William Hiley Markham

William Hiley Markham volunteered for the Territorials 8th Battalion Sherword Foresters when he was 17 years old in 1908. He took the oath and passed his medical at Retford on 2 September 1908, his next of kin being recorded as his father, William Hiley Markham (senior) of 121 Moorgate, Retford. He carried out 3 years of annual training in 1909, 1910 and 1911 and had by now achieved the rank of lane corporal. He re-engaged on 1 September 1912 and was promoted to sergeant on 26 Sept 1914 just after the declaration of the war. He went to France with the Expeditionary Force on 2 March 1915 and was recorded with a scalp wound three months later. He continued his service in France until he was killed in action near Mont St Eloy on 17 April 1915. He is buried in Ecoivres Military Cemetery, Mont-St. Eloi, France (grave ref. I.A.23). 'The Sherwood Foresters in the Great War 1914-1919, 1/8th Battalion', p.125 (Vimy Ridge 1916): 'Unfortunately, Sergt. Markham, after most gallantly controlling the fire of his platoon for nearly two hours, under very heavy fire, was shot through the head and killed instantly.' Sgt W Markham Retford Times 28 April 1916 It is our painful duty to record the death of another brave Territorial – Sergt W Markham, Sherwood Foresters, the eldest son of Band Sergt and Mrs Markham of Moorgate. The news of the young hero’s death was sent by Sergt R F Bescoby, who wrote:- “A mine had been sprung and the crater had to be taken and consolidated. It was during this action that Will was struck on the head. I do not know exactly what kind of missile did it but be assured of this, he was killed instantaneously and suffered no pain. He will be buried alongside so many other brave soldiers who have laid down their lives for the cause of which we are fighting. It was a terrible blow for my section of the old Band and for all the Retfordians in the Regiment. Please accept my sincere sympathy of all in your great sorrow.” Deceased was highly esteemed by his many friends. He was formerly employed by the Northern Rubber Co. He was a clever wrestler and weight lifter and won a gold medal in a wrestling competition at the Palace. He was one of the first of the Foresters to re-sign on for active service after finishing his time in the trenches. Deep sympathy will be felt for this patriotic family. Band Sergt and Mrs Markham and family wish to return their grateful thanks for the many expressions of condolence and sympathy they have received during their sad bereavement.

CWGC headstone personal inscription: 'Thy will be done' Research by Colin Dannatt