BALLYMENA 1914-1918

Pioneer Robert Wylie

WYLIE Robert Pioneer Inland Waterways and Docks RE. Died at home 29/1/1918. service no. 331411. Of Gilmore Street or Fairhill Lane, Ballymena. Buried Ballymena Old Churchyard.

Captain S. E. Holmes, Army Veterinary Corps who was recently mentioned in despatches, has been promoted to the rank of major. Major Holmes is the elder son of Mr. John Holmes, Ballyconnolly, Cullybackey, and was in the army previous to the outbreak of war.

Distinguished Conduct Medal
Details have emerged of the action for which the DCM was awarded to 40839 Lcpl. W. J. Robinson, Royal Irish Rifles (of Rathkeel, Broughshane) :-

 “When all his company runners had become casualties, he acted as a runner all day, taking messages under severe conditions to advanced posts in shell holes. His successful efforts in performing this extremely dangerous and most important work contributed very greatly to the repulse of two subsequent counter attacks.'

Ballymena Observer, February 1, 1918

The following recruits from the town and district have joined the colours during the present month.
Royal Field Artillery - Alex Bonnar, Salisbury Square; John O’Neill, Greenvale Street; John Wray, Queen Street; James Scullion, Leighinmohr; John Thompson, Daisy Hill, Randalstown; Lyle Wilson, Drumrankin, Cullybackey.
Royal Garrison Artillery - William Russell, Victoria Place, Cullybackey; Alex. Millar, Harperstown, Cullybackey.
Royal Irish Rifles - Robert Faulkner, Portglenone; J. W. Hutchinson, Drumrankin, Cullybackey; John Steele, Ballyconnelly, Cullybackey.
North Irish Horse - R.C. Herbison, Drumfin. Army Service Corps - Robert Haire, Portglenone.

Bar to Military Cross
Captain John F. Hodges, MC, Royal Irish Fusiliers, has been awarded a bar to the Military Cross. He is a son of Mr. J. F. W. Hodges of Glenravel House, Ballymena. His brother 2nd Lt. Henry Hodges, King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry was killed in action on April 18, 1915.
Ballymena Observer, February 8, 1918

Mrs. H. Stevely, Cullybackey, has been notified through the War Office that her son, Gunner E. Stevely, Machine Gun Corps, has been admitted to hospital suffering from trench fever and sickness but is progressing favourably.
Pte. William Cairns, Royal Irish Rifles of Castle Street, Ballymena, is home from hospital on a visit, being at present treated for wounds received in action. He took part in the suppression of the Dublin rebellion and prior to enlisting was a prominent player for Summerfield FC.
Ballymena Observer, February 15, 1918

The following recruits from the town and district have joined the colours in the past fortnight:-
North Irish Horse - Henry Ferguson, Queen Street; Samuel H. Madill, Crankill; William Clarke, Ballinacaird, Broughshane.
Royal Irish Rifles - Edward Sanderson, James Stirling, Cullybackey; William Small, Tullygowan, Gracehill; John B. McCrystal, William Black, Broughshane; Robert Sloane, Gloonan, Ahoghill.
ASC Mechanical Transport - Joseph Bonnar, Kintullagh Terrace, Ballymena.
Royal Field Artillery - Joseph Devlin, Bridge Street; Joseph McDonald, Larne Street.

Captain  Pedlow, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, has been awarded the Military Cross. He is the only son of Mr. W. Pedlow, formerly of Ballymena and now senior inspector of National Schools, Dublin. He entered the army from Sandhurst and had previously been a student at Trinity College.

Rev. Alex. Spence, Chaplain to the Forces, who was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry in the Ulster Division last year has been invested at Buckingham Palace with his decoration.

He worked for 20 hours attending to wounded in an aid post during an attack. On the following day, hearing that some wounded were lying out in shell holes, he went out in daylight  under machine gun fire  and brought back several wounded men to the aid post. He rendered splendid service and showed great gallantry and contempt of danger’. London Gazette. 

The Rev. gentleman is a son of Mr. Alex Spence of Beechfield, Portglenone.

