211805 Pte. Archibald Nicholl British Army 1st Battalion Royal Dublin Fusiliers from:Ballymoney, Co. Antrim (d.22nd Dec 1915) The 1st Dublin Fusiliers were evacuated from Gallipoli on the 20th of December 1915, leaving behind a small number of men to hold the position. One report states: “Sunday, 19th December 1915 Gallipoli The firing line of trenches from Karakol Dagh, north of Suvla to Lone Pine Plateau, South of Anzac Cove, was held by picked Riflemen, one every seven yards. These were known as the ‘Last Ditchers’. Their job was to hold off the enemy until the evacuation was complete.†Private Archie Nicholl survived for two days after the withdrawal, ensuring his fellow soldier’s safe evacuation. He is commemorated in Mosside Presbyterian Church, and lies in Twelve Tree Copse Cemetery.
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