Harry Tomlinson Birkett

Pte Harry Birkett Retford Times 11 Aug 1916 We regret to record the death in action of Pte Harry Birkett of the Lincolns (Chums Battalion), a son of Mr J Nicholson Birkett, Kirton Lindsey and nephew of Mr Ingle Birkett, Thrumpton Villa, Retford. The gallant fellow who was only 24 years of age, was an old Grammar School boy and was very popular and highly esteemed by his comrades. He fell in the great advance being at first wounded in the leg. His officer advised him to return, but he did not wish to leave his friends. Unfortunately he was killed by the explosion of a shell some time later.

The following article is taken from the 'In memoriam' section of the 'Retfordian' magazine which was an in house publication of the King Edward VI Grammar School, Retford :- Harry Birkett, who was killed in action on August 7th last, was in the Lincolns (Chums Battalion). He fell in the great advance, wounded in the leg. His officer advised him to return but with the spirit of a generous and brave soldier, he did not wish to leave his comrades, and so decided to carry on. A little later, sadly enough he was killed by the explosion of a shell. Harry was a great favourite with both officers and men, and was a splendid example to all around him.