BENNETT William Henry

The following report appears in the Upton on Severn News, 21st July 1917:
Ripple Soldier killed.
Pte William Henry Bennett, son of Mr and Mrs Grantley Bennett, of Brockeridge Common, was killed in action on the 7th June.

The deceased, who was only 19 years of age last December, attended Twyning School as a boy, and after leaving was employed by Mr E. Allard, of Ripple, until he left to take up employment in Birmingham; he returned to the district, and was in the employ of Mr George Jakeman, of Naunton, when he joined the Army in September of last year, and was attached to the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

Mr and Mrs Bennett have received a letter from the young man’s commanding officer, Captain T. Adams, who pays a high tribute to his soldierly qualities in the following words:
“I am very sorry to inform you that your son, Pte. Bennett, was killed in action on 7th June, during an attack on the enemy trenches.  Although only a short time with my Company your son had won the confidence and good will of all the men.  His platoon officer could never say too much in his praise of him to me.  He was one of the men that one cannot afford to lose; thorough in all his duties and always soldier-like and trustworthy.  Please accept from the Officers, N.C.O.’s and Men and myself of this company, our deepest sympathy to you and yours.”

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission records William as H. Bennett. His gravestone is therefore inscribed with the same details.