The Rev. John B. Cotter, senior curate of St. Patrick’s Church, Ballymena, has been appointed a chaplain to HM Forces. He has been four years in Ballymena where he was exceedingly popular.
Ballymena Observer, February 22, 1918

Private Samuel H. Finlay

FINLAY Samuel Hanna Private Canadian Infantry (Manitoba Regt.) 8th Bn. Killed by shellfire 15/02/1918. Service No: 829240 Son of Mrs. Mary J. Finlay, of 142, Queen St., Ballymena, Co. Antrim, Ireland. Buried A. 2. Aix-Noulette Communal Cemetery extension. Comm. Wellington Street Pres. Church.

Private Robert Brooks

BROOKS, Robert 3356, Private, 2 R. Innis. Fus. KIA February 27, 1918. Buried Poelcapelle British Cemetery, Belgium. Aged 23 born Ballymena, enlisted Enniskillen.

Miss J. K. Eagleson of Ballymena has been appointed Commandant of a V.A.D. unit under orders for an Eastern front. Miss Eagleson acted as organising secretary of the Ballymena Home Industries Association from its inception until the outbreak of war and she was quartermaster of the local detachment of the St. John Ambulance Association.  As a member of the local Soldiers and Sailors Family Association she received an appointment as chief of the clerical staff at the Berrington War Hospital in Shrewsbury. From Shrewsbury she was promoted to more important duties in the Ministry of Labour Bureau in London and it is particularly gratifying that the choice of the authorities has fallen upon a Ballymena lady to fill the responsible and distinguished position of Commandant to the first unit of the V.A.D. that has yet sailed from England for Salonica.
Ballymena Observer, March 1, 1918

Corporal Samuel Linton, Royal Field Artillery, has been presented with the Military Medal and the Distinguished Conduct Medal at a special parade in Victoria Barracks, Belfast. Corporal Linton is a son of Mr. R. J. Linton, who is an extensive farmer in Artnacrea, Clough, Ballymena. He was awarded the DCM for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty.
‘He has shown great coolness under fire and set a splendid example to the men,’ this being announced in a supplement to the London Gazette. He won the Military Medal for bravery in the field. Cpl. Linton’s brother David was killed in action with the Royal Irish Rifles and another brother, John, is serving with the Royal Garrison Artillery.

Private John Torrens, Australian Light Infantry, son of the late Dr. J. L. Torrens, Connor, is at present home on leave.

Co. Antrim ‘Our Day’
Fine contribution from Ballymena

On Tuesday, a cheque for £5,000 for the 'Our Day' fund was handed over being the result of the recent collection in Ballymena. Mr. Robert Crawford JP, who, with Mr.J. N. Lamont paid over the cheque, mentioned that more than £6,000 had been obtained for war charities as a result of the Ballymena collection.
Mr. F. W. Moneypenny MVO said the contribution was magnificent and the Joint Committee of the British Red Cross and the Order of St. John were deeply indebted to the Ballymena Committee for their energetic and patriotic effort and to the people of Ballymena District generally for their generosity and practical sympathy. The Co. Antrim Fund, thanks to this splendid contribution, now amounted to more than £13,000, a result of which the county has every reason to be proud.
Ballymena Observer, March 8, 1918

Details of the action for which temporary Captain William Ellis of the Royal Irish Rifles was awarded the Military Cross have been published in the ‘London Gazette’.

 ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in command of his company. When many men of other units were falling back, having lost their officers, he rallied the men, reformed the line and held on to it under heavy fire until relieved.’

Patriotic Harryville Family
The patriotism of another Ballymena family has been brought to our attention, that of Mrs. McDonald, Larne Street, Harryville.  Mrs. McDonald has the distinguished honour of being the proud mother of six soldier sons, one of whom, Pte. Thomas McDonald, RGA has given his life for his country.
Pte. William McDonald RGA is currently home on leave and Pte. Joseph McDonald RFA enlisted about five weeks ago. The other two are Pte. Robert McDonald, Royal Engineers, Pte. Harry McDonald, Royal Engineers and Pte. Charlie McDonald, RGA.
Ballymena Observer, March 15, 1918.

