Local men killed and wounded at the Somme

From the files of the Ballymena Observer.
Above: The Ancre River Cemetery between Beaumont Hamel and Thiepval. This was 'No Man's Land' in 1915 with the 12th Rifles manning trenches just off the left side of this tranquil picture.Above: The Ancre River Cemetery between Beaumont Hamel and Thiepval. This was 'No Man's Land' in 1915 with the 12th Rifles manning trenches just off the left side of this tranquil picture.
Above: The Ancre River Cemetery between Beaumont Hamel and Thiepval. This was 'No Man's Land' in 1915 with the 12th Rifles manning trenches just off the left side of this tranquil picture.

Captain O.B. Webb

Official information has been received that Captain O. B. Webb, Randalstown of the Royal Irish Rifles (South Antrims) died on Monday as a result of wounds received on Saturday, July 1. Captain Webb, who joined the Ulster Division shortly after the outbreak of war went to the front in October. He was a member of the firm Old Bleach Linen Co. He was a staunch unionist and took an active interest in the formation of the Ulster Volunteers of which he was a company officer.

Lt. Thomas Greenwood Haughton

Mr. T. G. Haughton, JP, Hillmount, Cullybackey, yesterday received the sad official information that his youngest son, Lt. Thomas Greenwood Haughton, 12th Royal Irish Rifles had been killed on 1st July. Mr. Haughton, who was 25 years of age, was educated at Edgbleaton Prep. School, Birmingham and at St. Edmond‚s School, Oxford. He had been a popular and enthusiastic officer in connection with the Ulster Volunteers and was commander of E Coy. 1st Btn. North Antrim Regt.

When war broke out he offered his services, securing a commission in the Central Antrim‚s 12th Royal Irish Rifles going to the front in October 1915. At his coming of age on 2nd June 1912 the employees of the family firm, Messrs. Frazer and Haughton, Cullybackey, made him a presentation of a gold watch and chain as a token of the respect in which he was held.

Sergeant William Grant

Information was received yesterday that Sergeant William Grant of the 12th Royal Irish Rifles has been killed in action.

He was the son of Mr. William Grant of Railway Cottages, Ballymena, and prior to his enlistment in September of 1914 was a tailor in Messrs. Barclay and Crawford‚s , Church Street, Ballymena.

Sgt. Grant was a prominent member of the Harryville Company of the UVF. The Rev. Alfred McFadden of High Kirk, to which Church he belonged made a touching reference to him last Sunday.

Sergt. Samuel C. Caldwell

Mr. R. T. Caldwell, of Ross, Kells, Ballymena, has received notification that his eldest son, Sergt. Samuel C. Caldwell 12th Royal Irish Rifles (Central Antrim Volunteers) has died of wounds received in action on July 3. Deceased, who was 27 years of age, was unmarried.

Rfn. William Brown

Rfn. William Brown (pioneer) Newferry whose wife and young daughter reside at Culnafay has been killed in action on July 1. He was the only son of Mr. and Mrs. William Brown of Newferry. He had emigrated to America three years ago and returned in Christmas 1914, joining the army in the early spring of 1915 and went to the front with the Ulster Division (16th Btn R.I.Rifles).

Rfn. Brown is the only recorded fatal casualty of the 16th (Pioneer) Battalion on July 1. However, the unit was to remain in action well after the remainder of the Division were relieved on July 3.

Rfn. David Linton

Official intimation has been received by Mr. Robert Linton, Cloughmills that his son, Rfn. David Linton Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) was killed in action on July 1.

Rfn. John Barr

Mrs. Barr, Queen Street, Ballymena, has received notification that her husband Rfn. John Barr , Royal Irish Rifles has been killed in action. Rfn. Barr enlisted in November 1915 during the last recruiting campaign in the district and he had been at the front since March. Before joining the army he was in the employment of the Midland Railway Company (NCC). He leaves his wife and six young children to mourn his loss.

Cpl. W. Furgrove

Mrs. Furgrove, Cullybackey, has received information of the death in action of her son, Cpl. W. Furgrove, Royal Irish Rifles (CAV) which took place on the 1st July. The secretary of the Ancient Blue Masonic Lodge, Cullybackey, has written to Mrs. Furgrove and family conveying sincere sympathy.

Rifleman Alexander Luke

Mrs. Luke, 37 Springwell Street, Ballymena received a letter from a Church of England Chaplain on Monday last stating that her husband Rifleman Alexander Luke of 12th RIR (Ulster Division) had died in No9 General Hospital from nervous shock and a wound. Rfn. Luke enlisted in May 1915 and proceeded to the front with the Ulster Division.

Prior to joining the army he was employed by the Midland Railway Co. at Ballymena Station. He was a son of Mr. James Luke, Ahoghill. Mr. Luke has a brother with the forces at Salonika.

