John's Story.
Birkenhead News 28 July 1917
HESWALL MAN’S DEATH REPORTED.
Mrs. J Smith, Grange Mount, Heswall, has received word that her husband, Pte. John Smith, South Wales Borderers Regiment, has been killed in action. The chaplain of his regiment writes :- “I am very sorry to have to tell you that your husband Private J. Smith, was killed instantaneously yesterday, whilst working behind the line. I send you my sympathy in the great sacrifice you have made. We had a very nice funeral service when I buried him today, July 20th. Many of his friends attended and took part in it. I have given orders for a cross to be put up over his grave bearing his name and regiment. Praying that God will give you comfort. – Yours, very truly, William Elwell, chaplain, H.B.M.G.C.”
Private Smith was employed by Messrs. J. and F. Kitchen, Heswall, before the war, and earned the respect of his employers and fellow workmen. He leaves a widow and three children to mourn his loss, for whom much sympathy is felt.