Lance Corporal James Buchanan

BUCHANAN, James. 5568, Lce. Cpl. 2 R. Irish Rifles, KIA at Grugies, France, March 21, 1918. Named Pozeieres memorial, Somme. Aged 25, born Ballymena, enlisted Motherwell. Son of A. Buchanan, Ralphena, Broughshane Road, Ballymena.

Rfn. Simpson Montgomery

MONTGOMERY Simpson Rfn. 11/13th R I Rifles. MIA/later KIA 23rd March 1918. Service no. 112. Son of James G. Montgomery of Cullybackey. Comm. Pozieres Memorial and Cuningham Mem. Pres. Church.

Rfn. Alexander Brown

BROWN, Alexander, 79, Rfn. 12 R.Irish Rifles. KIA March 21,m 1918. Named Pozieres memorial, Somme. Born Ballymena, enlisted Ballyclare, lived

Glasgow.

Sgt. Frederick Orr

ORR Frederick J. A. Sgt. 5th Cameron Highlanders KIA 21st March 1918. Service no. S/15921. Son of James Orr of Drumbare, Cloughmills. Buried Fins New Cem. Somme. Comm. Clough Pres. Church.

Private James Gillespie

Private Harry Clarke

CLARKE (Clark) Henry, 21929, Private, 1 R. Innis. Fus. DOW March 26. 1918. St. Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen, France. Enlisted Harthill, lived Lanark, West Lothian, 25 year old. Family at 45 Springwell Street, Ballymena. Comm. Buckna Pres. Church.

Sgt. John H. Cochrane

COCHRANE, John Harvey, 18891, Sgt. 12 R. Irish Rifles. KIA March 24, 1918 at St. Quentin. Named Pozieres Memorial, Somme. Aged 33, born Craigs. Wife Jeannie at 32, Harperstown, Cullybackey. Bro. of Thomas and Hugh (Canadian Forces). 

Ballymena Observer, May 3 1918 - Mrs. John Cochrane, Harperstown, Cullybackey, has received official intimation that her husband, Sergeant John Cochrane, Royal Irish Rifles, has been killed in action on April 26.

 He was a son of Mr. John Cochrane of Cushendun, who was formerly employed as a coachman to the late Mr. Edmund McNeill of Craigdun and is at present coachman to Mr. Ronald McNeill MP of Cushendun. The deceased, who was one of the first to enlist in the Ulster Division, was formerly employed by Messrs. Frazer and Haughton, Hillmount, Cullybackey. His brother, Lt. Hugh Cochrane, is at present serving with the Canadian Forces and another brother, Tom, was killed in action some time ago.

The following recruits have joined the colours from the district during the past month:-
Royal Flying Corps - Henry McFall, Station Road, Cullybackey.
Mechanical Transport Section - Samuel Ervine, Straid Road, Ahoghill.
Connaught Rangers - Bernard Campbell, Lisnahuncheon.

Lt. T. Graham, RAMC, only son of Mr. William Graham, Merchant of Ahoghill, has been promoted to the rank of Captain. Dr. Graham, before going to France, was in practice in London.
Ballymena Observer, March 22, 1918

Private Thomas Elliott

ELLIOTT Thomas, Private 62nd Coy. MG Corps (f. 7657 Connaught Rangers) KIA 26/3/1918. Aged 34. Born Ahoghill. Son of John and Margaret Elliott, Ahoghill. Enlisted Glasgow. Boxing champion. Buried Bienvillers Military cemetery, Pas de Calais. Comm. at Ahoghill Roman Catholic Cemetery.

Sgt. James Gildea

GILDEA, James Sgt. 122 Field Coy. RE, KIA 27/3/1918. Service no. 64253. Born Ballymena, enlisted Belfast. Comm. Pozieres Memorial, France.

STEWART William CSM 12th HLI. DOW 27/3/1018. Service no. 7240. Born Ballymena, lived Glasgow. Buried Warloy Baillon Cem. Somme.

Private John Creighton

CREIGHTON, John, Private. 2nd R.Innis.Fus. KIA 28/3/1918 F&F. Service no. 18617. Born Ballymena, enlisted Glasgow. Lived at Whiteinch, Scotland.