Two brothers killed on same day

NEWS was received yesterday by Mr. William McGowan, King Street, Ballymena, that his two sons, Rifleman James McGowan and Rifleman John McGowan of the 12th Royal Irish Rifles have been killed in action on July 1.

John enlisted in September 1914 p rior to which he was in the employment of Ballymena Urban Council and James enlisted in May 1915 before which he was an employee in the Braidwater Spinning Mill. Both went to the front with the Ulster Division. It is understood that one brother went to the assistance of the other and they were both killed fighting together.

Lance Corporal Thomas Cooke

MR. Alexander Cooke, Larne Street, Ballymena, received a letter from a Presbyterian Chaplain yesterday to the effect that his son, L.cpl. T. Cooke, 12th Royal Irish Rifles was killed on July 1.

L.cpl. Cooke enlisted in September 1914 prior to which he was an employee in the Braidwater Spinning Mill. He was only 19 years of age. He has two brothers with the colours, Rfn. Alex Cooke, who is in training with the 18th RIR at Clandeboye and Private James Cooke, Royal Engineers.

Rifleman Alex Wallace

MRS. Wallace, Gilmore Street, received information yesterday from a chaplain at the front to the effect that he husband, Rfn. Alex. Wallace 12th Royal Irish Rifles, was killed in action on July 1.

Rfn. Wallace, who was a member of Harryville Unionist Club and the UVF, enlisted in September 1914 and went to the front with the Ulster Division.

Before joining the army he was n the employment of Messrs. Morton and Simpson Ltd. He leaves a wife and two children to mourn his loss. He was a son of Mr. John Wallace Queen Street.

Rifleman Daniel McNiece

MR. John McNiece, Queen Street, Harryville, received a letter from a chaplain yesterday stating that his son Rfn. Daniel McNiece 12th RIR was killed in action on July 1. Rfn. McNiece enlisted shortly after the outbreak of war and was formerly in the employ of Kane Bros.

He was a member of the UVF and of Ballykeel LOL. He leaves three orphan children.

Rifleman Frank Gamble

MR. John Gamble, The Moat, Kells, received intimation yesterday that his son Rfn. Frank Gamble 12th Royal Irish Rifles has been killed in action. He enlisted in September 1914 prior to which he was a turner in the woollen Mill of Messrs. John Dinsmore and Son, Old Green.

Rfn. Gamble was a member of the local company of the UVF. He is a brother of Mr. Lockhart Gamble, ticket collector at Ballymena Railway Station and caretaker of the Masonic Hall..

Rifleman John Grant

INTIMATION was received yesterday by Mr. John Grant, Galgorm, that his son Rfn. John Grant 12th RIR has been killed in action. Rfn. Grant enlisted in September 1914 and before joining the colours was in the employment of the late Mr. John Young

Rifleman David Anderson

Mrs. Anderson, Bridge Street, Ballymena, has received information that her son, Rfn. David Anderson of the 12th RIR (originally reported as wounded)has died of wounds. Rfn. Anderson enlisted about 14 months ago and went to the front with the Ulster Division. Before joining the army he was an employee at the Braidwater Mill and was a member of the Braidwater LOL, Ballymena.

Rifleman Samuel Millar

Mrs. S. Millar, Castle Grounds, Ballymena, has received official notification to the effect that her husband, Rfn. Samuel Millar, Royal Irish Rifles, has died of wounds. Rfn. Millar enlisted in June 1915 and has been at the front nine months. About five weeks ago when he was home on leave he was married. He is a son of Mr. Alexander Millar, 59 Larne Street, Ballymena. His brother Rfn. Lockhart Millar is on active service. (lcpl at time of death)

Corporal George Ireland

Information has been received by Mr. James Ireland, Ballygarvey, Ballymena, that his third son, Cpl. George Ireland 12th Royal Irish Rifles (CAV) has been killed in action. Cpl. Ireland who was 29 years of age enlisted shortly after the outbreak of war and went to the front with the Ulster Division. Prior to joining the army he was employed by the Midland Railway Company. He was a member of the UVF and Loyal Orange Institution. His brother, Pte John Ireland 204th Btn. Toronto Rifles is in training with the Canadians.

Rifleman Joseph White

Mr. John White, Galgorm Road, Ballymena, has received official notification that his son, Rfn. Joseph White 12th RIR (CAV) has been killed in action on an unknown date but most probably July 1st. Rfn. White enlisted shortly after the outbreak of war, prior to which he was in the employment of the Braidwater Spinning Company and for a number of years was Messrs.. Eason‚s newsboy at Ballymena Railway Station. He was at the front for seven months. He has two Uncles serving with the colours, both of whom have been wounded, Rfn. James Campbell RIR and Pte Joseph Campbell, Royal Scots. Rfn. White was only 18 years of age.

