. Son of  Cecil Gilliat, Arch Hall, Co. Meath and New Club, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. Served in France from 17 October 1914. Killed in action, 6 April 1915. Memorial: I.A.18; Rue-du-Bacquerot No. 1 Military Cemetery, Laventie.

Reginald H. Gilliatt, Captain, Leinster Regiment killed in action at Neuve Chapelle 6 April 1915. (Julianstown church – Stained Glass Window)

GILSENAN, Thomas, Stoker. 1st Class, Royal Navy, H.M.S. “Suffolk.” SS/110420. Baptised Oristown, 22 September 1888. Son of John and Mary Gilsenan, nee Healy, Kilberry, Navan. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Died 13 October 1915. Age: 28. Memorial: 95, Bermuda Royal Naval Cemetery.

GLANCY, James. Corporal, Northumberland Fusiliers, 18th Battalion, Tyneside Pioneers, 59393. Formerly Army Service Corps, 062595. Born: Durrow, Queen’s County. Son of Bartley and Jemima Glancy, Ballinlough House, Kells. Father’s occupation: Gamekeeper. Enlisted: Latham Park, Lancashire. Served in France from 26 March 1915. Died, France & Flanders, 17 April 1918. Age: 29. Memorial: XXVII.G.16A; Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery.

Private J. Glancy, Northumberland Fus. (War Memorial, 1914 – 1918, Kells Church of Ireland)

GLYNN, John. Corporal, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 397. Baptised Athboy, 19 July 1892. Son of Robert and Mary Jane Glynn. Father’s occupation: Coachman. Enlistment location: Carlow. Served in France from 1 April 1915. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 22 August 1916. Age: 24. Memorial: 11.A.45; La Neuville British Cemetery.

GOGARTY, Christopher. Guardsman, Guards’ Machine Gun Regiment, 4th Battalion, 1878. Formerly Irish Guards, 6551. Born: Trim. Son of William and Jane Gogarty, Brannoxtown, Trim. Father’s occupation: Shepherd. Residence: Trim. Occupation: Farm Servant. Enlisted: January 1915. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 16 August 1915. Wounded at Loos in September 1915. Hospitalised in England and returned to Front in 1916. Transferred to the Machine Gun Guards in February 1918. Died of wounds, Doullens Casualty Clearing Station, France, 30 March 1918. Age: 26. Memorial: VI.F.8; Doullens Communal Cemetery Extension No. 1.

GOGARTY, Matthew. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 25342. Born: Duleek. Husband of Mrs Annie Gogarty, Corballis, Drogheda, County Meath; later of Streamstown, Co. Westmeath. Residence: Duleek. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 14 October 1918. Memorial: VI.E.37; Dadizeele New British Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

GORMAN, James. Gunner, Royal Marine Artillery, Siege Guns (Dunkerque) RMA/13718. Baptised Duleek, 30 May 1892. Son of James and Agnes Gorman, nee Bird, King’s Gate, Commons, Duleek. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Died 25 September 1918. Age 25. Memorial: II.K.16. Coxyde Military Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

GORMAN, Joseph Patrick. Lance-Corporal, Royal Irish Rifles, 1st Battalion, 8925. Baptised Navan, 28 March 1881. Son of John and Catherine Gorman, nee Caffrey, Brews Hill. Father’s occupation: Cord Wainer and later Shoemaker. Occupation: (1901) Labourer in Flour Mill, (1911) General Labourer. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 1 July 1916. First day of the Battle of the Somme. Memorial: Pier and Face 15 A and 15 B, Thiepval Memorial.

GOUGH, Patrick. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5930. Born: Stamullin. Enlistment location: Mosney. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 23 April 1918. Memorial: P.VI.F.2A; St. Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen.

GRADWELL, George Francis. 2nd Lieutenant, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, Son of George Fitzgerald Gradwell, Platten Hall, Meath and Sarah, eldest daughter of Francis William Leland, Littlegrange, Co. Louth. Residence: Paradise Place, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Born 29 November 1898. Educated: St. George’s College, Weybridge. Killed in action, Sailly-Saillesel, 28 February 1917. Age: 18. Memorial: Pier and Face 16C, Thiepval Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

GRAHAM

 “Private Graham, Navan, of the Leinster Regiment, died in hospital on Tuesday last after a lingering illness.” Meath Chronicle 15 July 1916.

GREY, George Rochfort. Private, Dorset Queen’s Own Yeomanry, 1st/1st, H/73062. Formerly South Irish Horse. Baptised Athboy, 21 September 1891. Son of George and Mary Grey, nee Lyster, Athboy and later of 102, Cabra Park, Phibsborough, Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Died of pneumonia, on active service, Palestine, 11 October 1918. Age: 27. Memorial: B.2, Haifa War Cemetery.

GRIFFIN, James. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 10677. Born: Kells. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 21 March 1918. Memorial: Panel 78, Pozieres Memorial.

GRIFFIN, P, Royal Irish Fusiliers

“Local Soldiers Killed

The following local soldiers are reported to have been recently killed: Pte. P. Reilly, Irish Guards (Navan) and Pte. P. Griffin, Royal Irish Fusiliers (Navan).” Meath Chronicle 21 October 1916.

GRIFFIN, Thomas. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 21423. Born: Killinkere, Co. Cavan. Son of Sam and Annie Griffin, Fennor, Painestown and later of Athboy. Father’s Occupation: Shepherd and Agricultural Labourer. Residence: Wilkinstown, Co. Meath. Enlistment location: Cavan. Killed in action, 4 September 1916. Age: 16. Memorial: Sp. Mem. 27, Flatiron Copse Cemetery, Mametz.

GRIFFITH, George Hartley. Private, Royal Irish Regiment, 5th Battalion, 145. Baptised Trim, 18 February 1876. Son of Francis and Margaret Griffith. Father’s occupation: (1876) Turnkey at Trim Gaol, (1911) Church Sexton. His brother, Henry John, was also killed in the war. Residence: Poolboy Street, Navan. Enlistment location: Clonmel, Co. Tipperary. Died, home, 10 October 1914. Age: 37. Memorial: RC.432; Grangegorman Military Cemetery.

GRIFFITH, Henry John. Lance-Sergeant, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 19898. Born: Bailieboro, Co. Cavan. Son of Francis and Margaret Griffith, Navan. Husband of Annie Griffith, 6 Hudson’s Terrace, Bray, Co. Wicklow. Father’s occupation: (1876) Turnkey at Trim Gaol, (1911) Church Sexton. His brother, George Hartley, was also killed in the war. Enlistment location: Bray, Co. Wicklow. Died of wounds, Proven, France, 7 August 1917. Age: 36. Memorial: IV.A.30; Mendinghem Military Cemetery. Roll of Honour, St. Mary’s Church, Navan.

HAGERTY, James. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 8197. Nobber. Born about 1880. Entered Wilson’s Hospital School, 1891. Husband of Annie Kate Hagerty, Castle Kieran, Carnaross, Kells. Residence: Castle Kiernan, Carnaross. Enlistment location: Dublin. Died of wounds, 14 or 15 September 1916. Age: 37 Memorial: II.D.64; La Neuvelle British Cemetery, Corbie. Drogheda War Memorial.

HALLIGAN, John. Private, Leinster Regiment, “B” Coy. 2nd Battalion, 4734. Born: County Offaly. Son of John and Kate Halligan, Sarsfield Avenue, Church Street, Trim. Residence: Trim. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 4 April 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 8 June 1915. Age: 19. Memorial: B.6A; La Brique Military Cemetery No. 1.

Halligan, J. Private, Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

HALLIGAN, Richard. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 10085. Born: Co. Kilkenny. Residence: Trim. Son of Catherine Halligan, 6 Newtown, Clonbun, Trim. Occupation: Servant. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 8 September 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 October 1914. First battle of the 2nd Battalion, took place 18-20 October 1914 at Armentieres. Age: 19. Memorial: Panel 10, Ploegsteert Memorial.

Halligan, R. Private, Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

HALPIN, Edward. Private, Royal Irish Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5799. Born: Killary. Baptised Lobinstown, 28 April 1891. Husband of Mrs A. Halpin, 24 Ferrant Street, Widnes, Lancashire. Enlisted: 28 December 1916. Enlistment location: Widnes, Lancashire. Age at enlistment: 23 years. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 July 1917. Memorial: I.T.6; Menin Road South Military Cemetery.

HALPIN, John. Private, Royal Irish Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5798. Baptised Lobinstown, 8 April 1889. Son of John and Anne Halpin, nee Lynch, Killary, Lobinstown, Slane. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Enlistment location: Widnes, Lancashire. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 7 June 1917. Age: 27. Memorial: I.E.2; Wytschaete Military Cemetery.

HALPIN, Matthew. Private. Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 25476. Transferred to 30th Labour Group HQ, 421203. Son of Matthew and Mary Halpin, Barristown, Slane. Husband of Hannah Halpin, 105 Butler Street, Belfast. Occupation: (1911) General Labourer. Died of broncho pneumonia, 27 February 1919. Age: 32. Memorial: V.F.41; Longuenesse (St. Omer) Souvenir Cemetery.

HALTON, Mathew. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 1850. Baptised: Kilbride, Dunderry parish, 1 November 1881. Son of Michael and Bridget Halton, nee Bligh, Clonfane, Trim. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 13 February 1915. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 6 August 1916. Age: 34. Buried in Tullaghanoge Graveyard, Trim. Memorial: Panel 4 (Screen Wall), Grangegorman Memorial.

HAMILTON, Andrew. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 24796. Born: Ardcath, about 1889. Son of Nicholas and Catherine Hamilton, Cloghan, Ardcath. Residence: Ardcath. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 1st July 1916. First day of the Battle of the Somme. Memorial: Pier and Face 16 C, Thiepval Memorial.

HAMILTON, Lawrence. Stoker, Royal Naval Reserve, H.M.S. “Black Prince”, 4478S. Baptised Johnstown, 30 April 1877. Son of John and Ellen Hamilton, nee Murray, Dean Hill, Navan. Mother’s occupation: Domestic Servant. Killed in action at Battle of Jutland, 31 May 1916. Age: 30. Memorial: 19, Plymouth Naval Memorial.

HAMMICK, St. Vincent Charles Farrant. Gentleman Cadet. Royal Military College, E Company, Sandhurst. Born: Dublin. Had served in the Motor Transport Section of the Trinity College Dublin Officer Training Corps. Son of Revd. C.H.W. Hammick and Mrs. A.M.C. Hammick, The Rectory, Slane. Father: Charles Horatio Walter Hammick was born in South Africa in 1866, educated at Trinity College and became Assistant Master at Drogheda Grammer School in 1897. Rev. Hammick served as curate in St. Mary’s, Drogheda 1904-6, incumbent of Duleek from 1906 to 1932, to which Slane was added in 1928. In 1911 Rev. Hammick lived at Palace Street, Drogheda. He was incumbent of Trim from 1932 until his death a year later in 1933. St. Vincent Charles Farrant Hammick died at Sandhurst, of measles, 6 March 1917. Age: 21. Memorial: 551, Sandhurst Royal Military Academy Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

HANLEY, Owen. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 11615. Born: Kilmessan. Residence: Rathcoole, Co. Dublin. Enlistment location: Naas. Served in France from 23 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 November 1914. Memorial: Panel 10, Ploegsteert Memorial.

HARLIN, Arthur Joseph. Lance-Corporal, Royal Munster Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 18064. Formerly Royal Irish Fusiliers, 18605. Baptised Navan, 15 April 1891. Son of John and Mary Anne Harlin, nee Gearty, Chapel Street and later of 53 Margate Road, Southsea, England. Residence: Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 30 September 1918.

HAROLD, Thomas Francis. Private, Australian Infantry, A.I.F. 25th Battalion, 1934. Baptised Navan, 12 February 1889. Son of James and Mary Anne Harold, nee Pentleton, Cornmarket, Navan. Father’s occupation: Dealer. Occupation: Fitter. Enlisted 17 June 1915. Enlistment location: Brisbane. Height: 5 foot 5 inches. Eyes: Brown. Hair: Light Brown. Served in Gallipoli from 12 October 1915. Served in France from 19 March 1916. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 29 July 1916. Age: 25. Memorial: Villers-Bretonneux Memorial.

Stephen Hatch

HATCH, Nicholas Stephen. 2nd Lieutenant, Royal Irish Rifles. 13th Battalion. Baptised Duleek, 26 December 1895. Son of Mark and Jemima Hatch, Millhouse, Duleek. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Served in France from 13 February 1916. Killed in action, 1 July 1916. First day of the Battle of the Somme. Age: 20. Memorial: X.A.1; A.I.F. Burial Ground, Flers, Somme. Drogheda War Memorial.

HEALY, Guy Rambaut. Lieutenant, Royal Munster Fusiliers, 4th Battalion, Attached to King’s African Rifles, 3rd Battalion, Son of Archdeacon John and Mary Healy, Kells. Rev. John Healy was incumbent of Kells from 1887 to 1917, archdeacon of Meath from 1914 to 1928, a Prebandry of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin from 1898 to 1935 and Treasurer of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin from 1935 to 1942. Rev. Healy wrote History of the Diocese of Meath which was published in two volumes in 1908.

Guy Rambaut Healy was husband of Mrs. G.R. Healy, Thormanby, Howth, Co. Dublin. Healy served in South African Campaign. Served in British East Africa from June 1915. Killed in action, Lateema Hill, East Africa, while taking part in General Smut’s engagement at Kitovo, 11 March 1916. Age: 33. Memorial: IX.A.1; Taveta Military Cemetery.

North Window: – Kells church – Artist: Heaton, Butler & Bayne, London.

Subject: “A Good Wife” (Proverbs 31:27) and “Armour of God” (Ephesians 6:11)

Date: 1916.

“She looketh well to the ways of her household” “Put on the whole armour of God”

“To the Glory of God & in loving memory of Mary, wife of the Rev. John Healy, Archdeacon of Meath, who died Feb. 28 1913, aged 63 years” “Also of their son, Guy Bambant Healy, Lieut. Royal Munster Fusiliers, who was killed in action. March 11th 1916. Aged 33 years.”

Lieutenant G.R. Healy, Royal Munster Fus. (War Memorial, 1914 – 1918, Kells Church of Ireland)

“Obituary – Lieut. Guy Rambaut Healy, Kells

The news of the death of Lieut. Guy Rambaut Healy, son of the Ven. Archdeacon Healy, LL.D., Kells, while taking part in General Smuts’ recent engagement at Kitvo, has caused much regret in the district. Lieut. Healy, who was about 33 years of age, served with the Yeomanry Service in the South African War. When the war ended he became attached to the African Game Reserve in which he remained till the outbreak of the present war, when he obtained a transfer from the King’s African Rifles, in which regiment he was lieutenant, to the 4th Royal Irish Munster Fusiliers. With the exception of one visit to Ireland, he spent the last twelve years of his life in the colonies. He was killed on the 11th inst., and official intimation of his death was received from the War Office four days later.” Meath Chronicle 18 March 1916.

HEALY, William, Private, Leinster Regiment, 1st Battalion, “D” Coy. 5210. Born: St. Mary’s, Meath. Husband of Annie Healy, Beamore Road, Drogheda. Residence: Drogheda. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, Egypt, 27 December 1917. Age: 32. Memorial: Y.78, Jerusalem War Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

HEARY, Thomas. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 4676. Baptised Navan, 10 June 1895. Son of Patrick and Margaret Heary, nee Quigley, Trimgate Street. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 10 January 1915. Memorial: I.A.12; Rue-des-Berceaux Military Cemetery, Richbourg-L’Avoue.

“Meath and the War – Two Navan Men Killed

Word reached Navan on Tuesday that Joseph Kerrigan, a private in the 1st Leinsters, and Thomas Heary, of Flower Hill, a private in the Irish Guards, had been killed at the front on or about 14th inst. …Private Heary had his head blown off by a shell and his death is deeply mourned in his native town …” Meath Chronicle 23 January 1915.

HEENEY, Samuel. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 23912. Born: Duleek. Son of Patrick Heeney, Duleek. Residence: Duleek. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 9 August 1917. Age: 19. Memorial: I.B.12; Potijze Chateau Grounds Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

HENNESSY, Patrick Andrew. Lance Corporal, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 9959. Baptised Navan 17 January 1898. Son of Patrick and Emily Hennessy, nee Deare, Flowerhill. Father’s occupation: Sergeant, 5th Leinster Regiment. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 31 July 1917. Age: 19. Memorial: Panel 44, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

HENRY, Michael, Sergeant, Army Service Corps, attached “U” Anti-Aircraft Battery., M/38532. Baptised St. Mary’s, Drogheda, 22 September 1885. Son of George and Mary Henry, nee Madden, Painstown, Colpe West, Drogheda. Father’s occupation: Railway Labourer. Husband of late Christine Smyth Henry, Mornington, Drogheda. Enlisted 11 April 1904. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Height: 5 foot 8½ inches. Mobilised Glasgow, 5 August 1914. Died of influenza, France & Flanders, 20 November 1918. Age: 36. Memorial: A.26; Kortijk (St. Jan) Communal Cemetery. Award: Military Service Medal.

HIGGINS, Patrick. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 5th Battalion, 17974. Baptised Kells, 8 January 1888. Son of Peter and Bridget Higgins, nee Rourke, Maudlin Street, Kells. Father’s occupation: Shoemaker. Husband of Marie Higgins, 3, Laurel Hurst, College Road, Cork. Residence: Dublin. Enlistment location: Holyhead, Anglesey. Served in Balkans from 7 August 1915. Killed in action, Gallipoli, 10 August 1915. Age: 25. Memorial: Panel 178 to 180, Helles Memorial.

“Official news reached his relatives last week of the death of Pte. Patrick Higgins, R.I.F. son of Peter Higgins, Maudlin Street, Kells. He volunteered in February 1915 and left Basingstoke Camp with the 10th Irish Division in June of that year for the Dardanelles. He took part in the landing at Suvla Bay and was reported wounded and missing in an engagement at Chocolate Hill on 10th August 1915. Nothing having been heard of his whereabouts the War Office have intimated that he must be taken as killed in action on that date.” Meath Chronicle 4 November 1916.

Edward Hill (Meath Chronicle Centenary Book)

HILL, Edward. Gunner, Royal Garrison Artillery, 27 Siege Battery, 34083. Born: Rathrone, Enfield. Baptised Rathmolyon parish, 15 February 1891. Son of Michael and Elizabeth Hill, nee Wiley, Rathrone, Enfield. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Living: Baconstown, Enfield. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 5 September 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 July 1917. Memorial: XVI.I.9A; Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

Patrick Hill (Meath Chronicle Centenary Book)

HILL, Patrick. Gunner, Royal Garrison Artillery. 13th Siege Battery. 6456. Baptised Rathmolyon, 8 August 1880. Son of Michael and Elizabeth Hill, nee Byrne, Rathrone, Enfield. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from May 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 17 September 1916. Memorial: I.N.3; Albert Communal Cemetery Extension. Award: Military Medal. Drogheda War Memorial.

HILLEN, Hugh. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 24408. Born: Meath. Brother of Mr James Hillen, 71 Marsh Road, Drogheda. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 30 March 1918. Memorial: II.F.4; Adelaide Cemetery, Villers-Bretonneux. Drogheda War Memorial.

HODGINS, Joseph Thomas. Private, 6th Inniskilling Dragoons. 5497. Born: Ardbraccan about 1880. Son of James Barlow and Sarah Hodgins, Faughan Hill Demesne, Martry. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Educated: Wilson’s Hospital Multyfarnham. Occupation: Saddler. Residence: Killeshandra, Co. Cavan. Died 29 October 1914. Memorial: Panel 5, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

HOEY, James. Trimmer, Mercantile Marine, S.S. “Lusitania”, Liverpool. Baptised Duleek, 15 May 1891. Son of John and Rose Hoey, nee Conlon, Garballagh, Duleek. Drowned as a result of an enemy submarine attack, 7 May 1915. Age: 23. Memorial: Tower Hill Memorial.

HOLDEN, Sidney Naldrett. Private, Royal Warwickshire Regiment, 14th Battalion, 693. Baptised Navan, 2 December 1894. Son of Allen George Naldrett and Jane Sophia Holden, Brewshill and later of 46, Park Road, Sparkhill, Birmingham. Father’s occupation: Drum Major. Residence: Sparkhill, Birmingham. Enlistment location: Birmingham. Served in France from 21 November 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 31 August 1916. Age: 21. Memorial: V.A.7; Flatiron Copse Cemetery, Mametz.

HOLMES, Oliver Wendall. 2nd Lieutenant, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 7th Battalion. Baptised Trim, 6 September 1896. Son of Michael and Mary Anne Holmes, Trim. Father’s occupation: Head Constable, RIC. Father later lived at Georgeville, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin. Served in France from 17 December 1915. Died of wounds in German hands, 16 August 1917. Memorial: Panel 70 to 72, Tyne Cot Memorial.

2nd Lieutenant O.W. Holmes, Royal Inniskilling Fus. (War Memorial, 1914 – 1918, Kells Church of Ireland)

“The War Office has sent District Inspector Holmes, Kells, official news that his eldest son, 2nd Lieut. O.W. Holmes who had been missing since the 18th August last, has been “presumed” killed on that date. His only other son, S.B. Holmes, has joined the Indian Army and intelligence of his safe arrival in India has just been received.” Meath Chronicle 13 April 1918.

HOPKINS, James. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8/9th Battalion, 14611. Born: Kells. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 20 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 25 December 1917. Memorial: II.G.21; Unicorn Cemetery, Vend’Huile.

HORAN, William. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 6924. Baptised Oristown, 3 May 1890. Son of William and Mary Horan, nee Clarke, Horan’s Cross, Fyanstown, Kells. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Occupation: Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 17 August 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 2 July 1916. Age: 26. Memorial: Panel 11, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

HUGHES, Bernard. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 4376. Baptised Beauparc, 22 March 1889. Son of Thomas and Mary Hughes, nee Connor, Kentstown and later at Brownstown and Skryne. Father’s occupation: Tailor. Occupation: Tailor. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 13 August 1914. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 29 April 1915. Age: 25. Died a prisoner of war in Germany. Memorial: III. K. 3; Niederzwehren Cemetery.

HUSSEY, Patrick. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 3600. Born: Longwood. Enlistment location: Edenderry. Served in France from 25 October 1914. Killed in action, Loos, France, 10 January 1917. Age: 26. Memorial: Panel 127, Loos Memorial.

IRVINE, William. Lance-Corporal, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 17868. Born: Fermanagh. Son of John and Anne Irvine, Lankill, Culkey PO, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. Father’s occupation: (1898) Coachman, (1911) Caretaker and Herd. Residence: Allenstown, Kells. Occupation: Groom and Domestic Servant. Enlistment location: Enniskillen. Served in France from 5 October 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 29 March 1918. Memorial: Panel 38 to 40, Pozieres Memorial.

IRWIN, Thomas. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 5595. Born: Kells. Son of Thomas and Kate Irwin, Cross Street, Kells. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Husband of Bridget Irwin. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 3 August 1917. Age: 21. Memorial: X.E.19; Artillery Wood Cemetery.

JAMES, W. Private, Wiltshire Regiment. Killed, France, 1915.

“A heavy toll of killed, wounded and missing has resulted from the recent fighting in Flanders. The casualty list contains the following names – Pte W. James, Dowdstown of the Wiltshire Regt. …” Meath Chronicle 27 May 1915.

JAMESON, Edward John, Lieutenant Colonel, Leinster Regiment, 5th Battalion, Attached to Essex Regiment, 4th Battalion. Son of John William and Alice Rose Grace Jameson, Delvin Lodge. Previously served in the 14th Hussars and on retiring prior to the Great War joined the Reserve of Officers. Died of wounds, 27 March 1917. Age: 42. Award: DSO. Memorial: C.83; Deir El Belah War Cemetery, Israel.

Edward J. Jameson Lt. Colonel Leinster Regiment killed in action in Palestine 27th March 1917 (Julianstown Church – Stained Glass Window)

JENKIN, Victor David. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 3rd Battalion, 19879. Born: Glamorganshire. Son of Noah and Mary Ann Jenkin. Occupation: (1911) Footman, Headfort House, Kells. Residence: Wenvoe, Glamorganshire. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in Balkans in 1915. Died, home, 28 October 1918. Age: 32. Memorial: 1.1; Wenvoe (St. Mary) Churchyard Extension.

JENKINS, William. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 18th Battalion, 1139. Born: Ardbraccan. Son of Robert and Marie Jenkins, Ardbraccan, Navan. Father’s occupation: Garden Labourer. Died, home, 19 January 1916. Age: 24. Memorial: Screen Wall, H.534; Belfast City Cemetery.

William Jenkins, aged 25 years, Royal Irish Rifles died Purdysburn Hospital 19 Jan 1916. (Roll of Honour Ardbraccan Church, now in St. Mary’s Church Navan)

JENNINGS – Private Fred Jennings, Royal Irish Regiment. War Memorial, 1914 – 1918, Kells Church of Ireland and Roll of Honour, St. Mary’s Church, Navan. His connection to Meath is unclear as there are no records of an F. Jennings. Suggested person is Fred Jennings, Lance Corporal, Royal Irish Rifles, 1st Battalion, 1345. Son of Jane Jennings of Ruston, Wykeham, York. Died 1 July 1916. Age: 19. Memorial: Pier and Face 15AS and 15B Thiepval Memorial. Memorial

KANE, Patrick. (alias Francis Keane) Private, Leinster Regiment, 6th Battalion, 114. Secondary Regiment: Labour Corps, 119546. Died of wounds, Co. Meath Infirmary, Navan, 3 March 1919. Memorial: Athlumney Old Graveyard.

KEALY, William. Private, Connaught Rangers, 1st Battalion, 10933. Born: 6 November 1890, Trim. Residence: Navan. Brother, James, Trimgate Street, Navan. Sister, Mary J. Enlisted 2 May 1914. Enlistment location: Dublin. Age at enlistment: 23 years. Occupation: Tram Conductor. Height: 5 foot 5½ inches. Complexion: Fresh. Eyes: Grey. Hair: Black. Served in France from 7 October 1914. Killed in action at Mauser Ridge, north of Ypres, when the Connaught Rangers were involved in a huge counter attack during the 2nd Battle of Ypres. Most of the Rangers who died in this battle were gassed to death. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 26 April 1915. His sister Mary J. Kealy wrote a number of times to seek information from the military authorities as she had got “no news from him for a very long time and was most anxious about him. (October 1915)” Not married. Memorial: Panel 42, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

KEANE, Francis see KANE, Patrick

KEAPPOCK, John Alfred. Royal Navy, H.M.S. “Shark”, Engine Room Artificer 4th Class. M/4997. Son of Joseph and Catherine Keappock, Claremount, Navan. Father’s occupation: Merchant. Drowned off Jutland following a battle in the North Sea, 31 May 1916. Age: 26. Memorial: 15, Portsmouth Naval Memorial.

“Navan Bluejacket Missing

On Monday last Mr. Joseph Keappock U.D.C. Navan, received notification that his second eldest son, John, who was a second hand artificer on board the “Shark,” was missing. Since then the list of survivors from this vessel has been published, but his name does not appear in it. Although official notification of his death has not been received it is feared that his chances of having been saved are remote. When about 23 he joined H.M.S. “Harrier” on which he remained about six months and was then transferred to the “Shark” on which he spent the last two years.” Meath Chronicle 10 June 1916.

“Navan Man Lost in North Sea Fight

Last week Mr. John Keappock, employed as engineer on the H.M.S. Shark, sunk in the North Sea battle, was reported as missing. We regret to say that the worst fears of his friends have been realised. His father, Mr. Joseph Keappock, U.D.C., has received a communication from the Admirality intimating their belief that the gallant young fellow had been numbered among the victims of what has been described as the greatest sea fight in the world’s history. Mr. Keappock was considered exceptionally clever at his work and had every prospect of a distinguished career in the navy. Of a manly and chivalrous character, he was a prime favourite amongst his comrades. The fact that he was engaged to be married adds a pathetic feature to the sadness of his untimely death which is mourned by many friends.” Meath Chronicle 17 June 1916.

KEELAN, Joseph. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 11545. Born: Meath Hill. Baptised Drumconrath, 24 December 1892. Son of Christopher and Anne Keelan, nee Carolan, Ballyhoe. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Residence: Ballyhoe, Co. Meath. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 28 March 1918. Memorial: Bay 1, Arras Memorial.

KELLETT, Thomas. Corporal, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 7th Battalion, 17446. Baptised Kilskyre/Ballinlough, 19 November 1897. Son of Thomas and Anne Kellett, nee Gilsenan, Seymourstown. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Enlistment location: Cavan. Served in France from 23 March 1915. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 22 August 1916. Age: 18. Memorial: Sp. Mem. 21, Bois-Carre Military Cemetery, Haisnes.

KELLY, Joseph. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 6625. Born: Navan. Residence: Wilkinstown. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 18 October 1914. Memorial: IX.A.92; Cite Bonjean Military Cemetery, Armentieres.

KENEALLY, Charles. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 1130. Baptised Julianstown, 20 August 1875. Son of Mathew and Maria Keneally, Laytown. Father’s occupation: Coastguard. Enlistment location: Glasgow. Served in France from 23 November 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 30 December 1914. Memorial: I.D.15; Le Touret Military Cemetery, Richebourg-L’Avoue. Drogheda War Memorial.

KENNEDY, Peter. Private, Leinster Regiment. 7985. Skryne. Died of wounds.

“Meathmen Killed and Wounded

News has reached Skryne that Peter Kennedy, of the Leinsters, has been killed in action in France. He was instructor to the Skryne Volunteers before the war broke out. He was an able instructor, and his sad death is deeply felt by the members of the Skryne Corps. … ” Meath Chronicle 5 December 1914.

KENNEDY, Thomas. Sergeant, Leinster Regiment, 6th Battalion, 271. Born: Oristown. Uncle of Maryanne Kennedy, Teltown View, Navan. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in Balkans from 5 August 1915. Killed in action, Gallipoli, 11 August 1915. Memorial: Sp. Mem. B. 81, Embarkation Pier Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

“Deep regret has been occasioned in Oristown district by the news that Sergt. Thomas Kennedy, drill instructor to the local Volunteer corps, has been killed at the Dardanelles. The deceased, who belonged to the Royal Garrison Artillery, was brother to Mr. Richard Kennedy, waterworks overseer, Kells, with whom many friends sympathise.” Meath Chronicle 11 September 1915.

“Volunteer Drill Instructor Killed.

During the week Capt. Collins of Gibbstown Castle, received news that Sergt. Thomas Kennedy of Donaghpatrick, had been killed in action at Suvla Bay. The deceased, who was brother to Mr. Richard Kennedy, waterworks overseer, Kells, with whom many friends sympathise enlisted in the Royal Garrison Artillery and was on his way to the South African War when peace was proclaimed. On leaving the army as a reservist, Sergt. Kennedy returned home, and when the Volunteer movement was started he was appointed drill instructor to the Oristown and Kilbarry corps, a post for which his military training well fitted him, and in which he earned the confidence and esteem of the members of the corps, who have heard with deep regret of his sad fate. On the outbreak of war he re-joined his old regiment, but was transferred to the 5th Leinsters with whom he went to the front. Soon after landing he was slightly wounded and recovering rapidly, went back to the firing line, being killed about August 14th.Meath Chronicle 18 September 1915.

KENNY, William. Dublin Fusiliers, O’Growney Terrace, Navan.

 “Meathmen Killed and Wounded

… Mr. Gilliatt of Archall and Private Wm. Kenny, O’Growney Terrace, Navan of the Dublin Fusiliers, are also reported to have been killed. …” Meath Chronicle 28 November 1914.

KENNY, Thomas. Stoker, Royal Naval Reserve, H.M.S. “Hampshire”, 7200S. Baptised Slane, 24 August 1875. Son of Peter and Cecilia Kenny, nee Walsh, Slane and later of Hinchey’s Lane, Drogheda. Occupation: (1901) Agricultural Labourer, (1911) Labourer, Chemical Works. Husband of Mary Anne Kenny, nee Munster, Plattin Road, Drogheda. Killed in mine explosion off Orkneys, 5 June 1916. Age: 41. Memorial: 23, Portsmouth Naval Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

KERRIGAN, Joseph. Lance Corporal, Leinster Regiment, 1st Battalion, 9297. Baptised Navan, 12 September 1889. Son of Joseph and Kate Kerrigan, nee McCluskey, Railway Street, Navan. Mother’s occupation: Midwifery Nurse. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France from 19 December 1914. Killed in action on Wednesday, 13th January 1915, St Eloi, Flanders. Age 25. Memorial: Panel 44, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

“Meath and the War – Two Navan Men Killed

Word reached Navan on Tuesday that Joseph Kerrigan, a private in the 1st Leinsters, and Thomas Heary, of Flower Hill, a private in the Irish Guards, had been killed at the front on or about 14th inst. Private Kerrigan, who served some time in India before the war, was a well-known and popular member of the Navan Harps, and was one of their best players. His brother, Thomas, who is serving in the same regiment was present at the interment. The sad news was learned with deep regret in Navan where heartfelt sympathy with his widowed mother, who recently received a letter from the King complimenting her on having five sons in the army. On the day the sad news was received some friends of the deceased posted scapulars for him. Pte. Kerrigan, it was stated, was shot through the head. …” Meath Chronicle 23 January 1915.

KIERAN, James. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 4899. Born: Castletown. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 31 March 1916. Memorial: II.B.53; Bailleul Communal Cemetery Extension (Nord).

KIERNAN, Patrick. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 18379. Born: Oldcastle. Enlistment location: Coatsbridge. Served in France from 27 May 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 8 August 1915. Memorial: III.A.2; Sucerie Military Cemetery, Colincamps.

KIERNAN, James Leo. Private, South Wales Borders, 5th Battalion, 41565. Baptised Oldcastle, 11 April 1899. Son of Peter and Margaret Kiernan, nee Walsh, Oldcastle and later of 33 Chacery Street, Wigan. Residence: Wigan. Enlistment location: Ashton-Under-Lyne. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 7 June 1918. Age: 19. Memorial: VI.F.4; Marfaux British Cemetery.

KILLEEN, Michael. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 20230. Born: Longwood. Son of John and Mary Killeen, Longwood. Husband of Jane Killeen, 33, Constitution Hill, Dublin. Occupation: Coal Labourer. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 14 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 October 1916. Age: 39. Memorial: Pier and Face 16 C, Thiepval Memorial.