Private John Seymour 

SEYMOUR John Pte. 9th R Innis. Fus. Died of wounds 28th March 1918. Service no 23735. Son of Robert and Elizabeth Seymour, Randalstown. Buried St. Sever Cem. Rouen, France.

Private John Forbes

FORBES John private 9th R I Fusiliers (f. 1924 NIH) KIA 29/3/1918. Service no. 41453. Born Dungall, enlisted Antrim. Son of George Forbes, Moneydollagh, Ahoghill. Comm. Pozieres Memorial, Somme and 1st Ahoghill Pres. Church.

Ballymena Observer, May 3 1918 -Mr. George Forbes, Moneydollog, Ahoghill, has received official intimation that his son, Pte. John Forbes, Royal Irish Fusiliers (formerly of the North Irish Horse) was killed in action on the second day of the battle at St Quentin, while attempting to rescue a wounded comrade from German hands.  

Prior to enlisting in November 1915, the deceased was a clerk with Messrs. Frazer and Haughton, Cullybackey and was an Associate of the Institute of Commerce, Birmingham.

 

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Rev. Alex. Spence

SPENCE Alexander Rev. Padre 36th Dept. Army Chaplains. Died of wounds as POW 31st March 1918. Father Alexander of Brookfield, Portglenone. Buried Roye New Brit. Cem. Somme. Comm. Ahoghill Church of Ireland.

Mr. A. Spence, Brookfield, Portglenone, has received official intimation that a report has been received from the German Government that Capt. Rev. A. Spence MC, died on March 31, 1918 from a gunshot wound to the chest and was buried in the British Cemetery, Ham. Captain Spence was curate of Christ Church, Londonderry when he volunteered with the 10^th Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He saw active service and was awarded the Military Cross for conspicuous gallantry. He had been missing since the March retreat of 1918.

Ballymena Observer, may 2, 1919.

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Bar to Military Cross
Captain William McMeekin Chesney MC, Royal Army Medical Corps, son of Mr. David Chesney of Ahoghill, has been awarded a bar to the Military Cross he already holds.
 The London Gazette stated:

 

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in charge of stretcher bearers. He continually visited the forward aid posts throughout the day and supervised the evacuation of the wounded under very heavy shell and machine gun fire. Though wounded, he refused to quit his post until he had rendered a valuable report on the evacuation of the wounded. He worked with indefatigable energy and great courage throughout.'

 

Pte. Samuel Montgomery, Royal Irish Fusiliers, second son of the late Mr. John Montgomery, Greenmount Terrace, Ballymena, has been wounded by a machine gun bullet in the chest. He enlisted in the North Irish Horse being later transferred to the Fusiliers. Prior to joining the colours he was a clerk in the office of Messrs. J. K. Currie and Son. He had been at the front for 18 months.
Ballymena Observer, March 29, 1918

 

 

Information has been received that Rfn. Alex Connor, Royal Irish Rifles, son of the late Robert Connor, Larne Street, Harryville, has been wounded for the fourth time.  Rfn. Connor, who was home on leave a few weeks ago, joined the army at the outbreak of war at the age of 16 years.

 

Mr. Alex Moody, 16 Larne Street, Ballymena, has received intimation that his son Private Alex Moody, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, has been wounded in action. Private Moody, who was an old soldier, volunteered at the outbreak of war, prior to which he was employed in the Pheonix Weaving Company Ltd.

 

Mr. James Johnston, Hillmount, Cullybackey, has received intimation that his son Rfn. John Johnston, Royal Irish Rifles, has been admitted to hospital suffering from wounds. Rfn. Johnston, who joined the army in October 1917 was previously postman in the Craigs District.

Mrs. Marks, Casement Street, Harryville, has received intimation that her son, Rfn. George Marks, has been wounded. Rfn. Marks joined the North Irish Horse but was later transferred to the Rifles. He was formerly in the employment of John Wilson and Sons, Victoria Laundry, Harryville.

 

Mr. J.D. Stewart, eldest son of Dr. Stewart, Portglenone has volunteered for and been accepted for service in the Royal Navy as a probationer surgeon.

