BAKER Reginald Charles

The following report appears in the Upton on Severn News, 28th April 1917:
News has been received by his parents, Mr and Mrs Baker, of Hook Banks, Upton-on-Severn, that their second son, Pte Reginald Charles Baker, of the Dragoon Guards, has been killed in action by a shell. The deceased, who was 34 years of age, has been out at the Front since the outbreak of war, when he formed one of General French’s “contemptible little army.” He was present in the retirement upon Paris and was one of 32 of his regiment to come through the battle of Mons unscathed. After the South African War, in which the deceased took part, he was stationed in India, until the present conflict burst with its full fury upon Europe. He died – a soldier’s death.

Upton on Severn News, 28th July 1917:
Mr and Mrs Baker, of The Hook Bank, Upton-on-Severn, have been notified that their youngest son, Able Seaman Valentine Victor Baker (aged 18), received severe gunshot wounds while serving in France on July 11th. After being educated at Welland School, he remained at his parents’ farm until he joined up, not long ago. His elder brother, R.C. Baker, who had to his credit 17 years’ service in the Dragoons, made the “great sacrifice” on April 10th. After being educated at Welland, he learnt the baking and confectionary business at Great Malvern and then joined the Army when 18 years old. He served throughout the South African War and was awarded a medal with five bars. He served a long time in India, but was available for departure with the Expeditionary Force in August 1914. He was in the famous battle of Mons and in many other engagements. He remained unscathed until April, when he was killed. Captain Winterbotham wrote to inform Mrs Baker that he was struck by a shell and died immediately and without pain. He added “We al miss him very much as he was an excellent soldier and always did his duty well. He was a credit to the regiment. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.” Lieut. Jordon sent home his effects, mentioning that he was killed “in the most advanced village (Fampoux) we had taken, and was buried there.” The Lieutenant added “He was a real good old soldier and an example to the young men who are now joining us.”

A photograph of Private R.C. Baker can be found in Berrow’s Worcester Journal Supplement, Saturday 4th August 1917, available at Worcestershire Archives.