Rifleman Samuel Crawford

Official information has been received of the death in actionof Rfn. Samuel Crawford 12th RIR (CAV), a native of Lisnafillan, Ballymena and whose wife and young child reside in Circular Road, Larne. Rfn/ Crawford who was the second son of Mr. A. Crawford, Lisnafillan, was formerly employed by Mr. D. Weir, Straid, Gracehill and Mr. Robert Moore, Bridgend. Prior to going to Larne he was in the employment of Ballymena gas works. In Larne he was employed by the Aluminium Works. He was a member of the UVF in Larne and a member of Galgorm LOL, Ballymena. he enlisted in the autumn of 1914 and went to the front with the Ulster Division.

Lance Corporal James McFall

Mrs. McFall, Galgorm Parks, Ballymena has received notification of the death from wounds of her son Lce. Cpl. James McFall, RIR (Ulster Division) which took place in a military hospital in London. Rfn. McFall who was 20 years old, enlisted in January 1915 prior to which he was an apprentice millwright in the Maine Works, Cullybackey.

Official information has been received of the death in action on July 1st of Corporal James Watson, 12th Royal Irish Rifles (CAV). Cpl. Watson was an employee at the Braidwater Spining Mill and he was among the early UVF to train at the Clegan Camp. He was a son of the late Mr. Andrew Watson, Broughshane Street, and he resided with his sisters at that address. Two years ago he lost a finger in an accident at the mill.

Lance-corporal Robert A. Campbell

The Ulster movement in the Maryhill Division of Glasgow has lost one of its foremost workers by the death in action of Lce. Cpl Robert A. Campbell, of the Inniskilling Fusiliers (Ulster Division). Decased, who was a native of Galdanagh, Kells, removed to Maryhill along with his parents a number of years ago. He took an active interest in furthering Ulster‚s interests in Maryhill, and among the many Ulstermen in the district he was highly respected. He was one of the first members of the Glasgow UVF and had been with the Ulster Division since January 1915.

The deceased was a bomber and in the afternoon of 1st July while taking part in the offensive, he, along with many other good Irishmen, was killed. His parents who are well known in the Galdanagh District and who now reside at 14 Campbell Street, Maryhill, Glasgow have received a letter of sympathy from his officer, in which it is stated:-

“Bobbie was one of the best men I ever had. He was a fearless and upright soldier and I can assure you that everyone in the battalion will mourn his loss.”

Lce. Cpl. Campbell was also a member of both the local Orange and Masonic Lodges. His older brother, William, who is in the Cameron Highlanders, was wounded at Loos last year. He is now serving in Salonika. Aug 4 1916

Rifleman W. J. McMullan

Mr. Daniel McMullan, 82 Queen Street, Harryville, has been officially informed that his son William John McMullan (Central Antrim Volunteers) has been killed in action. He had previously been reported Œmissing‚ since 1st July.

Rfn. McMullan enlisted in September 1914 and went to the front with the Ulster Division last Autumn. He had the distinction of being the first Ballymena in the 12th Royal Irish Rifles to be wounded. This was in October 1915 when he was slightly wounded in the foot. Prior to enlisting Rfn. McMullan was employed in Greer‚s tailoring establishment, Church Street, Ballymena. Aug. 11 1916

Rifleman John Bonnar

Information has been received by his sister that Rfn. John Bonnar 12th Royal Irish Rifles (Central Antrims) has been killed in action on July 1. Rfn. Bonnar enlisted in May 1915 prior to which he was in the employment of Mr. James Curie, Rocavan. Rfn. Bonnar who was only 18 years of age, was a son of the late Mr. James Bonnar, Rocavan.

Private William Telford

Mrs. John Telford of Alexander Street, Ballymena, has received news that her son, Private William Telford, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers was killed in action on 1st July. Private Telford was a reservist and was slightly wounded at the Dardanelles. He was previously employed in the firm of Messrs. William Clarke and Co., boot manufacturers, Ballymena. Aug 11 1916

Rifleman James Lennox

Mr. James Lennox, 14 Edward Street, Ballymena, has been officially informed that his son, Rfn. James Lennox, Royal Irish Riles (Central Antrims) has died of wounds in No. 1 General Hospital, Etretat. Rfn. Lennox was wounded in the advance of the Ulster Division at Thiepval after which he was reported as dangerously ill. He enlisted in October 1914, prior to which he was in the employment of the Phoenix Weaving Co. Ltd. September 1 1916

Rifleman J. Wilson (missing)

Mrs. Mary Wilson, Church Street, Ahoghill, has received a letter from the Rev. Andrew Gibson, Presbyterian Chaplain, informing her that her son, Rfn. J. Wilson (Central Antrim Volunteers) has been officially reported as Œmissing‚ since the day the Ulster Division went into action. Continuing, the Rev. Gibson says: - “I wrote to offer you our deepest sympathy in your suspense and anxiety and to express the hope that you may have heard of him from some reliable quarter. It is to be feared that many of the Œmissing‚ have laid down their lives on the field of battle. Today there are many homes in Ulster where sorrow is, and many hearts prostrate with grief. Ulster‚s sons fought a great fight and covered her name with glory. We are confident that you at home will meet these losses bravely and will walk the hard path with unwavering faith as those who have fallen would wish us to do.” Aug. 4, 1916