 

Staff Sergeant Major Thomas Quinn of the Army Service Corps, son of Mr Charles Quinn, Ballymena was home from France on fourteen days leave.
Ballymena Observer April 5, 1918

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L.cpl. George Guthrie

GUTHRIE George Lcpl. 2nd KOYLI. Died of wounds 10th April 1918. Servbice no. 10425. Aged 21, born Drummaul, Randalstown, enlisted Pontefract, Yorkshire. Wife and child at Princes Street, Ballymena Son of RSM Guthrie, Derby Road, Nottingham. Buried Doullens Communal Ceme. Somme. Comm. on Ballymena War Memorial.

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Rfn. David McClintock

McCLINTOCK David Rfn. 12th R I Rifles. KIA 12th April 1918. Service no. 16731. Born Ballymena, enlisted Belfast. Lived at Carncairn, Broughshane. Butler of O’Neills of Tullymore House. Comm. Tyne Cot Memorial and 2nd Broughshane Pres. Church.

The following recruits from the town have joined the colours in the past three weeks.
Royal Field Artillery - Samuel Lorimer, Broughshane Street; James O’Hara, James Street.
Royal Irish Rifles - W. J. Spence, James Street.

The following is the deed described in the ‘London Gazette’ for which Captain Andrew Gaston RAMC, son of Mr. Andrew Gaston, Cloughmills, was awarded the Military cross:-

 ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an attack. He was untiring in his efforts to attend to the wounded under heavy shell fire and personally brought in many wounded men, often dressing their wounds first in the open. His courage inspired all the wounded with confidence and provided the finest example to the stretcher bearers.’

Editor’s note: At this point in the ‘Items About’ section news begins to filter through of the scale of losses suffered during the ferocious offensive launched by the German Army on March 21, 1918.

Mrs. H. Millar, Albert Place, Ballymena, has been officially notified that her son Pte. Hugh Millar, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, was wounded on March 29. He had been previously wounded.

Notification has been received from the Red Cross by Mr. James Pryde, Leighinmohr, Ballymena, that his son Capt. R. M. Pryde of the Royal Irish Rifles, is a prisoner of war at Karlsruhe, Germany, and is well. Capt. Pryde was unofficially reported as missing last week. He is the third son of Mr. J. O. Pryde and was married last summer to Rose, second daughter of Mr. James Caruth, the Grange, Ballymena. He joined the forces at the outbreak of war and has seen much fighting . Capt. Pryde was a lieutenant in the Ballymena Company of the Church Lads’ Brigade and a prominent Ulster Volunteer.

The Rev. Andrew Gibson, Chaplain to the Forces, has written the following to friends of 2nd Lt. J. G. Robinson of Broughshane:
 ‘The Germans launched a great attack on March 21 and it so happened that the part of the line our battalion was holding was in the line of his most determined assault. We could get no information from them from early in the morning. We know they held up his attack for several hours and considerably delayed him.’
 Rev. Gibson believes that Lt. Robinson may have become a prisoner. He is the son of Mr. Joseph Robinson of Rathkeel, Broughshane, and was temporarily holding the post of adjutant.
Ballymena Observer, April 12, 1918.

Rfn. William McClean

McCLEAN William Rfn. 12th R I Rifles. KIA 15th April 1918. Service no, 19654. Aged 26, born and lived Ballymena area. Son of Samuel and Matilda McClean, Kells. Comm. Tyne Cot memorial, Belgium and Kells Pres. Church.

Lcpl. George Millar

MILLAR  David George Lcpl.12th R I Rifles. KIA 15th April 1918. Service no. 1474. Aged 18, son of Wm. and Catherine, Bailey Cottage, Randalstown. Comm. Tyne Cot memorial.

The following recruits have joined during the past week-
Army Service Corps - Jas. Hutchinson, Clough.
Royal Irish Rifles - William Walker, Newtowncrommelin.

The following decoration by his Majesty, the King of the Belgians, was announced recently in the ‘London Gazette’-
 ‘Croix De Guerre to 64527 Sapper John Watt, Royal Engineers, Ballymena.’
 He is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Watt, Kinhilt Street, Ballymena. Spr. Watt enlisted shortly after the outbreak of hostilities and went to the front with the Ulster Division. He has seen much fighting and was awarded last year with a beautiful parchment certificate for gallantry and devotion to duty. Prior to enlisting in the army he was in the employ of Messrs. W. C Wolseley Ltd. Cullybackey Road.
Ballymena Observer, April 19, 1918.