KING, Lawrence. Seaman, Royal Naval Reserve, H.M.S. “Bulwark.” 5810A. Born: Mornington. Baptised St. Mary’s, Drogheda, 18 January 1891. Son of John and Margaret King, nee Garvey, Mornington, Drogheda. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Joined the Navy at the outbreak of the war and was lost on the explosion of the H.M.S. “Bulwark”. Killed 26 November 1914. Memorial: 6, Portsmouth Naval Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

KINEALLY, James. Pte, Australian Army. (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

LANCASTER, Charles Edward Archibald. Corporal, Royal Canadian Dragoons, 114340. Born: Co. Meath, 30 June 1893. Son of Dr. William Cooke and Jane Brabazon Moore Lancaster, nee Lugton, Arranmore, Hill of Down, Co. Meath. Brother, Thomas, also killed in the war. Father’s occupation: Doctor. Educated Morgan’s School, Dublin, 1904-1910. Occupation: Farmer. Enlisted 28 December 1914. Enlistment location: North Bomford, Canada. Height: 5 foot 8 inches. Complexion: Dark. Eyes: Brown. Hair: Dark Brown. Killed in action, 30 March 1918. Age: 25. Memorial: Vimy Memorial.

LANCASTER, Thomas Arthur Victor. Lance Corporal, Royal Montreal Regiment, Machine Gun Corps. 14th Battalion, 919962. Born: Co. Westmeath, 5 May 1897. Son of Dr. William Cooke and Jane Brabazon Moore Lancaster, nee Lugton, Arranmore, Hill of Down, Co. Meath. Brother, Charles, also killed in the war. Father’s occupation: Doctor. Educated Morgan’s School, Dublin. Residence; Isaleigh, Grange, Danville, Canada. Occupation: Farm Labourer. Enlisted 18 September 1916. Enlistment location: Montreal, Canada. Complexion: Fair. Eyes: Brown. Hair: Dark Brown. Killed in action, 2 September 1918. Age: 21. Memorial: I.F.9; Dominion Cemetery, Hendecourt-Les-Cagnicourt.

LANE, Charles Willington Tremayne. Major, 7th Dragoon Guards (Princess Royal’s). Born: Bellary, Madras, India, 15 September 1888. Son of Col. Samuel Willington Lane, Rathkenny. Educated: Royal Military College, Sandhurst. Gazetted 2nd Lieutenant 7th Dragoon Guards, January 1908. Died of wounds, 4 April 1918. Age: 29. Memorial: I.G.8; Namps-Au-Val British Cemetery. Awards: Military Cross.

LANE, James. Served as Clarke. Sergeant, Royal Irish Regiment, 7th Battalion, 2066. Born: Slane. Son of John and Mary Lane. Husband of Mrs. E. Lane, Mooretown, Slane. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 19 September 1918. Age: 32. Award: Military Medal. Memorial: Panels 51 to 52, Tyne Cot Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

LANGAN, Eugene. Gunner, Royal Field Artillery, “C” Bty. 283rd Bde. 101180. Born: 7 March 1896, Co. Kildare. Son of John and Mary Langan, nee Redmond, Weston, Duleek. Father’s occupation: Coachman. Brother, James, also killed in war. Educated: Maynooth National School. Enlisted: 6 October 1915. Enlistment location: Athlone. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 20 September 1916. Age: 20. Not married. Memorial: II.C.39; Bronfay Farm Military Cemetery, Bray-sur-Somme.

LANGAN, James. Corporal, Royal Berkshire Regiment, 5th Battalion, 10386. Born: Enfield, 12 November 1889. Eldest son of John and Mary Langan, nee Redmond, Weston, Duleek. Father’s occupation: Coachman. Brother, Eugene, also killed in war. Educated: Maynooth National School. Served his apprenticeship in the racing stables. Residence: Duleek. Enlisted on the outbreak of war 17 August 1914. Enlistment location: Reading. Served in France from March 1915. Wounded he was killed by a shell, while assisting the doctor to bandage a wounded comrade, both of whom were killed by the same shell. His comrades erected a cross with his name. Killed in action, Loos, France, 13 October 1915. Age: 26. Not married. Memorial: Panel 93 to 95, Loos Memorial.

LAUGHRAN, C. R.F.A. (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

LEDDY, Patrick. Served as Dolan. Private, South Lancashire Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 7826. Baptised Kells, 15 August 1881. Son of Patrick and Mary Leddy, nee Byrne, Pitcher Lane, Kells. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. His brother, Peter, killed in action. His brother, Michael, was wounded and rendered unfit for service. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 14 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 24 October 1914. Age: 30. Memorial: Panel 23, Le Touret Memorial.

LEDDY, Peter. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 3207. Baptised Kells, 17 June 1877. Son of Patrick and Mary Leddy, nee Byrne, Pitcher Lane, Kells. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. His brother, Patrick, killed in action. His brother, Michael, was wounded and rendered unfit for service. Enlistment location: Mosney. Served in France from 2 April 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 April 1916. Memorial: II.C.9; Ration Farm (La Plus Douve) Annexe.

“Kells Soldier Killed at the Front.

We regret to learn that intimation has been received that Private Peter Leddy, Fair Green, Kells of the Leinster Regiment, has been killed in action in France. The deceased who was a respectable young man re-joined the army at the outbreak of the war as a reservist, and with the exception of one or two brief periods of leave, had been at the front since. He has a brother at the front, while his younger brother, Michael Leddy, was wounded in the arm and rendered unfit for service. With poor Leddy’s aged mother and family warm sympathy is felt.” Meath Chronicle 13 May 1916.

Francis Ledwidge

LEDWIDGE, Francis Edward. Lance-Corporal, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 16138. Born: 19 August 1887. Son of Patrick and Anne Ledwidge, nee Lynch, Slane. Enlistment location: Navan. A prolific poet noted for his pastoral pieces about Meath; his last poems made subtle reference to war. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 31 July 1917. Age: 29. Memorial: II.B.5; Artillery Wood Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

 “Meath Poet-Soldier Among the Servians (sic)

Mr. Francis Ledwidge, the gifted Meath poet, who joined the Inniskilling Fusiliers, and who has been on active service for the past year, and at present home on leave, speaking to our representative, remarked: “The Servians impressed me very much. I consider Servia, poetically like Ireland – a poor old woman wandering the roads of the world.” In the course of further conversation he stated that they found strips of cloth in some of the Servian houses bearing in faded letters the word “welcome”. Those cloths had been hung across the streets. “While in the Dardanelles” he said, with a smile, “we were not short of cigarettes. The Turks exchanged cigarettes with us for beef and biscuits. If I give you any more information I’ll have nothing left for the book I am going to write about my experiences out here.” Meath Chronicle 13 May 1916.

“Death of Slane Poet

Francis E. Ledwidge Killed at the Front

It is with regret we record the death of Francis Ledwidge, the peasant poet of Meath, who was killed in Flanders on the 31st July. His passing removes one whom Lord Dunsany in a graceful tribute to his memory says:” Ireland would have lawfully claimed, as she may yet, the greatest of peasant singers.” He was born in 1892 in Slane, where he lived the greater part of his brief life and about which he wrote the majority of his poems. He was a poet of nature. The blackbirds and arboured lanes of his native village formed themes for poems which astonished many who read them by their “freshess and their beauty.” His description of the blackbird, written at the age of sixteen would certainly pass for the work of a more mature and cultured mind than one could hope for in an Irish peasant boy.:

And wonderous impudently sweet

Half of him passion, half conceit,

The blackbird calls down the street

Like a piper of Hamlin.

“Roses will bloom in lanes in Meath,” says Lord Dunsany, “for thousands of years to come and blackbirds will charm other hearts, and the Boyne still sweep to the sea, and others may love these things as much as Ledwidge loved them but they were all so much pictured upon his heart and he sang so gladly of them, that something is lost which those fields would have given up and may never give again.”

During all his time he was at the Front he wrote, and always of his native place. No matter where he found himself, whether in France or Egypt, Flanders or Gallipoli, his poetic dreams were ever guided home to his beloved Meath. His last volume, “Songs of Peace” contains most of these poems, but many remain yet in manuscript. In one of his last songs, written in Belgium, dated July 1917, he seemed to foreshadow his approaching doom.

On this edge of life I seem to hover,

For I knew my love had come at last;

That my joy was past and gladness over.

May he rest in peace.” Meath Chronicle 11 August 1917.

LEGGE-BOURKE, Nigel Walter Henry. Lieutenant, Coldstream Guards, 2nd Battalion, Born: Grosvenor Square, London, 13 November 1889. Son of Colonel the Hon. Sir Harry Legge, K.C.V.O. of Hayes, Navan, and the Hon. Lady Amy Gwendoline, Maid to Queen Victoria 1877-84, daughter of Gustavus William Lambart of Beauparc. Educated Evelyns, Mr. G.T. Worsley’s, Eton and the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. Gazetted 2nd Lieutenant, Coldstream Guards, 6 February 1900 and promoted Lieutenant 6 June 1910. Served with the Expeditionary Force France from 12 August 1914. Married to Lady Victoria Carrington, youngest daughter of the first Marquess of Lincolnshire, K.G. 3 June 1913 at the Guards Chapel, Wellington Barracks. Son, Edward Alexander Henry, born 16 May 1914. Killed in action, near Ypres, 30 October 1914, while in command of a platoon of No. 1 Coy. holding advanced trenches in Rental Wood. Age: 24. Memorial: Panel 11, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

“Sportsmen Killed in the War

That the Meath Hunt is suffering its own share as a result of the war is further exemplified by the sad news that several of its prominent followers have been killed while in action. Among the list of the dead published recently are Capt. F. Browning, R.F.A, Dundalk, Capt Ford, Hon. W.R. Wyndham, 17th Lancers; Lieutenant Matheson, K.R.F. Tara Hall; F.H.B. Blaithwayt, 2nd Life Guards; Lieut. Ballayxe, 11th Hussars; Lionel H. Partry, 5th Dragoon Guards; and Lieut. Legge Burke, Coldstream Guards, Hayes, Beauparc, nephew and successor to the late Hon. Harry Burke.

The deceased officers, some used to stay at the Club, Navan were ardent and popular followers of the Meaths, and are deeply regretted by all who knew them.”

Meath Chronicle 21 November 1914.

LEITCH, Neil, Corporal, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, 8th Battalion, 301439. Son of Alexander and Margaret Leitch, 45 Union Street, Lochgilphead, Argyllshire. In 1911 recorded as Agricultural Instructor, aged 30, living with James and Mary Clark at Robinrath, Navan. Enlistment location: Rothesay, Butes. Killed in action, 7 September 1917. Age: 29. Memorial II.B.7; Gwalia Cemetery. Roll of Honour, St. Mary’s Church, Navan.

LEONARD, John. Private. Royal Dublin Fusiliers. 8th Battalion, 23930. Baptised Donore, 17 August 1888. Son of Patrick and Jane Leonard, nee Reilly, Donore. Residence: Donore. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Enlisted: 9 October 1915. Age at enlistment: 28 years. Occupation: Labourer. Height: 5 foot 4 inches. Complexion: Fresh. Hair: Fair. Eyes: Grey. Served in France from 29 March 1916. Gassed 29 April 1916. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 22 May 1916. Age: 27. Memorial: I.J.8; Chocques Military Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

LEONARD, Michael Joseph. Rifleman. Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers 1st Battalion, 9838. Baptised Navan, 21 October 1889. Son of Christopher and Julia Leonard, nee Caffrey, Graigs, Navan and later of 22 Hendrick Street, Dublin. Father’s occupation (1911): Wagon fitter. Raised in Trim and became a shoe-maker and mender. Residence: Dublin. Died of phthisis, 1 May 1915. Age: 25. Buried in Trimulgherry Cantonment Cemetery. Memorial: Face 14, Madras 1914-1918 War Memorial, Chennai.

Patrick Leonard

LEONARD, Patrick. Lance-Corporal, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry), 52511. Formerly 5th Lancers, 4840. Born: Shoeburyness, Essex. Son of James and Mary Leonard, Dunboyne. Father’s occupation: Rural Postman. Occupation: Rural Auxiliary Postman. Husband of Margaret Leonard, Bennetstown, Dunboyne. Children: Patrick and James. Residence: Dunboyne. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action: France & Flanders, 24 October 1918. Age: 30. Memorial: C.17; Ingoyghem Military Cemetery.

Letter from Commanding Officer:

“28/10/18

Dear Mrs. Leonard,

I am writing to try to express the sympathy of myself and section to you in your great trouble. Perhaps you may find some consolation in the fact that your husband was killed instantly and suffered no pain.

I have been his section officer for some time and can truthfully say that we have lost one of our best men in the Company. He was always cheery and willing and a great example to his comrades.

I am

Yours sincerely

L. Exshaw 2/Lt”

“3.12.18

                                                                                    No. 5 Hut MGC

No. 17 Company

“B” Camp

Alnwick

Northumberland

My dear Mrs Leonard,

I cannot find words to express as I would wish the sorrow I feel for you in your irreparable loss by the death of poor Paddy. Accept my most heartfelt sympathy. Just when his hopes were brightened he was called away from you and all who loved him. Never had I a pal “out yonder” like poor Paddy and to my dying day I can never forget him and all he was to me in those awful days of trial and fighting.

Do not grieve Mrs. Leonard for although Paddy is not with us on earth yet I firmly believe we shall all be reunited in the next world. What a glorious death! No man could die better. I can almost see poor Paddy’s manly handsome and cheerful face again as if it had only been yesterday. He was one of the most fearless men I have ever met and was always the cheeriest and braves in our section” out there”.

I feel as if I had lost a brother. We were kindred souls and were never separated when once we met until fate sent me across to Blighty. Oh how I wished that Paddy had come with me, but it was not to be. God’s will must always prevail.

Now I think I have said enough, so once again I tender my heartfelt sympathy to you and to the kiddies. I loved Paddy almost as a brother and I would love to be of some little aid to those he loved. Let me know if there is any little thing I might do to help you bear your burden.

In deep sorrow,

I remain

Most sincerely yours

Ernest A. Hewardine

P.S. If it is not too much to ask you Mrs Leonard could you send me a photo of Paddy. He promised me one but I never got it. Does not matter if it’s only a snap I shall get it enlarged and treasure it ever. Write to c/o 49 Moyne Road, Rathmines, Dublin as I may be leaving here soon. E.A.H. “

(Letters and photograph courtesy of Councillor Noel Leonard, Patrick Leonard’s nephew)

LONERGAN, Daniel. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 11603. Baptised St. Mary’s Drogheda, 2 February 1890. Son of Edmund and Annie Lonergan, nee Keegan, Old Hill, Drogheda and later of Cullindragh, Culmullin. Father’s occupation: (1901) Ex-Sergeant RIC, (1911) Farmer. Brother, John Francis, also killed in the war. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 August 1918 Age: 28. Memorial Reference: Panel 3, Vis-en-Artois Memorial.

LONERGAN, John Francis. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 10682. Born: Co. Louth. Son of Edmund and Annie Lonergan, nee Keegan, Old Hill, Drogheda and later of Cullindragh, Culmullin. Father’s occupation: (1901) Ex-Sergeant RIC, (1911) Farmer. Brother, Daniel, also killed in the war. Enlistment location: Grays, Essex. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 2 August 1917. Age: 22. Memorial: II.I.1; Dozinghem Military Cemetery.

LOWNDES, Thomas. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 9714. Baptised Oldcastle, 30 May 1891. Son of George and Rose Lowdnes, nee Lynch, Milltown. Father’s occupation: Shoemaker. Occupation: General Labourer. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 24 September 1916. Age: 28. Memorial: II.C.57; Dartmoor Cemetery, Becordel-Becourt.

LOWRY, Joseph Ewart. Temporary Lieutenant, Royal Irish Regiment, 2nd Battalion, Baptised Ardbraccan, 19 May 1898. Son of Albert John and Emma Olivia Lowry, Oatlands, Durhamstown and later of Bachelors Lodge, Navan. Father’s occupation: Gentleman Farmer. Killed in action, 25 August 1918. Age: 20. Memorial: II.I.18; Adanac Military Cemetery, Miraumont.

Joseph Edward Lowry aged 20 years. 2nd Lieut Royal Irish Regiment killed in action at Bapaume 25 August 1918. (Roll of Honour Ardbraccan Church now in St. Mary’s Church, Navan)

LYNAGH, Patrick. Stoker, Royal Naval Reserve, H.M.S. “Vanguard”, 5831S. Baptised Slane, 18 April 1886. Son of John and Elizabeth Lynagh, nee Dunegan, Harlenstown, Slane. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Occupation: Farmer’s son. Served at the Battle of Jutland. Killed by internal explosion of vessel at Scapa Flow, 9 July 1917. Age: 30. Memorial: 28, Portsmouth Naval Memorial.

LYNCH, Charles Joseph. Corporal, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 6707. Baptised Slane, 23 December 1880. Son of James and Bridget Lynch, nee Duff, Fennor House, Slane. Residence: Slane. Enlisted: 25 August 1899. Enlistment location: Curragh Camps. Occupation: Electrician. Age at enlistment: 18 years. Served in the 4th Dublin Fusiliers Militia. Height: 5 foot 8 inches. Complexion: Sallow. Eyes: Grey. Hair: Dark Brown. Served in South Africa campaign. Served in France from 13 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 November 1914. Age: 33. Memorial: Panel 10, Ploegsteert Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

LYNCH, John. Private. Irish Guards, 1st Batt, No. 1 Coy. 3304. Born: Kilmessan. Son of Philip and Kate Lynch, Main Street, Clonmellon, Co. Westmeath. Served in France from 13 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 6 November 1914. Age: 24. Memorial: Panel 11, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

LYNCH, Patrick. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 4458. Born: Mitchelstown. Baptised Athboy, 23 February 1893. Son of Mark and Elizabeth Lynch, nee Ward, Mitchelstown, Athboy. Occupation: Groom, Domestic Servant. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 13 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 6 November 1914. Age: 22. Memorial: Panel 11, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

LYNCH, Patrick. Pioneer, Royal Engineers, WR/341152. Baptised Carnaross, 28 September 1868. Son of Peter and Mary Lynch, nee Farrelly, Carnaross. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Husband of Rose Lynch, 59 Lower Dominick Street, Dublin. Four children in 1911 census. Occupation: Carter’s Labourer. Died: 6 May 1918. Age: 48. Memorial: 25.”RC”.51; Newport (St. Woolos) Cemetery.

LYONS, Christopher. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, “C” Coy. 7th Battalion, attached 1st Battalion, 15999. Baptised Bohermeen, 5 April 1896. Son of John and Anne Lyons, nee Donaghy, Ardbraccan, Navan. Father’s occupation: Tailor. Occupation: (1911) Tailor’s Apprentice. Died, France & Flanders, 2 March 1919. Age: 22. Memorial: B.19, Kortrijk (St. Jan.) Communal Cemetery.

LYSTER- John Lyster – R.N. (First World War Memorial, St. Kieran’s Church Loughcrew.)

McCABE, Andrew. Private, Leinster Regiment, 6th Battalion, 4397. Baptised Kells, 18 May 1882. Son of Andrew and Rose McCabe, nee Madden, Church View, Kells. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Occupation: (1901) Labourer, (1911) Jarvey. Married about 1905. Husband of Mary Anne McCabe, Church Lane, Kells and later 19 St. Patrick’s Terrace, Navan. Father to Mary Rose. Residence: Navan. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France. Died of wounds, Salonica, 11 May 1917. Age: 33. Memorial: IX.C.8; Struma Military Cemetery, Kalocastron, Greece.


I am currently researching my family tree and have used the  meath genealogy website and found it very useful, however I would like to bring to your attention that having heard about your book about the Meath war dead I noticed you have Andrew McCabe in it but what I would like to point out is that Andrew who died11/05/1917 was not the only McCabe son to die in1917 in the great war.We are fairly sure that James McCabe  number 11342, 1st Bn.,Royal Dublin Fusiliers Died 28/02/1917 is Andrews brotherand is remembered on the Thiepval Memorial Pier and Face 16.C. The reason you missed him is that he is listed on the memorials of the dead as being from Kingstown. He had at least 3 sisters living in Kingstown and may have been visiting one of them when he signed up.

My husbands granny was Katie Mccabe from Kells and lived in Kingstown/Dunlaoghaire.James’ age is not recorded but she always said one of her brothers was only about 15 when he died in the war. There was another casualty in that family as the eldest son Luke also served and was injured and spent the last years of his life in Leopardstown Military hospital known locally as the shellshock home.

hope this is useful

Kind regards

Phil Begley

McCANN, Cornelius. Private, Connaught Rangers, 2nd Battalion, 8202. Born: Nobber. Residence: Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 14 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 12 November 1914. Memorial: Panel 42, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

McCANN, Joseph. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 5th Battalion, 18211. Baptised St. Mary’s, Drogheda 10 February 1894. Son of James and Bridget McCann, nee Berrill, West Colpe, Drogheda. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, Gallipoli, 16 August 1915. Age: 21. Memorial: Panel 178 to 180, Helles Memorial.

McCANN, Joseph. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 8956. Born: Wilkinstown. Baptised Oristown, 25 October 1891. Son of James and Ellen McCann, nee Wilson, Demailstown, Wilkinstown. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 15 September 1916. Age: 25. Memorial: XXXIII.A.4; Serre Road Cemetery No. 2.

McCLOREY, Owen. Private, Royal Irish Regiment, 7th Battalion, 18172. Formerly Leinster Regiment, 5195. Born: Co. Down. Son of John and Anne McClorey, Dunshaughlin and later of Towns Park, Athboy. Father’s occupation: Baker. Occupation: Groom. Residence: Athboy. Enlistment location: Mullingar. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 21 March 1918. Memorial: VI.B.5; Villers-Bretonneaux Military Cemetery.

McCONNON, James. Gunner, Royal Field Artillery, 76th Battery. 65553. Baptised Slane, 3 October 1889. Son of Terence and Mary Anne McConnon, nee Timmins, Slane. Father’s occupation: Shoemaker. Occupation: Labourer, Copper Miner. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died, Mesopotamia, 3 September 1916. Age: 26. Memorial: XXI.E.26; Baghdad (North Gate) War Cemetery, Iraq. Drogheda War Memorial.

McCONNON, Matthew J. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 5162. Born: Drogheda, Co. Meath. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 4 February 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 16 March 1915. Memorial: I.D.14; Guards Cemetery, Windy Corner, Cuinchy. Drogheda War Memorial.

McCONNON, William. Private, Lancashire Fusiliers, 2nd/5th Battalion, 303020. Formerly Liverpool Regiment, 35720. Born: Slane, 17 November 1897. Son of Bernard and Margaret McConnon, nee Caffrey, Coalpits, Slane. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Enlistment location: Liverpool. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 31 July 1917. Memorial: Panel 33, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

McCORMACK, Henry Michael. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 23221. Born: Co. Kildare. Husband of Margaret McCormack, nee Woods, 2 Boyne Cottages, Trim. Occupation: Boot and Shoemaker. Residence: Trim. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 21 July 1916. Age: 41. Memorial: Newtown Cemetery, Trim.

23221 Private Henry McCormack, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 21 July 1916 age 41. (Newtown cemetery, Trim)

McCormack, H. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

McCORMICK, John Hugh Gardiner. Captain, Royal Warwickshire Regiment, 4th Battalion, attached 2nd Battalion. Born: Co. Dublin. Son of Samuel and Emily McCormick, Shandon, Monkstown, Co. Dublin. Father’s occupation: Justice of the Peace, Annuities and Dividends. Occupation: Army Special Reserve and Farmer. Died, France & Flanders, 19 October 1914. Age: 28. Memorial: Panel 8, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

In 1912 John McCormick of Monkstown, Dublin purchased Williamstown House, Kells and 127 acres. In August 1914 John enlisted and three weeks later was reported missing, and following interviewing a number of soldiers the family eventually accepted that he was dead. Six months later his brother, Jim, was also killed in the war. Their sister, Rose, made her home at Williamstown house and lived there until her death in 1972.

Brass Lectern: Kells church – Formerly in Moynalty Church, and moved to Kells Church in 1992. “Sine Timore” “To the Glory of God and in loving memory of John Hugh Gardiner McCormick of Williamstown, Co. Meath. Captain, Royal Warwick Regt. He was mortally wounded in action. Oct. 19th. 1914, and died the same night at a Convent Hospital in German hands at Menin. Aged 28 years.” “Fear God and keep his Commandments”.

Captain J.H.G. McCormick, Royal Warwickshire Regt. (War Memorial, 1914 – 1918, Kells Church of Ireland)

McCORMACK, Thomas. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 8125. Baptised Kells, 10 October 1889. Son of John and Rose McCormack, nee Cregan, Market Street, Kells. Father’s occupation: Shopkeeper. Occupation: Shop Assistant. Residence: Kells. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 30 November 1917. Age: 27. Memorial: Panel 2 and 3, Cambrai Memorial, Louveral.

“Four Sons in the Army – Kells Lady Complimented.

Mrs. McCormack, Market St. Kells has received the following letter:-

Headquarters, Irish Command, Parkgate st. Dublin. 17th November 1915.

Madam – It has been brought to the notice of the General Officer commanding-in-chief the forces in Ireland that you have now four sons serving in the army, all of whom have given up good positions in civil life in order to serve their country. I am directed, therefore, by the Commander-in-Chief to congratulate you upon the loyalty and self-sacrifice of your sons, to wish you happiness in the future, and a safe return of each one of your family. It is the earnest hope of the Commander of the Forces that the fine example set by your sons will be followed by those in the district who have not yet realised their duty to their country. I am, Madam, your obedient Servant, Cecil Stafford, Aide-de-Camp.” Meath Chronicle 27 November 1915.

“Death of Kells Man in France

It is with feelings of regret we chronicle the death of Pte. Thomas McCormack of the Irish Guards, son of Mrs. McCormack, Market Street, Kells, which occurred as a result of the recent activity on the Western Front. Deceased who had been engaged as a commercial traveller, joined up at an early stage of the war and having been trained at the Guards Depot in Caterham, saw many months of active service. He was gassed early in the spring of the present year and had only been in France a very short time after his recovery when he met his untimely end. He was educated at the Christian Brothers Schools, Kells and received his commercial training in a well-known Kells establishment. The sad news of his death has evoked widespread regret and sympathy with his mother and relatives in Kells district where he was deservedly popular. R.I.P.” Meath Chronicle 22 December 1917.

McDERMOTT, Matthew. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 2895. Born: Kells. Living: Broxburn, Herts. Enlistment location: Broxburn. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 3 September 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 16 C, Thiepval Memorial.

McDONALD, Alexander. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 25115. Born: Co. Dublin. Son of Donald and Elizabeth Mac Donald, Laytown Station. Father’s occupation: Railway Station Master. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 16 August 1917. Age: 18. Memorial: Panel 144 to 145, Tyne Cot Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

McDONNELL, James. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 7435. Baptised Kells, 28 August 1887. Son of James and Maggie McDonnell, nee Latimer, Cannon Street, Kells. Father’s occupation: Car Owner. Married Rose Anne McCabe, at Kells, 15 November 1911. Residence: Church Lane, Kells. Enlistment location: Navan. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 5 April 1915. Age: 26. Memorial: J.62; Bailleul Communal War Cemetery, (Nord).

“Kells Soldier Seriously Wounded

The chaplain (Rev. Fr. Bailey) at a casualty clearing station at the front has written a sympathetic letter to Mrs. McDonald, Church Lane, Kells, informing her that her husband, Private James McDonald, of the 2nd Leinsters, has been very seriously wounded by a shell, losing part of his right leg and sustaining severe injuries to the shoulder and arm. The injured soldier, who as a reservist, went out to the war in August, still lies in the field hospital, being apparently too ill to be removed to the hospital at the base.” Meath Chronicle 10 April 1915

“Kells Soldier Killed in Action

Much sympathy will be felt with his widow and mother on the death of Private James McDonnell, of the 2nd Leinsters, who has died from wounds received in action during Holy Week. The widow of the deceased, Mrs. Rose A. McDonnell, Church Avenue, Kells has received the following letter –

Easter Day

‘Dear Madam, – Your husband is in the Clearing Station, wounded. I am afraid they are rather bad wounds and he has had to lose part of his right leg, but I am glad to say he is going on well, and he is a cheerful patient. We hope he may shortly be sent down to a base hospital, so do not write until you hear again. He wished me to write and tell you this. Yours truly,

C.H. Bailey, chaplain

No. 2 Casualty Clearing Station.” Meath Chronicle 17 April 1915.

John McDonnell (Courtesy of Ms. Lucita Shorter)

McDONNELL, John. Lieutenant-Colonel, Leinster Regiment, 5th Battalion, Secondary Regiment: Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. Attached to 1st Battalion, Killed in action, Ypres, France & Flanders, 29 September 1918. Age: 40. Memorial: II.D. 32; Ypres Reservoir Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

Son of Dr. Robert and Susan McDonnell, nee McCausland, Kilsharvan and 89 Merrion Square, Dublin. Born Dublin, 2 November 1878. Educated King’s College Cambridge (BA). Succeeded his uncle, James, to the Kilsharvan estate in 1904. In 1911 living at Kilsharvan. Married 30 July 1914 to Eva Margaret Senta, daughter of Robert D’Arcy Jameson, Esq., Delvin Lodge, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin. Their son, Robert Edward McDonnell, was killed in World War II. Letters from Lt. Col. John McDonnell to his wife while serving in France are now available in the National Library, Dublin. The letters mainly relate to family affairs and his health with some descriptions of conditions near Ypres. Some memorabilia belonging to John McDonnell is on display at Millmount, Drogheda.

McDONNELL, Patrick. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 4239. Baptised Navan, 20 February 1895. Son of John and Elizabeth McDonnell, nee Foster, Watergate Street, later Infirmary Hill, later Old Cornmarket, Navan. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 August 1916. Age: 20. Memorial: III.A.26; Peronne Road Cemetery, Maricourt.

McDONNELL, Patrick. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 23642. Born: Donore. Occupation: Farm Labourer. Residence: Oldbridge. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 9 September 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 16C, Thiepval Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

McENROE, Herbert Joseph. Assistant Steward, Mercantile Marine, S.S. “Pinegrove”, Glasgow. Baptised Kells, 10 February 1899. Son of John and Catherine McEnroe, nee O’Reilly, Kells and later of Leinster Street, Dublin; Vernon Street, Dublin and Sloperton Lodge, Kingstown, Co. Dublin. Father’s occupation: (1901) Shopman, Tea Merchant, (1911) Commercial Traveller. Killed by mine, 11 December 1915. Age: 16. Memorial: Tower Hill Memorial.

McENROE, James. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 5518. Baptised Ballinlough, 12 April 1891. Son of Matthew and Mary McEnroe, nee Duffy, Ballinlough, Kells. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Husband of Mary McEnroe, nee Nolan, Dominick Street, Mullingar. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Residence: Multyfarnham. Enlistment location: Mullingar. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 7 June 1917. Age: 23. Memorial: II, AA. 8; La Laiterie Military Cemetery.

McEVOY, Patrick. Lance-Corporal, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 6397. Baptised St. Mary’s, Drogheda, 10 November 1889. Son of Thomas and Kate McEvoy, nee Rath, Donacarney, Drogheda. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Brother, Thomas, also killed in the war. Occupation: Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 17 August 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 16 October 1915. Age: 26. Memorial: Panel 9 and 10, Loos Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

McEVOY, Richard. Private, Irish Guards, Reserve Battalion, “B” Coy, 3rd Battalion, 9396. Baptised Lobinstown, 6 July 1879. Son of Owen and Catherine McEvoy, nee Lynch, Rathbranbeg. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Husband of A. McEvoy. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Accidentally killed while bomb-throwing in England. Died, home, 8 January 1916. Age: 36. Memorial: L.41; Great Warley (Christ Church) Cemetery.

McEVOY, Thomas, Lance-Sergeant, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 3930. Baptised St. Mary’s, Drogheda, 25 September 1891. Son of Thomas and Kate McEvoy, nee Rath, Donacarney, Drogheda. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Brother, Patrick, also killed in the war. Occupation: Labourer. Married December 1915. Husband of Mary Ellen McEvoy, Woodside, Bettystown, Drogheda. Served in France from 13 August 1914. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 3 December 1917. Age: 26. Award: Military Medal. Memorial: III.E.8; Tincourt New British Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

McGRANE, Peter. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 6th Battalion, 22058. Formerly Leinster Regiment, 1869. Baptised Stamullin, 18 May 1895. Son of Denis and Margaret McGrane, nee Russell, Smithstown. Father’s occupation: Shepherd. Brother, William, killed 1918. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Residence: Julianstown. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in Balkans from 7 August 1915. Killed in action, Balkans, 3 October 1916. Memorial: III.B.13; Struma Military Cemetery, Greece. Drogheda War Memorial.

“Mrs. McGrane, Julianstown, whose son, Peter, has been killed in action, has received the following letter from the lieutenant of the platoon in which this brave young soldier served:- “Dear Madam – I am very sorry to have to inform you that your son, No 22028 Pte. P. McGrane, of A Coy, of the 6th Royal Dublin Fusiliers, has been killed in action on the 3rd of this month. He was acting as my orderly at the time, and showed the utmost coolness and bravery under fire, and in fact, was all that you and his country could have wished. It occurred during a strong Bulgar counter attack on a position which we had captured previously. Your son with several others, including myself, were hastening to reinforce the line, when he was killed. I sincerely hope it may alleviate your trouble in some small degree to learn that he died instantaneously and without pain, being shot through the heart. In all probability further particulars will be supplied to you later. Please accept my real sympathy for your loss. I remain his platoon officer, C. Byron, Lieut., attached 6th R.D.F., Salonica Forces.” Drogheda Independent, 28 November 1916.

McGRANE, William. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 10752. Baptised Stamullin, 26 July 1891. Son of Denis and Margaret McGrane, nee Russell, Smithstown. Father’s occupation: Shepherd. Brother, Peter, killed 1916. Residence: Julianstown. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 19 December 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 19 April 1918. Age: 27. Memorial: Panel 140 to 141, Tyne Cot Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

McGRATH, Richard. Private, Leinster Regiment, 1st Battalion, 9525. Born: Slane, 30 May 1893. Son of Thomas and Bridget McGrath, nee Sheridan, Slane and later of Irishtown, Mountmellick, Co. Laois. Enlistment location: Maryborough. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 19 April 1915. Age: 22. Memorial: I.G.6; Ypres Town Cemetery Extension.

McGUINNESS, Michael. Private, Cameron Highlanders, 5th Battalion, S/22787. Born: Meath. Residence: Wanishaw, Lanarkshire. Enlistment location: Hamilton, Lanarkshire. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 September 1917. Memorial: XLIV.A.28; Tyne Cot Cemetery.

McGUIRE, Joseph. Private, Royal Irish Regiment, 7th Battalion, 11664. Formerly Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 25647. Baptised Oldcastle, 4 November 1896. Son of Elizabeth McGuire, Church Street, Bailieborough, Co. Cavan. Enlistment location: Naas. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 15 October 1918. Age: 21. Memorial: IV.B.9; La Kreule Military Cemetery, Hazlebrouk.