Rifleman J. King (dead)

Mrs. King, 108 Springwell Street, Ballymena has received a letter from the Chaplain of the 12th Royal Irish Rifles (Central Antrims) informing her that her husband, Rfn. J. King has been missing since 1st July. Before joining the forces, he was an employee of Mr. Bernard O‚Neill, boot and shot manufacturer, Mill Street, Ballymena. Aug 4 1916

Rifleman Alex. Montgomery

Mrs. Montgomery, Hope Street, Ballymena, has received official notification that her husband, Rfn. Alex. Montgomery, Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) is missing. Rfn. Montgomery enlisted in October 1915 before which he was an employee in the Braidwater Spinning Mill. Aug 11 1916

On February 9, 1917 Mrs. Montgomery was informed that her husband had, indeed, been killed in action on July 1, 1916.

Private Thomas Coulter (missing)

Official information has been received by his relatives who reside at Moat Road, Ballymena that Private Thomas Coulter, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, is missing since 1st July. Pte. Coulter enlisted in October 1914 , prior to which he was in the employment of Messrs. Kane Bros. Ballymena.

DAVISON, Andrew Dinsmore. Private 108th Company MG Corps. F. 18942 Royal Irish Rifles. KIA 1/7/1916. Service no. 17714. Born and lived/son of Sam and Eliz. Davison, Bridge End, Galgorm. Enlisted Ballymena. Buried Mesnil Communal Cemetery, Somme. Comm. Ahoghill Church of Ireland.

Wounded:

Lt. William Ellis, Royal Irish Rifles (South Antrims) was wounded on July 1st and is at present in hospital in England. he is the only son of Mr. William Ellis, Toomebridge. he was an active member of the UVF being in the South Antrim Regt.

2nd Lt. Jack Crawford, Royal Irish Rifles second son of Mr. Robert Crawford, Ashville, Ballymena was wounded in the Ulster Division‚s advance. We understand that he is in hospital in France and is progressing favourably from his wounds which he states himself are only slight. Mr. Crawford who is just 21 years of age, was with the YCVs.

He has another brother in the Rifles, 2nd Lt. Rollie Crawford. He was educated at the Model School Ballymena Academy, Foyle College and Trinity College, Dublin where he was studying for the ministry. In the early spring of 1915 he joined the Rifles as a private and later became attached to the cadet corps, from which he gained a commission. He went to the front during the first week of February 1915

Mrs. Vint, Waveney Road, Ballymena, has received a telegram from the War Office that her son, 2nd Lt. F. W. Vint, Royal Irish Fusiliers, has been wounded. The injuries are described as gunshot wounds to both arms. 2nd Lt. Vint was educated at Ballymena Model School, Ballymena Academy and Queen‚s University from the OTC of which he obtained his commission in August 1915. His brother 2nd Lt. J. Vint M.A. is serving at the front with the Royal Garrison Artillery.

2nd Lt. Mervyn Palethorpe, Royal Irish Rifles, is badly wounded. he is a son of Captain A. H. Palethorpe, Army Service Corps, formerly of Pentagon House, Ballymena. He was educated at Ballymena Academy and obtained his commission in the 17th Btn. R.I. Rifles on January 28, 1915 and was subsequently posted to one of the line battalions at the front.

Later found to be a POW Mr. Wilson Kirkpatrick, Craigs, Cullybackey, has been officially notified that his son Rfn. Wilson Kirkpatrick, 12th Royal Irish Rifles (CAV) has been killed in action. Rfn. Kirkpatrick, who resided with his parents, was an employee at Messrs. Frazer and Haughton‚s Hillmount Works. he joined the army a year ago and had been at the front for six months

Rfn. Alexander Marcus, RIR (Ulster Division) has been wounded, he is the son of the late Mr. Samuel Marcus, Henry Street, Harryville, and prior to joining the army was in the employment of the Railway Company at Antrim Station. Rfn. Marcus, who had served in the army prior to the war, was attached to a trench mortar battery.

Mrs. John Steele, Galgorm Street, received a letter on Monday last from her son, Rfn. John Steele, RIR (Ulster Division) stating that he was wounded by shrapnel in two places on the right leg and on the right arm. He was in the bayonet charge on July 1st when he got wounded and had to lie for 48 hours before he could get attended to. Rfn. Steele stated that they took 600 prisoners. he is at present in hospital in Bury St. Edmonds and is doing well, Prior to enlistment he was engaged at the York Street Spinning Mill, Belfast.