Rfn. Albert McDonald

McDONALD Albert Rfn. 1st R I Rifles. KIA 29th April 1918. Service no. 57257. Aged 19, born Ballymena, youngest son of David and Sarah McDonald, Broughshane Street, Ballymena. Enlisted at aged 16. Buried New Irish Farm Cemetery, Ypres. Comm. 2nd Ballymena Pres, Church.  

Ballymena Observer, May 31, 1918 - Mr. David McDonald, Broughshane Street, Ballymena, has been informed that his youngest son, Rfn. Albert McDonald, Royal Irish Rifles, was killed in action on a recent date. It appears that he volunteered as a member of a wiring party and was fatally wounded in the performance of his duty. Prior to enlisting in June 1915, Rfn. McDonald was employed in the Braidwater Weaving Company. He was only three months at the front.

Editor’s note: By the end of April, almost one month after the commencement of the German offensive, it was becoming clear that many Ballymena men were ‘missing in action’. Thankfully for their families, most had been captured by the triumphant Germans.

A description of how Lt. James Vint, Royal Garrison Artillery, from Waveney Road, Ballymena, won his Military Cross has appeared in the London Gazette.

 ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in charge of his battery under heavy shell fire. While he was getting the men under cover he was wounded but refused to go to the dressing station until his relief arrived. During the shelling he removed a box of cartridges which was ignited and threatened to set alight several others.’

Rifleman Jim Barr, RIR, son of Mr. William Barr of Waveney Avenue is officially reported missing. He enlisted early in the war and served with the Ulster Division. He was employed in the Braidwater and was a member of the Young Conquerors Flute band.  (PoW).

Mrs. Beattie of 26 Larne Street, has received intimation that her husband, Rfn. William Beattie RIR, Ulster Division, has been wounded in the right arm. Prior to joining the forces he was a painter and decorator employed by Mr. Samuel Perry. He was a member of the Orange Order and the UVF. His brother Rfn. Archie Beattie RIR is serving at the front and he has two brothers-in-law with the colours, one of whom is missing since March 21.

Mr. James Cathcart of Castle Street, Ballymena, has been told that his son Rfn. William Cathcart RIR, Ulster Division, is officially reported missing.
Before enlistment he was a postman. He was wounded at the Somme and in November of last year for the second time. His brother Cpl. James Cathcart, is serving with the RIR but no news has been received from him since the beginning of the great offensive. Corporal Cathcart was wounded in June last and before enlisting early in the war was an iron turner in the Braidwater Mill.

Corporal James Herbison, Royal Irish Rifles, has sent a postcard to his sister who resides at Hill Street, Ballymena, informing her that he is a prisoner at Limburg Camp, Germany. He is unwounded and well.

Lance-Corporal Thomas Galloway MM, Royal Irish Rifles, who has been wounded is a son of Mr. Joseph Galloway of Bridge Street Place, Ballymena. He is a member of the original BEF and was awarded the Military Medal last year for bravery.

Mr. William Leetch 54 Queen Street, Ballymena, has received a communication from his only son, Sgt. Wm. Leetch, Royal Irish Rifles, stating that he is a prisoner and dated April 2. He enlisted in 1915 and went to the front at the latter end of last year. He was formerly a clerk in the office of Messrs. Kane Bros. Ballymena Foundry and was well known in local football circles having played for both South End Rangers and Summerfield. He was also a member of Ballymena Young Conquerors Flute band.

Mrs. Robert Little, Mill View Place, Ballymena, has received intimation that her husband, L/Cpl. Robert Little, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, is a prisoner of war in Germany.

Mrs. Ellen Marks, Fair Hill Lane. Ballymena, has received official intimation that her husband, Rfn. Daniel Marks, RIR was wounded on April 15. He has been three years with the forces and two years in France. Prior to enlisting he was employed at Messrs. Spence and Co., Broughshane Street.