McGUIRE, William. Private, King’s Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment), 6th Battalion, 20962. Son of Joseph McGuire, Trim. Husband of Sarah Eleanor McGuire, nee Chadwick, 4, Havelock Road, Windermere, Cumbria. William McGuire married Sarah Eleanor Chadwick 21 October 1908 in Tickley, Leicestershire. Their daughter, Eleanor Jean, was born 11 February 1910 in Adelaide, South Australia. Their second daughter, Mary Isabel Madigan Maguire, was born 22 March 1912. Residence: Wharton House, Cartwel, Grange-over-Sands, Lancashire. Age at enlistment: 38 years. Occupation: Painter, grainer and decorator. Died of acute gastritis due to field operation, 17 July 1916, Bombay, India. Age: 39. His wife later applied to have the cost of the journey from Australia to England in 1915 refunded by the military but this was refused as McGuire had not joined up within two months of returning from Australia. Memorial: Face B, Kirkee 1914-1918 Memorial.

McGUIRES, S. Private, Leinster Regiment, 5th Battalion, 5017. Born: Athboy. Son of Mr. J. McGuires, Ballyboy, Athboy. Died, home, 17 May 1916. Memorial: E.13.50; Naas (St. Corban’s) Catholic Cemetery.

McINERNEY, Gunner.

“The death in action is announced of Gunner McInerney, R.F.A., a son of the late Bernard McInerney, stationmaster at Navan G.N.R. and a native of Fordstown, Kells.” Meath Chronicle 30 June 1917.

Possibly – Charles W. McInerney, Bombardier Royal Field Artillery, “C” Bty. 298th Bde. 711792. Born: Dublin. Killed in action, France, 9 May 1917. Memorial: VI.L.14; Vlamertinghe Military Cemetery.

McKENNA, Denis. Private, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 27693. Born: Meath. Brother of Mrs Mary McKenna, 15 North Richmond St, Dublin. Enlistment location: Glasgow. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 30 November 1917. Memorial: Panel 5 and 6, Cambrai Memorial, Louveral.

McKEON, James. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 8472. Born: Stamullin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 13 September 1917. Memorial: VIII.E.8; Artillery Wood Cemetery.

McKEON, John. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 5/5036. Baptised Duleek, 22 February 1880. Son of Matthew and Anne McKeon, nee Byrne, Downstown, Duleek. Father’s occupation: Farm Labourer. Living: Duleek. Occupation: Shepherd. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 17 April 1916. Age: 28. Memorial: II.K.30; Vermelles British Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

McKEOWN, Henry. Sergeant, Australian Infantry, A.I.F., 4th Battalion, 1151. Formerly served in Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion for 9 years. Baptised St. Mary’s, Drogheda, 2 May 1874. Son of Henry and Margaret McKeown, nee Johnston. Occupation: Marine Fireman. Height: 5 foot 6 inches. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Brown. Enlisted 28 September 1914. Killed in action, Gallipoli, between 6 and 8 August 1915. Age: 39. Memorial III.B.32; Lone Pine Cemetery, Anzac.

McLARNEY, John. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 4981. Baptised Oldcastle, 30 January 1896. Son of James and Anne McElarney, nee Corr, Moate, Ballinacree, Oldcastle. Residence: Oldcastle. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 October 1916. Age: 20. Memorial: VII.C.2; La Laiterie Military Cemetery.

McLOUGHLIN, James. Lance-Corporal, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 20413. Born: Oristown. Son of John and Margaret McLoughlin, Ardbraccan and later Tankardstown, Donaghpatrick, Navan. Father’s occupation: Farm Labourer. Residence: Navan. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 24 June 1917. Age: 19. Memorial: Bay 9, Arras Memorial.

McLOUGHLIN, Thomas. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 9165. Born: Dunboyne. Residence: Dunboyne. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 30 January 1915. Memorial: I.A.33; Porte-de-Paris Cemetery, Cambrai.

McMAHON, Joseph. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 9993. Born: Kells. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 8 September 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 October 1914. First battle of the 2nd Battalion, took place 18-20 October 1914 at Armentieres. Memorial: III.J.21; White House Cemetery, St. Jean-les-Ypres.

“Meathmen Killed and Wounded

Joseph McMahon, Kells of the Connaught Rangers, is reported to have been killed at the war.” Meath Chronicle 28 November 1914.

“A Fighting Kells Family

James McMahon of Kells, who was a few weeks ago hit by a shell at one of the great river battles of France, returned home on Saturday night, looking little the worse of his wounds. He belongs to the Connaught Rangers, and was with that famous fighting regiment in India for a few years before the outbreak of the war. He has endured many hardships at the front, but is such a seasoned soldier that he took them as a matter of course. He saw many German youths of 16 to 18 years of age in the trenches and describes their condition as pitiable. McMahon’s brother, Joseph, who joined the Leinsters before the war, and who volunteered for the front, was shot dead at the Battle of Mons. A younger brother, Paddy, who is in the Leinsters, left Ireland with a company for the war last week. There are not many families in Meath who can point to such a record in connection with the war as the McMahons. Matty McMahon, uncle of the soldiers, was himself a soldier, and went through the South African War with the Connaughts. He was a very useful footballer in his time, and played with the Gladstone Home Rulers, and subsequently with the Kells Campaigners, among whom he was regarded as a very good forward.” Meath Chronicle 26 December 1914.

McMANUS, James. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5216. Baptised Trim, 15 September 1898. Son of Patrick and Ellen McManus, nee Cosgrave, Dalystown, Castlerickard. Father’s occupation: Farmer and Agricultural Labourer. His brother, Patrick, also served with the Leinsters and was wounded by a bullet through the knee. Surviving the war he died in 1978. Their cousin, William Smyth, Donore, Ballivor, was also killed in the war. Enlistment location: Mullingar. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 4 June 1918. Age: 19. Memorial: I.F.24; Ebblinghem Military Cemetery. Award: Military Medal.

McManus, James Cpl DCM Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

McPARTLAND, John. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 20013. Born: Kells. Brother, Matthew, killed 1915. Residence: Kells. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 20 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 April 1916. Memorial: Panel 127 to 129, Loos Memorial.

“Killed in action

News has reached Kells that on April 27th John McPartland of the Dublin Fusiliers was killed while serving with his regiment in France. Some time previously his brother, Matthew, who belonged to the Irish Guards, also fell fighting in France. They were the sons of Mrs. Pat Keenan, Newmarket Street, with whom sympathy will be felt in her heavy affliction” Meath Chronicle 27 May 1916.

McPARTLAND, Matthew. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 7985. Born: Lurgan, Co. Cavan. Brother, John, killed 1916. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 6 October 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 18 October 1915. Memorial: I.H.8; Vermelles British Cemetery.

“Killed in action

News has reached Kells that on April 27th John McPartland of the Dublin Fusiliers was killed while serving with his regiment in France. Some time previously his brother, Matthew, who belonged to the Irish Guards, also fell fighting in France. They were the sons of Mrs. Pat Keenan, Newmarket Street, with whom sympathy will be felt in her heavy affliction” Meath Chronicle 27 May 1916.

McPHILLIPS, Joseph. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 7th Battalion, 3930. Born: Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan. Son of Hugh and Catherine McPhillips, Fennor Lower, Oldcastle. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Occupation: Labourer. Residence: Oldcastle. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 9 September 1916. Age: 29. Memorial: Pier and Face 4D and 5B, Thiepval Memorial.

McWHIRTER, Robert P. Private, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, 10th Battalion, S/9419. Born: Kells. Son of Mary McWhirter. Occupation: Farmer. Residence: Lossett, Moybologue. Residence: New Galloway, Kilcudbrights. Enlistment location: Dumfries, Dumfriesshire. Served in France from 14 October 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 19 July 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 15 A and 16 C, Thiepval Memorial.

MADDEN, Patrick Joseph. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 10th Battalion, 26425. Born: Branganstown. Son of Nicholas and Rose Madden, Branganstown, Kilmessan. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Residence: Branganstown. Occupation: Farmer’s son. Enlistment location: Greenock. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 22 February 1917. Age: 23. Memorial: I.D.5; Mont Huon Military Cemetery, Le Treport.

MAGAN, Frederick. Private, 8th King’s Royal Irish Hussars or No. 2 Cavalry Depot. 24306. Son of William and Mary Jane Magan, Kingsfort, Moynalty, later of Allenstown, Martry and later of Main Street, Celbridge, Co. Kildare. Father’s occupation: (1901) Coachman, (1911) Stud Groom. Residence: Celbridge. Enlistment location: Dublin. Died from illness contracted on active service, home, 27 February 1915. Age: 21. Memorial: New Ground, 51, Donacomper Cemetery, Celbridge.

MAGUIRE, Andrew. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 5172. Baptised Trim, 9 July 1889. Son of James and Elizabeth Maguire, nee Pepper, Church Street, Trim. Father’s occupation: Dealer. Occupation: General Labourer. Residence: Navan. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 16 October 1917. Age: 28. Memorial: Arras Memorial.

Maguire, A. Private, Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

“A Trim soldier named Maguire has had a narrow escape from death in the trenches, a bullet taking his belt pouch away.” Meath Chronicle 5 June 1915

MAGUIRE, George Joseph. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5687. Reservist. Baptised Kells, 13 January 1881. Son of Bernard and Mary Maguire, nee Gerety, New Rath, Loyd, Kells. Father’s occupation: Farm Labourer. His brothers, Edward and Bernard, also enlisted. Edward was wounded at Salonica in 1916 and Bernard was wounded in France in 1916. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in the South African War, 1899-1902. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 30 October 1915. Age: 33. Memorial: IV.C.6; Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery.

“George and Edward Maguire of Loyd, Kells, of the Leinster Regiment, who were home on leave, returned to the war on Monday, the former to France and the latter to the Dardanelles.” Meath Chronicle 16 October 1915.

“Kells Soldier Killed in France

During the week official intimation came of the death from wounds of Private George Maguire of the Leinster regiment, who was home recently for a few days. He went back last Monday fortnight and soon afterwards was seriously wounded in the chest on going into action. He lingered for a few days, during which the Regimental Chaplain, Abbe L’Berghen, was constantly in attendance and was at his bedside in his dying moments. The deceased, who has two brothers in the army – one of whom, Edward, has been wounded in the Dardanelles – was son of Mr. Bernard and Mrs Maguire, Loyd, and with them and the members of the family great sorrow sincere sympathy is felt.

Abbe L’Berghen in a letter dated October 31st to poor Maguire’s father wrote:- “I gave him Absolution and Extreme Unction on Thursday. He was a little better on Friday but yesterday he had more and more trouble to breathe. I gave him a Crucifix in order to help him and he kissed it. I spoke to him till yesterday at 8 o’clock in the evening but he was very sleepy. Soon after, without any suffering, he passed away and received from God the reward which is reserved to those who do their duty even unto death. I will bury him this afternoon in the little cemetery which is near our hospital, and a cross with his name will be put on his grave. I beg you to accept my deep sympathy in your great misfortune. You will find in his belongings which are sent to you the Crucifix which was kissed before his death.” Meath Chronicle 6 November 1915.

MAGUIRE, Patrick. Private, Leinster Regiment, 6th Battalion, 468. Born: Kells. Carnaross. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in Balkans from 5 August 1915. Killed in action, Gallipoli, 9 August 1915. Memorial: Sp. Mem. C. 9; Embarkation Pier Cemetery.

MAHON, Hugh. Private, The Border Regiment, 1st Battalion, 28717. Formerly Royal Army Service Corps, T/4/086256. Born: Oldcastle. Mother: Mary Mahon, Oldcastle. Husband of Nora Mahon, 321, East 65th Street, New York City, U.S.A. Residence: Oldcastle. Enlistment location: Dundalk. Served in the Balkans. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 31 July 1917. Age: 37. Memorial: Panel 35, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

MAHON, Matthew J. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 12151. Baptised Ballivor, 14 November 1888. Son of John and Mary Mahon, nee Duffy, Coolronan, Ballivor. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Occupation: Farmer’s son. Husband of Kate Mahon, 11, Lower Abbey Street, Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 March 1918. Age: 30. Memorial: Bay 1, Arras Memorial.

MALONE, Patrick. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 2nd Battalion, 7254. Born: Dunboyne. Son of Thomas and Mary Malone, 7 Sullivan Street, Infirmary Road, Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 15 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 26 October 1914. Age: 30. Memorial: Panel 42 and 43, Le Touret Memorial.

MALONE, William. Sergeant, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 7522. Born: Dublin. Husband of Rose Malone, Brannixtown, Trim. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 20 September 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 24 May 1915. Age: 34. Memorial: Panel 44 and 46 Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

MANNING, Frank. Leinster. Crossakeel, killed (Horneck)

Hello Noel,

We have recently gone live with the first part of our website www.meathfieldnames.com

This will be improved in the coming months.  All going well an interactive mapping section will be added in.  This will open on a map of Meath, a person will be able to zoom in on a townland, click on individual fields and the details from the database will pop up.  We are working on all of this at present.

If possible we would appreciate if you could set up a link to our site from the Meath Heritage Centre site.  We also plan to link to your site when we set up our links page.

Some months back I mentioned to you a Grand Uncle of mine that I think falls into the category of ‘Meath War Dead’.  Below are the details I have gathered on him and his family for your information.

Charlie (Charles) Markey

Born at Market Square Navan, son of Patrick Markey (Bank Manager)

Was age 8 for 1901 Census, born 1892

Died 23/1/1920 aged 27 (Place of death 8, Terenure Park, Terenure, Dublin)

Grave at Glasnevin, Dublin 0D44 – Charles Aloysius Markey

Sub Lieutenant Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve – Hood Battalion

My cousin tells me he had been gased but may also have had TB at the time of his death.

My cousin also mentioned Gallipoli and the Hood Battalion.

Although he died after the War I think he is classified as ‘War Dead’.

See www.findagrave.com (photo of headstone) and www.wfadublin.webs.com

He also had 3 brothers and a sister who also fought in WWI / WWII (as far as I can establish)

Patrick C. Markey (my grandfather)

Not shown in 1901 Census in Navan – not sure why (mention of a school in Bath, UK). Survived WWI and returned to Ireland, initially practised as a solicitor at N. Ireland and later had his own practice, PC Markey in Drogheda and lived at Claristown Hse, Julianstown.

Reggie (Reginald) Markey

Shown on 1901 Census in Navan aged 2. As far as I can establish he was killed in WWII on the HMT Lascastria in 1940 when it sank. I think he is commemorated on a Dunkirk memorial.

Kathleen Markey

Was 12 at the time of the 1901 census. Had some role in WWI. Returned and was married, became Mrs. Kathleen Fitzgerald (nickname Bootles). Lived in Booterstown Ave, Dublin.

Edward Markey

Not shown on 1901 census in Navan? I am told he survived WWII (Royal Flying Corps) and went to live in the UK.

My cousin who has the most information on this is Johnny Markey, Claristown House, Julianstown, Co. Meath , e-mail: john.markey@davy.ie

His brother Bernard Markey who is in the Irish Army currently based at McKee Barracks also knows quote a bit about all of this.

Also – I will be finishing up my work on the Meath Field Names Project shortly and will be looking for other work in the rural development / local heritage sector.  If you hear of anything that might be suitable I would appreciate if you could let me know.

Thanks and Regards

Joan Mullen

MARKEY, John. Private, Australian Trench Mortar Battery, 3rd Bde, 2214. Baptised Kilbeg 10 August 1882. Son of Thomas and Kate Markey, nee Kelry, Togherstown and later of Ipswich Road, Brisbane, Queensland. Brother, Thomas, also killed in the war. Height: 5 foot 8 inches. Eyes: Grey. Hair: Auburn. Occupation: Freezer. Enlisted: 28 July 1915. Enlistment location: Brisbane. Served in France from 3 April 1916. Died of sickness, Frances & Flanders, 6 June 1916. Memorial: II.T.7; Estaires Communal Cemetery and Extension.

MARKEY, Thomas. Private, Australian Infantry, A.I.F., 25th Battalion, 1713. Baptised Kilbeg 20 January 1882. Son of Thomas and Kate Markey, nee Kelry,  Togherstown and later of Ipswich Road, Brisbane, Queensland. Brother, John, also killed in the war. Height: 5 foot 8 inches. Eyes: Grey. Hair: Brown. Occupation: Carpenter. Enlisted 1 June 1915. Enlistment location: Brisbane. Served in Gallipoli from 12 October 1915. Served in France from 14 March 1916. Wounded in action 29 July 1916. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 14 November 1916. Memorial: III.A.13; Wallencourt British Cemetery.

MARLOW, Charles Dwyer. 2nd Lieutenant, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, formerly Private, 3644, 28th London Regiment and Artists’ Rifles, 8th Battalion. Born 14 October 1894. Son of Arthur and Amelia Frances Marlow, nee Griffith, Oldcastle and later Clonlyne, Penrhyn Bay, Llandudno, Carnarvonshire. Father’s occupation: National School Teacher. Mother’s occupation: National School Teacher. Educated at Blue Coat School, King’s Hospital, 1909-1913. Served in France from 11 August 1915. Commissioned 18 September 1916. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 17 August 1917. Age: 22. Memorial: Panel 144 to 145, Tyne Cot Memorial.

Tablet in St. Bride C of I church, Oldcastle

“Memorial to Charles Dwyer Marlow, Oldcastle 2nd Lieutenant 8th Royal Dublin Fusiliers, previously of the Artists Rifles. Killed in action at Frezenberg 17th August 1917 aged 22 years.”

MARSHALL-BARNES, Alfred Hubert. Private, 62nd Canadian Field Ambulance, Royal Army Medical Corps. 33207. Born: Sandgate. Son of the late Lt.-Col. Lionel Marshall, Lancashire Fusiliers. Husband of Hester F. Marshall-Barnes, Westland, Moynalty. Killed in action, Somme, 2 September 1916. Age: 34. Memorial: O.31; Carnoy Military Cemetery.

MASTERSON, Michael. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 2201. Baptised Navan, 11 August 1884. Son of Christopher and Elizabeth Masterson, nee McGovern, Barrack Lane, Navan. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Husband of Mary Ann Masterson, 36 St Finian’s Terrace, Navan. Two children: Frederick and Lizzie. Occupation: Labourer. Worked for Navan Urban District Council. Enlistment location: Mosney. Served in France from 26 October 1914. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 12 May 1915. Memorial: I.C.19; Erquingham-Lys Churchyard Extension Cemetery.

“Navan Soldier killed in the War

Mrs. Masterson, Navan, received word on Monday of the death of her husband, Michael Masterson, 2nd Leinsters, on the 12th inst. A brother of the deceased is in the same regiment and writing to Mrs. Masterson about her husband’s death, says he died in Paris after being wounded and had the priest before he died and was conscious to the last. Deceased was a well-known Navan man and his death has occasioned much sorrow all over the town.” Meath Chronicle 22 May 1915

MASTERSON, Michael. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 5597. Born: Kells. Son of Mrs. Mary Masterson, Oakley Park, Kells. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France from 25 May 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 October 1915. Age: 19. Memorial: I.H.2; Vermelles British Cemetery.

MASTERSON, Patrick. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 3704. Born: Navan. Son of Christopher Masterson. Husband of Mary Masterson nee Brady, Trimgate Street, Navan. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 17 August 1917. Age: 37. Memorial: Panel 143, Tyne Cot Memorial.

MASTERSON, Patrick. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 1st Garrison Battalion, G/694. Formerly Leinster Regiment, 3941. Born: Navan. Husband of Mary Masterson, Circular Road, Navan, Co. Meath. Served in the South African War. Died at sea, on H.S. “Delia,” 7 August 1916. Award: Long service and good conduct medal. Memorial: Hollybrook Memorial, Southampton.

MATHIESON, Kenneth Ronald. Lieutenant, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion. Son of Kenneth and Margaret Mathieson, Tara Hall and 50, Prince’s Gate, South Kensington, London. Rejoined regiment on the outbreak of war. Served in France from 11 September 1914. Killed in action, near Ypres, 1 November 1914. Age: 28. Memorial: Panel 11, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

“Sportsmen Killed in the War

That the Meath Hunt is suffering its own share as a result of the war is further exemplified by the sad news that several of its prominent followers have been killed while in action. Among the list of the dead published recently are Capt. F. Browning, R.F.A, Dundalk, Capt Ford, Hon. W.R. Wyndham, 17th Lancers; Lieutenant Matheson, K.R.F. Tara Hall; F.H.B. Blaithwayt, 2nd Life Guards; Lieut. Ballayxe, 11th Hussars; Lionel H. Partry, 5th Dragoon Guards; and Lieut. Legge Burke, Coldstream Guards, Hayes, Beauparc, nephew and successor to the late Hon. Harry Burke.

The deceased officers, some used to stay at the Club, Navan were ardent and popular followers of the Meaths, and are deeply regretted by all who knew them.”

Meath Chronicle 21 November 1914.

MATTHEWS, John. See Cahill, John.

MATTOCK, Robert Clement. Corporal, Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment, 20th Battalion, 404889. Native of Taunton. Son of Robert Southwood and Elizabeth Mattock, Legar House, Hill of Down. Brother, Thomas, also killed in the war. Father’s occupation: Estate Steward. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 15 September 1916. Age: 28. Memorial: III.Q.24; Pozieres British Cemetery.

MATTOCK, Thomas Southwood. Corporal, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 19016. Born Somerset. Son of Robert Southwood and Elizabeth Mattock, Legar House, Hill of Down. Brother, Robert, also killed in the war. Father’s occupation: Estate Steward. Occupation: Game Keeper. Residence: Clonard. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 9 September 1916. Age: 24. Memorial: Pier and Face 4D and 5B, Thiepval Memorial.

MEEHAN, Patrick. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 18688. Baptised Castletown-Kilpatrick 26 January 1883. Son of Michael and Marie Meehan, nee Kevitt, Drakestown Wilkinstown, Navan. Father’s occupation: Groom/Domestic Servant. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Enlistment location: Armagh. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 11 April 1917. Age: 34. Memorial: VII.C.33; Terlincthun British Cemetery, Wimille.

MEEHAN, Peter. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 2841. Born: Kilbride, Dunboyne. Residence: Belgree. Member of the Irish National Volunteers. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 21 September 1914. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 17 November 1914.

MEGAN, Lawrence. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 10th Battalion, 26835. Born: Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow. Son of Thomas Megan. Husband of Mrs. Kate Megan, Wilkinstown, Navan. Residence: Navan. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 13 November 1916. Age: 35. Memorial: VII.B.5; Ancre British Cemetery, Beaumont-Hamel.

METGE, Rudolph Cole. Captain, Leinster Regiment, 5th Battalion. Born: Dublin. Baptised Bective, 12 April 1881. Son of Robert Henry Metge. Father’s occupation: Landowner and Member of Parliament for Meath, 1880–1882. Residence: Kilcarn. Occupation: (1901) Officer in the Leinsters, (1911) Land Agent. Married Toy Clementine Graham-Tole of Nenagh in 1916. Died 4 October 1919. Age: 33. Memorial: St. Mary’s Church of Ireland Churchyard, Bective. Roll of Honour, St. Mary’s Church, Navan.

MILLAR, John, Private, Cameron Highlanders, 6th Battalion, S/23837. Son of Thomas W. and Elizabeth Millar, Market Place, Langholm, Dumfriesshire. In 1901 Thomas, Elizabeth, John and family were living at Abbeylands, Navan. All were born in Scotland. Brother, William, also killed in the war. Father’s occupation: Tweed Designer Wool. Occupation: Pattern Weaver Wool. Died 28 March 1918. Age: 26. Memorial: Bay 9, Arras Memorial. Roll of Honour, St Mary’s Church, Navan.

MILLAR, William, Sergeant, Black Watch, Royal Highlanders, 10th Battalion, S/3863. Husband of Helen Millar, 11 Merry Street, Motherwell, Lanarkshire. Son of Thomas and Elizabeth Millar. In 1901 Thomas, Elizabeth, William and family were living at Abbeylands, Navan. All were born in Scotland. Brother, John, also killed in the war. Father’s occupation: Tweed Designer Wool. Occupation: Pattern Weaver Wool. Died 8 May 1917. Age: 24. Memorial: I.D.4; Doiran Military Cemetery. Roll of Honour, St Mary’s Church, Navan.

MILLS, Robert Sydney. Lieutenant, Canadian Army Service Corps, Training Depot. Born Kingstown, Co. Dublin, 17 April 1874. Son of James and Elizabeth Mills, Co. Meath. Occupation: Publishing Business. Husband of Nora Mills, 59 Yorkville Avenue, Toronto, Ontario. Enlisted: 24 March 1915. Enlistment location: Quebec. Height: 5 foot 8½ inches. Complexion: Fair. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Fair. Served in the Ashanti Rebellion of 1900. Died 25 March 1916. Age: 42. Memorial: M.16; Shorncliffe Military Cemetery.

MINCH, John. Gunner, Royal Garrison Artillery, 1st/1st Lancashire Heavy Battery. 309029. Born: Oristown. Son of James and Rose Minch, Oristown and later 18A, Demense Street, Seacombe, Wallasey, Cheshire. Enlistment location: Liverpool. Died, France & Flanders, 22 June 1918. Age: Memorial: V.C.10; Pernes British Cemetery.

MITCHELL, Christopher. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 24693. Baptised Curraha, 19 June 1898. Son of John and Rose Mitchell, nee Clarke, Coolfore. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Residence: Curragha. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 6 September 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 16 C, Thiepval Memorial.

MITCHELL, John. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 24985. Born: Curraha. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 6 September 1916. Memorial: XXIV.C.4; Delville Wood Cemetery, Longueval.

MOLLOY, Thomas. Gunner, Royal Garrison Artillery, B27th Trench Mortar Bty. 572. Born: Kells. Son of Cornelius and Ellen Molloy, 53, Frederick Avenue, East Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and 3 Seafield, Bathgate. Residence: Bathgate, Linlithgow. Enlisted: 20 August 1914. Enlistment location: West Hartlepool. Age at enlistment: 33 years. Height 6 foot ½ inch. Eyes: Brown. Hair: Black. Occupation: Navy. Had previously served with the Irish Guards. Served in France from 16 January 1916. Died of wounds, No 10 Casualty Clearing Station, France, 5 March 1916. Age: 36. His personal effects including an identity disc, a gospel, a rosary, 2 religious emblems and a bag were returned to his father. Memorial: V.B.5; Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery.

MONAGHAN, Lawrence. Rough Rider, Royal Army Service Corps, 2nd Remount Depot, Woolwich, RTS/3228. Son of John Monaghan. Occupation: Groom. Enlisted: 8 October 1914. Enlistment location: Dublin. Age at enlistment: 30 years. Height: 5 foot 3½ inches. Eyes: Grey. Hair: Brown. In July 1918 a horse fell on him while schooling it and he was then hospitalised at Exeter War Hospital until his death on 23 February 1919. Age: 39. Memorial: Old Kilcarn Graveyard, Navan, close to north-west corner of the ruin.

MONAGHAN, Thomas. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5769. Baptised Navan, 8 April 1889. Son of John and Julia Monaghan, nee Donoghue, Railway Street, Navan. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Husband of Katie Monaghan, North Aston, Oxon. Enlistment location: Dublin. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 2 October 1918. Age: 27. Memorial: V.C.32; Terlincthun British Cemetery, Wimille.

“Prayers were offered at all Masses in Navan on Sunday for the repose of the soul of Thomas Monaghan, who was killed in the recent fighting. He is second eldest son of Mr. John Monaghan, Railway Street, Navan.” Meath Chronicle 12 October 1918.

MOONEY, James, Private, North Staffordshire Regiment, 8th Battalion, 43029. Formerly Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 17607. Baptised Dunboyne, 4 September 1888. Son of James and Bridget Mooney, nee Connan. Occupation: Assistant Shepherd. Residence: Loughsallagh, Clonee. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 September 1917. Memorial: Panel 124 to 125 and 162 to 162A, Tyne Cot Memorial.

MOONEY, Michael. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 9785. Baptised Trim, 19 September 1895. Son of James and Ellen Mooney, nee Faulkner, Trim and later of 7 Parsons Street, Maynooth, Co. Kildare. Enlistment location: Drogheda, 1912. Served in France from 19 December 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 15 March 1916. Age: 20. Memorial: Panel 44, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

MOORE, John. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 22473. Baptised Castletown-Kilpatrick, 1 January 1891. Son of Thomas and Bridget Moore, nee Reid, Knightstown, Wilkinstown. Mother’s occupation: Railway Gate Keeper. Occupation: Farm Labourer. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 8 September 1916. Age: 26. Memorial: Pier and Face 16 C, Thiepval.

MOORE, Patrick. Private, Wiltshire Regiment, 5th Battalion, 23286. Born: Navan. Residence: Navan. Enlistment location: Aldershot. Killed in action, Mesopotamia, 25 January 1917. Memorial: Panel 30 and 64, Basra Memorial.

MORAN, W. Leinster Regiment. Killed 1916.

“The names of J. Farrell (Kells), P. Irwin (do.), and W. Moran (Navan), of the Leinster Regiment appeared in Monday’s list of casualties.” Meath Chronicle 22 July

MOSS, David. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 6671. Born: Loughcrew. Son of Adam and Mary Moss, Ballynamona, Loughcrew, Oldcastle and later 55, Vi Halton, Bryansburn, Bangor, Co. Down. Father’s occupation: House Carpenter. Occupation: Labourer, Domestic Servant. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 29 September 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 March 1918. Age: 30. Memorial: Bay 1, Arras Memorial.

Pte. David Moss – Irish Guards (First World War Memorial, St. Kieran’s Church, Loughcrew.)

MULALLEY, John. Private, Connaught Rangers, 2nd Battalion, “B” Coy. 10444. Born: Enfield. Son of James and Mary Mulalley, Newcastle, Enfield. Residence: Enfield. Enlistment location: Naas, Co. Kildare. Served in France from 14 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 7 November 1914. Age: 20. Memorial: Panel 42, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

MULDOON, Philip. Private, Leinster Regiment, 6th Battalion, 79. Baptised Navan, 26 February 1876. Son of Patrick and Elizabeth Muldoon, nee Smyth, Kilcarn. Enlistment location: Birr. Served in Balkans from 9 July 1915. Killed in action. Gallipoli, 11 August 1915. Age: 38. Memorial: Panel 184 and 185, Helles Memorial.

MULLEN, James Joseph. Corporal, 14th King’s Hussars. 12362. Baptised Kilcloon, 10 May 1888. Son of James and Annie Mullen, nee McCormack, Rodanstown, Kilcock. Twin of Mary Anne. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Brother, Patrick, also killed in the war. Residence: Kilcock. Enlistment location: Scarborough. Served in France from 22 June 1915. Died, Hamadan, Persia, 10 October 1918. Memorial: IV.C. 8; Teheran War Cemetery.

MULLEN, Patrick Joseph. Lance-Corporal, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 16261. Baptised Kilcloon, 17 March 1897. Son of James and Annie Mullen, nee McCormack, Rodinstown, Kilcock. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Brother, James, also killed in the war. Residence: Kilcock, Co. Meath. Enlistment location: Naas, Co. Kildare. Served in France from 20 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 April 1916. Age: 19. Memorial: Panel 127 to 129, Loos Memorial.

MULVANEY, James. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, “A” Coy, 21996. Formerly 3673, Royal Irish Regiment. Born Kingstown (Dun Laoghaire), Co. Dublin. Son of Owen and Catherine Mulvaney, Kells. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 10 July 1916. Age: 24. Memorial: III.O.3; St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Loos.

MULVANEY, Joseph. Private, Canadian Infantry, British Columbia Regiment, 29th Battalion, 464219. Born: Mullingar, 14 July 1889. Son of Richard and Frances Mulvaney, nee Fowler, Navan. Husband of Alice Mulvaney, nee Hulme, Bolton Lancashire and Vancouver, British Columbia. Height 5 foot 5 inches. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Black. Enlisted 1 September 1915. Died: 21 August 1917. Age: 28. Memorial: Vimy Memorial.

MULVANEY, Thomas. Private, King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry, 2nd/4th Battalion, 63419. Formerly Northumberland Fusiliers, 20/438. Born: Kells. Enlistment location: Newcastle-on-Tyne. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 4 November 1918. Memorial: I.B.13; Ruesnes Communal Cemetery.

MUNROE, Patrick. Private, King’s Liverpool Regiment, 8th Battalion, 305149. Baptised Moynalty, 8 March 1896. Son of Patrick and Anne Munroe, nee Farrelly, Baltrasna, Moynalty, later of Walterstown, Navan and later of 3, Tyrone Place, Golden Bridge, Inchicore, Dublin. Father’s occupation: Farm Servant. Residence: Liverpool. Enlistment location: Liverpool. Served in France from 3 May 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 28 September 1916. Age: 19. Memorial: Pier and Face 1D. 8B and 8 C, Thiepval Memorial.

MUNRO, George, Private, Highland Light Infantry, 2nd/6th Battalion, 242006. Husband of Mary Hyslop Munro, 70 Crosbie Road, Troon, Ayrshire. Died, home, 17 June 1917. Memorial: Oldcastle Cemetery.

MURDOCK, Charles Walter. Private, Lothian and Border Horse. 1260. Born: Drogheda, Co. Louth. Son of Charles and Frances Jane Murdock, Irishtown, Rathfeigh. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Residence: Edinburgh. Enlistment location: Edinburgh. Died 8 October 1914. Age: 26. Memorial: K.839, Comely Bank Cemetery, Edinburgh. Drogheda War Memorial.

“Murdock – October 8, 1914 at the Military Hospital, …glaith of double pneumonia, Walter Charles, aged 25, only surviving son of Charles Murdock, Irishtown, Rathfeigh, Co. Meath” Drogheda Independent, 10 October 1914.

MURPHY, Christopher. Stoker, 1st Class, Royal Navy, H.M.S. “Chelmer”. K/26523. Baptised Enfield/Rathmolyon, 7 January 1887. Son of Thomas and Margaret Murphy, nee Grehan, Newcastle, Enfield. Father’s occupation: Shepherd. Died of pneumonia following influenza, Naval Hospital, Malta, 22 November 1918. Memorial: R.C.160, Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Malta.

MURPHY, Denis. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 5326. Born: Athboy. Living: Athboy. Enlistment location: Limerick. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 4 September 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 16 C, Thiepval Memorial.

George Murphy (courtesy of May Ryan)

MURPHY, George, Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5780. Baptised Summerhill, 26 April 1889. Son of James O’Connell and Judith Murphy, nee Cullen, Breemount, Trim. Married Ellen Maguire, 23 November 1910, St. Patrick’s Church, Trim. Children: Mary, Ellen, Margaret and James. Occupation: Farmer. Residence: 37 Loman Street, Trim. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 9 August 1918. Memorial: II.G.10; Borre British Cemetery.

Pte George Murphy, Private, Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

MURPHY, Hugh, Royal Irish Rifles 8436. Born 10 October 1890, Ross, Mountnugent, Co. Meath. Attended school in Mountnugent Co Cavan until 9 April 1904. Enlisted Drogheda 19 December 1906. Died 16 December 1916. Buried Lalue Communal Cemetery, Somme,  France. (Information supplied by Patrick Kerr, Navan Historical Society  from Peter Gilleran 086-8560354.)

MURPHY, John. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 16602. Baptised Kells, 27 August 1882. Son of Thomas and Margaret Murphy, nee Tully, Kells and later of 83, Windmill Lane, Drogheda. Enlistment location: Coatsbridge. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 April 1916. Age: 33. Memorial: Panel 127 to 129, Loos Memorial.

MURPHY, Joseph. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 1st Battalion, 1321. Baptised Navan, 30 May 1892. Son of Peter and Bridget Murphy, nee Smith, Millbrook, Navan. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Brother of John Murphy, Cannon Row, Navan. Occupation: Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Joined late in 1914. Served in France from 25 March 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 9 May 1915. Age: 20. Memorial: Panel 9, Ploegsteert Memorial.

MURPHY, Michael. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 8466. Baptised Slane, 13 November 1884. Son of Andrew and Anne Murphy, nee Hughes, Slane. Father’s occupation: Tailor. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 25 September 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 7 D, Thiepval Memorial.

MURPHY, Peter. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5631. Born: Navan. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 March 1918. Memorial: Panel 78, Pozieres Memorial.

MURRAY, John. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 5340. Baptised Kildalkey, 17 February 1889. Son of Christopher and Mary Murray, nee Farrelly, Clonmore, Kildalkey. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Residence: Batterstown. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, in battle for Guillemont, Somme, France, 3 September 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 16 C, Thiepval Memorial.

In October 1916 “Mrs. Anna M. Murray, Tribley, Kilmessan, has received the sad intelligence of the death of her husband, Mr. John Murray, in action. Deceased who was only 28 years of age belonged to the Leinster regiment and was killed in the big push of September 3rd.” Meath Chronicle.

MURRAY, Patrick. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 7887. Born: Oristown. Brother of Miss Mary Murray, Gibbstown, Navan. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 August 1918. Memorial: Panel 3, Vis-en-Artois Memorial.

MURRAY, William Frederick. Private, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry), 1st Battalion, 36 Coy. 46384. Formerly Middlesex Regiment, 3740. Born: Kells. Son of William Murray, Tipperary. Husband of Emily Maud Murray, 5, Belgrave Terrace, Stanhope Road, Finchley, London. Residence: Cricklewood. Enlistment location: Willesden Green. Killed accidentally, France & Flanders, 27 November 1916. Age: 34. Memorial: F. 31, Agny Military Cemetery.

MURTAGH, James. Private, Royal Irish Regiment, 7th Battalion, 26565. Formerly Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 30296. Born: Meath. Residence: Chapel Brampton, Nortants. Enlistment location: Northampton. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 October 1918. Memorial: XXXII.A 6; Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery.

MURTAGH, William. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, No 4 Coy. 3291. Baptised Stamullin, 2 June 1889. Son of John and Josephine Murtagh, nee Matthews, Gormanstown and later of New Cottages, Duleek Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 27 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 17 February 1915. Age: 24. Memorial: II.D.4; Cuinchy Communal Cemetery.

NAPER, Francis C. Captain, King’s Own, Royal Lancaster Regiment. Son of Mrs. Jane Naper, Norfolk House, Thames Embankment, London. Died 3 May 1917. Age: 43. Memorial: B.10, Fampoux British Cemetery.

Capt. Frank C. Naper 2nd K.O.R.L. (First World War Memorial, St. Kieran’s Church, Loughcrew.)

NAPER, George Wyatt Edgell. Lieut-Commander, Royal Navy, H.M.S/M “E24.” Son of Lt.-Col. W.D. Naper, Bayswater, London. Died, 27 March 1916. Memorial: 11, Portsmouth Naval Memorial.

Lt. Com. George W.E. Naper R.N. (First World War Memorial, St. Kieran’s Church, Loughcrew.)

NEVINS, Eugene. Private, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 7th Battalion, 29909. Baptised Navan, 20 October 1884. Son of Nicholas and Mary Nevins, nee Duffy, Flowerhill, Navan. Father’s occupation: Mill Manager. Residence: Shettleston. Enlistment location: Glasgow. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 16 August 1917. Memorial: Panel 70 to 72, Tyne Cot Memorial.

NOLAN

“Two soldiers from Trim district, named Duff and Nolan, are reported killed in action. This brings the total from Trim and its vicinity who have paid the supreme penalty up to fifteen.” Meath Chronicle 7 October 1916.

NORRIS, Reginald Walter. Second Lieutenant, Royal Air Force, No 22 Training Depot Station RAF, Gormanstown. Killed on a training flight at Gormanstown, 20 October 1918. Memorial: St. Mary’s Churchyard, Julianstown.

NUGENT, Thomas. Lance-Corporal. Royal Irish Rifles, 2nd Battalion, 8873. Born: Westmeath. Son of Henry and Bridget Nugent, The Green, Trim. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer, Shepherd. Enlistment location: Athboy. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 15 July 1916. Age: 20. Memorial: II.G.3; Ovillers Military Cemetery.

NULTY, Edmund Christopher. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 10th Battalion, 25739. Born Slane, 2 October 1896. Son of Christopher and Emily Nulty, nee Mullen, Slane Village. Mother’s occupation: Professor of Music. Occupation: Junior Clerk. Enlistment location: Falkirk. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 13 November 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 16C, Thiepval Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

NULTY, Patrick, Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 4221. Born: Trim. Son of Patrick and Bridget Nulty, The Green, Trim. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer, Shepherd. Occupation: Servant. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 26 October 1914. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 6 May 1915. Age: 21. Buried: Newtown, Trim.

Nulty, Patrick, Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 4221. 6 May 1915 age 21. (Newtown Cemetery, Trim)

Nultey, P. Private, Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

“Soldiers’ Funerals in Trim – A Contrast

… During the week the remains of another Trim soldier named Nulty were brought to the town for internment also. Nulty was twice wounded while in action in Flanders whence he was removed to a London hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds. His remains were brought to Trim by his friends. …” Meath Chronicle 22 May 1915.

Christopher Owen O’Brien by kind permission Gerry O’Brien

O’BRIEN, Christopher Owen. Rifleman, Rifle Brigade, 4th Battalion, Z/1975. Baptised Moynalty, 17 February 1894. Son of Michael and Bridget O’Brien, nee Clarke, Screebogue, Moynalty. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Enlisted 1 September 1914. Enlistment location: Birmingham. Height: 5 foot 6 inches. Hair: Brown. Occupation: (1911) Shop Assistant, (At enlistment) Rubber Worker. Served in France from 18 February 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 8 March 1915. Age: 22. Memorial: II.D.20; Voormezeele Enclosures No. 1 and No. 2.

O’BRIEN, Gerald. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 10th Battalion, 25125. Baptised Trim, 14 August 1894. Son of Daniel and Winifred O’Brien, nee Dwyer, Trim and later of 25, Armstrong Street, Harold’s Cross, Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 28 May 1917. Age: 22. Memorial: I.K.14; Bailleul Road East Cemetery, St. Laurent-Blangy.

O’BRIEN, Joseph. Private, South Lancashire Regiment, 6th Battalion, 300. Baptised Navan, 14 August 1882. Son of Thomas and Bridget O’Brien, nee Quinn, (should be McGinn but it is Quinn in register source – Michael O’Brien Kilcarn )  The Factory, Johnstown. Enlisted 10 July 1908, aged 24. Enlistment location: Warrington, Lancashire. Height: 5 foot 8 inches. Eyes: Grey. Hair: Brown. Having served his six year term, he re-engaged for a further period of 4 years in July 1914. Served in France from 8 October to December 1914 and was despatched to the Mediterranean front in August 1915. He embarked at Port Said in February 1916 and landed in Basra on 1 March. Killed in action, Mesopotamia 5 April 1916. (The leader of his group was Clement Atlee, later prime minister of Britain.) Memorial: Panel 23, Basra Memorial.

O’BRIEN, Owen. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2 Battalion, 330. Born: Moynalty. Son of Mrs Katherine O’Brien, Oakley Park, Kells. Enlistment location: Inverkeithing, Fife. Served in the Balkans. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 11 August 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 16 C, Thiepval Memorial.

O’CONNOR, J.

“Intelligence reached Navan during the week of the death in action of Privates Stanislaus Cahill and J. O’Connor, of Navan. Cahill was in the Leinster Regiment and transferred to the Connaught Rangers, and was a native of Navan.” Meath Chronicle 18 March 1916.

O’CONNOR, P. Royal Dublin Fusiliers. 3rd Battalion, Native of Navan. Killed by shrapnel 3 December 1915. (Horneck)

James O’Dare

O’DARE, James. Private, Royal Irish Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 6257. Formerly Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 26318. Baptised Trim, 2 May 1899. Son of James and Bridget O’Dare, nee Melady, Emmet Street, Trim. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Athboy. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 21 August 1918. Age: 19. Memorial: II.J.9; Adanac Military Cemetery, Miraumont.

James joined under age. His mother got him out but he rejoined. He was wounded in the leg and the stretcher bearers were taking him away when a large shell killed them all. His mother knew he was dead before the telegram came. She told her husband that James was dead, she had seen his face at the window. The telegram arrived shortly after. His uncle, John O’Dare, died as a result of being gassed. James O’Dare joined up at the time of his uncle’s death.

O’Dare, Jas. Private R.I. Regt. (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

“Recruits from Trim and District

…Edward Casey, a native of Kilkenny, enlisted in the Royal Irish Fusiliers and James O’Dare, Emmet Street, Trim, the 5th bat. Leinster Regiment.” Meath Chronicle 18 March 1916.

John O’Dare

O’DARE, John, Sergeant, Leinster Regiment, 6th Battalion, 771. Enlisted in the Leinster regiment, Navan in 1892, aged 19. Served as a private in the Leinster regiment 2nd Battalion for 12 years, until 12 August 1904. Served in South Africa 1901-2. Having left the army he became a Labourer. Husband of Mary Ann O’Dare, nee Weldon, High Street, Trim. They were married at Trim 1 September 1912. They had a daughter Mary Bridget. As a member of the reserves he re-enlisted at Navan, 19th August 1914. Aged 41. Height: 5 foot 6 inches. Complexion: Sallow. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Brown. Promoted to Corporal on 3 September 1914 and Sergeant on 2 November 1914. Invalided and wounded, was at Suvla Bay. He was discharged as physically unfit for war service on 25 January 1916. His discharge papers said he was of very good military character, smart, intelligent and hardworking. His illness was described as phthisis which originated in the Dardanelles in 1915. He stated he had been well up to September 1915, when he was at Anzac. He contracted dysentery and was sent home. He then developed pleurs-pneumonia. On examination T.B. was found in the sputum. Date of death: 8 March 1916. Memorial: North of West ruin, Newtown Cemetery, Trim.

Newtown Cemetery – 771 Serjeant J. O’Dare, Leinster Regiment 8th March 1916.

“Trim Soldier’s Death

On Ash Wednesday John O’Dare, a sergeant of the Leinster Regiment, passed away at the Workhouse Hospital, Trim, after an illness of a couple of months’ duration. The deceased, who was in the prime of his life, was a reserve man and joined his regiment at the outbreak of the war. He was rapidly promoted and took part in the action at Suvla Bay, where he was gassed. He spent some months in an English hospital and was eventually invalided out of the army, receiving a pension. The funeral took place on Friday and was well attended, but there was no military display. Fr. Murphy officiated. RIP.” Meath Chronicle 18 March 1916.

On the same page of the Meath Chronicle is an article recording the enlistment of his nephew, James O’Dare, who was also killed in the war.

O’KEEFFE, Christopher. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 7th Battalion, 4683. Baptised Navan, 1 December 1886. Son of Dan and Mary O’Keeffe, nee King, Keapock’s Lane, later of Infirmary Hill and later of 23 Patricks Terrace, Navan. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Husband of Bridget O’Keeffe, 7 Patricks Terrace, Navan. Occupation: (1911) Drawer for Looms Wool. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France from 21 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 7 September 1916. Age: 24. Memorial: Pier and Face 15A and 15B, Thiepval Memorial.

O’KEEFFE, Joseph Richard. Second Lieutenant, The Loyal North Lancashire Regiment, 10th Battalion. Baptised Duleek, 20 July 1887. Son of William J. and Cathleen O’Keeffe, nee Ball. Father’s occupation: Doctor. In 1901 a student at St. Finian’s Academy, Navan. In 1911 a medical student living with relatives at Rathmullen, Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 4 May 1916. Memorial: II.B.2; Bienvillers Military Cemetery.

O’NEILL, Christopher. Sergeant, Royal Field Artillery, “D” Bty. 102nd Bde. 32875. Baptised Navan, 19 June 1882. Son of James and Kate O’Neill, nee Smyth, Commons, Navan and later of 8, O’Growney Terrace, Navan. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Belfast. Served in France from 25 August 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 12 August 1917. Age: 30. Memorial: I.F.27; La Clytte Military Cemetery.

O’NEILL, Patrick. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 10562. Baptised Dunboyne, 17 February 1885. Son of Patrick and Bridget O’Neill, nee Hynes, Priestown, Dunboyne. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 June 1917. Age: 32. Memorial: 3.F.16; Ferme-Olivier Cemetery.

O’NEILL, Thomas. Lieutenant, Cavalry Reserve, 2nd Battalion, Attached to 1st/1st Dorset Yeomanry. Son of John and Mary H. O’Neill, Tubride, Oldcastle. Father’s occupation: Farmer and Petty Sessions Clerk. Occupation: Farmer’s son. Brother of W. O’Neill, Millbrook, Oldcastle. Died of illness contracted on active service with Egyptian Expeditionary Force, King George V Hospital, Dublin, 29 May 1919. Memorial: Loughcrew Church of Ireland Churchyard.

Lieut. Thomas O’Neill 1st Dorset Yeo. (First World War Memorial, St. Kieran’s Church,  Loughcrew.)

O’REILLY, Hugh. Private, Royal Scots Fusiliers, 6th/7th Battalion, 24387. Born: Kilmainham, Co. Meath. Son of Philip and Maryanne O’Reilly, Aghamore, Kilmainhamwood. Father’s occupation: Railway Labourer. Husband of Sarah O’Reilly, nee Mackin, 46 Dover Street, Anderston, Glasgow. Date and place of marriage: 22 July 1914, St. Patrick’s, North Street, Glasgow. Occupation: Spirit Salesman. Enlisted: 9 December 1915. Enlistment location: Glasgow. Age at enlistment: 30 years. Height: 5 foot 7 ¾ inches. Served in France from September 1916 to December 1916 and from 10 June 1917 until his death. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 22 August 1917. His personal effects included an index book, wallet, crucifix, letters and a photo. Memorial: Panel 60 to 61, Tyne Cot Memorial.

O’REILLY, William. Lance Sergeant, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 9190. Formerly 191, Royal Highlanders. Born: Kingscourt. Residence: Kingscourt. Enlistment location: Edinburgh. Served in France from 22 August 1914. Died, home, 6 January 1917. Memorial: Kilmainhamwood Old Graveyard.

O’ROURKE, Christopher. Private, West Yorkshire Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 9525. Born: Navan. Served in France from 5 November 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 19 December 1914. Memorial: II.K.39; Bailleul Road East Cemetery, St. Laurent-Blangy.

OSBORNE, Geoffrey William. 2nd Lieutenant, Royal Air Force, 7th Sqdn. Baptised Julianstown, 25 February 1893. Son of Francis Charles and Anne Sarah Osborne, Smithstown, Drogheda and later of 82, Vincent Square, Westminster, London. Father’s occupation: Gentleman Farmer. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 29 June 1918. Age: 26. Memorial: V.C.28; Longuenesse (St. Omer) Souvenir Cemetery.

Geoffrey William Osbourne, 2nd Lieut., Royal Air Force, youngest son of Francis Charles Osbourne of Smithstown killed in action 29 June 1918 aged 26 years buried in the Souvenir cemetery Lougueverse, St. Omer. (Julianstown Church)

OSBORNE, Marcus Stuart. Lieutenant, King’s Royal Irish Hussars, 8th Battalion, Secondary Unit: Machine Gun Corps (Infantry) attached 8th Battalion. Born: Balrath. Son of F.D. Osborne, Rosnaree, Slane. Served in France from 3 April 1918. Killed in action, 24 April 1918. Memorial: Panel 3-4, Pozieres Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

O’TOOLE, James. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 28040. Born: Ratoath. Residence: Ratoath. Enlistment location: Dublin. Died, France & Flanders, 18 October 1917. Memorial: XII.I.6; Dozinghem Military Cemetery.

OWENS, William. Second Lieutenant. Royal Irish Rifles, 7th Battalion. Son of Patrick Owens, Harristown, Hayes, Navan. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 16 August 1917. Age: 30. Memorial: Panel 138 to 140 and 162 to 162A and 163A, Tyne Cot Memorial.

PAGE, Henry George. Pantryman, Mercantile Marine, S.S. “Marquette”, West Hartlepool. Born Co. Meath. Son of James and Helena Page. Husband of Clara Page, nee Mitchell, 18 Inglemere Road, Rock Ferry, Birkenhead. Drowned as a result of an attack by an enemy submarine, 23 October 1915. Age: 65. Memorial: Tower Hill Memorial, London.

PALMER, Arthur. Royal Warwickshire Regiment, 14th Battalion, 32562. Formerly 7761 Dragoons. Born: Hackney, London. Son of Thomas and Mary Palmer, 23 Bounces Road, Edmonton, London. Residence: Athboy. Husband of Elizabeth Palmer, Bridge Street, Athboy. Enlistment location: Stratford, Essex. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 26 October 1917. Age: 28. Memorial: Panel 23 to 28 and 163A, Tyne Cot Memorial.

PETTIGRUE, Thomas Percival. Private, Canadian Infantry, British Columbia Regiment, 7th Battalion, 17158. Born: 5 May 1889. Son of Thomas and Elizabeth Pettigrue, White Quarry, Ardbraccan, Navan. Father’s occupation: Limestone Contractor. Occupation: Clerk. Enlistment location: 23 September 1914. Height: 5 foot 7½ inches. Complexion: Fair. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Light Brown. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 24 April 1915. Age: 24. Memorial: Panel 18-28–30, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

Percy Pettigrue enlisted in the 1st Canadian contingent and proceeded to France. In the heavy German attack north of Ypres in April 1915 the Canadians repulsed the enemy but suffered heavily. Pettigrue was reported missing and was believed to be dead.

Thomas Percy Pettigrue aged 25 years British Columbia Regiment missing Ypres 25 April 1915 (Roll of Honour, Ardbraccan Church, now in St. Mary’s Church, Navan)

One of those tragedies was the death of Thomas Percy Pettigrue from Ardbraccan, the youngest son of Tomas & Elizabeth Pettigrue. Percy enlisted in Canada in 1914 and was missing presumed killed in the battle of Ypres on April 24th 1915 .Like many his body was never found and he is remembered on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in west Belgium along with the names of over 55,000 other soldiers .Hs distraught parents placed advertisements and his photo in many British newspapers of the time seeking information about their son. Stories carried through many generations that his bags and belongings were returned to his parent’s house in Ardbraccan where they remained unopened for many years. This was just one of many tragedies of this war.

PHILLIPS, John Paul. Private, South African Infantry, 12th Regiment. 9829. Baptised Oristown, 30 June 1883. Son of Dr. Edward and Mary Angela Phillips, nee Reilly, Wilkinstown and later 67, Mountjoy Square, Dublin. Father’s occupation: General Practioner. Died, Capetown, 10 March 1917. Memorial: Sec. 4. 97451B; Capetown (Maitland) Cemetery.

PHILLIPS, Michael. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 3899. Baptised Navan, 24 April 1893. Son of Michael and Jane Phillips, nee Lynch, Watergate Street. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Worked in Navan Urban District Council. Residence: Navan. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France from 8 February 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 4 March 1915. Memorial: A.13, Ferme Buterne Military Cemetery, Houplines. His son, Michael, also served in 2nd Battalion, Leinster Regiment.

“Navan Man Killed at the Front

Mrs. Walsh, Navan, has received a letter from the front from her son, Private John Walsh, 2nd Leinster Regiment, dated 6th inst. stating that his uncle, her brother, Michael Phillips, was killed on the 2nd inst. Young Walsh added that he was only ten yards distant from his uncle when he was hit. Private Phillips, who leaves a large family, was an old and respected employee of the Navan Urban Council.” Meath Chronicle 13 March 1915.

PIERCE, Thomas. Private, South Irish Horse. 1579. Baptised Navan, 25 July 1891. Son of John and Catherine Pierce, nee Traynor, Trimgate Street, Navan and later of 6, Hospital Lane, Islandbridge, Dublin. Residence: Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 22 June 1917. Age: 25. Memorial: XIX.A.7; Loos British Cemetery.

(Photograph courtesy of Sandra Pigott)

PIGOTT, William Gregor. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 15th Battalion, 41200. Formerly 4th Hussars, 24620. Baptised Balrathboyne, Kells, 3 March 1885. Son of George and Mary Pigott, Kells. Father’s occupation: Mason. Occupation: Farm Servant. Husband of Maria Alicia Pigott, 3, William Street, Portlaw, Co. Waterford. Residence: Portlaw, Co. Waterford. Enlistment location: Tralee, Co. Kerry. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 18 September 1918. Age: 33. Memorial: In north-west part, Veldwezelt Communal Cemetery.

William Pigott served in the Somme in 1915. Taken prisoner and electrocuted while trying to escape. William entered Allenstown School, Ardbraccan on 25 September 1893 and had attended school in Kells previously. His father was listed as a farmer. His older brother, Charles Stewart Pigott, served in the Merchant Navy.

PLUNKETT, Hugh. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 10860. Baptised Ratoath, 12 September 1891. Son of Matthew and Mary Plunkett, nee Henry, Crickstown, Ashbourne. Father’s occupation: Herdsman. Occupation: Labourer. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 November 1917. Age: 27. Memorial: Panel 2 and 3, Cambrai Memorial, Louveral.

POTTER, John. Private, Cheshire Regiment, 13th Battalion, W/65. Baptised Duleek, 29 December 1892. Son of Thomas and Catherine Potters, nee McKeon, Downstown. Father’s occupation: Railway Plate Layer. Occupation: General Labourer. Residence: Duleek. Enlistment location: Port Sunlight. Served in France from 25 September 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 7 July 1916. Memorial: Pier and Face 3C and 4A, Thiepval Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

“7th Friday. Over the parapet at 8.5 A.M. After suffering severe casualties we reached out objective and consolidated. A number of prisoners and war material fell inot our hands. Casualties on this day very heavy 18 Officers and 243 other ranks.” Dairy of Cheshire Regiment.

POTTERTON, William Hubert. Lieutenant, Royal Engineers, 23rd Field Coy. Born: Dublin. Son of William and Kathleen Potterton, Freffans, Trim and Palmerston Park, Dublin. Father’s occupation: Cattle Salesmaster. Husband of Adelaide Elizabeth Potterton, nee Matthews of Dublin, Northern Bank House, Grafton Street, Dublin. Potterton was an engineer and graduate of Trinity. A brother, Norman, also served in the war and survived. Killed in action, Battle of the Somme, 24 July 1916. Age: 24. Memorial: I.K.29; Albert Communal Cemetery Extension.

He is commemorated on the war memorial in Trinity and also on one in Connolly Station – as a member of the staff of the Great Northern Railway.

Lieut. W. H. Potterton R.E. (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

“Meath Officers Wounded

Three young officers, members of South Meath families, who gallantly responded to the call of duty on the outbreak of war have been wounded but are progressing favourably. They are Second Lieutenant Purdon of the Rifle Brigade; Second Lieutenant W.H. Potterton, Royal Engineers; and Second Lieutenant Fowler, King’s Royal Rifles… Lieutenant Potterton is a son of Mr. William Potterton, of Freffans, Trim, the well-known cattle salesmaster. This young officer had a very narrow escape from death in Flanders. A bullet grazed his left breast, but happily did not inflict any very serious injury. He is now recruiting his health in Dublin …” Meath Chronicle 8 January 1916.

POTTS, Joseph. Gordan Highlanders. Native of Navan. Joined on outbreak of war at Glasgow. Killed in France, March 1916. (Horneck)

PRESTON, Arthur John Dillon. Captain, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 6th Battalion, Son of Major Arthur and Gertrude Preston, Swainston, Kilmessan. Husband of Sylvia Wyke Preston, Clowbryn, Greystones, Co. Wicklow. Killed in action, 15 August 1915. Age: 29. Mentioned in Despatches. Memorial: Special Memorial 50, Azmak Cemetery, Suvla. His son, John Nathaniel Preston (Nat), was born in January 1915.

“Preston, Arthur John Dillon, Captain 2nd Battalion,, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, only son of Major Arthur John Preston, of Swainstown, Co. Meath who was in the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment, B.A. Trinity College, Justice of the Peace for Co. Durham and Co. Meath by his wife, Gertrude Mary, daughter of Richard Knight, of Bobbing Court, Co. Kent. Born Luther House, Huddersfield, 16 November 1885. Educated Malvern College. Gazetted 2nd Lieutenant to the 3rd (Militia) Battalion, of the Durham L.I. 5 October 1904. Posted to the 1st Battalion, Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd March 1907. Promoted Lieutenant 15 December 1909 and Captain 2nd Battalion, 7 June 1914. Served with the 1st Battalion, in Egypt where he joined the Mounted Infantry, winning at Cairo the Lloyd Lindsay prize. At the outbreak of the European War he was ordered to Naas and afterwards to the Curragh to raise the 6th Service Battalion, of the Royal Dublin Fusiliers with which he proceeded to the Gallipoli Peninsula on 9 July. He took part in all the heavy fighting at Suvla Bay until 15 August when he fell in the moment of victory. The Colonel of his Battalion, writing to his widow, remarked: “I am sure all Ireland will soon hear of the charge of the Dublins and Munsters on that (15th) afternoon. Your husband (Captain Preston, second in command) was responsible for it and organised it splendidly; and in conjunction with Captain Whyte he brilliantly led it. It was a magnificent sight considering they charged up a hill through a hail of bombs and bullets. Captain Preston got safely on the hill (capturing the trench), but in the counter-attack was fatally wounded in the right breast. I was the last officer to speak to him and told him how splendidly he had done. Personally I feel his death very much. No man could have helped his colonel more than he, the success of the regiment was greatly due to him.” Captain White, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, wrote: “We closed on the Munsters, and all collected on some dead ground about 100 yards from the crest; I was sitting beside John, and he was in his usual spirits, laughing and joking. When word came that we were to clear the ridge we fixed bayonets, then we all started together, Dublins and Munsters, John shouting “Come on boys.” They (the Turks) threw bombs and opened fire upon us as we neared the top but we went straight on and rushed the trench. The Turks put up their hands. I saw John stop his men who were just going to bayonet a Turkish officer. As you know he was my best friend, and was loved by everyone in the regiment, officers, N.C.O.s and men. The only consolation is that he died a glorious death, leading his men to victory, the death I am sure he would have chosen.” Captain Preston wrote to his wife on that fatal 15 August remarking: “I have had six hours sleep and am back full of buck and life.” Also to his father a five-page letter. The battle had even then commenced in the valley below. It was written under strenuous circumstances, no change of clothes for five nights, and only six hours sleep, no chance of a wash, and exposed to the heat of a tropical sun, yet his last written words were: “Love to you all. I am very fit and quite happy.” He and the Adjutant, Captain Richards, who fell at the same time, were buried in the same grave close to the sea shore at Suvla Bay. A flat gravestone covers them with their names engraved under the words “In Victory.” He was mentioned for the gallant and distinguished service in the field by Sir Ian Hamilton in his despatches of 11 December 1915. While in Egypt he and Lieutenant Cozier sailed some hundred miles up the White Nile from Khartoum, in a rough native boat, on which occasion they secured a fine bag of big game, including lion, buffalo, elephant, hippo and various specimens of antelope, deer, etc. He was a keen sportsman, well known with the Kildare and Meath hounds, a fine cricketer and tennis player, and the best shot with revolver and rifle (tied) in his Battalion. Captain Preston married at St. Mary-le-Bone, London, 24 March 1914, Sylvia, daughter of Arthur James Billin, of Tadworth, Co. Surrey, and had a son: John Nathaniel, born 27 January 1915.” De Ruvigny’s Roll of Honour, 1914-1924, volume 1, pages 295-6.

PURDON, George Hardress. 2nd Lieutenant, King’s Royal Rifle Corps, 2nd Battalion, Baptised Trim, 16 January 1897. Son of Colonel Edward Winter and Cecilia Purdon, Tullyard, Trim and later of Lisnabin, Killucan, Co. Westmeath. Trim. Father’s occupation: Land Agent. Killed in action, 23 July 1916. Age: 19. Memorial: Pier and Face 13 A and 13 B, Thiepval Memorial.

Purdon, G.H. Second Lieutenant 60th Rifles K.R.R. (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

“Meath Officers Wounded

Three young officers, members of South Meath families, who gallantly responded to the call of duty on the outbreak of war have been wounded but are progressing favourably. They are Second Lieutenant Purdon of the Rifle Brigade; Second Lieutenant W.H. Potterton, Royal Engineers; and Second Lieutenant Fowler, King’s Royal Rifles. Lieutenant Purdon is son of Col. and Mrs. Purdon, formerly of Tullyard House, Trim and at one time very energetic members of Trim Rural District Council…” Meath Chronicle 8 January 1916.

“The magistrates at Trim Petty Sessions last Saturday passed a resolution of condolence to Col. and Mrs. Purdon Winter on the death at the front of their youngest son.” Meath Chronicle 19 August 1916.

QUINN, James. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 4571. Born: Navan. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Brother of T. Quinn, Royal Irish Rifles, 4526. Served in France from 15 September 1915. Killed in action. France & Flanders. 6 November 1917. Third Battle of Ypres. Memorial: IV.O.6; Roisel Communal Cemetery Extension.

QUINN, Peter. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 6552. Baptised Trim, 30 September 1895. Son of James and Elizabeth Quinn, nee Duff, Boardsmill, Trim. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer, Miller. Member of Irish National Volunteers. Occupation: Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 17 August 1915. Killed at the Battle of Loos. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 30 September 1915. Age: 20. Memorial: Panel 9 and 10, Loos Memorial.

“The parents of Mr. Peter Quinn, who resided at Boardsmill, near Trim, have just received official information from the War Office that their son has fallen in battle. The sad intelligence has caused widespread regret in the district.” Meath Chronicle 22 January 1916.

RADCLIFFE, Herbert Travers. Captain, Leinster Regiment, 5th Battalion. Baptised Kells, 11 August 1882. Son of George Edward and Emma Mary Alexandria Radcliff, Headfort Place, Kells and later of Wilmount, Kells. Father’s occupation: Gentleman Farmer. Occupation: Lieutenant on Reserve List, Farmer, Clerk of the Petty Sessions. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 15 March 1915. Age: 32. Memorial: Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

Herbert Travers Radcliffe, Captain Leinster Regiment killed in action at St. Eloi 15th March 1915. (Julianstown church, Stained Glass Window)

Captain H.T. Radcliffe, Leinster Regiment. (War Memorial, 1914 – 1918, Kells Church of Ireland)

“Captain Radcliffe Killed at the Front

We regret to learn that a telegram reached Kells yesterday announcing that Captain Reginald T. Radcliffe of the Leinster Regiment has been killed in action. Captain Radcliffe was the son of the late Mr. George Radcliffe of Wilmount, Kells and had held for some years the office of Clerk of Petty Sessions for Kells, Moynalty and George’s Cross. The deepest sympathy will be felt for his bereaved relatives.” Meath Chronicle 20 March 1915.

“The Late Captain Radcliffe – How he met his death

The following letters, telling how the late Captain Herbert Travers Radcliffe met his death, have come to his mother, Mrs. Radcliffe of Wilmount. The event is widely lamented in the district of Kells. Everyone who knew the Captain speaks of him as a straightforward and kindly man. Among every class there is a feeling of deep sympathy for his afflicted mother and other relatives.

17th March 1915

Dear Mrs. Radcliffe – It is with the deepest sympathy and regret that I have to inform you that your son was killed early on the morning of the 15th. He was holding a trench which had a garrison of 30 men and which was attacked by 100 Germans at or soon after dawn. He was killed instantaneously by a bullet which struck his head, and could have suffered no pain. I may add that the Germans were beaten off with a loss of 34 killed alone. During the few days he had been with us he proved himself a brave and gallant officer, and we deplore the loss of a good comrade and offer you a whole-hearted sympathy. His personal belongings I am having collected and forwarded to you as soon as possible. The place where your son was killed is called St. Eloi about two miles south of Ypres – Believe me

Yours very truly

A.B. Prowse

Lieut-Col Commanding 1st Leinster Regiment.

17th March 1915

Dear Mrs. Radcliffe – A few lines to express my deepest sympathy on the death of Herbert, and to enclose a few letters which came to him afterwards. I was with him when he was killed. He was my company commander both here and in Passage and like all the men of the company I would have done anything for him. He always thought of the men first and afterwards himself and it was through his unselfishness that he met his death. Someone said the Germans were leaving their trench to attack and no one looked out so he looked over and was hit. He suffered no pain whatever. He was buried on Monday night and we have handed his things to the Quartermaster, who will send them on to you in a few weeks. I only knew too well how useless it is to express sympathy, but I have taken this opportunity of expressing, not only my known sympathy but that of all the men of the company, who had grown to love him, even in a few days under his command – I am yours very sincerely

C.J. Mackay (Lieut.)” Meath Chronicle 27 March 1915.

“Radcliffe, Herbert Travers. Captain 5th Reserve, attached 1st Battalion, Leinster Regiment. Second son of the late George Edward Radcliff of Wilmount, Kells, Co. Meath by his wife, Emma May Alexandria, daughter of John Travers Madden, of Inch House, Balbriggan. Born: Kells, 11 August 1882. Educated: Royal School, Armagh. Gazetted 2nd Lieutenant, Leinster Regiment, 27 October 1906; promoted Lieutenant and Captain 10 February 1913. Went to France 6 March 1915, attached to the 1st Battalion, and was killed in action at St. Eloi, 15 March following. Unmarried.” De Ruvigny’s Roll of Honour, 1914-1924, vol. 1, page 299.

RAFFERTY, Patrick. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 6th Battalion, 12588. Born: Dunshaughlin. Residence: Dundalk, Co. Louth. Enlistment location: St. Helens. Served in Balkans from 7 August 1915. Killed in action, Gallipoli, 9 August 1915. Memorial: Panel 190 to 196, Helles Memorial.

REGAN, Matthew J. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 7th Battalion, 3875. Baptised Trim, 10 September 1894. Son of Michael and Catherine Regan, nee Darby, Castle Street, Trim and later of Effernock, Trim. Father’s occupation: Shoemaker. Occupation: Apprentice to Coach Building. Residence: Trim. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died, Home, 5 May 1915. Age: 20. Memorial: Newtown Cemetery, Trim.

Regan, M.J. Quis separavit 3875 Rifleman M.J. Regan, Royal Irish Rifles, 5 May 1915 age 20. (Newtown Cemetery, Trim)

“Soldiers’ Funerals in Trim – A Contrast

On Saturday the 8th inst. the remains of a soldier named Regan belonging to one of the Leinster regiments and a native of Trim were removed from an hospital in Cork City to Trim for interment. The deceased was buried with full military honours. A cordon of soldiers from his Battalion bore the coffin to the graveside and a salute fired over the grave. Regan had only been three months in training when he contracted pneumonia. Shortly after his removal to Cork he expired. …” Meath Chronicle 22 May 1915.

REGAN, Patrick. Royal Navy. Trim district. Killed. (Horneck)

REGAN, Paul. Sergeant, Irish Guards, 6651. Baptised Beauparc, 5 March 1897. Son of Thomas and Catherine Regan, nee Kelly, Curraghtown, Brownstown, Navan. Father’s occupation: Caretaker. Died 30 January 1919. Buried Plot A. 189, Navan New Cemetery.

REILLY, James. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 4100. Baptised Trim, 16 April 1893. Son of Thomas and Anne Reilly, nee Hughes, Dogstown, Trim. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Served in France from 6 December 1914. Died, Home, 12 January 1918. Age: 26. Memorial: Moymet Old Graveyard, Trim.

REILLY, J. Private, Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

REILLY, James. Driver, Royal Field Artillery, “A” Bty. 91st Bde. 25013. Born: Navan. Son of Bernard and Kate Reilly. Brother of Annie Mathews, 4 Echlin Street, Dublin. Occupation: Labourer and Groom. Worked for two years before enlistment as general farm labourer with Mr. Gormell, Corporation Street, Bolton, England. Residence: Manchester. Enlisted: 2 September 1914. Enlistment location: Manchester. Height: 5 foot 5½ inches. Complexion: Fresh. Eyes: Brown. Hair: Black. Served in France from 21 July 1915. Fell ill, France, December 1916. Transferred to England December 1916. Discharged, ill with dysentery, 16 October 1917. Died, King George V Hospital, Dublin, 24 November 1917. Age: 35. Memorial: Teltown Graveyard.

25013 Driver J. Reilly Royal Field Artillery, died 24th November 1917 aged 35 years. Teltown Graveyard.

REILLY, James. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 7th Battalion, 23156. Born: Moynalty. Residence: Mullagh, Co. Cavan. Enlistment location: Cavan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 2 June 1916. Memorial: I.N.3; St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Loos.

REILLY, John. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 2nd Battalion, 7689. Baptised Navan, 4 February 1889. Son of Peter and Alice Reilly, nee Downs, Brews Hill, Navan and later of 8 Middle Gardiners Street, Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 15 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 October 1914. Age: 25. Memorial: Panel 42 and 43, Le Touret Memorial.

REILLY, John. Private, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, 2nd Battalion, 9080. Born: Kells. Residence: Glasgow. Enlistment location: Paisley, Renfrews. John Reilly appeared in a regimental magazine, noted as having come to the 2nd Battalion, on the 11 January 1905 with a draft of men from England and taken on E company strength and received his first good conduct badge in February 1906. Served in France from 10 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 10 November 1914. Memorial: Panel 9 and 10, Ploegsteert Memorial.

John Reilly

“A letter returned to Mr. Sludden, Allandale, Castlecary, on Friday of last week, seems to bear out the story circulated some months ago that Pte. John Reilley, a reservist who went out with the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders had been killed in action. A post card received by Mrs. Godley from one of her sons, with whom Reilley at one time lodged, bore the words “Big Paddy is killed.” Reilley, who was a kilnsetter at Messrs Stein’s Works, was popularly known as “Big Paddy.” Reilley had latterly been staying with Mr. Sludden, who sent a letter addressed to him. The letter was returned by the authorities and across it was written “Missing” also “Killed at Mons.” Reilley was 33 years of age and unmarried. He was through the South African War.” Newspaper report courtesy of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlander Museum, Stirling Castle, Scotland. (The mention of the Battle of Mons is either incorrect or this article may refer to a different John Reilly.)

REILLY, John. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 11007. Baptised Rathmolyon, 27 July 1888. Son of Thomas and Elizabeth Reilly, nee Magrath, Jordanstown. Enlistment location: Trim. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 9 October 1917. Age: 29. Memorial: Panel 10 to 11, Tyne Cot Memorial.

REILLY, John. Lance-Sergeant, Guards Machine Gun Regiment, 4th Battalion, 1177. With the Irish Guards, 4359, until 1 February 1917. Baptised Oristown, 20 October 1895. Son of Matthew and Margaret Reilly, nee McDermott, Randlestown, Navan. Residence: Randlestown, Navan. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 13 August 1914. Died of wounds, 25 April 1918. Age: 21. Memorial: XVII.B.4; Bienvillers Military Cemetery.

REILLY, Michael. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 3150. Born: Killincare, Co. Meath. Son of Matthew and Elizabeth Reilly, Clugga, Mullagh, Kells. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in Balkans from 9 July 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 12 April 1917. Age: 38. Memorial: Bay 9, Arras Memorial.

REILLY, Michael. Fireman and Trimmer, Mercantile Marine, S.S. “Clover”, London. Born Co. Meath. Son of William and Rose Reilly. Husband of Rose Reilly, nee Creaney, 36, Gordon Street, Belfast. Drowned as a result of an attack by an enemy submarine, 19 October 1917. Age: 40. Memorial: Tower Hill Memorial, London.

REILLY, Patrick. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 8624. Baptised Navan, 26 September 1898. Son of Thomas and Catherine Reilly, nee Dunclas, Kilcarn and later of 6, St. Finian’s Terrace, Navan. Occupation: Messenger Post Office. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 13 September 1916. Age: 18. Memorial: Pier and Face 7 D, Thiepval Memorial.

REILLY, Patrick. Rifleman, London Regiment Queen Victoria’s Rifles, 1st/9th. Battalion, 393629. Formerly 5058, 8th London Regiment. Baptised Navan, 3 November 1897. Son of the Mathew and Mary Anne Reilly, nee Duglas, Kilcarne, Navan. Father’s occupation: Blacksmith. Residence: Navan. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 14 April 1917. Age: 19. Memorial: Bay 10, Arras Memorial.

REILLY, Patrick. Private, Royal Irish Regiment, 7th Battalion, 25732. Formerly South Irish Horse, 2409. Born: Athboy. Enlistment location: Athboy. Son of the Edward and Mary Reilly. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 21 March 1918. Age: 25. Memorial: Panel 30 and 31, Pozieres Memorial.

REILLY, Thomas. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, “A” Coy. 387. Born: Kells. Son of Mary Reilly, Carrick Street, Kells. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 17 December 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 3 September 1916. Age: 33. Memorial: Pier and Face 16 C, Thiepval Memorial.

REILLY, William. Private, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 28007. Baptised Ardbraccan, 28 October 1889. Son of Thomas and Rebecca Reilly, White Quarry, Ardbraccan. Father’s occupation: Stone Cutter. Husband of Elizabeth Reilly, “Milverton”, Greystones, Co. Wicklow. Occupation: Stone Cutter. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 15 October 1918. Memorial: III.C.18; Dadizeele New British Cemetery.

William Reilly aged 28 years Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers killed in action at Hulse 15 October 1918. (Roll of Honour, Ardbraccan Church, now in St. Mary’s Church,  Navan)

REILLY, William. Sergeant, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 2635. Baptised Lobinstown, 25 February 1883. Son of Patrick and Ellen Reilly, nee Murphy. Husband of Helen Kathleen Reilly, 37, Cassella Road, New Cross, London. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 13 September 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 4 August 1917. Age: 34. Memorial: IV.A.16; Artillery Woods Cemetery.

Richard Rennicks (Courtesy David Huber)

RENNICKS, Richard. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 5394. Formerly Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 28008. Baptised Ardbraccan, 30 April 1894. Son of Bernard and Jane Rennicks, White Quarry, Ardbraccan. Twin to Margaret. Father’s occupation: Stone Cutter. Occupation: Stone Cutter. Enlistment location: Navan. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 8 March 1917. Memorial: I.C.24; Loker Churchyard.

Richard Rennicks aged 22 years 7th Leinster Regiment killed in action near Locre 8 March 1917 (Roll of Honour, Ardbraccan Church, now in St. Mary’s Church Navan)

“Six young men from Ardbraccan, named Joe Lynch, Wm. Rennicks, Rd. Rennicks, Wm Reilly have joined the Inniskilling Fusiliers. They formerly belonged to Ardbraccan Corps, I.N.V.” Meath Chronicle 2 October 1915.

“Intelligence of the death from wounds of Pte. R. Rennicks reached Ardbraccan last week. He was a universal favourite and was nine months in France. He was being conveyed on the back of a comrade named Masterson out of the firing line when death ensued. The deceased whose death is deeply regretted was a member of Bohermeen Football Club.”Meath Chronicle 31 March 1917

RENNIX, John, Irish Guards. Duleek district. Killed. (Horneck)

REYNOLDS, Frederick. Seaman, Royal Naval Reserve. H.M.S. “Monmouth”. 3241A. Baptised St. Mary’s, Drogheda, 20 July 1891. Son of Thomas and Mary Reynolds, nee Ward, Mornington. Father’s occupation: Fisherman and Pilot. Killed in action at the Battle of Coronel, 1 November 1914. Age: 22. Memorial: 6, Portsmouth Naval Memorial, Hampshire. Drogheda War Memorial.

“Deep sympathy is felt with Thomas Reynolds of Mornington, and his wife on the loss of their youngest son, Fred, who was on the HMS Monmouth when the ship was sunk in the Pacific during an engagement with a German flotilla. Deceased was a promising young man, and had only attained his 22nd year. He was highly respected and esteemed by all who knew him and much sympathy is expressed for his parents in their sorrow and bereavement.” Drogheda Independent, 28 November 1914.

REYNOLDS, Laurence. Seaman, Royal Naval Reserve, H.M.S. “Laurentic”, 4554B. Baptised St. Mary’s, Drogheda, 12 February 1883. Son of James and Mary Reynolds, nee Carroll, Mornington, Drogheda. Father’s occupation: General Labourer, Fisherman. Occupation: (1901) Fisherman and Agricultural Labourer, (1911), Fisherman. Husband of Anna Reynolds, 17 Marsh Road, Drogheda. Married 14 December 1916. Killed in mine explosion off north Irish coast, 25 January 1917. Age 33. Memorial: 27, Portsmouth Naval Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

REYNOLDS, Peter. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 19835. Born: Clonfane, Trim. Son of Daniel Reynolds. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Husband of Mrs. E. Reynolds, later Chisnall, 103, Leigh Street, Earlestown, Lancashire. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 1 February 1917. Memorial: I.A.6; La Laiterie Military Cemetery.

ROBINSON, Charles. Corporal, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, “C” Coy, 7th Battalion, 19579. Born Summerhill. Son of William and Hannah Robinson, nee Sarson. Residence: Court Devenish, Athlone, Co. Westmeath. Enlistment location: Ballinasloe. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 16 August 1917. Age: 21. Memorial: Panel 70 to 72 Tyne Cot Memorial.

ROCHFORD, Joseph. Lance-Corporal, Queen’s Own Hussars, 4th Battalion, 10873. Baptised Trim, 13 May 1894. Son of Bernard and Catherine Rochford, nee Larkin, Newhaggard, Trim. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Brother, Michael, also killed in the war. A third brother, Peter, survived the war. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 15 August 1914. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 5 November 1914. Award: 1914 Star. Memorial: B.19, Bailleul Communal Cemetery (Nord).

Rochford, Joseph, Trooper 5th RI Lancers (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

Family source said he was captured and made a prisoner of war. He was not able to march and a German officer shot him in the head.

ROCHFORD, Michael. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2 Battalion, 10084. Baptised Trim, 29 July 1897. Son of Bernard and Catherine Rochford, nee Larkin, Newhaggard, Trim. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Brother, Joseph, also killed in the war. A third brother, Peter, survived the war. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 8 September 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 October 1914. First battle of the 2nd Battalion, took place 18-20 October 1914 at Armentieres. Memorial: Panel 10, Ploesteert Memorial.

Rochford, M. Private, Leinster Regiment (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

Family source said he died during field surgery when they were taking his leg off.

ROE, Joseph. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 10534. Baptised Trim, 21 July 1897. Son of Patrick and Elizabeth Roe, nee Kelly, High Street, Trim. Father’s occupation: Publican. Enlistment location: Dublin. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 24 August 1916 or 23 August 1918. Age: 21. Memorial H.19, St. Hilaire Cemetery Extension, Frevent.

ROGERS, Christopher. Acting Fitter Sergeant, Royal Field Artillery, 29th Bty. 22862. Born: Dublin. Son of Abraham Rogers. Husband of Agnes Rogers, 17, O’Growney Terrace, Navan. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 19 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 March 1916. Age: 33. Memorial: I.8, Dickebisch New Military Cemetery.

“Sergt. Rogers, Royal Field Artillery, belonging to Navan, was killed at the front on March 27th. He was recommended for the D.C.M. He leaves a widow and family.” Meath Chronicle 13 May 1916.

ROGERS, James. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 4265. Born: Drumree. ATTENDED CLONALVEY NATONAL SCHOOL MOTHER MARY ROGERS MARRIED JOHN CLINTON IN BALBRIGGAN  Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 13 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 September 1915. Memorial: Panel 9 and 10, Loos Memorial.

ROGERS, James. Lance-Corporal, Labour Corps, 12th Labour Battalion, 711th Coy. 348319. Formerly Royal Engineers, 163200. Born: Trim. Enlistment location: Dublin. Died, Salonica, 19 September 1917. Memorial: 10, Kirechkoi-Hortakoi Military Cemetery.

ROURKE, John. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 2nd Battalion, 7253. Born: Co. Meath. Son of Andrew and Sarah Rourke, 99, North Strand Road, Dublin. Husband of Mary Rourke, 17, Ballybough Cottages, Dublin. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 21 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 26 October 1914. Age: 30. Memorial: Panel 42 and 43, Le Touret Memorial.

ROURKE, John. Private, Connaught Rangers, 2nd Battalion, 10622. Baptised Rathmolyon/Enfield, 21 September 1895. Son of John and Anne Rourke, nee Allen, Rathcore, Enfield. Father’s occupation: Farm Labourer. Enlistment location: Naas, Co. Kildare. Served in France from 14 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 1 November 1914. Age: 19. Memorial: LII.F.11; Poelcapelle British Cemetery.

ROWLEY, The Hon. George Cecil. 2nd Lieutenant, King’s Royal Rifle Corps, 5th Bn attached 1st Battalion, Son of Hercules Edward Rowley, fourth Baron Langford of Summerhill and his wife Georgina Mary, daughter of Sir Richard Sutton. Killed in action, 17 February 1917. Age: 20. Memorial: I.E.17; Regina Trench Cemetery, Grandcourt.

Memorial Agher Church- In memory of Hon.ble George Cecil Rowley 2nd Lieutenant King’s Royal Rifle Corps. Son of the 4th Baron Langford killed in action near Miraunmont 17th Feb. 1917 aged 20. Buried near Miraunmont.

2nd Lt. Hon G.C. Rowley Second Lieutenant 60th Rifles K.R.R. (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour)

RUSSELL, Andrew Joseph. Sergeant, London Regiment, Royal Fusiliers, 4th Battalion, 3046. Baptised Kells, 18 September 1887. Son of Patrick and Mary Russell, nee Doyle, Church Street, Kells. Father’s occupation: Professor of Music. Residence: Highgate. Enlistment location: Shaftesbury Street. Served in Egypt from 24 August 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 14 September 1916 Age: 29: Memorial: X.D.9A; Etaples Military Cemetery.

 “Kells Man Fatally Wounded in France

We regret to learn that Mr. Andrew J. Russell, B.A. a native of Kells, has died of wounds received in the recent hard fighting on the Somme front in France. The news that reached Kells last Friday lacked official confirmation, and it was hoped that it might prove unfounded, as other such stories have sometimes proven, but unfortunately later advices from semi-official sources show that the sad tidings were only too true. A telegram received on Tuesday states that he died in France on Thursday 14th September of wounds received on the previous Sunday. Many friends in various districts and the people of his native place have learned with much regret of poor “Andy’s” early demise. He was aged about 25 years. He was the second son of the late Mr. Patrick Russell, some time organist of St. Columbkille’s Church, Kells. He was educated in the Christian Brothers’ Schools, Kells, and showed ability of a high order, especially in mathematical subjects. He followed up a series of brilliant successes in the Intermediate exams by taking out the B.A. degree of the National University. Shortly before commencement of the war he was awarded a scholarship by the Department of Technical Instruction enabling him to take a course of special study at the London School of Economics. While pursuing his studies in London, he with a number of fellow-students, enlisted in a British regiment. Having served at Malta and Salonica, he was sometime this year transferred to the more dangerous sphere of action in France. “Andy” inherited some of his father’s musical talents. He possessed a fine baritone voice, and was much in request by organisers of local concerts. At one time he took an active part in organising Gaelic sports and was an expert wielder of the caman. He was amongst the most enthusiastic of the Kells Volunteers, and evincing a marked taste for military pursuits, and with his love of adventure, it was not surprising that he should have embraced the opportunity of learning the soldier’s trade. R.I.P.” Meath Chronicle 23 September 1916.

“How Sergeant Russell Died – Chaplain’s Sad Message.

The Rev. Fr. McCabe, Roman Catholic Chaplain to the regiment to which the late Sergt. A.J. Russell of Kells belonged, has sent the following letter to a friend of the deceased:- “Your letter has just reached me, and I hasten to give you all the details in my power concerning Sergt. Russell, your friend. He was seriously wounded in the chest by shrapnel, and though he had the best possible medical attention and nursing, the wound caused his death. He had little or no pain and was quite conscious up to a few hours of the end. I was with him twice – the last time the day previous to his death. He received all the Sacraments of the Church in most edifying dispositions and he offered up his life willingly to God when he knew he was in grave danger. I hope all his friends will be resigned to God’s holy will, and to offer it up to God, even as he made the sacrifice of his life, like the gallant soldier and fervent Catholic that he was. It should be of great comfort to his people to know how well he was prepared for the end and how surely the merciful Judge, Our Blessed Lord, will have received his soul. May he rest in peace – I am yours in deep sympathy J.C.A.E. McCabe C.S.S.R. R.C. chaplain.

On Monday morning Mass was celebrated in St. Columbkille’s Church by Rev. Father Casey C.C. for the repose of the soul of the deceased. A number of relatives and friends attended.”

Meath Chronicle 30 September 1916.

RUSSELL, William Francis. Corporal, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 29064. Baptised Stamullin, 7 February 1899. Son of Robert and Mary Russell, nee Cantwell, Demanistown, Julianstown. Father’s occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 14 October 1918. Age: 20. Memorial: VI.A.9; Dadizeele New British Cemetery. Drogheda War Memorial.

RYAN, Hugh Joseph, Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 26631. Baptised Rathmolyon, 22 August 1883. Son of Michael and Anne Ryan, nee Smith, Kill and later of 54 Eccles Street, Dublin. Occupation: Grocer’s Assistant. Residence: Dalkey, Dublin. Enlistment location: Kingstown. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 8 August 1917. Age: 33. Memorial: XVII.D.12A; Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery.

SAVAGE, George. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 1st Battalion, 2967. Formerly R.A.M.C. Son of Robert and Frances Savage, Donaghpatrick. Residence: Donaghpatrick. Educated: Wilson’s Hospital, Multyfarnham. Brother of Robert, who was killed in the war. Their brother, Charles, survived the war but was severely wounded. Enlisted 1914 in the Royal Army Medical Corps in Dublin. Died 4 March 1917. Age: 26. Memorial: Pier and Face 15 A and 15 B, Thiepval Memorial.

SAVAGE, Robert. Private. Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 25880. Born: Templemore. Son of Robert and Frances Savage, Donaghpatrick. Educated: Wilson’s Hospital, Multyfarnham. Brother of George, who was killed in the war. Their brother, Charles, survived the war but was severely wounded. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 8 August 1918, first day of battle of Hindenberg line. Age: 31. Memorial: II.G.13; Borre British Cemetery.

SEERY, James. Guardsman, Scots Guards, 1st Battalion, 7636. Baptised Oldcastle, 22 April 1888. Son of James and Mary Seery, nee Gillick, Baltrasna, Moylough. Enlistment location: Liverpool. Served in France from 27 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 11 November 1914. Memorial: Panel 11, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial. PARENTS NOT CORRECT NEEDS TO BE CHECKED

SHEERIN, Joseph. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 20131. Born: Yellow Furze. Residence: Beauparc. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 7 July 1916. Memorial: Panel 124, Loos Memorial.

 “At the Navan Board of Guardians on Wednesday, on a motion of Mr. Kelly, seconded by Mr. Price, a vote of sympathy was passed with Mr. Collins (Master) brother in law and the relatives of the late Mr. James Sheerin, R.I.F. who was recently killed in the war.” Meath Chronicle 5 August 1916.

SHERIDAN, Bryan (Bernard). Corporal, 4th Canadian Mounted Rifles Battalion, 11 1452. Previously served two years with the Irish Guards.  Born Navan, 22 July 1885. Son of Thomas and Margaret Sheridan, nee Kiernan, Trimgate Street, Navan and later of Grange Bective, Navan. Brother, William, also killed in the war. Another brother, Philip, was a prisoner of war but survived the war. Father’s occupation: (1901) Shopkeeper, (1911) Farmer. Occupation: (1911) Clerk. Height: 5 foot 9 inches. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Brown. Enlisted 31 March 1915. Died: 3 June 1916. Memorial: Paanel 30, 32, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

SHERIDAN, James John. Acting Company Quartermaster Sergeant, Lincolnshire Regiment, 1st Garrison Battalion, 19619. Formerly South Staffordshire Regiment, 10630. Born: Navan. Son of James and Sarah Sheridan. Husband of Sarah Sheridan, nee Kelly, 74, Dumbarton Road, Clydebank, Glasgow. Enlistment location: Claybank, Dumbarton. Died, Malta, 28 January 1916. Age: 52. Memorial: C.VII.3; Pieta Military Cemetery.

SHERIDAN, Thomas. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 5462. Born: Fordstown. Residence: Kells. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 1 February 1917. Memorial: I.F.23; Loker Churchyard.

SHERIDAN, Thomas. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 8th Battalion, 16072. Born: Moynalty. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 23 March 1916. Memorial: I.H.129; Chocques Military Cemetery.

SHERIDAN, William. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 5949. Baptised Navan, 2 April 1894. Son of Thomas and Margaret Sheridan, nee Kiernan, Trimgate Street, Navan and later of Grange Bective, Navan. Brother, Bryan, also killed in the war. Another brother, Philip, was a prisoner of war but survived the war. Father’s occupation: (1901) Shopkeeper, (1911) Farmer. Occupation: Farmer’s son. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France from 2 April 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 18 May 1915. Age: 22. Memorial: Panel 4, Le Touret Memorial.

“Young Meathman Killed in the War

Deep regret has been occasioned in Bective district by the news that Mr. William Sheridan, seventh son of Mr. Thomas Sheridan and Mrs. Sheridan, of Grange, Bective, has been killed at the front while fighting with the Irish Guards. Some months ago, the deceased, who was little more than twenty, joined the famous Irish regiment and after a brief training in England, was sent to the war. He was a young man of engaging disposition, cheerful, kindly and sport-loving, qualities which endeared him to many friends who have heard with heartfelt sorrow of his sad fate. It was characteristic of him that when the opportunity came he fearlessly faced the perils of a soldier’s life, and now that he has fallen, when all the promises of life were before him, the thoughts of his youthful companions and all who knew him turn in fond and sad remembrance to the lonely grave where he sleeps in far-off France. With his bereaved father and mother and other members of the family, sincere and widespread sympathy is felt.” Meath Chronicle 3 July 1915.

SHERLOCK, Peter. Private, Highland Light Infantry, 12th Service Battalion, 22376. Secondary Regiment: Royal Engineers, attached 253rd Coy. Baptised Donore, 17 September 1882. Son of Peter and Elizabeth Sherlock, nee Daly, Donore and later of Rathgar, Dublin. Enlistment location: Wishaw, Lanarkshire. Served in France from 2 October 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 1 September 1916. Age: 33. Memorial: VI.E.8; Vermelles British Cemetery.

SHERWOOD, John James. Private, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 18326. Born: Oldcastle about 1896. Son of George and Elizabeth Sherwood, Glenboy, Oldcastle. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Residence: Oldcastle. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in Balkans from 11 July 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 1 July 1916. First day of the battle of the Somme. Memorial: Pier and Face 4 D and 5 B, Thiepval Memorial.

SHERWOOD, William Eaton. Sapper, Royal Engineers, 205th Field Company. 121073. Born: Loughcrew. Son of James and Elizabeth Sherwood, Loughcrew, Oldcastle. Father’s occupation: Stone Mason. Residence: Kells. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 8 November 1918. Age: 26. Memorial: X.C.26; Terlincthun British Cemetery, Wimille.

Sapper William Sherwood, R.E. (First World War Memorial, St. Kieran’s Church, Loughcrew.)

SILLERY, Robert. Private, Labour Corps, 174653. Baptised 31 August 1875. Son of Francis and Bridget Sillery, nee Lynch, Clonbartan, Drumconrath. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Died 22 March 1919. Age: 40. Memorial: Drumconrath New Catholic Graveyard.

SKELLY, John. Bombardier, Royal Garrison Artillery, 258th Siege Bty. 25853. Born: Moynalty. Residence: Baltrasna, Moynalty. Enlistment location: Hamilton. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 21 August 1917. Memorial: I.B.5; Godewaersvelde British Cemetery.

SOMERS, Patrick, Private, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 32. Born: Derrygonnelly, Co. Tyrone. Son of James and Winifred Somers, Sligo. Husband of Catherine Somers, Old Cornmarket, Navan. Enlistment location: Enniskillen. Killed in action, Gallipoli, 21 August 1915. Age: 34. Memorial: Panel 97 to 101, Helles Memorial.

SMITH Private, Fennor, Oldcastle. Killed September 1914.

“Oldcastle Men killed in the War

Deep regret has been occasioned in the Oldcastle district by the news that John Gaughran, Ballinlough; Private Smith, Fennor and Joseph Bergin, Oldcastle have been killed in the war. Meath Chronicle 3 October 1914.

SMITH, Christopher. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 10782. Born: Burry, Kells about 1887. Son of Philip and Margaret Smith, Balgeeth. Father’s occupation: Herd. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 31 July 1917. Memorial: VI.B.12; Artillery Wood Cemetery. St. Colmcille’s Cemetery, Kells.

“Private Christopher Smith, only son of Phillip Smith, of Ethelstown, has been reported killed at the Front on the 31st ult.” Meath Chronicle 18 August 1917.

SMITH, James. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 29329. Born: Culmullen about 1897. Son of Patrick and Margaret Smith, Bedfanstown, Crosskeys, Drumree. Father’s occupation: Herd. Occupation: Telegraph Messenger. Residence: Drumree. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 5 October 1917. Age: 20. Memorial: Panel 144 to 145, Tyne Cot Memorial.

SMITH, see CALLAN, Leo.

SMITH, Patrick. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 10641. Baptised Moylough, Oldcastle, 7 October 1888. Son of John and Margaret Smith, nee Gibney, Gortloney, Oldcastle. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Occupation: Farmer’s son. Enlistment location: Mullingar. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 23 March 1918. Age: 26. Memorial: Bay 1, Arras Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

SMITH, Patrick. Private, East Yorkshire Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 7161, Secondary Regiment: Labour Corps Secondary Unit transferred to (486815) 978th Coy. Son of Dan and Ellen Smith, Dublin. Husband of Annie Smith, Cottage Row, Enfield. Died Taranto, Italy, 5 October 1918. Age: 39. Memorial: III.H.7; Taranto Town Cemetery Extension, Italy.

SMYTH, Alexander. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 9351. Born: Athboy. Son of James and Mary Smyth, The Gardens, Killua, Clonmellon, Co. Westmeath. Residence: Mullingar. Enlistment location: Ballachulish, Argyle. Native of Dowestown, Cavan. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 31 July 1917. Age: 21. Memorial: II.J.19; Dozinghem Military Cemetery.

SMYTH, Matthew. Private, Connaught Rangers, 1st Battalion, 8067. Baptised Summerhill, 7 October 1883. Son of Thomas and Elizabeth Smyth, nee Reilly, Clondoogan, Summerhill. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Residence: Summerhill. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 14 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 19 March 1915. Memorial: Panel 43, Le Touret Memorial.

SMYTH, Nicholas. Lance-Corporal, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 10935. Baptised Duleek, 13 November 1887. Son of Edward and Brigid Smyth, nee Mitchell, Bolies, Duleek and later of Loughlinstown, Tara. Father’s occupation: Farm Servant. Residence: Duleek. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in Balkans from 25 April 1915. Killed in action, Gallipoli, 30 April 1915. Age: 27. Memorial: Special Memorial B. 101, V Beach Cemetery.

A grand nephew Myles Smyth 01-8211626 His grand father Nicholas’s brother also served and survivied.

See Paddy Hogarty Remeberrance A brief history of the Blue Caps pagwe 57 Nicholas letter

SMYTH, Patrick. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5250. Born: Drumconrath. Enlistment location: Drumconrath. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 March 1918. Memorial: Panel 78, Pozieres Memorial.

SMYTH, Philip. Private, Connaught, Rangers, 2nd Battalion, 10639. Baptised Kells, 23 August 1896. Son of Michael and Mary Smith, nee McNamee, Cannon Street, Kells and later of Norbinstown, Carterstown, Kells. Father’s occupation: Labourer. Residence: Kells. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Taken as a prisoner of war in August 1914 during the retreat from Mons. Died of pneumonia in a German Prisoner of War Camp, 11 August 1918. Age: 21. Memorial: V.L.8; Niederzwehren Cemetery.

SMYTH, Thomas. Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, “C” Coy. 9816. Formerly East Lancashire Regiment, 9503. Baptised Navan, 9 September 1887. Son of Peter and Rosanna Smyth, nee Boland, Chapel Lane, Navan. Father’s occupation: Shoemaker. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 19 December 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 25 May 1915. Age: 27. Memorial: Panel 42, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

SMYTH, William. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5408. Baptised Trim, 16 August 1898. Son of Patrick and Anne Smyth, nee Gallagher, Dalystown, later of Clonee, Ballivor and later of Donore, Hill of Down. Father’s occupation: Farm Labourer. Enlistment location: Trim. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 30 May 1918. Age: 20. Memorial: F.11, Cinq Rues British Cemetery, Hazebrouk.

His cousin, James McManus, Dalystown, Trim, was also killed in the war.

SODEN, Christopher. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 8581. Baptised Kells, 15 December 1874. Son of Thomas and Anne Soden, nee Brown. Husband of Mary Soden, 29, Upper Kevin Street, Dublin. Occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 1 April 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 24 May 1915. Age: 39. Memorial: Panel 44 and 46, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

SOUTHWELL, Thomas. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 10th Battalion, 26027. Born: Barristown. Son of Michael Southwell, Barristown, Slane. Residence: Stackallen. Enlistment location: Liverpool. Died, Home, 18 April 1916. Age: 28. Memorial: Hill of Slane Cemetery.

STACPOOLE – See DE STACPOOLE

STEWART, John. Corporal, Cheshire Regiment, 10th Battalion, W/891. Born: Co. Monaghan or Co. Cavan. Son of John and Hannah Stewart, nee Kelvey, Donore, Moynalty and later of Westland, Moynalty, Kells. Father’s occupation: (1901) Agricultural Labourer, (1911) Coachman. Occupation: Domestic Servant. Residence: Kells. Enlistment location: Port Sunlight, Cheshire. Served in France from 25 September 1915. Wounded late 1915 and on recovery returned to France. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 6 June 1918. Age: 24. Memorial: II.B.9; Jonchery-sur-Vesle British Cemetery.

STONES, Patrick. Private, Lancashire Fusiliers, 9th Battalion, 27914. Formerly King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry, 23676. Born: Trim. Son of James and Mary Stones, Corporationland, Trim. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Residence: Clonbun. Occupation: Farmer’s son. Enlistment location: Dewsbury, Yorkshire. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 4 October 1917. Age: 32. Memorial: Panel 54 to 60 and 163A, Tyne Cot Memorial.

STONE, Jos. Gnr RFA (Trim Church of Ireland, Roll of Honour) A Joseph Stones did serve with the Royal Field Artillery but is not listed as being killed in the war. Patrick did have a younger brother, Joseph.

STRAIN, Alex. Private, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 20860. Born: Rathmullan, Co. Meath. Son of Alex and Julia Brogan Strain and husband of Brigid Diver Strain. Enlistment location: Clydebank. Served in Balkans from 18 July 1915. Died of wounds, Gallipoli, 28 August 1915. Age: 44. Memorial: F.187, Alexandria (Chatby) Military and War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt. Drogheda War Memorial.

TEELING, Thomas. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5739. Born: Finchley, Middlesex, 20 July 1879. Married to Mary and at least one child, Mary Christina. Residence: Kells. Enlistment location: Navan. Occupation: Farm Labourer. Served in France from 8 September 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 11 April 1915. Memorial: B.15, Ferme Buterne Military Cemetery, Houplines.

“Meath Soldier Killed in Action

News reached Kells during the week that Private Thomas Teeling, a native of Headfort had been killed in action in the fight at Neuve Chapelle. Poor Teeling, who was a reservist, had been working for some years with Mrs. Rothwell, Rockfield.” Meath Chronicle 24 April 1915

M.H. Thunder

THUNDER, Michael Hubert Francis. 2nd Lieutenant, Royal Flying Corps. Born: 5 September 1879, Ramsgate. Son of George and Margaret Thunder, nee Pugin, Lagore, Ratoath. Father’s occupation: Major. Occupation: Mining Engineer. Received Royal Aero Club Aviators’ Certificate on Maurice Farman Biplane, at the Military School, Ruislip, on 16 January 1916. Died of burns, result of Zepplin raid, Norwich Hospital, 24 September 1916. Age: 34. Memorial: Ramsgate (St. Augustine) Roman Catholic Churchyard.