Mrs. McDowell, Galgorm Street, received a letter from a chaplain on Monday morning last which stated that her brother Rfn. Israel Lindsay, RIR (Ulster Division) had been wounded and was in hospital in France. Before joining the army he was in the employment of Mr. Samuel Hood JP, Mill Street.

Rfn. Hugh Mullan , 12th Royal Irish Rifles, has sent a field post card to his father Mr. T. Mullan, Queen Street, on which he states he was wounded. Rfn. Mullan enlisted in September 1914 and proceeded to the front with the Ulster Division last autumn. He was an employee of the Midland Railway Company.

Rfn. Robert Caldwell, 12th Royal Irish Rifles, who has been wounded, is a son of Mr. Samuel Caldwell, Upper Tannybrake, Kells. before enlisting he was in the employment of Mr. John Moody, Tannybrake Dye Works.

Rfn. William McClean, Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) who is suffering from shell shock is a son of Mr. Samuel McClean, Kells, Ballymena. It is understood that he arrived in Belfast along with a small company at the UVF Hospital, Botanic Avenue on Saturday night.

Rfn. Jack Anderson, 12th Btn. Royal Irish Rifles is wounded and in hospital in Sheffield, England. He is a son of Mr. John Anderson, Princes Street, greenkeeper of Ballymena Bowling Club. he was employed in Messrs. Kane Bros. Foundry, Harryville and after enlisting was orderly to the late Lt. T.G. Haughton, Cullybackey. He has a brother in the North Irish Horse.

Signaller R. Parke Jnr. Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers (Tyrone Volunteers) who is wounded is a son of Sergeant R. Parke who is at the front with the Army Service Corps. Signaller Parke, whose mother resides at 8, Park Street, Ballymena was employed in Messrs. Wolseley‚s Cullybackey Road, before joining the army.

Rfn. Johnston McGall, 12th Btn. Royal Irish Rifles (C.A.V.) whose wife resides at Fair Hill Lane, Ballymena, is wounded and in hospital in Cardiff. He was formerly employed as a shoemaker with Messrs. A & C Robinson, Ballymena. He enlisted in September 1914 and went to the front with the Ulster Division. His brothers, Riflemen Thomas McGall and James McGall have also been wounded. Their mother resides at Portglenone.

Rfn. J. Armstrong 12Btn. RIR (C.A.V) is wounded, He belongs to Hillmount, Cullybackey. He enlisted in October 1914 prior to which he was a tailor in Mr. Hepple‚s Wellington Street, Ballymena.

Mr. Sands, Ballyconnelly, Cullybackey, has received information that his son, Rfn. Thomas Sands, Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) has been wounded. Rfn. Sands was a member of the UVF and was formerly employed by Dr. W. R. Dick.

Information has been received by Mrs. Leith, Cullybackey, to the effect that her son Rfn. Hugh Leith, Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) has been wounded and is at present in hospital in England. He was a member of the Cullybackey Company of the UVF and prior to enlisting was employed in the Maine Works, Cullybackey.

The father of Rfn. James Duff, Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) who resides at Hillmount, Cullybackey, has received information that his son had been wounded in the right eye. Before joining the colours, Rfn. Duff was employed in the Hillmount Works and was a member of Hillmount UVF.

MR. Samuel McIlroy, Clonavon Road, Ballymena, has received an official telegram from the war office informing him that his brother, Rfn. Robert McIlroy, Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) is at present in King George Hospital suffering from shell shock. Rfn. McIlroy who enlisted about a year ago, was a member of the UVF and the Loyal Orange Institution. Before joining the army he was an employee in the boot and shoe factory of Messrs. W. Clarke and Co. High Street, Ballymena.

MR. Robert Watson, Alexander Street, has received information that his son, Rfn. William Watson, 12th Btn. Royal Irish Rifles (C.A.V.) had received a gun-shot wound on the right arm on Saturday, 1st July and is at present in a general hospital in Colchester. Rfn. Watson enlisted in September 1914 and proceeded to the front with the Ulster Division. He was in the employment of the Braidwater Spinning co.

Rfn. James Telford, who has been wounded on the left leg is a son of Mr. John Telford, Alexander Street, Ballymena. Rfn. Telford, who is in the 12th Btn Royal Irish Rifles (C.A.V.) is at present in Edmonton Hospital, England. He enlisted in May 1915 and went to the front with the Ulster Division, prior to which he was employed by Mr. Robert Beaumont, Ballymena.

Mrs. W. Nelson, Market Road, has been notified that her son, Rfn. William Nelson 12th Btn Royal Irish Rifles (C.A.V.) has been wounded in the thigh and is at present in hospital in Scotland. Rfn. Nelson enlisted in September 1914 prior to which he was employed in Mr. David Christie‚s Foundry, Harryville.

