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Cpl. William E. Wiltshire
British Army 1st Btn. Somerset Light Infantry
from:Bath, Somerset
(d.9th Aug 1916)
William Wiltshire was born in Bath, Somerset on August 15th 1893 and was the eldest of 11 children. When he left school, he took a job as a blacksmith striker in Bath. His father was a Bugler Sgt Maj, in the Somerset Lights, so it wasn't hard to believe that the boys would follow in his footsteps.
Bill joined up in 1914, from Lower Bristol Rd, Bath, Somerset. On the out break of war and was deployed after training to France, with the 11th and 4th Somerset Light Infantry. They took to sea on the HMHS Braemar and landed at Le Havre on 22nd Aug 1914.
He had a couple of lucky escapes during his time over seas that ended in him being in a field hospital, after an explosion went off near him. The horrors he must of seen and experienced must of been total confusion for such a young lad from rural Bath. From what information I can gather he went home on leave just one time, to visit with his family. He wasn't married and as far I know he had no children. He gained rank and fought hard. But, on August 9th 1916, sadly William fell foul to drift gas, he died at 630am at Remy Siding, in the company of the 3rd Canadian Clearing Station. He was laid to rest with his fellow brave pals at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Poperinge, Belgium. He was survived by Bugler Sgt Maj William John Wiltshire, Bugler Herbert Frank, Bugler Harold Ewart, and Bugler Reginald Rupert.
William was my Great Uncle. I am so very proud to have his photo, and the medals he received. He gave everything for King and Country. He gave his life. Such a brave and selfless young man. One of many that gave all. May he rest in eternal peace and know he is not forgotten.