Second Lieutenant Michael H.F. Thunder of the RFC who died at Norwich from burns received in a flying accident, who was buried at Ramsgate on September 29th (1916) with military honours. He was son of the late George Thunder, of Lagore, Meath and grandson on his mother’s side of Pugin, the architect. He was educated at St. Augustine’s College, Ramsgate; he had his commission in December 1915, and was gazateered flying officer in March of this year. Six officers of the Flying Corps acted as bearers and the officer in command arrived by aeroplane. (From Flight )

“Second-Lieut. Michael H.F. Thunder of the Royal Flying Corps, youngest son of the late George Thunder, Lagore, died 24th ult. at Norwich Hospital from burns resulting from a flying accident.” Meath Chronicle 7 October 1916.

TINLEY, John. Royal Irish Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion, 20437. Born: Dunshaughlin. Residence: Bailieborough, Co. Cavan. Enlistment location: Cavan. Died, Egypt, 30 December 1917. Memorial: Chatby Memorial.

TISDALL, Charles Arthur. Major, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion. Son of Capt. John K. Tisdall and husband of Gwynneth May R. Tisdall. Killed in action near Villiers Cotterets, France & Flanders, 1 September 1914. Age: 39. Memorial: II.2, Guards’ Grave, Villiers Cotterets Forest.

Charles Arthur Tisdall was born in 1875, eldest son of John Knox Tisdall. As a young man he joined the Irish Guards. He inherited the Tisdall estate in 1895 when he was 20 years old, a total of 3962 acres in Meath, 493 in Limerick and 5775 in Kilkenny. He leased out the estate. Major Tisdall was killed just a month after the war broke out, killed in action in the retreat from Mons in Belgium.

Captain C.A. Tisdall, Irish Guards. (War Memorial, 1914 – 1918, Kells Church of Ireland)

Charles Arthur Tisdall, Captain Irish Guards, killed in action at Villiers Cottereto 1st September 1914 (Julianstown church – Stained Glass Window)

“Meathmen Killed and Wounded

… Captain C. A. Tisdall, Irish Guards, is now reported killed at Villiers Catterets. He was the eldest son of the late Captain J.K. Tisdall, R.E. and succeeded his grandfather, Mr. John Tisdall, J.P. D.L. Charlesfort, Meath in 1892. He joined the Irish Rifles in 1900, and was the next year transferred to the Guards. …” Meath Chronicle 28 November 1914.

A relative of his, Sub-Lt. A.W. St. Clair Tisdall, won the V.C. for distinguished gallantry at Gallipoli, in rescuing under heavy fire, several wounded men on the beach during the landing from the River Clyde on 25 April 1915.

Another relative Lt. C.D. Tisdall M.C. Irish Guards was killed 15 September 1916.

TUITE, James. Private, Australian Infantry, A.I.F., 36th Battalion, 3146. Baptised Oldcastle, 21 January 1883. Son of James and Elizabeth Tuite, nee Kelaghan, Oldcastle. Father’s occupation: Grocer, Farmer and J.P. Occupation: (1901) Apprentice, (1916) Farmhand. Height: 5 foot 8 inches. Eyes: Blue. Hair: Light Brown. Enlisted: 6 October 1916. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 6 April 1918. Age: 35. Memorial: Villers-Bretonneux Memorial. Memorial: St. Brigid’s Graveyard, Oldcastle.

“As a result of the recent “big push” on the western front, many Oldcastle names occur in the casualty lists, including Mr. Webb, Hilltown, Mr. Berry, Loughcrew, also a man named Tuite, who belonged to the Australian contingent.” Meath Chronicle 22 September 1917.

TULLY, John. Rifleman, Royal Irish Rifles, 2nd Battalion, “B” Coy. 19998. Born: Kells. Son of Luke and Kate Tully, Fair Green, Navan. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in the Balkans from 22 July 1915. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 19 May 1916. Age: 30. Memorial: Bay 9, Arras Memorial.

“News has reached Navan of the death of John Tully, Fair Green, who belonged to the Irish Guards. He was killed in action at the front.” Meath Chronicle 3 June 1916.

TYNAN, William. Lance-Corporal, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 4231. Born: Killashee, Co. Longford. Son of Joseph H. Tynan, M.D. and Anne, nee Carroll, of Oldcastle. Husband of Mary Tynan, nee Moore, 14 Auburn Avenue, Dublin. Residence: Dublin. Enlistment location: Portstmouth. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 12 April 1917. Age: 31. Memorial: Lievin Communal Cemetery Extension.

VANCROFT, Evan. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 2335. Born: Navan. Enlistment location: Dublin. Served in France from 13 August 1914. Killed in action, 3 November 1914. Memorial: II.B.20; Ypres Town Cemetery Extension.

VAUGHEY, John. Private, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5143. Born: Slane. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 March 1918. Memorial: Panel 78, Pozieres Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

WADE, George Edward. Lance-Corporal, Essex Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 8029. Born: Bromley-by-Bow, Middlesex. Son of Henry and Jane Wade, 104 Fairfoot Road, Bow, London. Husband of Josephine Wade, later Mangan, Grennanstown, Stamullin. Residence; Dublin. Enlistment location: Warley, Essex. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 8 May 1915. Age: 30. Memorial: Panel: 139. Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

WALLACE, Private. Irish Guards. Native of Kilkenny. Mother resided at St. Patrick’s Rectory, Trim. (Horneck)

WALL, Christopher Joseph. Corporal, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 1st Battalion, 24478. Baptised Dunboyne, 4 May 1892. Son of Patrick and Alice Walls, nee Begley, Jarretstown. Father’s occupation: Groom. Enlistment location: London. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 November 1917. Awards: D.C.M. Memorial: II.C.19; Croisilles British Cemetery.

WALL, John. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 6396. Born: Duleek. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 September 1916. Memorial: III.W.5; Guards’ Cemetery, Lesboeufs. Drogheda War Memorial.

WALL, Patrick, Lance-Corporal, Leinster Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5469. Born: Ardcath. Son of Thomas and Annie Wall, Hawkinstown, Piercetown, Rathfeigh. Father’s occupation: Herd. Occupation: Shepherd. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27 March 1918. Age: 27. Memorial: Panel 78, Pozieres Memorial.

WALL, Patrick, Private, Royal Irish Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 18420. Formerly Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 30552. Baptised Dunboyne, 11 March 1888. Son of Patrick and Alice Walls, nee Begley, Jarretstown. Father’s occupation: Groom. Residence: Dunboyne. Enlistment location: Dublin. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 6 June 1918. Memorial: II. D. 6; Ebblinghem Military Cemetery.

WALSH, Charles Joseph. Irish Guards. Baptised Navan, 5 May 1886. Son of Joseph and Rose Walsh, nee Bird, Watergate Street. Father’s occupation: Watchmaker/Jeweller.  Occupation: Watchmaker/Jeweller. Served in Navan Irish National Volunteers. Seriously wounded at Neuve Chapelle, 18 May 1915. Died  from wounds, Navan, 26 November 1919.  Memorial: New Cemetery, Boyne Road, Navan.  

“With much regret we record the death of Mr. Charles J. Walsh, which took place on Wednesday night after a lingering illness at Navan.  Deceased, who was a fine type of young Irish manhood, standing over six feet high, was a member of the old National Volunteers, and at the outbreak of war he responded to the call made by the late Mr. John E. Redmond, and joined the Irish Guards.  After the usual period of training he was sent to France, where he saw much service for several months.  Conveying a despatch in the front line of trenches, a German shell exploded in his vicinity, and he was blown into the air, and coming to earth was buried in a pile of debris.  Severe injury to the spine was the result, and having spent eighteen weary months in hospital in England, he returned home practically a physical wreck.  Before joining the army the late Mr. Walsh assisted his brother, Mr Alfred Walsh, in the watch-making and jewellery business carried on in Navan, and was well and favourably known to a wide circle.  A lover of outdoor sports, Charlie, as he was popularly known, was the best of good fellows, a true friend, genial companion, one of those whom to know was to love and esteem.  After his sorrowing young widow and two little children and other immediate relatives, his old school-fellows and companions will most poignantly feel his premature demise – he was little more than 30 years of age.  A member of one of the oldest and most respected families in the town, his sad fate is genuinely lamented by rich and poor, and the expressions of sincere condolence to those so tragically bereaved are many.  R.I.P.” Meath Chronicle, 29 November 1919

WALSH, Edward. Private, Irish Guards, 1st Battalion, 3409. Baptised Stamullin, 14 January 1889. Son of Patrick and Anne Walsh, nee Kennedy, Herbertstown. Father’s occupation: Shepherd. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 21 September 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 18 November 1914. Memorial: Panel II, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial. Drogheda War Memorial.

WALSH, Michael. Private, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment, 1st Battalion, 16784. Baptised Summerhill, 20 April 1879. Son of Michael and Christina Walsh, nee Feeney, Summerhill. Mother’s occupation: Lodging Housekeeper. Occupation: Labourer. Enlistment location: Bolton. Served in France from 30 September 1915. Killed accidentally, France & Flanders, 9 January 1916. Memorial: III.K.15; Dud Corner Cemetery, Loos.

WALSH, Patrick. Private, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 5183. Born: Duleek. Son of Thomas and Margaret Walsh, Painestown. Husband of Catherine Walsh, Dean Hill, Hayes, Navan. Two children: Thomas and Catherine. Residence: Navan. Enlistment location: Navan. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 9 March 1917. Memorial: K.7, Pond Farm Cemetery.

WALTON, Albert. Private, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry), 1st Battalion, 112th Coy. 8894. Formerly Northumberland Fusiliers, 23514. Born: Navan. Son of Mr. and Mrs. F. G. Walton. Enlistment location: Canterbury. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 10 July 1916. Age: 34. Memorial: 4.G.33; London Cemetery and Extension, Longueval.

WARD, Patrick. Staff-Sergeant, Cheshire Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 7180. Warrant Officer, sub-conductor of Supply and Transport, promoted to officer’s commission on death-bed, Indian Army. Born: Jordanstown, Enfield. Residence: Clara, Co. Offaly. Enlistment location: Birkenhead, Cheshire. Served in Africa from 10 November 1914. Died from Blackwater fever, Sindi, German East Africa, 28 December 1917. Age: 23. Awards: M.S.M. Mentioned in dispatches. Memorial: 6.A.10; Dar es Salaam War Cemetery.

WARD, Simon. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 9732. Baptised Navan, June 1880. Son of Mary Ward. Mother’s occupation: Seamstress. Husband of Elizabeth Ward, 71, St. Paul Street, Dublin. Occupation: (1901) Stable Boy. Enlistment location: Dublin. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 9 October 1917. Age: 36. Memorial: Panel 10 to 11, Tyne Cot Memorial.

WATSON, John. Private, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 10th Battalion, 16294. Born: Kilcock, Co. Kildare. Son of Anne Watson, Connaught Street, Kilcock, Co. Kildare. Enlistment location: Naas. Served in France from 20 December 1915. Wounded, 1916. Died, France & Flanders, 30 October 1918. Age: 23. Memorial: Balfeaghan Graveyard.

Balfeaghan Graveyard – 16294 Private J. Watson, Royal Dublin Fusiliers 30th October 1918 aged 23.

WATSON, Thomas. Gunner, Royal Field Artillery, 50th Bty, 34th Bde. 116062. Born: Oldcastle. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 19 October 1917. Memorial: P.III.M.10B; St. Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen.

WEBB

“As a result of the recent “big push” on the western Front, many Oldcastle names occur in the casualty lists, including Mr. Webb, Hilltown, Mr. Berry, Loughcrew, also a man named Tuite, who belonged to the Australian contingent.” Meath Chronicle 22 September 1917.

WHELEHAN, James. Private, Drummer, Leinster Regiment, 7th Battalion, 9295. Baptised Navan, 6 October 1890. Son of Peter and Julia Whelehan, nee Doogan, Cannon Row, Navan. Father’s occupation: Cloth Finisher. Enlistment location: Navan. Served in France from 22 February 1915. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 12 June 1917. Memorial: III,C.62; Bailleul Communal Cemetery Extension (Nord).

WHITE, Joseph. Private, Irish Guards, 2nd Battalion, 8843. Born: Heronstown. Son of Joseph and Bridget White, Killary. Husband of Mary White, Killary, Lobinstown. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 15 April 1918. Age: 31. Memorial: Div.62.III.D.4; Ste. Marie Cemetery, Le Havre. Drogheda War Memorial.

WHYTE, Bernard. Private, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry), 1st Battalion, 11th Coy. 6112. Formerly Leinster Regiment, 10554. Born: Dunshaughlin. Enlistment location: Navan. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 27 July 1916. Memorial: E. 7340, Cheltenham Cemetery.

WHYTE, John. Corporal, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 6th Battalion, 11432. Baptised Skryne, 29 June 1893. Son of Thomas and Elizabeth Whyte, nee Murtagh, Painestown, Dunshaughlin. Father’s occupation: Agricultural Labourer. Residence: Dunshaughlin. Enlistment location: Drogheda. Served in France from 23 August 1914. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 8 October 1918. Memorial: C.3, Beaurevoir British Cemetery.

WILLIAMSON, Jack. Private, Army Veterinary Corps, SE/33399. Born: County Armagh. Son of William and Sarah Williamson, Black Castle, Navan. Father’s occupation: Coachman. Occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Ironbridge. Drowned at sea, R.M.S. “Leinster,” 10 October 1918. Age: 24. Memorial: Hollybrook Memorial, Southampton.

WYLLIE, James. Private, Cameronians, Scottish Rifles, 2nd Battalion, A/7692. Born: Trim. Son of Jane Wiley, Sarsfield Avenue, Trim. Mother’s occupation: Labourer and Servant. Occupation: General Labourer. Enlistment location: Hamilton. Served in France from 17 February 1915. Died of wounds, France & Flanders, 11 February 1916. Memorial: VI.C.17A; Etaples Military Cemetery.

YORE, Peter. Private, Australian Infantry, A.I.F., 11th Battalion, 6843. Baptised Carnaross, 3 March 1884. Son of George and Elizabeth Yore, nee Farrelly, Rahendrick. Father’s occupation: Farmer. Occupation: (1901) Farmer’s son, (1916) Railway Employee. Emigrated to Blackpool in 1907 and worked as a gardener-farm hand at a convent. Emigrated to Australia in 1909 working his way on the ship, Omrah. Wife: Bridget Mary (Delia) Yore, nee Reilly. They met in Blackpool and married in Fremantle in 1912. Daughter: Mary Elizabeth. Residence: 2 Letitia Road, North Fremantle, Western Australia. Enlisted: 12 June 1916. Enlistment location: Albany, Western Australia. Height: 5 foot 6 inches. Eyes: Grey. Hair: Dark. Embarked at Freemantle on H.M.A.T. “Argyleshire”, 9 November 1916. In King George Hospital from 27 January 1917 to 12 February 1917. Served in France from 15 May 1917. Killed in action, France & Flanders, 20 September 1917. Memorial: Panel 7-17-23-25-27-29-31, Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

Casualties Broken down by Area

Not a complete list

Athboy

BAYLY, Maurice Fitzgerald.

CERUMNEY, James.

COLEMAN, Thomas.

CONLON, Richard.

CONNOLLY, Patrick,

CUNNIFFE, John.

GAFFNEY, Richard.

GLYNN, John.

GREY, George Rochfort.

LYNCH, Patrick.

McCLOREY, Owen.

McGUIRES, S.

MURPHY, Denis.

PALMER, Arthur.

REILLY, Patrick.

SMYTH, Alexander.

Ballivor

BLIGH, John.

BLIGH, Thomas

CONLON, Owen.

GANNON, William.

MAHON, Matthew J.

Donore

BYRNE, George,

CAMPBELL, James.

COOGAN, Michael.

COYLE, Patrick.

FINEGAN, William.

LEONARD, John.

McDONNELL, Patrick.

SHERLOCK, Peter.

Drogheda

AHEARNE, Michael James, Bettystown

BRENNAN, James John. Julianstown.

BRODIGAN, Francis John. Pilltown.

CAIRNES, William Jameson.

CODDINGTON, Hubert John. Oldbridge.

DEMPSEY, Patrick. St. Mary’s.

HEALY, William. St. Mary’s.

HENRY, Michael. Colpe.

KENEALLY, Charles. Laytown.

KENNY, Thomas. Born Slane.

KING, Lawrence.

MCCANN, Joseph. Colpe West.

McCONNON, Matthew J.

McDONALD, Alexander. Laytown.

McDONNELL, John. Kilsharvan.

McEVOY, Patrick. Donacarney.

McEVOY, Thomas. Donacarney.

McGRANE, Peter. Julianstown.

McGRANE, William. Julianstown.

MURTAGH, William. St. Mary’s.

OSBORNE , Geoffrey William. Julianstown.

REYNOLDS, Frederick. Mornington.

Drumconrath

CALLAN, Leo.

CAROLAN, Terence.

CASSIDY, Richard.

CULLITON, Edward.

CURTIS, Bernard,

DUNNE, Hugh.

KEELAN, Joseph. Meath Hill.

McEVOY, Richard. Heronstown.

REILLY, William. Lobinstown.

SILLERY, Robert.

SMYTH, Patrick.

WHITE, Joseph.

Duleek

BRIEN, John.

CLARKE, Cornelius.

CONLON, Thomas.

GAVIN, James.

GIBNEY, John.

GOGARTY, Matthew.

GORMAN, James.

GRADWELL, George Francis. Platten.

HAMMICK, St. Vincent Charles Farrant.

HATCH, Nicholas Stephen.

HEENEY, Samuel.

HOEY, James.

O’KEEFFE, Joseph Richard.

LANGAN, Eugene.

LANGAN, James.

McKEON, John

POTTER, John.

SMYTH, Nicholas.

WALL, John.

WALL, Patrick.

WALSH, Patrick.

Dunboyne

CRONE, David.

DUNNE, Patrick.

GAISFORD, Robert Sandeman,

GANNON, James,

LEONARD, Patrick,

McLOUGHLIN, Thomas.

MALONE, Patrick.

MEEHAN, Peter.

MOONEY, James. Clonee.

MULLEN, James. Roddinstown.

MULLEN, Patrick Joseph. Roddinstown.

O’NEILL, Patrick.

WALL, Christopher Joseph.

WALL, Patrick.

Dunshaughlin

ALLEN, Patrick Christopher.

DEASE, Maurice James. Culmullin

DORAN, John.

DOREY, John.

FOLEY, Christopher.

LONERGAN, Daniel. Culmullin

LONERGAN, John Francis. Culmullin.

RAFFERTY, Patrick.

ROGERS, James. Drumree

SMITH, James. Drumree.

TINLEY, John.

WHYTE, Bernard.

Enfield

COLGAN, John.

CRYAN, Patrick.

FARRINGTON, John Joseph.

FOWLER, George Glynn,

FURLONG, Patrick,

HILL, Edward.

HILL, Patrick.

MULALLEY, John.

MURPHY, Christopher.

REILLY, John.

ROURKE, John. Rathcore

RYAN, Hugh Joseph, Kill

SMITH, Patrick.

WARD, Patrick.

Kells and district

AUGHEY, John.

AUGHEY, Owen

BARNES, Peter Joseph, Carnaross.

BARNEWALL, The Hon. Reginald Nicholas Francis Mary.

BENNETT, James.

BOND, Alfred.

BRADY, Edward.

BRADY, Francis.

CARROLL, Frederick Stanley.

COYLE, Michael.

DEVINE, Patrick.

DRUM, Michael.

FARRELL, Patrick.

GEOGHEGAN, Michael

GERAGHTY, Patrick.

GRIFFIN, James.

HEALY, Guy Bambant.

HIGGINS, Patrick.

HOLMES, Oliver Wendall.

HOPKINS, James.

IRVINE, William. Allenstown

IRWIN, Thomas.

JENKIN, Victor David.

LEDDY, Patrick. Served as DOLAN

LEDDY, Peter.

LYNCH, Patrick. Carnaross.

McCABE, Andrew.

McCORMICK, John Hugh Gardiner.

McCORMACK, Thomas.

McDERMOTT, Matthew.

McDONNELL, James.

McENROE, Herbert Joseph.

McMAHON, Joseph.

McPARTLAND, John.

McPARTLAND, Matthew.

McWHIRTER, Robert.

MAGUIRE, George.

MAGUIRE, Patrick.

MARKEY, John. Carlanstown/Kilbeg

MARKEY, Thomas. Carlanstown/Kilbeg

MASTERSON, Michael.

MOLLOY, Thomas.

MULVANEY, James.

MULVANEY, Thomas.

MURPHY, John.

MURRAY, William Frederick.

PIGOTT, William Gregory.

RADCLIFFE, Herbert Gravers.

REILLY, John.

REILLY, Thomas.

RUSSELL, Andrew Joseph.

SAVAGE, George.

SAVAGE, Robert.

SHERIDAN, Thomas. Fordstown.

SMITH, Christopher.

SMYTH, Philip.

SODEN, Christopher.

TEELING, Thomas.

TISDALL, Charles Arthur. Charlesfort.

TULLY, John.

YORE, Peter. Carnaross.

Kentstown

BOHAN, Robert Joseph.

BOHAN, William.

CRINION, Michael.

DALY, John, Monkstown.

FAY, Michael. Kenstown.

Kilmessan/Dunsany

DOHERTY, Thomas. Dunsany.

HANLEY, Owen.

LYNCH, John.

MADDEN, Patrick Joseph.

PRESTON, Arthur John Dillon.

Kilmore

CONNOR, Christopher

Kinnegad and southwest Meath

COLLINS, James.

DARBY, John.

LANCASTER, Charles Edward Archibald. Ballyboggan.

LANCASTER, Thomas Arthur Victor.

MATTOCK, Robert Clement. Hill of Down.

MATTOCK, Thomas Southwood. Hill of Down.

WATSON, John. Kilcock.

Longwood

DE STACPOOLE, Robert Andrew

DE STACPOOLE, Roderick Algernon Anthony.

DIXON, Michael.

EBBITT, Joseph.

FLYNN, Patrick.

HUSSEY, Patrick.

KILLEEN, Michael.

Moynalty

DALY, James.

MAGAN, Frederick.

MARSHALL-BARNES, Alfred Hubert.

MUNROE, Patrick.

O’BRIEN, Christopher Owen.

O’BRIEN, Owen.

REILLY, James.

REILLY, Michael.

SHERIDAN, Thomas.

SKELLY, John.

STEWART, John.

Navan and district

BLAKE, John.

BOYLAN, Joseph.

BRADY, John. Dunderry

BRENNAN, Patrick.

BRIEN, William Thomas. Randalstown.

CAHILL, James.

CALLAGHAN, John. Castletown.

CARROLL, J.

CARROLL, Matthew.

CASEY, Christopher.

CASSERLY, Edward. Bohermeen.

CASSIDY, Edward. Bohermeen.

CASSIDY, Joseph.

CASSIDY, Thomas. Harristown.

CLARKIN, Patrick. Robinstown

CLINTON, Thomas.

COLCLOUGH, Michael Joseph.

COLLINS, George.

COWLEY, Joseph.

CREGAN, Patrick Joseph.

DARBY, Patrick, Johnstown.

DODDS, William.

DONNELLY, Thomas.

DONOHOE, Joseph.

DOUGHERTY, Thomas.

DUIGNAN, Bernard.

FAY, James. Johnstown.

FITZPATRICK, Edward. Johnstown.

FITZSIMONS, Frank.

FLANAGAN, James.

FOX, Patrick.

GALLIGAN, Patrick.

GALLIGAN, Thomas.

GERRARD, Christopher. Bohermeen.

GILBERT, James.

GILES, Victor Marshall.

GORMAN, Joseph.

HAMILTON, Lawrence.

HARLIN, Arthur Joseph.

HAROLD, Thomas Francis.

HEARY, Thomas.

HENNESSY, Patrick Andrew.

HODGINS, Joseph Thomas. Faughanhill.

HOLDEN, Sidney Naldrett.

JENKINS, William. Ardbraccan.

KANE, Patrick.

KEALY, William.

KEAPPOCK, John.

KERRIGAN, Joseph.

LEGGE-BOURKE, Nigel Walter Henry. Hayes.

LEONARD, Michael Joseph.

LOWRY, Joseph Ewart. Bachelor’s Lodge.

LYONS, Christopher. Ardbraccan.

McDONNELL, Patrick.

McLOUGHLIN, James. Tankardstown

MASTERSON, Michael.

MASTERSON, Patrick.

MASTERSON, Patrick.

MATHIESON, Kenneth Ronald. Tara.

MATTHEWS, John.

METGE, Rudolph C. Athlumney.

MONAGHAN, Lawrence.

MONAGHAN, Thomas.

MOORE, Patrick.

MULDOON, Philip.

MULVANEY, Joseph.

MURPHY, Joseph.

MURPHY, Peter.

NEVINS, Eugene.

O’BRIEN, Joseph.

O’KEEFFE, Christopher.

O’NEILL, Christopher.

O’ROURKE, Christopher.

OWENS, William. Hayes.

PETTIGRUE, Thomas Percy. Ardbraccan.

PHILLIPS, John Paul. Wilkinstown.

PHILLIPS, Michael.

PIERCE, Thomas.

QUINN, James.

REILLY, James.

REILLY, John.

REILLY, John. Randlestown.

REILLY, Patrick.

REILLY, Patrick.

REILLY, William. Ardbraccan.

RENNICKS, Richard. Ardbraccan.

ROGERS, Christopher.

SHEERIN, Joseph.

SHERIDAN, Bryan.

SHERIDAN, James John.

SHERIDAN, William.

SOMERS, Patrick.

SMYTH, Thomas.

VANCROFT, Evan.

WALSH,Charles.

WALTON, Albert.

WARD, Simon.

WHELEHAN, James.

WILLIAMSON, Jack.

Nobber

BLIGH, Frederick Arthur.

ENGLISHBY, James.

HAGERTY, John.

McCANN, Cornelius.

O’REILLY, Hugh. Kilmainhamwood

O’REILLY, William. Kilmainhamwood

Oldcastle

ARMSTRONG, John,

ARMSTRONG, William

BERRY, Harry Albert. Loughcrew

CASSIDY, James Joseph. Ross

DOWNEY, Eugene.

DRUMGOOLE, John.

FARRELL, James.

GAFFNEY, John. Ross.

GAUGHRAN, Thomas. Ballinlough.

GIBNEY, James.

GIBSON, Walter David.

GLANCY, James. Ballinlough.

KELLETT, Thomas. Seymourstown.

KIERNAN, James Leo.

KIERNAN, Patrick.

LOWNDES, Thomas.

McENROE, James. Ballinlough.

McGUIRE, Joseph.

McLARNEY, John.

McPHILLIPS, Joseph.

MAHON, Hugh.

MARLOW, Charles Dwyer.

MOSS, David. Loughcrew.

NAPER, Francis C. Loughcrew.

NAPER, George Wyatt Edgell. Loughcrew.

O’NEILL, Thomas. Loughcrew.

SEERY, James.

SHERWOOD, John James.

SHERWOOD, William Eaton.

SMITH, Patrick.

TUITE, James.

TYNAN, William.

WATSON, Thomas.

Oristown

CALLAGHAN, Michael.

HORAN, William.

KENNEDY, Thomas.

MINCH, John.

MURRAY, Patrick.

Ratoath/Ashbourne

BRADY, James

CARR, John. Ashbourne

CLARKE, Michael Joseph

CLARKE, Joseph.

DONNELLY, John.

DUNNE, John Joseph. Curraha.

FORTUNE, Christopher.

MITCHELL, Christopher. Curraha.

MITCHELL, John. Curraha.

O’TOOLE, James.

PLUNKETT, Hugh. Crickstown

THUNDER, Michael Hubert Francis. Lagore.

Skryne

CONNOR, Patrick.

DUFFY, Bernard.

HUGHES, Bernard.

MURDOCK, Charles Walter. Rathfeigh.

WALL, Patrick. Rathfeigh

WHYTE, John.

Slane and district

BRUTON, Charles. Beauparc.

CAMPBELL, Hugh. Beauparc

CAREY, Edward. Rathkenny

CAROLAN, Laurence.

CLARKE, real name LANE, served as Clarke. James.

CONYNGHAM, Victor George Henry Francis.

CRONIN, Gerald George.

FARRELL, Francis,

FEELEY, William. Stackallen.

FITZPATRICK, Patrick.

FLOOD, Michael Joseph.

FLOOD, Patrick.

GRIFFIN, Thomas. Fennor.

HALPIN, Edward. Killary.

HALPIN, John. Killary.

HALPIN, Matthew. Barristown.

LANE, Charles Willington Tremayne. Rathkenny

LEDWIDGE, Francis Edward.

LYNAGH, Patrick.

LYNCH, Charles Joseph.

McCONNON, James.

McCONNON, William.

McGRATH, Richard.

MURPHY, Michael.

NULTY, Edmund.

OSBORNE, Marcus Stuart. Rosnaree

REGAN, Paul. Brownstown, Beauparc.

SOUTHWELL, Thomas.

VAUGHEY, John.

Stamullin

CARR, Patrick.

CLARKE, Lawrence.

DOMEGAN, Christopher Patrick. Ardcath.

GOUGH, Patrick

HAMILTON, Andrew. Ardcath.

JAMESON, Edward.

McKEON, James.

RUSSELL, William Francis.

WALSH, Edward.

WADE, George Edward.

Summerhill

BARNARD, William.

FARRELL, Philip.

ROBINSON, Charles.

ROWLEY, The Hon. George Cecil.

SMYTH, Matthew.

WALSH, Michael.

Trim

ALLEN, John.

BEHAN, Thomas.

BIRD, Michael.

BROGAN, William Bernard

CARROLL, Christopher.

CHAMBERS, Edward Chandos Elliott.

CLARKE, Patrick.

CONNOR, James.

CONNORS, Joseph.

COX, Patrick

CROSBY, Hugh.

ENNIS, Michael.

FARRELL, Paul.

FAUGHLIN, Patrick.

FINNEGAN, Thomas.

FORAN, John.

GAUGHRAN, Christopher.

GIBBONS, Patrick.

GIBNEY, John.

GOGARTY, Christopher.

GRIFFITH, George.

HALLIGAN, John.

HALLIGAN, Richard.

HALTON, Matthew. Clonfane.

McCORMACK, Henry.

McGUIRE, Andrew.

McGUIRE, William.

McMANUS, James.

MALONE, William.

MOONEY, Michael.

MURPHY, George.

MURRAY, John. Kildalkey.

NUGENT, Thomas.

NULTY, Patrick.

O’BRIEN, Gerald.

O’DARE, James.

O’DARE, John.

POTTERTON, William Hubert.

PURDON, George Hardress.

QUINN, Peter.

REGAN, Matthew J.

REILLY, James.

REYNOLDS, Peter.

ROCHFORD, Joseph.

ROCHFORD, Michael.

ROE, Joseph.

ROGERS, James.

SMYTH, William.

STONES, Pat.

WYLLIE, James.

Wilkinstown and Castletown

DUFFY, Thomas. Castletown

GILLIAT, Cecil (“Glennie”) Glendower Percival. Arch Hall, Wilkinstown.

GILLIATT, Reginald Horace Crosbie. Arch Hall, Wilkinstown.

GILSENAN, Thomas. Kilberry.

KELLY, Joseph. Wilkinstown.

KIERAN, James. Castletown.

McCANN, Joseph. Kilberry.

MEEHAN, Patrick. Wilkinstown

MEGAN, Lawrence. Wilkinstown.

MOORE, John. Wilkinstown.

Addresses in Meath but no clear address.

CONNOLLY, James. Moate, Co. Meath.

CONNORTON, W. Meath.

McGUINNESS, Michael. Meath

McKENNA, Denis. Meath

MILLS, R.S. Meath

MURTAGH, James. Meath.

PAGE, Henry George. Meath.

REILLY, Michael. Meath.

ROURKE, John. Meath

British Legion, Trim.

MEATH SURVIVORS OF WORLD WAR I

BOYLAN-  Brigadier Edward Thomas Arthur George Boylan of Hilltown, Drogheda, was born on 23 February 1894. He died on 24 September 1959 at age 65.     Brigadier Edward Thomas Arthur George Boylan fought in the First World War, where he was mentioned in despatches. He was decorated with the award of Military Cross (M.C.) in 1918. He was decorated with the award of Companion, Distinguished Service Order (D.S.O.) in 1918. He fought in the Second World War. He retired from the military in 1945, with the rank of Brigadier, late of the Royal Artillery. He was Keeper of the Match Book to the Irish Turf Club after 1945. He was invested as a Commander, Order of the British Empire (C.B.E.) in 1946.

BRABAZON, John Theodore, Cuthbert Moore-, first Baron Brabazon of Tara 1884-1964, aviator and politician, was born in London 8 February 1884, the younger son of Lt.-Col. John Arthur Henry Moore-Brabazon, of Tara Hall, county Meath.

He became the first Englishman to pilot a heavier-than-air machine under power in England. The flight took place over the Isle of Sheppey in May 1909, lasted rather more than a minute, and ended in a crash which nearly cost him his life. Moore-Brabazon served with the Royal Flying Corps on the western front, specializing in the development of aerial reconnaissance and photography. He rose to the rank of lieutenant-colonel, was awarded the MC, received three mentions in dispatches, and became a commander of the Legion of Honour.

He later became  the parliamentary private secretary to Winston Churchill, the newly appointed secretary of state for war and air. From 1923 to 1924 and 1924 to 1927 he was parliamentary secretary to the Ministry of Transport. In October 1940 he replaced Lord Reith as minister of transport in the wartime coalition and after seven months he became minister of aircraft production.

BYRNE- Meath Chronicle 1915- Private James  Byrne of Scarlet Street, Trim, and attached to the Leinster Regiment was invalided home from the front suffering from frostbite of the feet. Byrne who was in the fighting line contracted this malady in the trenches. He is now a patient in the local Workhouse Hospital where he is making god progress under the skilful treatment of the medical officers, Des O’Connell and O’Reilly. William Byrne, a brother, proceeded recently to the seat of the war.

CAIRNES – Lt-Col Tom Algar Elliott Cairnes DSO 1917 of Stameen, Drogheda late 7th Dragoon Guards served in World  War I and WWII with RFC and RAF

CLIFFORD- Reverend Richard Frederick Martin Clifford MA, Trinity College Dublin BA 1897, Commissioned 7.9.1915, Temporary Chaplain to the Forces 1915-16.; Rector of Bective 1910 – 18; Rector of Kells 1918 – 24.

CORBALLIS –  James Frederick Joseph Corballis was born on 7 August 1865. He was the son of  James Henry and Constantina Jeringham. He married Sybil Musgrave Beadon in 1889. He died on 31 October 1945 at age 80.     James Frederick Joseph Corballis was Recruiting Officer (Capt) 1914-15 Capt 1914. He was served in South Africa as Captain ASC (Res) 1900 Res 1900. Div Registrar for Wales. He was educated Fort Augustus, and Col1ege de la Paix, Namur, Belgium. He was sometime Lieut R Irish Regiment and 2nd (Militia) Battalion Cameron Highlanders. He lived Ratoath Manor.

CORBALLIS –  James Frederick Joseph Corballis was born on 7 August 1865. He was the son of  James Henry and Constantina Jeringham. He married Sybil Musgrave Beadon in 1889. He died on 31 October 1945 at age 80.     James Frederick Joseph Corballis was Recruiting Officer (Capt) 1914-15 Capt 1914. He was served in South Africa as Captain ASC (Res) 1900 Res 1900. Div Registrar for Wales. He was educated Fort Augustus, and Col1ege de la Paix, Namur, Belgium. He was sometime Lieut R Irish Regiment and 2nd (Militia) Battalion Cameron Highlanders. He lived Ratoath Manor.

DUNSANY, Lord Dunsany served as a Captain, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, World War I and was wounded. Having been refused forward positioning in 1916, being listed as valuable as a trainer, in the latter stages of the war he spent time in the trenches, and in the very last period wrote material for the War Office.

FARRELL – Valentine Joseph Farrell, Moynalty. Son of John Edward Farrell of Moynalty house, second son. also serving were three of his brothers. Serving with the Leinster regiment. He received a MC as a lieutenant on 9th September 1916. ‘the difficult task of withdrawing the remnant of the battalion was executed by the above officer (Lieutenant Farrell) at great risk to himself.’ As Captain at the battle of St. Quentin in June 1918 he received a bar to the MC. Two  months later at Ypres he was awarded the DSO for setting an example to his men so they were encouraged to fight. By the end of the war he had been promoted to Major.

FOWLER – Robert St. Leger Fowler was born on 7 April 1891. He was the son of Robert Henry and Mabel Glyn of Rahinstown, Rathmolyon, Co. Meath. Served in World War I as Captain 17th Lancers. He was Military Cross (M.C.) in 1916. He died on 13 June 1925 at age 34, unmarried. FOWLER, Robert St. Leger Fowler born at his family home, Rahinstown, Enfield, Co Meath on 7 April 1891. He came from a cricket background. Sent to Eton.  Making the British Army his career. Then War engulfed his way of life. He emerged unscathed, a captain with a Military Cross won during the defence of Amiens against the last German offensive of 1918. Poor health had seen him granted leave from the Army to return to Enfield early in 1925.There leukaemia was diagnosed. On 13 June, at the height of the cricket season, he died.

FOX – Major Brabazon Hubert Maine Fox of Galtrim House, born 6 November 1868, baptised at Kilvemnon co. Tipperary, educated at the abbey school, Tipperary and at Trinity College. Joined 1st Battalion Royal Irish Rifles from Royal South Down Militia as 2nd Lieutenant 8 December 1888, Lieutenant 2 Janaury 1890, captain 25 December 1908 and posted to Reserve of Officers; Adjutant 2nd Volunteer Battalion The Norfolk Regiment July 1904, served in Malta and India; appointed Commandant and Cantonment Magistrate of Purandhar Hill dEpot, near Poona, India 1897; rejoined army 17 September 1914 and appointed 2nd in command of the 9th (service) Battalion Lancashire Regiment, served in european War in France and Macadedonia.

FOX – Niall Arthur Hubert Fox, son of Major Brabazon Fox, born at Purandhar Hill depot 1897 appointed 2nd Lieutenant 1st Batttalion royal Irish regiment 15 December 1914, Lieuteant 20 January 1915, served in European War, and took part in the second battle of Ypres, Flanders.

HARMAN – William Smith Harman born 1803 married Catherine Battersby, eldest daughter rof Thomas Battersby of Newcastle in 1836.  His eldest son William succeeded him at Crossdrum  born 1837 married Mary O’Rorke of Loughcrew. Their son was in the Army Lt. Col. Charles Cecil Harman DSO 1916 and bar 1917. Leisnter Regiment 1900 to 1922 seerved in the South African War an din world wAr I transferred to Royal sussex regiment in 1922, commanded 1st Batallion 1928-32, held Revolver chgampionship Britishg army. Born 1877 married Muriel Huth in 1914 and had two sons, William ansd charles both of whom served in the second World War. When charles Cecil died in 1952 his widow remarried tow years alter to Major Kenneth Thompson of Triermore House.

HARVEY Frederick Maurice Watson (Reg. No.542), Lieutenant. Lord Strathcona’s Horse, CEF., Born on 1st September 1888 at Athboy, Meath. Died on 24th August 1980 at Calgary, Alberta, Canada.  During the First World War while serving in the Canadian Army he was awarded the Victoria Cross, the Military Cross and the Croix de Guerre. He was educated at Portora Royal High School, Co. Fermanagh and played rugby for Wanderers and Ireland. His two brothers also represented Ireland at Rugby.

Harvey arrived in Canada in 1908 and worked as a surveyor. In 1915 he enlisted in the Canadian Mounted Rifles. He was commissioned as a lieutenant and posted to the Western Front. He was transferred to Lord Strathcona’s Horse. Harvey was awarded the VC following an incident on 27 March 1917 at the village of Guyencourt.

During an attack by his regiment on a village, a party of the enemy ran forward to a wired trench just in front of the village, and opened rapid fire and machine-gun fire at a very close range, causing heavy casualties in the leading troop. At this critical moment, when the enemy showed no intention whatever of retiring, and fire was still intense, Lt. Harvey, who was in command of the leading troops, ran forward well ahead of his men and dashed at the trench, skilfully manned, jumped the wire, shot the machine-gunner and captured the gun. His most courageous act undoubtedly had a decisive effect on the success of the operations

Harvey was awarded the Military Cross and Croix de Guerre for an action in March 1918. After the war Harvey remained with Canadian Army and was promoted to captain in 1923. He then served as the Instructor in Physical Training at the Royal Military college of Canada from 1923 to 1927. In 1938, he became the commanding officer of Lord Strathcona’s Horse And a year later was promoted to Brigadier General. He retired in 1945. He died aged 91 in 1980 and was buried at Union Cemetery, Fort Mcleod, Alberta, Canada.

JAMESON – Henry D. Henry D’Arcy Jameson, of Delvin Lodge, Co. Dublin, was the son of Robert D’Arcy Jameson by his second wife, Eva Harrison. Henry D’Arcy Jameson was a lieutenant with the South Irish Horse during the First World War. In 1926 he married Isabelle Eileen Preston, eldest daughter of Alexander Preston Jones of Enniscorthy, and by her had one son, Robert Alexander Jameson, who later settled at Calary House, Ballinastoe, Kilpedder, Co. Wicklow.

KILROY, Richard Anthony (Tony) Born: 27 February 1895, in Oldcastle, county Meath, Ireland. Father: William Wesley Kilroy and Annie Catherine Maxwell (Groome) Kilroy. Kilroy served in World War I, enlisting in the 12th Regiment, Canadian Mounted Rifles in Calgary on 18 June 1915 (Trooper 117338). Married: Martha Jane Webb in 1927 in Mullingar. Died 1971. Buried in Killeagh cemetery, Oldcastle.

MAGAN – Lt. Col. Arthur Tilson Shaen Magan served in World War I. Lt.-Col. Arthur Tilson Shaen Magan was born in 1880. He was the son of Percy Tilson Magan and Anne Catherine Richards and was married to Kathleen Jane Biddulph on 22 January 1906.1 He died on 11 November 1965. Lt.-Col. Arthur Tilson Shaen Magan gained the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel in the service of the Royal Army Service Corps. He fought in the First World War, where he was mentioned in despatches. He was invested as a Companion, Order of St. Michael and St. George (C.M.G.) in 1918. He lived at Killyon Manor, Hill-o-down, Meath.

NAPER – William Lenox Naper of Loughcrew, Oldcastle served as a captain in the Royal Horse Guards during the First World War. he won the MC.

PLUNKETT- Oliver James Horace Plunkett, Lord Killeen, later 12th Earl of Fingal joined the 12th Lancers in August 194 and was sent to France in 1915. Wounded in 1916 he spent a year convalesing. He fought at the Somme. He was awarded the Military Cross. Following the War he was posted at Cologne for a year. And then back to England.

POLLOCK – JOHN POLLOCK, of Mountainstown, Co Meath, Lt late North Irish Horse, served in the Great War 1915-19; born 9 Nov 1896; educated Charterhouse and Trin College Oxford; married 26 Nov 1924, •Margaret ..

ROBINSON-  Johnny Robinson, Trim, taken prisoner at the Battle of the Marne and kept as prisoner of war. He met another Trim man also a prisoner Tight Arnold. Discharged after the war and lost his army pension to a  get rich quick scheme. Johnny regularly spent his nights in the Sheep’s Gate.

SHAW – Jack Shaw from Bective , joined the army as a despatch rider and will shortly be sent to the front in July 1915.

STACPOOLE –  George Edward Joseph Patrick Stacpoole, born 8 March 1886, Served in World War I as Captain 3rd Battalion Connaught Rangers died 3 April 1965. Liveda ttobertynan House, Longwood and became 5th Duke de Stacpoole.

THUNDER – Lieutenant Colonel Stuart Harman Joseph Thunder, C.M.G., D.S.O., M.C.,Born 23rd March 1879 in Kilcairne, Co. Meath.
Eldest son of Captain M H D Thunder (late 58th Regiment of Foot), Seneschalstown House, Beauparc, County Meath, and Mary, eldest daughter of late Sir Stuart Knill, Bart, of the Crosslets, Blackheath. Educated at Fort Augustus, Inverness-shire. Joined Army in 1900. Went to Western Front in 1914. Promoted to Major in 1915. DSO in 1917. Served in the Army of Occupation on the Rhine 1919 and then  of Sir Nevil Macready’s staff in Ireland 1920-22. Later served in Shanghai, Malta and Palestine. Retired 1931.

Meathmen in African Campaigns

Africa is a long way away from Ireland and a long way from the trenches in France but a number of Meathmen ended up serving and dying there during World War I. By 1914 there were four German colonies in Africa – Togoland, Cameroon, German South West Africa and German East Africa.

British forces easily over-ran Togoland in August 1914. By July 1915 fighting in German South West Africa, now Namibia, was over and an armistice signed.   Cameroon too was taken by 1915.

German forces in German East Africa were led by Colonel Paul Emil von Lettow-Vorbeck who led a guerrilla campaign throughout the war. German East Africa comprised the territory occupied today by Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania. His small forces managed to tie up a much larger British force for the duration of the war.  

In 1915 the German East Africans attacked British East Africa, Nyasaland and Northern Rhodesia. In 1916 an Allied force of almost 20,000 soldiers invaded German East Africa.

In February 1916 Lieutenant General Jan Smuts was appointed to the East Africa command and in March 1916 his forces attacked the Kitovo Hills. Smuts had within his force the 25th Royal Fusiliers which included big game hunters, Texan cowboys, an opera singer, a lighthouse keeper from Scotland and a lion tamer who was afraid of lions. The German forces were surprised by a night bayonet attack. Positions were taken and retaken several times and finally the Germans were driven back. It was during this attack that Guy Healy was killed in the Lateema Hills.  Guy Healy, son of Archdeacon John Healy, Rector of Kells, served in British East Africa from June 1915. He had served in the Boer War and stayed on to work with the African Game Reserve.  He was killed in action on 11 March 1916. He is buried at Taveta, a small town on the Kenyan- Tanzanian border. Taveta was occupied by German forces in August, 1914 and was  retaken by Commonwealth forces in March, 1916, and occupied by an Indian Field Ambulance.

John Phillips was the son of Dr. Edward Phillips of Oristown. He served with the South African Infantry and died at Capetown on 10 March 1917. His death may have taken place at No 2 South African General Hospital at Maitland.

Patrick Ward from Enfield served in Africa from November 1914. He died of Blackwater fever at Sindi, German East Africa on 28 December 1917. He was promoted to officer’s commission on death-bed. He is now buried in Dar es Salaam War Cemetery. Blackwater fever is a complication of malaria. The red blood cells burst releasing haemoglobin into the blood vessels and into the urine. This usually leads to kidney failure. One in fifteen of men serving in East Africa died of disease or accident. In the overall war British Commonwealth forces lost over ten thousand men, two thirds of them from disease.

After the 11 November general armistice, it took the British two weeks to trace Lettow so that they could tell him the war was over. He returned to Germany a hero.

War in the Air

Less than ten years after the first powered flight the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) came into being in May 1912. By the end of the year the RFC had one squadron of airships and three of aircraft. The air was a new battleground. Aircraft were a tool for observation and reconnaissance. Anti-aircraft guns developed to cope with the threat of aircraft and to deter reconnaissance. Originally the aircraft were unarmed but then weapons were added to allow the enemy aircraft attack each other. The fighter plane has arrived, and with it the glamour of the ace – the pilot who proves his mettle again and again in individual combat. The life expectancy of new pilots in 1917 was only about 17.5 flying hours or about eleven days. The top Irish ace was George Edward Henry “McIrish” McElroy with 47 victories. Baron von Richthofen shot down 79 British and one Belgian aircraft before being killed in 1918. Both the British and Germans used balloons. By the end of the war the British had 4,000 aircraft and the service had been re-named the Royal Air Force on 1at April 1918.

Many Meath men were attracted to flying with a number achieving their pilots’ licences before the war. In 1916 Michael Thunder, a pilot from Lagore, Ratoath, was killed as a result of burns from a flying accident at Norwich. Another version has his death resulting from a Zepplin raid. Photo on left. Robert Sandeman Gaisford was son of Lt. Col. Gaisford of Dolly’s Grove, Dunboyne. He served with the Royal Flying Corps from August 1917. His aeroplane was shot down in flames by Austro-Hungarian anti-aircraft fire over the Piave Sector of the Italian Front on the last days of January 1918.  

Honour and chivalry was still important among the officer class and those who fought in the air and so an Austro-Hungarian Aeroplane dropped a capsule containing a message behind allied lines. The message read “Brought down in flames, Buried with Military Honours by the Infantry 30.1.18”

After scoring 4 victories with 19 Squadron, William Jameson Cairns, of Stameen, Drogheda, was appointed Flight Commander on 1 February 1918. In the spring of 1918, he scored 2 more victories with 74 Squadron before he was killed in action. Cairnes’ plane went down after losing a wing in air combat over Estaires, France in June 1918.

Geoffrey Osborne, Smithstown, Drogheda, was a 2nd Lieutenant with the Royal Air Force and was killed in action in June 1918.

Christopher Domegan, whose people were from Ardcath, served with the Royal Air Force. He was drowned in the sinking of the Leinster in October 1918.

There was a training facility at Gormanstown.  Reginald Norris and Percy Camm were killed on a training flight from Gormanstown in October 1918. Norris was buried in Julianstown.

W.B Yeats wrote in ‘An Irish Airman foresees His Death’

“I know that I shall meet my fate Somewhere among the clouds above”

Brothers in arms and other deaths

The first Meath casualty of the war was Major Charles Tisdall who was killed in action on 1 September 1914. He joined the Irish Guards as a young man and preferred the Army life to managing Charlesfort Estate, Kells, which he inherited in 1895. Major Tisdall was killed just a month after the war broke out, killed in action in the retreat from Mons in Belgium.

Peter Joseph Barnes of Carnaross was the last Meath casualty during the duration of the war. He was killed in action in France on 8th November 1918 just three days before the war officially ended.

A number of Meath men died as prisoners of war. Bernard Hughes of Kentstown died as a prisoner of war in Germany in April 1915. Oliver Wendall Holmes, son of the RIC Head Constable, Trim and Kells, died of wounds in German hands in August 1917.

Laurence Reynolds of Mornington was married just six weeks before he was killed after he was killed in a mine explosion in January 1917. 

James Hopkins of Kells was killed in action on Christmas Day 1917.

The two Rochford brothers from Trim died within fifteen days of each other in 1914. Michael was killed in action on 20th October while Joseph died of wounds on 5th November. 

The youngest casualty from Meath was possibly Herbert McEnroe from Kells who was an assistant steward on the S.S. Pinegrove which was blown up in December 1915. 

Nearly twenty families lost two sons/brothers/fathers in the First World War.

John and William Armstrong of Oldcastle  were killed in 1915 and 1917.

John and Owen Aughey of Kells were killed in 1914 and 1917.

William and Robert Bohan of Beauparc were killed in 1915 and 1919.

John and Thomas Markey, originally from Togherstown, joined the Australian forces and were killed in 1915 and 1916.

Robert and Thomas Mattock from Hill of Down were both killed in September 1916 within six days of each other. . 

The De Stacpoole family of Tobertynan, Longwood and Mount Hazel, Galway were a landed family. Five sons served during the war with two being killed. Robert was killed in action in September 1914 while Roderick died in 1915.

Patrick and Thomas Galligan of Navan both served with the Leisnter Regiment and both were killed in 1915.

Glennie and Reginald Gilliat of Arch Hall were killed in 1914 and 1915. 

George and Henry Griffith of Trim and Navan were killed in 1914 and 1917.

Patrick and Thomas McEvoy of Donacarney were killed in1915 and 1917.

Charles and Thomas Lancaster of Hill of Down served in Canadian forces and were both killed in 1918.

Eugene and James Langan of Duleek were killed in 1915 and 1916.

Daniel and John Lonergan of Drogheda and Culmullin were killed in 1917 and 1918.

Peter and William McGrane of Julianstown were killed in 1916 and 1918.

John and Matthew McPartland of Kells were killed in 1915 and 1916.

James and Patrick Mullen from Rodinstown, Kilcock were killed in 1916 and 1918. James is remembered on the memorial in Teheran, Iran.

George and Robert Savage from Donaghpatrick were killed in 1917 and 1918.

There are many other cases of brothers fighting in the war. There are a number of other possible brothers who were killed during the war but it has not been possible to confirm the actual relationship.

Chaplains

A chaplain provides spiritual and pastoral support for service personnel, including the conduct of religious services at sea or in the field. The Army Chaplains Department had been in existence for about 120 years when the Great War started in the summer of 1914. During World War I there were five hundred Irish Catholic chaplains and approximately two hundred Church of Ireland chaplains. At the end of the war there were 3,475 chaplains serving in the British forces. One hundred and seventy nine chaplains had lost their lives. These priests, who left the comforts of their parishes and religious houses performed heroically, giving spiritual comfort to the injured and dying. According to a survey in 1916 there were five regular priests from the Meath diocese serving as chaplains.

Fr. Edward Cullen, a brother of H.J. Cullen of Liscarton, was a Catholic Chaplain. He served at the Front from late 1914.

To have religious support was very important to the men. For men surrounded by seemingly futile death, a churchman willing to risk his life to join them in the trenches helped them make sense of the war and feel that God had not abandoned them. Michael Colclough of Navan writing home in 1915 said “We have a Catholic chaplain attached to our regiment. He is a fine man and ranks as captain. We have Mass every Sunday and there is every opportunity given to fulfil your other religious duties. Any evening we happen to be in billets we have Rosary and Benediction in the local church.” For the injured and dying the attention of the chaplains was very important and the chaplain had the sad duty of writing to inform the family of the last days and hours of the dying men.

A significant number of serving chaplains have died in action. Four Jesuits from Ireland were killed and two died of illness. One of the most famous of those killed in the war was Fr. Willie Doyle, a Jesuit from Dalkey, Dublin, who was killed at the battle of Ypres in 1917.

Fr. Stephen Clarke of Tierworker, Co. Meath, a chaplain with the 9th Battalion of the Lancashire Fusiliers was killed in France on 4th October 1917. Fr. Clarke was killed during the Third Battle of Ypres an offensive was mounted by Commonwealth forces to divert German attention from a weakened French front further south. The initial attempt in June to dislodge the Germans from the Messines Ridge was a complete success, but the main assault north-eastward, which began at the end of July, quickly became a dogged struggle against determined opposition and the rapidly deteriorating weather. On 4 October operations centred on Broodseinde.  The campaign finally came to a close in November with the capture of Passchendaele. Fr. Clarke is commemorated on Panel 160, Tyne Cot Memorial.

The Leinster Regiment

The Leinster Regiment were also known as The Prince of Wales’s Leinster Regiment and the Royal Canadians and were formerly 100th Regiment of Foot and 109th Regiment of Foot. The Leinster Regiment had its roots in two Regiments of Foot of The British Army, the 100th. and the 109th.

The 100th Regiment was raised in Stirling in 1761 and again in 1794. It was raised as a British infantry regiment in 1857 by officers of the Canadian Volunteers to serve in India in dealing with the Indian Mutiny. The Regiment’s first colours were presented to it by the youthful Prince of Wales in 1859 before the troops were sent to serve in Gibraltar and Malta until 1866. The Regimental Badge incorporates a plume of three ostrich feathers, which is the badge of a Prince of Wales, together with his motto “Ich Dien” (“I serve”).

The regiment served the counties of Longford, Meath, Westmeath, Offaly and Laois, with its garrison depot at Crinkill, near Birr. Prior to World War I there were 5 Battalions, two regular battalions, the 1st and 2nd with 3 Militia battalions. The 3rd was The King’s County Militia, the 4th was The Queen’s County Militia and the 5th was The Royal Meath Militia.

During WWI, the Leinsters raised a total of 7 battalions, based on the two regular and one reserve battalion which existed in August 1914. These battalions won a total of 32 battle honours and four Victoria Crosses. The regiment lost a total of 1,980 casualties during the war.

In 1914 the Honorary Colonel of the Royal Meath Militia was Charles Pepper of Ballygarth Castle.

At the outbreak of WWI, the 1st Battalion was serving in India. It sailed to England from where it moved to France and Flanders. In November 1915 the battalion was redeployed to the Gallipoli front, arriving in Salonika in December. In September 1917 it was withdrawn from Salonika to Egypt. In 1918 it was involved in operations in Palestine, ending the war in Nablus. Joseph Kerrigan of Navan and 1st Battalion was killed in action 13 January 1915.

The 2nd Battalion was in Cork in August 1914. In September 1914 the battalion landed in France at St Nazaire and spent the duration serving in France and Flanders. Michael Drum from Kells, 2nd Battalion was killed in action in 1916. John Halligan of Church Street, Trim, 2nd Battalion was killed in 1915, aged 19.

The 3rd (Reserve), 4th (Extra Reserve) and 5th (Extra Reserve) Battalions were mobilised on 4 Aug 1914 at Birr, Maryborough and Drogheda respectively. These battalions served variously in Ireland, England and Scotland until May 1918 when they were amalgamated into the 3rd Battalion, that ended the war in Portsmouth Garrison.

The 5th (Extra Reserve) Battalion were based at Drogheda in August 1914. A deptot/training unit it moved to Queenstown in 1914 to Plymouth in 1915 and then back to Mullingar to the Curragh and in June 1917 to Laytown. From there they went to Boyle, Birr and Glencorse. Finally they moved to Plymouth in May 1918 where they were absorbed into the 3rd Battalion.

The 6th (Service) Battalion was formed at Dublin in Aug 1914 as part of Kitchener’s First New Army. In July 1915 the battalion sailed from Liverpool for the Dardanelles and landed at Anzac Cove, attached to the Australian and New Zealand Corps. In 1917 it left Salonika for Egypt arriving at Alexandria. In May 1918 it sailed for France where it was disbanded in September 1918 at Abancourt. J. O’Dare of High Street, Trim served and died with the 6th Battalion.

The 7th (Service) Battalion formed at Fermoy in Oct 1915 as part of Kitchener’s Second New Army and landed in France at Le Havre on 18 Dec 1915.

People travelled distances to enlist. Bertie Cull of Newtownstewart, co. Tyronwe enlisted at Navan. Charles Brown, from Ferns in Wexford, enlisted at Navan. Aged just 15 he probably travelled so far away from home so no one would know his real age. He was killed in action on 6th April 1916.

The 1921 Treaty included provision for the disbandment of the Irish regiments. The Leinster regiment was disbanded in 1922 and any soldiers who wished to continue in service were allowed to transfer to other regiments. The regimental colours were ‘laid up’ in Windsor Castle in June 1922. Charles Pepper of Ballygarth castle, Colonel Royal Meath Militia, died 6th December 1927 and is commemorated in Julianstown Church of Ireland church. The standards of the Royal Meath Militia were displayed in this church from 1929 to 1969 when they were removed to the British Army Museum.

A Regimental Association was re-formed in 2003 and in March 2007 the Association held a parade in Ypres and members  marched to the Menin Gate for the ceremony of the Last Post.

Sinking of RMS Leinster

In the last month of the First World War the sinking of an Irish ship threatened the peace moves which were underway to bring the slaughter to an end. The sinking of the mail ship Leinster just off the coast of Dublin resulted in huge losses including three men with Meath connections. Christopher Patrick Domegan was born in Dublin but had strong Meath connections. His father, Patrick, was a tram driver in Dublin but came from Meath.  

Christopher was lieutenant in the Royal Air Force but drowned when the Leinster sank. He was buried in Ardcath.

Jack Williamson’s father worked as a coachman at Blackcastle, Navan and he too drowned in the sinking of the Leinster.

Many of the bodies were never recovered and recordkeeping was not adequate to identify all the passengers. Patrick Faughlin from Trim went missing around the time of the sinking of the Leinster and it was later presumed that he had drowned with the ship. Patrick was a career soldier, joining in 1908 and serving with the Leinster Regiment. He married in 1914 and his youngest son was born in April 1918. When he disappeared in October 1918 after being home on furlough the Military Authorities presumed he had drowned on his journey to re-join his regiment. In November 1918 his wife wrote to the authorities saying that he “was always in the habit of writing to me regular I am very anxious about him.” The authorities could find no evidence of him having been on the Leinster but it was the only logical conclusion they could come to.

The mailship R.M.S. Leinster served the Kingstown (now Dun Laoghaire) – Holyhead route. Germany’s submarines brought the war to their enemy by attacking merchant shipping, attempting to starve Britain into submission. On October 10th 1918 the ship was torpedoed and sunk by the German submarine UB 123. Leinster was just outside Dublin Bay, four miles east of Kish. The U boat fired three torpedoes at the ship. It was struck by the second and third shots. The third shot resulted in a huge explosion.

Many of those on board were killed in the sinking. Some lifeboats were launched. Eventually destroyers and ships came to rescue the survivors. In the days that followed bodies were recovered from the sea.

According to official reports over 500 people perished in the sinking but the total could be higher. Of the 180 civilians on board, 115 were killed. But by far the greatest number of passengers on board the Leinster were military personnel. Many of them were going on leave or returning from leave.

Among the causalities was Robert Jocelyn Alexander, son of Cecil Frances Alexander, composer of many popular hymns. One hundred and forty four military casualties were buried in Grangegorman Military Cemetery in Dublin.  The UB-123 was lost in a minefield in the North Sea on its way back to Germany, on or about 19 October 1918.

On 6 October Germany had asked U.S. President Woodrow Wilson for peace terms. Following the sinking of the Leinster U.S. President Woodrow Wilson replied to the German Government saying, among other things, that there can be no peace as long as Germany attacks passenger ships. The Germans tell their submarines that they can no longer attack merchant shipping.

In 2008 a stamp commemorating the 90th anniversary of the sinking of the RMS Leinster was launched in Dun Laoghaire.

The sinking of the Leinster is recorded by Roy Stokes author of “Death in the Irish Sea: The Sinking of RMS Leinster” and Philip Lecane, author of “Torpedoed! The RMS Leinster Disaster.”  

The sinking of the Lusitania

RMS Lusitania

Launched in 1906 the Lusitania was 785 feet long and weighed 31,550 gross tons. The Meath Chronicle regularly carried advertisements for the Lusitania and the Cunard Line offering trans-Atlantic passages.

In October 1914 the first merchant ship was sunk a German U-boat. Surface warfare was proving ineffective and so the Germans declared a war zone in the waters around the British Isles as retaliation on the British blockade. U-boat captains were given permission to sink any ships within the war zone. On 22 April 1915 The German embassy in Washington issued a warning that any British ship was liable to be sunk within the war zone.   

There were 1,265 passengers and 694 crew aboard as the Lusitania left New York on 22 April. By the morning of 7 May the Lusitania was off the south coast of Ireland. U-20 fired its first torpedo at 14.10 when the ship was ten miles south of the Old Head of Kinsale. The Lusitania attempted to turn away to avoid the torpedo but this was not possible. The torpedo hit the starboard side, behind the bridge. The ship was holed and a second unexplained explosion took place. The radio operator sent out the SOS signal. The electrical power failed and the captain gave the order to abandon ship. Because the ship began to sink so quickly there were difficulties in launching the lifeboats. There was panic and disorder on the decks. The ship took just eighteen minutes to sink. Of the 1,959 people aboard, 1,198 were drowned. Only 289 bodies were recovered, 65 of which were never identified.

At least two Meath men died in the sinking. Crewman, James Hoey, of Duleek died in the sinking. There was a James Hoey born at Garballagh, Duleek in 1891 who may possibly be the crewman.

Christopher Garry from Oldcastle lost his life in the sinking. A second class cabin passenger Christopher Garry was 51 years old at the time of his death according to accounts.

Christopher Garry, moved to Cleveland, Ohio, United States around 1890 and worked at the Trenkamp Stove and Manufacturing Company.  Garry lived at 8015 Whitethorn Avenue in Cleveland, and he was brother to Mrs. Mary A. Garry of 7011 Burnham Avenue.

According to his sister-in-law, Garry was ill with tuberculosis and wished to die in his homeland.  Garry was also going home to see his mother, as she had wished for him to come back to her before she passed away.

There are a number of Garry families in Fennor both upper and Lower and it is unclear to which Christopher is related. There is a baptism of a Christopher Garry in Oldcastle parish in 1850 and he has a sister, Mary, who is two years younger but this would make him 65 at the time of the sinking.

Christopher may have been a regular crosser of the Atlantic as there is a record of a Christopher Garry of Mullingar arriving at Ellis Island, New York on 8 July 1896, aged 28 he travelled on the Teutonic from Liverpool via Queenstown (Cobh). On 2 February 1900 Christopher Garry of Cleveland, Ohio, aged 48, arrived from Liverpool on board the Caramania. In 1900 Christopher Garry from Oldcastle travelled on the Oceanic from Liverpool arriving in Ellis Island on 10 May 1900 and was listed as aged 30.

His three nieces May, Lauretta, Margeurite, and nephew, John, put a claim for compensation and were awarded $1000 between them. His body, if recovered, was never identified.

The Meath Chronicle described the sinking as ‘a sea crime without parallel – at least in modern times’. The sinking deeply shocked the Allies because an unarmed civilian merchant and passenger vessel was attacked. The sinking caused a public outcry against the Germans, particularly in the United States. One hundred and twenty eight American citizens died in the sinking.  The Lusitania was carrying ammunition or gold for the war effort. It has also been suggested that the ship was mistaken for a troop carrier.

Meathmen at Gallipoli

With the Western Front becoming bogged down in trench warfare in late 1914, Winston Churchill, First Lord of the Admiralty, proposed a campaign in the eastern Mediterranean which might knock out Germany’s ally Turkey and open up a route-way to supply Russia.

The Gallipoli Campaign, also known as the Dardanelles Campaign, took place on the peninsula of Gallipoli, Turkey, between 25 April 1915 and 9 January 1916. A joint British and French operation was mounted with large numbers of Irishmen in the Dublin Fusiliers, Leinster Regiment and other regiments taking part. 

The invasion plan of 25 April 1915 was for the 29th Division to land at Helles on the tip of the peninsula and then advance upon the forts at Kilitbahir. The main landings took place at two locations Cape Helles and Ari Burnu (shortly afterwards renamed Anzac Cove). Cape Helles was an appalling choice of landing site, being the perfect defensive location with gun emplacements housed on steep slopes. At Cape Helles V Beach the covering force was landed from a converted collier, SS River Clyde, which was run aground beneath the fortress so that the troops could disembark directly via ramps to the shore. The Royal Dublin Fusiliers would land at V Beach from open boats. The Ottoman defenders were in a position to inflict appalling casualties on the landing infantry. The troops emerging one by one from the sally ports on the River Clyde presented perfect targets to the machine guns in the Turkish fort. Out of the first 200 soldiers to disembark, only 21 men made it onto the beach. Nicholas Smyth, a lance corporal with the Royal Dublin Fusiliers landed in Gallipoli on 25 April and was killed five days later on V Beach. A relative of the Tisdalls of Charlesfort,  Sub-Lt. A.W. St. Clair Tisdall, won the V.C.  for distinguished gallantry at Gallipoli, in rescuing under heavy fire, several wounded men on the beach during the landing from the “River Clyde” on 25 April 1915.

Patrick Connolly of Athboy serving with the Lancashire Fusiliers, was killed in action, Gallipoli, 14 June 1915. 

On the night of 6 August a fresh landing of two infantry divisions was to be made at Suvla, five miles (8 km) north of the Anzac area. Additional Irish troops were deployed to Gallipoli. Most of the Irish soldiers sailed from Liverpool on ships of the Cunard line. En route they stopped at Egypt at Alexandria. Intense heat and disease took their toll. On August 7th the 10th Irish Division reached the Dardanelles and disembarked under the cover of darkness. They landed at Suvla Bay on August 7th without maps or orders. Water was in such short supply, men nearly killed each other for a drink. Their ammunition ran out and on occasion they resorted to throwing stones at the Turks.

Bernard Curtis from Drumconrath landed in Gallipoli on 7 August 1915 and was killed in action just two days later.   Patrick Higgins, Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers was the son of Peter Higgins, of Maudlin St., Kells. He took part in the landing at Suvla Bay and was reported wounded and missing in an engagement at Chocolate Hill on 10th August 1915. Sergeant Thomas Kennedy from Oristown landed at Gallipoli on 5 August and was killed six days later. Soon after landing he was slightly wounded and recovering rapidly, went back to the firing line.

Water was very important in the sun and the quartermaster general of the Leinster’s ensured that his men had a good supply of water by using the reserve store of petrol tins to store and transport water. 

On Monday 9 August the Leinsters were ordered to go up to the front line and relieve some New Zealand troops. By three in the afternoon the Leinsters had been shot to pieces by Turkish gunfire. But they had reached the base of the ridge held by the New Zealanders. During darkness they took charge of the ridge but were attacked the following day. By Wednesday the attacks had faded but the Leinsters had suffered a huge amount of casualties. Three Meath men fell in the fighting on the 9th August. Bernard Curtis of Drumconrath serving with the Royal Irish Fusilier was killed in action. Patrick Maguire of Carnaross, Kells served with the Leinster Regiment and was killed in action. Patrick Rafferty of Dunshaughlin served with the Royal Dublin Fusiliers, and was killed in action. Henry McKeown, a sergeant with the Australian Infantry, was killed in action between 6 and 8 August. The campaign was the first major battle undertaken by the Australian and New Zealand Army corps and is often considered to mark the birth of national consciousness in both of these countries. James Brennan of Julianstown died of wounds 14 August 1915.

Captain Arthur John Dillon Preston of Swainstown, Kilmessan, was killed in action, Suvla Bay, 15 August 1915. He was dispatched with his regiment, the Royal Dublin Fusiliers, to the Gallipoli Peninsula on 9 July. He took part in all the heavy fighting at Suvla Bay until 15 August when he fell in the moment of victory. Captain Preston captured an enemy position but in the counter-attack was fatally wounded in the right breast. Earlier that day he had written a letter to his wife. Joseph McCann of Colpe was also killed in action on 16th August 1915.

William Brien who was born at Randalstown, Navan, served with the Royal Irish Regiment, was killed in action, Gallipoli, 16 August 1915. Alex Strain of Rathmullan serving with the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, died of wounds, Gallipoli, 28 August 1915.

John O’Dare of Trim was wounded at the landing at Suvla Bay. He stated he had been well up to September 1915, when he was at Anzac. He contracted dysentery and was sent home. On examination T.B. was found in the sputum. He was discharged as physically unfit for war service on 25 January 1916 and died on Ash Wednesday of that year in Trim Workhouse.

Following the failure of the August Offensive, the Gallipoli campaign entered a hiatus while the future direction was debated. The prospect of evacuation was raised on 11 October 1915. Suvla and Anzac were to be evacuated in late December, the last troops leaving before dawn on 20 December 1915. On the 1st of January 1916, the 1st Battalion of the Dublin Fusiliers were ordered to leave the Dardanelles Peninsula. They embarked from the beach where the coffin of the River Clyde lay run aground. Of the 1012 men of the 1st Battalion Dublin Fusiliers who had gone ashore in April, 11 men survived the killing, mutilation and disease of that terrible few months. The last British troops departed from Lancashire Landing on 9 January 1916. Amazingly, only two soldiers were wounded during the evacuation.

For those who survived Gallipoli the war was not over. Many were despatched to the Western Front or Salonika where they were killed.  Thomas Harold of Navan served with Australian Forces, having enlisted at Brisbane. He served in Gallipoli from October 1915, survived and was sent to France where he was killed in July 1916. Thomas Markey from Togherstown, was another Australian infantry man to survive Gallipoli only to be killed in France in November 1916.  Michael Drum from Kells was wounded in the Dardanelles, recovered and was sent to France where he was killed in August 1916. Peter McGrane of Smithstown, Julianstown survived the landing at Gallipoli on 7 August 1915 but went on to be killed at Salonika in October 1916.

The poet, Francis Ledwidge, served and survived Gallipoli and Salonika, only to be killed in France.  John William Gaisford of Dolly’s Grove, Dunboyne, was wounded Gallipoli but survived the war. Another survivor was Major Francis Cecil Law D.S.O., Royal Marines of Weston, Duleek, Co. Meath. He served in France and at Gallipoli, during the First World War. He died in Drogheda in 2007.

In 2010 President Mary McAleese visited the Gallipoli peninsula and laid a wreath in memory of the Irishmen who had died there.

Nursing Heroine

A nun with Meath roots became a nursing heroine during the First World War.Emily Mary Corbally or Corballis was the third daughter of James Henry and Constance Corbally of Ratoath Manor.  James Henry Corballis married Constance Jerringham in Brussels in 1863 and the family lived away from Ratoath from 1869 until 1919. The Corbally family were prominent donors to the Catholic Church. James Corballis granted a lease of the site for the new Roman Catholic Church  at Ratoath to Bishop Nulty in 1870. Emily Mary’s sister, Evelyn, joined the Carmelites at Laugherene, Cornwall.  

Born in Scotland  in 1873 Emily Mary entered the French order of the Sisters of Charity in Pau Pyranees and took the name Soeur Marguerite.The usefulness of nurses had been recognised in the Crimean War but none of the European armies had adequate numbers of trained nurses at the start of the war. In 1914 there were fewer than 300 nurses in the British forces.  Soeur Marguerite was serving in Stratsbourg and the nuns established a hospital for the wounded. 

The German forces captured the hospital and Soeur Marguerite was placed in charge of a hospital base in the Rhine. The German Kaiser acknowledged her work with a letter.  At the end of the war she returned to Stratsbourg and became head of the Military Hospital Goujot in Strasbourg. In 1927 she was decorated with the Legion of Honour for her services as a nurse among the French troops by the President of France. 

Soeur Marguerite fell ill and served in various convents. She was in charge of thee Hospital of the Principality of Monaco which she left to come to Pau in March 1937. Soeur Marguerite died in 1940 at the age of 67.

Sister Marguerite’s brother, James Henry served as a captain in the war in South Africa in 1900 and was a recruiting captain during World War I. His son, Richard Corballis, served during World War I and died in 1921 from the effects of the war. Two of Richard’s brothers also served with distinction during the war and survived.

Mesopotamian Campaign

The Ottoman/Turkish Empire supported Germany in the war. The British decided to protect its interests in the Middle East. Operations largely took place in what is today called Iraq.

In November 1914 the British landed an Anglo-Indian force at Basra near the estuary of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers, to protect the Anglo-Persian oil pipeline, which was vital to the British navy.

The main Ottoman army was located to the northwest near Bagdad, many miles away. The British forces made tentative moves to advance towards Bagdad. British troops had enjoyed early success in their invasion of Mesopotamia. In December 1915 an Anglo-Indian army was surrounded at Kut-el-Amara, a town about 100 miles south of Baghdad. The army decided to defend Kut, rather than retreat back to Basra. Between January-March 1916, attacks were launched in an attempt to lift the siege. The British attempts to break through the encirclement did not succeed and their costs were heavy.

Reinforcements were brought in to support efforts to relive Kut. Joseph O’Brien from The Factory, Johnstown landed in Basra on 1 March 1916 and was killed on April 5th. A regular soldier he served in France before being dispatched to Mesopotamia.  James Collins of Ballinabrackey arrived in Mesopotamia with the Connaught Rangers.  The Connaught Rangers arrived in Basra on 10 January 1916 and took part in the mishandled attempted relief of Kut. In one action they lost 285 men killed and wounded. Collins may have been wounded or contracted some disease as he died at sea in August 1916.

The Anglo-Indian force at Kut-el-Amara eventually surrendered in April 1916. thirteen thousand British soldiers became prisoners of war.

The British viewed the loss of Kut as a humiliating defeat. The British forces redoubled their efforts against the Turks. In Mesopotamia a new commander, General Sir Stanley Frederick Maude, assembled a large force of some 150,000 men, equipped with modern weapons of war. Basra was transformed into a modern port, a railway and metal road was constructed, and river transportation on the Tigris was dramatically expanded. James McConnon of Slane, a gunner with the Royal Field Artillery, died in Mesopotamia in September 1916. McConnon is commemorated in the Baghdad War Cemetery, Iraq.

Maude’s offensive was launched on 13 December 1916. Patrick Moore of Navan was killed in action in Mesopotamia in January 1917. The British occupied Kut and continued to advance up the Tigris. In March 1917 Maude’s forces captured Baghdad. General Maude issued the Proclamation of Bagdad, which contained the famous line “our armies do not come into your cities and lands as conquerors or enemies, but as liberators“. General Maude died of cholera in November 1917.

In early 1918 the British resumed their offensive. During the summer of 1918  General Lionel Dunsterville led operations in Persia.  James Mullen of Kilcloon survived the horrors of France only to died at Hamadan, Persia in October 1918, just a month before the war ended.

Driver Michael Crinion of Carranstown, Duleek, survived Mesopotamia only to be killed in France in early November 1918.

After the war the League of Nations gave Mesopotamia to the British to govern under its mandate. Renamed as Iraq the British had to take action against Arab uprisings. In 1932 Iraq became an independent country.

Officers from the Meath Gentry

Many of the noblemen and landowners of Meath and their sons served in the First World War. The overwhelming majority of them served as officers. Many were already serving officers or on the reserve forces. A number served in training, recruitment or desk jobs while many were at the Front.

Major Charles Arthur Tisdall from Charlesfort, Kells was killed in action at Mons in 1914.

Bryan John Fowler of Rahinstown served during World War I and was awarded the military Cross in 1918. He won a Distinguished Service Order for his efforts in World War II. The grandson of Robert Fowler of Rahinstown was Sir Alexander Godley who was commander in chief of the Anzacs in the Dardanelles in World War I. His mother was Louisa Fowler.

Frederick Arthur Hamilton of Hamwood Dunboyne served during the Boer War, World War I and the Afghan War. He received OBE in 1919.

William Chambre Rowley of Summerhill was a career army officer and fought in the Afghan wars of 1879-80 and received the Croix de Guerre in World War I. He became Baron Summerhill in 1922 at an elderly age succeeding his nephew and his brother.

Oliver James Plunkett, 12th Earl of Fingall, was commissioned into the 17th Lancers in 1914. He was wounded in France in 1916. Following his recuperation he returned to France where he was later awarded the Military Cross. He served in the army again in World war II.

Reggie Plunkett, son of John William Plunkett, the 17th Baron Dunsany joined the Navay fighting in World War I at the battle of Jutland. Art Kavanagh in the ‘Landed Gentry and Aristocracy Meath’ recorded that Reggie was recommended for promotion following the battle as Admiral Sir David Beatty praised him saying ‘he was most valuable in observing the effect of our fire thereby enabling me to take advantage of the enemy’s discomfiture’. Reggie was promoted to Rear Admiral in 1928 and was commander in chief of the British Navy forces in the America-West Indies station.

Edward Plunkett, 18th Baron Dunsany, joined the Coldstream Guards at age twenty, was posted to Gibralter and then to South Africa where he fought in the Boer War. During World War I he fought with the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

Geoffrey Taylour 4th Marquess Headfort fought as a captain in World War I and was mentioned in dispatches. 

Captain Arthur John Dillon Preston of Swainstown, was killed in action. He was dispatched with his regiment, the Royal Dublin Fusiliers, to the Gallipoli Peninsula on 9 July. He took part in all the heavy fighting at Suvla Bay until 15 August when he fell in the moment of victory. Captain Preston captured an enemy position but in the counter-attack was fatally wounded in the right breast.

In September 1915 Sir Nugent Everard, honorary colonel of the Leinster regiment, visited the front in Belgium and addressed the men.

Major Frederick Bligh of Nobber died while providing training to recruits in England.

The Protestant community was a small one in Meath and there would have been a lot of interaction and so each death was felt by the community but they were fighting for King and Empire.

Palestine and Egypt

The Ottoman Empire controlled the Middle East in 1914 but was not secure in its control. During World War I the Ottoman Empire joined Germany and Austria-Hungary against the Allies. Britain held Egypt and tried to foment rebellion among the Arabs in the Ottoman territories. The Suez canal was a major target for the Turks. The canal reduced the time it took for British ships to travel to their colonies in India, Australia and New Zealand.   In January 1915 the Turks advanced on Suez and by early January were across but their extended supply lines meant they had to retreat. In late 1915 defences for the canal were improved. In December 1915 Harry Berry from Oldcastle was despatched to with the Egyptian Expeditionary Force in Egypt and Palestine but he was returned to France in May 1916.  

In early 1916 it was decided to destroy the water cisterns and wells along the main road through Sinai in order to limit the Turkish advances. In April 1916 the Turks made a surprise attack but were beaten back. The Battle of Romani in August 1916 ensured that the canal would not be threatened again. The British then began to advance across the Sinai, using the railway as its route and supply source.

On 28 February 1917, the cavalry of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force entered Khan Yunus, midway between the Egyptian border and Deir el Belah causing the Turks to withdraw to Gaza and Beersheba. The railway was pushed forward to Deir el Belah, which became the railhead in April 1917, and an aerodrome and camps were established there. The cemetery was begun towards the end of March and remained in use until March 1919. Edmond Jameson of Delvin Lodge died of wounds in March 1917 and was buried at Deir El Belah War Cemetery, Israel.  In early 2008 the cemetery was damaged during a bomb attack.

At the end of June 1917 General Sir Edmund Allenby assumed command of the Eqyptian Expeditionary Force. His remit was to capture Jerusalem by Christmas 1917.  Allenby requested addional troops from London. The 10th Irish and 60th London Divisions were despatched form Salonika to Egypt. On arrival in Egypt many in the Irish Division were suffering from malaria. Another problem facing the army in the Sinai desert was transport and water. The men of the Leinster Regiment were in charge of keeping water laden camels moving up to the front.  The attack on Gaza began on the last day of October. By the end of the first day Beersheba was in allied hands.

The army with the Irish division advanced towards Jerusalem. Local inhabitants traded information with the Turks for immunity from bombardment. The 6th Leinsters put a stop to this in their area. Allenby was concerned at avoiding fighting around Jerusalem. On 9 December 1917 Jerusalem was captured.

Christmas 1917 was the most bleak the Irish Division ever had. The attack on ridges around Jerusalem took place on St. Stepeh’s day. William Healy was killed in action in December 1917 and was buried in Jerusalem War Cemetery. John Tinley, who was born in Dunshaughlin died in Egypt in December 1917.

General Allenby’s army was largely redeployed to France and most of his divisions were rebuilt with his forces spending much of the summer of 1918 training and reorganising.

Men continued to die through action, wounds or illness. More than 90% of causalities in Egypt and Palestine were not battle losses but instead attributable to disease, heat and other secondary causes. Thomas Finnegan of Loman Street, Trim died of wounds in March 1918 and is buried in Jerusalem War cemetery. John Gibney of Trim died while undergoing an operation in Egypt in September 1918 and is buried in Alexandria War Memorial Cemetery. John Blake of Navan died of sickness, possibly malaria, in October 1918 and is buried at Ramleh War cemetery, Israel. Blake had been an employee of Meath County Council for sixteen years. Thomas O’Neill of Oldcastle died of illness contracted on active service with Egyptian Expeditionary Force in King George V. Hospital, Dublin, in May 1919. The main focus of the campaign was now Damascus and this was taken in October 1918 by Allenby and the forces of T.E. Lawrence. The Ottoman Empire collapsed, creating a vacuum that contributed to tensions between local inhabitants and external powers or interests which continue to the present day.

Recruitment

There were many Meath men already in the army and navy when war broke out and  a number of these were killed in late 1914 and early 1915 before the volunteer new army was recruited. In 1914 30,000 Irishmen were serving with the British army making up 13% of the total force.  There were a number of  men who had previously served with the army and were reservists and so were mobilised in the first few weeks of the war. Approximately 130,000 Irish men volunteered to fight with a good number of these being Irish Volunteers. A number of Meath members of the Irish Volunteers joined up, fought and died.

Unemployment, idealism and a sense of adventure were some of the factors which resulted in men joining the British forces. The British Army was traditionally seen as an area of potential employment for working class Irishmen. Many of the men who joined came from poor socio-economic backgrounds. Many Meath men who joined up were the sons of labourers or herds. Basic pay in the ranks was 1 shilling a day when a skilled tradesman made 30 shillings a week. A separation allowance was paid to wives and dependents. Many of the recruit’s came from the urban poor, joining the army was seen as an opportunity to better oneself

Recruiting meetings were held in Navan and other towns. Referring to a recruiting meeting in Navan, Co. Meath, addressed by the Earl of Fingall at the end of 1914 it was noted that the earl was serving with the 7th Leinsters along with Lt. T.M. Kettle and Mr Stephen Gwynn. It was noted that following Redmond’s speech the Government said it would prefer if the Volunteers served in the regular forces, and the 47th brigade of the new 16th division was cleared to make room for the nationalist volunteers. It is said that some men enlisted under the influence of drink or enthusiasm following a visit of the recruiters to the town. Some joined because their friends joined up.

A story was told in Longwood that a young man John Smith signed up for the army at Longwood RIC station and was transported to Trim the same day, given passage to Dublin by train and put on the boat at Kingstown (Dunlaoighre). His mother found out too late and tried to have him brought back. Smith was sent to the front two days later and was killed in the battle of the Somme aged only fourteen. It is not possible to verify this story but there are similar stories. One son went off to the fair but never came back as he had joined up to be with his friends.

Recruitment was very slow among the Catholic Irish middle class and farmers. There was a good response from the Protestant classes both middle class and servant classes in the county.

Many Meath born men joined regiments in England or Scotland in the area to which they had emigrated.

Most Irish recruitment to the British Army took place prior to 1916. Recruitment dropped after the heavy losses at Gallipoli and following the 1916 Easter rising. The possible introduction of conscription turned many moderate Irishmen against the war.

Meath men and the Regiments in which they served

Meathmen served in more than thirty different regiments during the war. From the number of deaths recorded by each regiment then most Meath men joined the Leinster Regiment. The Royal Dublin Fusiliers and Irish Guards also had considerable numbers. The Royal Irish Fusiliers came next in the list followed by Royal Irish Rifles, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and the Royal Irish Regiment. The Connaught Rangers were lower again. Many Irish emigrants joined local regiments in Britain such as the Cheshire Regiment, Lancashire Fusiliers and Northumberland Fusiliers.

Royal Dublin Fusiliers had originated during the expansion of imperial power in India. The regiment came into existence in 1881 as a result of the amalgamation of the Royal Madras Fusiliers and the Bombay Corps. The regimental depot was at Naas, Co. Kildare. Its main recruiting area was counties Dublin, Kildare, Wicklow and Carlow. During the Boer War a number of the regiment were captured by the Boers. A journalist, Winston Churchill, who was accompanying the regiment was also capture. One Battalion served in France form 1914. Three battalions fought at Gallipoli and two of these went to Salonika. The 1st and 2nd Battalions fought at the beginning of the Battle of the Somme.  By the end of the war 4,777 Royal Dublin Fusiliers were killed. The regiment was disbanded in 1922. There is an active Royal Dublin Fusiliers Association.

The Irish Guards recruited throughout Ireland and were based at Chelsea Barracks, London. The Irish Guards were formed on 1st April 1900 by order of Queen Victoria to commemorate the bravery of the Irish men who fought in the Boer war. The Irish Guards were presented with shamrock on every St Patrick’s day (17th March) by a member of the Royal Family. The Irish Guards were affectionately and widely known as “The Micks”. At the outbreak of war in 1914 there were 1300 Irish Guard reservists called up and in mid August took up position at Mons in France. The Irish Guards from September 1914 onwards were engaged in lengthy trench warfare in Northern France in appalling conditions. There were 2350 Irish Guardsmen killed in the war.

The Royal Irish Fusiliers recruited in counties Cavan, Monaghan and Armagh and were based at Armagh. The regiment was originally raised as the 87th Prince of Wales Irish Regiment of foot in 1793 and was later combined with the 89th the Princess Victoria Regiment of Foot in 1881 to make the Royal Irish Fusiliers. From 1914 to 1918 the Royal Irish Fusiliers fought in France, Flanders, Gallipoli (Turkey), Macedonia (Greece), Egypt and Palestine. The royal Irish Fusiliers were to be disbanded in 1922 but the Inniskilling Regiment offered to reduce in size so the Fusiliers could continue. The Royal Irish Fusiliers have a museum on the Mall in Armagh.

The Royal Irish Rifles recruited in Belfast, Down, Antrim and Tyrone and were based at Belfast.

The Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers recruited in Omagh, Fermanagh, Donegal and Derry and were based at Enniskillen. There is a Regimental Museum at the castle in Enniskillen.

The Royal Irish Regiment recruited in Tipperary, Wexford, Waterford and Kilkenny and were based in Clonmel. The regiment traces its history back to the time of Charles II.

A number of Meathmen joined the Australian forces. James Tuite of Oldcastle signed up to the Australian infantry as did Thomas Harold of Navan. Harold enlisted in Brisbane and served at Gallipoli, the important symbolic site for the Australians. Henry McKeown from Drogheda was killed at Gallipoli serving with the Australians.  He had previously served with the Leinster Regiment. Brothers, John and Thomas Markey from Togherstown enlisted in Australia and both were killed in late 1916. Peter Yore, from Carnaross, had a career in the railways before joining up in 1916.

A number of Meathmen served with the Canadian forces. Thomas Pettigrue of Ardbraccan joined up with the Canadian forces. He is remembered in the church in Navan. Brothers, Charles and Thomas Lancaster of Hill of Down emigrated to Canada, joined up and both were killed in 1918. Robert Maddock of Hill of Down was killed with the Central Ontario Regiment in 1916. Alfred Marshall Barnes of Moynalty served with the Canadian Field Ambulance and was killed in 1916.

Meathmen also probably joined the American forces but they are difficult to trace.

Salonika

Germany’s ally, Bulgaria, attacked Serbia in October 1915. The Greek port of Salonika came to prominence in 1915 when it was used to mount and supply the Gallipoli expeditionary force. In early Oct 1915 the 6th Battalion of the Leinsters was redeployed to Salonika. The 1st Royal Irish landed at Salonika in October 1915. Various other Irish regiments landed at Salonika at the end of October 1915 as part of a British-French force which was requested by the Prime Minister of Greece.  Some Greek factions, including King Constantine, were pro-German. In late October 1915 Patrick Cregan, from Navan, died on board the Hospital Ship, Grantully Castle and was buried in Salonika. The poet, Francis Ledwidge, was part of the forces sent to Salonika. He compared the national aspirations of the Serbs to those of Ireland.

In December 1915 the British element fought a battle at Kosturino, north of Lake Doiran, after withdrawing from Serbia. The Dublin Fusiliers took part in the Battle of Kosturino.

The Allies advanced up to the Serbian frontier and liberated Monastir but they could not assist the Serbs who had withdrawn to the mountains of Albania.  The Allies then withdrew back to Salonika and set up an entrenchment camp around the town. The British Salonika Force not only had to cope with the extremes in temperature but also malaria. Malaria reduced the number of fit men by one quarter.

The first four months of 1916 were spent in constructing the trenches and barbed wire defences eight miles north of the city. The Bulgarians and Austrians also fortified the heights of the hills surrounding Salonika during the same time. Patrick Furlong of Enfield served with the Royal Dublin Fusiliers in Salonika. He had previously served at Gallipoli.  Lance-Sergeant Furlong died of wounds in March 1916. In October 1916 Private Peter McGrane of Julianstown was killed in action near Stuma. He had served with the Royal Dublin Fusiliers in Gallipoli.  His death occurred during a counter attack by the Bulgars. While advancing to reinforce the line, he was killed. The British forces capture Yenikoi on October 3rd and this may be the action in which McGrane died.

The main fighting took place around Lake Doiran, where the line was adjusted several times by each side early in the year. In April 1917, the British attacked, gained a considerable amount of ground and resisted strong counter-attacks. In May, the Bulgarians attacked the British positions, but were firmly repulsed. Andrew McCabe, from Kells and of the Leinster Regiment died of wounds on 11 May 1917. 

Christopher Casey of Navan was killed in action at Salonika in May 1917. A private in the Leinster Regiment Casey died on 30th May after the British forces captured Bairakli and Kumli.

James Rogers of Trim died at Salonika in September 1917. In September 1917 the Leinsters were withdrawn from Salonika to Egypt, landing at Alexandria on 18 September.

The Macedonian Front remained quite stable, despite local actions, until the great Allied offensive in September 1918, which resulted in the capitulation of Bulgaria and the liberation of Serbia.

Meath and the Battle of the Somme – July 1916

The Battle of the Somme was a major offensive by the British and French armies on the German lines. Beginning on 1 July 1916 the action continued until November of that year.

Six Meath men were killed on the opening day of the major offensive. James Flanagan, from Academy Street, Navan, was killed aged 21. Andrew Hamilton of Ardcath, another Dublin Fusilier, was killed. Nicholas Hatch, a 2nd Lieutenant with the Royal Irish Rifles and a native of Duleek was killed. Joseph Gorman of Brewshill, Navan was killed in action on 1 July 1916. John Sherwood of Oldcastle served with Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. Edward Chambers of Trim was serving as a Second Lieutenant with the Lancashire Fusiliers when he was killed. At about 9.40 on the morning of 1 July his regiment advanced through Authille Woods where they were met by German machine gun fire. Leading the first wave of men Chambers was hit by a bullet in the forehead and killed instantaneously. Serving alongside Chambers were the Ulster Division who also made their advance though Authille Woods. 

The battle of the Somme was one of the largest battles of the First World War which resulted in more than 1.5 million casualties. In all nearly 60,000 men died on the first day on the British side. The battle saw the first use of the tank in warfare. At the end of the battle, British and French forces had penetrated a total of six miles into German occupied territory. The 1st Royal Inniskillings suffered more than 500 casualties on the first day as did the 1st Tyneside as did four other battalions with Irish soldiers.

Many of the soldiers on the front line were Irish serving in the 36th (Ulster) Division and the 16th (Irish) Division. Zero hour was officially set at 7:30 a.m. for 1 July 1916. When the artillery barrage ceased, and the whistles blew, the leading waves were to go over the top at one minute intervals and walk forward.

Despite the heavy bombardment, many of the German defenders had survived. The British forces were easily mowed down as they desperately sought a way through. An hour after the attack began only one third of the objectives had been achieved.

The Ulster Division were successful in capturing their German objectives but took 5,000 casualties. This ‘Big Push’ coincided with the original date for the Battle of the Boyne. This huge loss of men and the significance of the date had a major impact on the Ulster Protestant self-image. Four Victoria Crosses were awarded to men of the Ulster Divisions for their courage on that day, three of whom were killed.  The 2nd Royal Inniskillings Fusilers were in the 32nd Division which was repulsed at Thiepval village suffering 4,000 casualties. This allowed the Germans to concentrate their fire on the 36th (Ulster) Division and force them to withdraw. Frank McGuinness remembered the event in his play ‘Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching towards the Somme.’ Today the Somme Heritage Centre outside Newtownards, Co. Down, commemorates the involvement of the 36th (Ulster) and 16th (Irish) Divisions in the Battle of the Somme. At Thiepval a special tower was erected and dedicated to the Ulster men who died in 1921. 

Second-Lt. Edward C. E. Chambers, The Lancashire Fusiliers, aged 20, only son of Richard Edward Elliot Chambers of Fosterstown, Trim, Co. Meath. Chambers had resigned a training position with the Grenadiers in order to get to the front line. On the morning of the great assault, 1 July, his regiment formed part of one of the leading brigades, and advanced to attack through Authuille Wood, going out from it at the north-east in rushes or waves of five men at a time into open rising ground enfiladed by machine-gun fire. Leading the first wave of his men, he was hit by a machine-gun bullet in the forehead, some thirty-five yards out from the edge of the wood and killed instantaneously whilst leading his men to the attack of the German trenches.

This was about 9.40 a.m. during the first assault on the Leipzic Redoubt, and about three-quarters of a mile south-south west of Thiepval. He was buried on 3 July, in Bouzincourt Cemetery about two and a quarter miles north-west of Albert. His Commanding Officer wrote that he had never lived with anyone “more cheery and good-natured, and one who did his duty so cheerily and thoroughly, and his loss was very much mourned by all the officers and men of the Battalion, … He did all that any man could do, and helped a great many by his optimism and unselfishness.” A brother officer wrote: “He was afraid of nothing and kept everybody’s spirits up by his constant cheerfulness, particularly in the trying conditions of the winter, when we were all new to trench work. I have lost a great friend… and the regiment has lost a splendid officer.”

Private John James Sherwood, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, from Glenboy, Oldcastle, was killed in action, 1 July 1916. Sherwood  had previously served in Balkans. Private James Flanagan, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, Academy Street, Navan, killed in action, 1 July 1916. In 1911 Flanagan was an apprentice in a woollen mill. Lance-Corporal Joseph Patrick Gorman, Royal Irish Rifles, from Brew’s Hill, Navan, was killed in action, 1 July 1916. Before enlistment Gorman had been a labourer in a flour mill in Navan. Private Andrew Hamilton, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, from Cloghan, Ardcath, was killed in action, 1 July 1916. Second Lieutenant Nicholas Hatch, Royal Irish Rifles, from Millhouse, Duleek, was killed in action, 1 July 1916, aged 20. Hatch is remembered on the Drogheda War Memorial.

Private William Horan, Irish Guards, from Horan’s Cross, Fyanstown, Kells, was killed in action, 2 July 1916, aged 26. Horan had enlisted in Drogheda and served in France from August 1915. Private Albert Walton, Machine Gun Corps, born in Navan, was killed in action, 10 July 1916 aged 34. Private Joseph Sheerin, Royal Irish Fusiliers, from Beauparc, Navan was killed in action, 7 July 1916. At the Navan Board of Guardians, a vote of sympathy was passed to Mr. Collins, Master of the Workhouse, brother in law and the relatives of James Sheerin, who had been killed in the war.

Private Joseph Clarke, Private, The East Lancashire Regiment, from Ratoath was killed in action on 10 July 1916. Private James Mulvany, Royal Irish Fusiliers, was killed in action, 10 July 1916, aged 24. His parents, Owen and Catherine Mulvaney, lived in Kells. Private David Crone, Irish Guards, from Dunboyne, was killed in action on 12 July 1916. Lance-Corporal Thomas Nugent, Royal Irish Rifles, was killed in action, 15 July 1916, aged 20.  His parents, Henry and Bridget Nugent, lived at The Green, Trim.

Private John Potter, Cheshire Regiment, from Downstown, Duleek, was killed in action, battle of the Somme, 7 July 1916.  The diary of the Cheshire Regiment for 7th July reads “Over the parapet at 8.5 A.M. After suffering severe casualties we reached out objective and consolidated. A number of prisoners and war material fell into our hands. Casualties on this day very heavy 18 Officers and 243 other ranks.” Private Robert McWhirter, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, from Lossett, Moybologue, Kells, was killed in action, 19 July 1916, aged 26. McWhirter resided in New Galloway, Kilcudbrights and enlisted in Dumfries, Dumfriesshire.

Private Christopher Gerrard, South Lancashire Regiment, from White Quarry, Ardbraccan, Navan, died of wounds, 9th General Hospital, Rouen, France, 21 July 1916, aged 33. A collier Gerrard enlisted at Wigan, Lancashire on 30 August 1914. Private Henry McCormack, Royal Irish Fusiliers, husband of Margaret McCormack, 2 Boyne Cottages, Trim died of wounds, 21 July 1916 aged 41. His remains were buried in Newtown cemetery, Trim.

Second Lieutenant George Purdon Winter, Rifle Brigade, from Tullyard, Trim, was killed in action, 23 July 1916. The magistrates at Trim Petty Sessions passed a resolution of condolence to Col. and Mrs. Purdon Winter on the death at the front of their youngest son. Private Bernard Whyte, Machine Gun Corps, from Dunshaughlin, died of wounds on 27 July 1916. Whyte enlisted in the Leinster Regiment at Navan and his remains are interred in Cheltenham Cemetery.

Second Lieutenant William Hubert Potterton, Royal Engineers, was killed in action, battle of the Somme, 24 July 1916, aged 24. Lieutenant Potterton was a son of Mr. William Potterton, Freffans, Trim, a well-known cattle salesmaster. This young officer had a very narrow escape from death in Flanders in December 1915. A bullet grazed his left breast, but did not inflict any very serious injury. Potterton was an engineer and graduate of Trinity and is commemorated on the war memorial in Trinity and also on one in Connolly Station – as a member of the staff of the Great Northern Railway.

Private Thomas Harold, Australian Infantry, from Cornmarket, Navan, was killed in action, 29 July 1916, aged 25. Harold enlisted in Brisbane and served in Gallipoli from October 1915 to March 1916 when he was posted to France. Private Thomas Markey, Australian Infantry, from Togherstown, Kilbeg was wounded in action 29 July 1916 and killed in action 14 November 1916. A carpenter Markey emigrated to Brisbane, Australia, enlisted in June 1915 and fought in Gallipoli from October 1915. His brother, John Markey, was also killed in the war.  Private T. Dignam, Leinster Regiment, from Ballybeg, near Kells, was among the many Irish soldiers who fell in the heavy engagements in the Somme region of France in July, 1916.

Submarine Warfare

Submarines came into use in the American Civil war. In the later nineteenth century john Philip Holland, who was from Liscannor, Co. Clare, designed submarines which used the internal combustion engine on the surface and electrical power while under the sea. The Fenian Ram, launched in 1881 was the first successful submarine. Submarines based on Holland’s design were adopted by various navies throughout the world. 

At the beginning of World War I Helgioland was  a major German naval base. In August 1914, a flotilla of ten U-boats sailed from their base in Heligoland to attack Royal Navy warships in the North Sea in the first submarine war patrol in history. The first naval battle of World War I was the first Battle of Helgioland Bight, fought in August 1914. 

During the war German U-boats attacked the Atlantic convoys bringing supplies to the Allies in Europe.  German submarine attacks on allied merchant ships gave a direct cause for Americans to enter the war in April 1917.

It is sometimes claimed that the United Kingdom was the last major maritime power to use submarines at the beginning of the 20th century, as the idea of submarine warfare was considered by many senior personnel in the Admiralty to be “Underhand, unfair and damned un-English.” The Royal Navy launched its first submarine, Holland 1, in 1901.The British used submarines for laying mines in enemy waters.

In Loughcrew Church is a memorial to George Wyatt Edgell Naper, son of Lieutenant Colonel W.D. Naper of the Loughcrew family. George Nasper was a Lieutenant Commander in the Royal Navy. He commanded the submarine H.M.Submarine E24.

HMS E24 was a E-class submarine of the Royal Navy built by Vickers, Barrow in Furness. She was launched in December 1915 and commissioned the next month. E24 belonged to the Harwich-based 9th Flotilla. She was the second E-class boat to be converted into a minelayer. E24 left Harwich on the morning of 21 March 1916 to lay mines in the Helgioland Bight. A positional report was issued late that night. The submarine was not heard from again. Her commander, Lieutenant-Commander Naper, was ordered to enter the Bight in darkness on the surface via the Amerun Bank. Once in position he was to lay mines in a zigzag formation. As mines were known to have been laid by the Germans off Ameland, Naper was ordered to return by the same route. She did not return from the mission, and was logged as missing on 24 March 1916.

In 1974 a German-led attempt was made to recover a Second World War submarine that was supposed to be transporting valuables to Japan, but was sunk leaving port. A wreck was found and was taken to Cuxhaven where the wreck was identified as a British E-class boat, rather than a German submarine. The German government then informed the Admiralty.

Human remains found in the wreck are buried in Ohlsdorf, Hamburg in July 1974.  E24’s commander is buried in a separate grave to others. Lieutenant-Commander Naper was identified because of the two half rings on sleeve, and the fact that his skeleton was 6ft tall. All the skulls of those in the boat were found in a pyramidal formation. The sunken wreck lay at a downward angle, causing the heads to become detached from the bodies and to roll down the slope into that position. Three bodies were found lying under the battery boards directly on top of the batteries, with arms folded. They may have died of the effects of chlorine gas before the rest of the crew. Artefacts from E24 and her crew, such as smoking pipes belonging to Naper, a bottle of blackberries, the sextant, a firing pistol and boots are on display at Cuxhaven, as are the submarine’s conning tower and propellers.