Rfn. James McAuley, RIR (CAV) wounded of Millview Place did four years at the moulding in Messrs. Kane Bros. Foundry and was a popular player with the Harriers Football Club. He went to the front with the Ulster Division. His father Rfn., Joseph McAuley is at the base in France and he has a brother in training at Clandeboye.

Rfn. Andrew McDowell RIR (CAV) wounded is a son of Mr. John McDowell, Galgorm Street, Ballymena. He was an employee in the Braidwater Mill. He enlisted in 1914 and went to the front with the Ulster Division.

Rfn. George Hanna RIR (CAV) wounded is a son of Mr. George Hanna, James Street, Harryville, He was an employee in Kane‚s Foundry and was a member of the Harryville Coy. UVF.

Rfn. William Dempster RIR (CAV) wounded is a son of Mrs. Dempster, Galgorm Street, he enlisted in September 1914 and has been at the front since last autumn. He is wounded in the leg.

Rfn. John Bell, RIR (CAV) is a son of Mr. John Bell, Queen Street. He was buried by an upheaval of earth, caused by an explosion of a shell and is suffering from bruises. Rfn. Bell was an employee of the Midland Railway Co. and he was formerly a fitter in Messrs. Kane‚s Foundry.

Rfn. Andrew McQuiston RIR (CAV) is a son of Mr. Samuel McQuiston, Queen Street, Harryville. A letter from his Uncle Lt. Andrew McQuiston stated that Rfn.. McQuiston was wounded slightly on the leg. He was a painter employed by the Midland Railway Company.

Mrs. Watson. Gilmer Street, Harryville received notification that he son Rfn. Charles Watson of the Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) has been slightly wounded in the arm and foot and is in hospital in England. Rfn. Watson enlisted in July 1915 and has been at the front for six months. Prior to joining the army he was an employee in the Braidwater Spinning Mill, Ballymena. He has a brother serving at the front with the 12th Royal Irish Rifles (CAV).

News has been received by Mr. William Barr, Queen Street, Harryville that his son Rfn. Robert Barr of the 12th RI Rifles (CAV) has been wounded on the shoulder and leg and is in a casualty clearing station in France. he enlisted about the end of June 1915 and has been at the front eight months. Before enlistment he was a fitter in Mr. David Christie‚s Foundry and was a member of the Harryville UVF.

Mrs. W. McGuinness of Salisbury Square, Ballymena was notified in a letter that her husband Rfn. William McGuinness 12th RIR (CAV) has been wounded and is in no.3 casualty clearing station, France.

Mr. Samuel Herbison, Ballymoney Street, Ballymena, has received information from a hospital in France stating that his son Rfn. S. Herbison, 12th RIR (CAV) has been wounded, Rfn. Herbison joined the army in April 1915 and prior to his enlistment was an employee of the Braidwater Weaving Factory, Ballymena.

Mrs. Thompson, Clarence Street, Ballymena, has received field postcard from her son Rfn. John Thompson, RIR (CAV) stating that he has been wounded. Rfn. Thompson enlisted with the first big batch of recruits in September 1914.

Mrs. Kennedy, Galgorm Street, Ballymena received intimation on Wednesday last from a Presbyterian Chaplain that her husband, Rfn. James Kennedy of the Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) is at present in No.44 Clearing Station, France, suffering from shell shock which has affected his speech. Rfn. Kennedy has been at the front seven months. He has a brother with the forces in Mesopotamia and another brother, Stoker Peter Kennedy went down with HMS Queen Mary in the Battle at Jutland. He is a son of Mrs. Kennedy of Larne Street, Harryville, who has eight nephews serving at the front. Rfn. Kennedy was a member of the Harryville Company of the UVF.

Mr. Robert Millar, Ballymoney Street, Ballymena, has received a letter from his third son, Lce. Cpl. Reggie Millar RIR (Pioneer Btn) stating that he has been wounded by shrapnel in the leg and that he is in Stobhill Hospital, Glasgow. Lce. Cpl. Millar joined the Rifles in May 1915 and went to the front with the Ulster Division. He has two brothers with the colours, Sgt. Robin Millar, Canadian Mounted Rifles who was wounded several weeks ago and Pte Richard Millar, currently in training with the Canadians at Niagara.

Mrs. Courtney, High Street, Ballymena, has received intimation that her son Lce. Corporal Robert Courtney Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) is at present at hospital in Rouen suffering from wounds. L.cpl. Courtney enlisted in November 1915 and was formerly in the employment of Messrs. W. McClelland and Son, Church Street.

Mr. Robert Montgomery, Castle Street, Ballymena has received information that his son, Rfn. Allen Montgomery RIR (YCV) has been wounded. Rfn. Montgomery enlisted shortly after the outbreak of war and went to the front with the Ulster Division last autumn. He was formerly a traveller with Messrs. Young and Anderson, Belfast and was a member of the Masonic Order.