Mr. James McCartney, Bridge Street, Ballymena, has received a letter from the Rev.J. McConnell CF, which states that his third son, Sgt. James McCartney, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, was, according to the best he could gather, captured on March 21, together with his gun team.
The letter also states:- ‘He had done well and held on until they were surrounded. He has done excellent service out here as his rank shows.’ Sergeant McCartney, who served his apprenticeship in the Observer office, enlisted at the outbreak of war and last year was awarded a parchment certificate for gallantry and devotion to duty. He has two brothers with the colours, Pte. Bob McCartney, Sherwood Foresters and Pte. John McCartney, Royal Scots.

Rifleman Christopher Simpson, RIR, grandson of Mrs. Redmond, Aughafatten and a nephew of the late Mrs R. G. Gaston, Waveney Cottage, is reported missing. Before joining the army he was employed in Messrs. Kane Bros. Foundry.

Mr. Alex. Sutters, North Street, Ballymena, has been informed by the War Office that his son, Rfn. James Sutters, RIR, is officially reported missing. Prior to enlistment he was employed in the Braidwater Mill.

The War Office has informed Mr. Thomas Thompson, Clarence Street, Ballymena, that his son, Rfn. Jack Thompson is officially reported missing. He enlisted with the first batch of recruits from Ballymena in September 1914 and was wounded on July 1, 1916. Prior to joining the army he was employed by Messrs. Smith and Co., Thomas Street, Ballymena.

Mr. John Torbitt, Moat Road, Ballymena, has been officially informed that his son Rfn. Jack Torbitt, RIR, is reported missing. He enlisted early in the war and went to the front with the Ulster Division. Prior to joining he was employed in the Braidwater Weaving factory.

April 26 1918

Military Medal ‘Bar’
Sergeant J. McNabney, Royal Engineers, Ulster Division, whose relatives reside at 9, Larne Street, Ballymena, has been awarded a ‘bar’ to the Military medal. He was awarded the MM for bravery at Cambrai in January last. Prior to enlisting in August 1914 he was in the employment of Mr. Thomas Kerr, boot and shoe manufacturer, Church Street, Ballymena.

Prisoners
Miss Barr, Princes Street, Ballymena, has received information that her brother, Sergeant Robert Barr RIR, previously reported missing, is a POW. He enlisted at outbreak war and went to the front with the Ulster Division. He was a tailor in the employment of Mr. Henry Compton, Church Street and a member of the UVF.

Mr. James Francey, Ballee, has received information that his son Pte. James Francey, R.Irish Fus. is a POW. He enlisted in the North Irish Horse shortly after the outbreak of war and was later transferred to the Fusiliers. Prior to joining up he was in the employment of Mr. J. Carson, Building Contractor, Ballymena.

Mr. Samuel Herbison, Ballymoney Street, has received a postcard from his son, Rfn. Samuel Herbison stating that he is a POW. Enlisting in 1915, he went to the front with the Ulster Division and took part in the Battle of the Somme. Prior to enlisting he was in the employ of the Braidwater Weaving Factory. His brother, Rfn. John Herbison is serving with the RIR at the front and another brother, Robert, joined the United States Army in July 1917.

Mr. David Magee, Queen Street, Ballymena, has received a communication from his son, Rfn, William John Magee, previously reported missing since March 21, stating that he is a POW. One of his brothers, Rfn. Robert Magee, RIR, was killed in action in March 1917 and another brother, David Magee is serving with the colours.

Mrs. McCallion of 9 James Street, has received information that her husband, Rfn. Robert J. McCallion, who was previously reported missing since March 21 1918 is a POW. He joined up shortly after the outbreak of war and previous to that has been employed in the Braidwater Mill. His brother, Sgt. Jim McCallion is serving with the Highland Light Infantry.

Mrs. McIlwrath, Ballymoney Street, has been notified that her son. Pte. Thomas McIlwrath, R. Irish Fus. is a POW. He enlisted in the North Irish Horse in November 1916 and was transferred to the Fusiliers. He was previously employed as a clerk with Mr. M. Montgomery, Coachbuilder.

Mrs. