Frederick James Coles

Frederick James Coles enlisted at Mansfield and initially served (20272) in the Sherwood Foresters. He was serving with the 159th Protection Company Royal Defence Corps, attached 33rd (Home Defence) Squadron Royal Flying Corps, when died at Grimsby. He is buried at Mansfield (Nottingham Road) Cemetery.

Death notice published 29th June 1917 in the Mansfield Reporter and Sutton Times : “COLES. – On the 26th June, at the Military Hospital, Private F. J. Coles, R.D.C. (attached 33rd H.D. Squadron, R.F.C.), North Coatis Fitties, Lincolnshire. Aged 50 years.” Article published 6th July 1917 in the Mansfield Reporter and Sutton Times :- “DEATH OF PRIVATE COLES. – We regret to have to report the death after a short illness of Private Frederick James Coles, of Thoresby Street, Mansfield, which occurred on June 26th. The deceased soldier who was well known in Mansfield, joined up in the early stages of the war and was drafted into 159 Company R.D.C., and was stationed on the North-East coast. He was very popular amongst his comrades with whom were several Mansfield men. He leaves a widow and four children. His father also was a soldier, and was present at the Battle of Pumiar 1843, the battles of Moodkee and Feposhah 1845, at Sabram 1846, with the army of the Sutledge at Ramnuggar. The passage of the Chenab, the actions of Sadovlapore, Chillian, Walla and Goojerat 1849, with the army of Punjaus. The funeral took place at Mansfield cemetery on Saturday afternoon. [30th June 1916] The coffin, which was draped with the Union Jack, was borne on a gun-carriage. Several beautiful wreaths were contributed by sympathising friends and relations. The burial service was impressively conducted by the Rev. Y. W. Seymour, and the funeral was directed by Mr. Henry Potts.” Notices courtesy of Jim Grundy and his facebook pages Small Town Great War Hucknall 1914-1918 This man is commemorated in a book of remembrance held by Mansfield District Council.