Rfn. David Taylor, son of Mr. James Taylor, Galgorm Parks, who is in the RIR (CAV) was wounded on July 1st. He joined at the outbreak of war, prior to which, after serving his time with Mr. James Armstrong, Draper, Mill Street, he was employed in Messrs. James Lindsay and Co. Ulster Arcade, Belfast. He was a member of the UVF. His brother 2nd Lt. John Taylor is serving at the front with the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers (Tyrone Volunteers).

Riflemen James Rodgers (South Antrims) and his brother Rfn. John Rodgers (Central Antrims) both wounded, are nephews of Mr. William Kennedy, Factory Street, Whiteabbey. Both are natives of Kildrum, Ballymena.

Rfn. James Logan, Royal Irish Rifles, wounded, is a son of Mr. James Logan, Cullybackey. He is now in hospital in England.

Rfn. Samuel Watt RIR (CAV) wounded, belongs to Harperstown, Cullybackey. He was formerly employed in the firm of Messrs. Frazer and Haughton, Hillmount, Cullybackey.

Rfn. Henry Watt, Royal Irish Rifles MG section, who is seriously wounded on the head, is the husband of Mrs. Watt, Hillmount Cullybackey. He was a member of the UVF and he is a brother of Rfn. Samuel Watt, who is also wounded (see above). he was an employee of Frazer and Haughton.

Private Alexander McMaster, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, wounded, is a son of the late Mr. Samuel McMaster, Killyless, Cullybackey and a nephew of Mr. John Millar, Craigs.

Rfn. W. J. Strange RIR (CAV) who is wounded resides with his father at Dromona, Cullybackey.

Mr. James Luke, Ahoghill has received official information that his youngest son, Rfn. Willie Luke, 12th Royal Irish Rifles (CAV) aged 19 years, was wounded on July 1st. Rfn. Luke was an employee of Lisnafillan Green prior to joining the Ulster Division. Mr. Luke‚s second son, Rfn. Alex, Luke (central Antrims) whose wife lives at 37, Springwell Street, was killed on July 1st. His eldest son, Rfn. Archibald Luke of the Royal Irish Rifles (South Antrims) came through the same action. In a letter home he states that he was one of the lucky ones. Mrs. Alex Luke, who is a daughter of Mr. W. Turtle, Springwell Street, has a brother at the front, Rfn. John Turtle, who came through the landings at Gallipoli at which he was wounded.

Rfn. David Rock and Rfn. Ben Millar, RIR (CAV) belonging to Harperstown, Cullybackey are both ill in hospital. They took part in the attack on July 1st.

Grave doubts were held as to the safety of Company Sergt Major Norman henry 12th Royal Irish Rifles (CAV) son of Mr. Samuel Henry, bridge Street, Ballymena, whose name appeared in the Belfast press on Monday as amongst those killed. We have been informed by Mr. henry that he received a postcard from his son, dated Saturday, July 8th stating that he is well. Mr. Henry has another son with the Royal Irish Rifles, Sgt. Samuel Henry, who was formerly headmaster at Eden National School, Portglenone.

July 21 1916 below

Mr. James Mairs, Parkhead, Ballymena, has been notified that his son Rfn. William Mairs RIR (Ulster Division) has been wounded in action and is at present in hospital.

Rfn. William John Cathcart, RIR (CAV) who is wounded in the right arm, is a son of Mr. Cathcart, Castle Street. He is at present in the Royal Victoria Hospital, Netley. His brother Rfn. James Cathcart, is serving with the same regiment.

Pte. Arthur Kerr, R. Innis. Fusiliers (Ulster Division) who was wounded on July 1st is a son of Mr. D. Kerr, Culnafay, Newferry. Prior to joining the colours he was employed the drapery department of Messrs. Dunlop and Carson, Church Street, Ballymena.

Mrs. Craig, of 33 Albert Place, Ballymena, has received a postcard from her son Pte William Craig, Royal Innis. Fus. stating that he has been wounded and is now in Southport Hospital. Pte Craig served in the Dardanelles Expedition and he has a brother in France with the North Irish Horse. Both worked in Messrs. Kane‚s Foundry before enlisting.

Information has been received by his relatives who reside in John Street, Ballymena, that Rfn. John Scullion RIR (Ulster Division) has been wounded. Rfn. Scullion was a well known Ballymena footballer and prior to enlistment was an employee in the Braidwater Mill.

News has been received by Mr. John Greenwood, Broughdone, Cullybackey, that his son Pte. William Greenwood Highland Light Infantry has been wounded in action. Pte. Greenwood was formerly employed in the Maine Works, Cullybackey but was in Scotland at the outbreak of war where he enlisted.

Information has been received that Pte. J. Nelson, R.Inis. Fus. , whose wife resides at Alfred Street, Harryville, Ballymena, has been wounded. He enlisted at the opening of hostilities and was at the Dardanelles where he was wounded. Afterwards he saw service in Egypt. Prior to joining the colours he was in the employment of Messrs. Cosbie and Co. Ballymoney Street. He is an old soldier and came through the South African War. Pte. nelson was a well known local footballer connected with the Southend Rangers Club and a member of Ballymarlow LOL and of the UVF. He has two brothers and many cousins serving with the colours.

Mr. James Johnston, Hillmount, Cullybackey has received information that his son, Rfn. Hugh Johnston of the Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) has been wounded in action. Before joining the colours he was an employee in the Hillmount Works and a member of the UVF and Dunminning LOL.

Rfn. Robert Glass, wounded, is a son of Mr. James Glass, Main Street, Cullybackey . Rfn. Glass was employed in the Maine Works, Cullybackey and was a member of the UVF.

Pte. William N. Bonnar, New Zealand Contingent, who is wounded and in hospital is a native of Broughshane, Ballymena. He emigrated to New Zealand some years ago with his family. he joined the army in 1915 and was in training in Egypt for six months before going to the front.

Information has been received by Mrs. Erwin, Springwell Street, Ballymena, that her husband, Pte Alexander Erwin, Royal Irish Regiment, has been wounded. Prior to enlisting Private Erwin was in the employment of Messrs. Spence and Co. Broughshane Street, Ballymena.

Mr. Thomas Stewart of 26 Larne Street has been notified that his son Lce. Cpl. Thomas Stewart, 12th Royal Irish Rifles (CAV) has been wounded and is in the hospital at Etaples. Prior to enlistment he was in the employment of the Braidwater Spinning Co. Ltd. and he was a prominent player for Springfield Football Club and also a member of the Harryville UVF. His brother, Cpl. Stewart, also wounded, and in hospital in Glasgow was a member of the West Belfast Volunteers and was formerly in the employment of Messrs. Workman & Clarke, Belfast. His wife and child reside at 9 Severn Street, Belfast.

Mr. David Gillen of 12 Douglas Terrace, Ballymena, has been informed that his son Pte. J. Gillen, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, has been wounded and is in hospital in England.

The relatives of Rfn William Ramsey, who reside at Cullybackey have received word that he has been wounded. Rfn. Ramsey was in the Royal Irish Rifles (Ulster Division) and prior to joining the army was an employee of the Maine Works. He was a member of the Cullybackey UVF and of Galgorm LOL.

Mrs. Crawford, Waring Street, Harryville has received intimation that her husband Sapper John Crawford, Royal Engineers (Ulster Division) is at present in hospital suffering from shell shock. Prior to joining the colours he was employed as a stone mason by Mr. John Carson, builder and contractor.

Mr. Samuel McMurray, Tannybrake, Kells has received official notification that his son Rfn. George McMurray, 12th Royal Irish Rifles (CAV) has been wounded and is now in a French hospital. He was formerly an employee of Mr. Robert Millar, Ballymoney Street.

Rifleman James Overend, 12th Royal Irish Rifles (CAV) casement Street, Ballymena was wounded on 1st July and is at present in an English hospital. Rfn. Overend joined the army 12 months ago, a few days after the death of his wife.

Mr. Samuel McCaughey, Rasharkin, has received intimation that his son, Pte. James McCaughey, 12th Royal Irish Rifles (CAV) has been wounded. Pte McCaughey was well known locally, being a member of the UVF and LOL No. 694 and prior to enlistment was in the employment of Mr. W. M. Hunter, Blacksmith.

Rfn Alexander Hughes, Royal Irish Rifles, wounded on 1st July, and now in hospital in England, is a son of Mr. William Hughes of 3, Warden Street, Ballymena. He was formerly in the employment of the Braid Water Mineral Company.

Mr. Alexander H. Greer, Mill Street, Ballymena has received post card from his only son Rfn. Alex Greer, RI Rifles (South Antrims) stating that he is a prisoner of war and is at present in Lazarette Camp Hospital, Westpahlia, Germany suffering from wounds received in the famous charge of the Ulster Division on 1st July. He enlisted shortly after the opening of hostilities prior to which he assisted his father in the cabinet making business. Rfn. Greer, who is 23 years of age was a member of the UVF and was formerly assistant librarian at the YMCA Hall, Ballymena. Aug 18 1916

Mrs. Stevenson, 15 Railway Street, Ballymena, has received a postcard from her husband, Rfn. William Stevenson, 12th Royal Irish Rifles informing her that he is a prisoner of war and wounded.

Mrs. Millar of 40 Albert Place, Ballymena, has received intimation that her son, Lce, Cpl. Hugh Millar has been wounded in action on 10th July. Lce.Cpl. Millar has been through the Dardanelles and prior to enlisting was employed by Messrs. Harrison and Sons, coal and timber merchants, High Street. He has a brother, Cyclist John Millar serving in France with the Ulster Division.

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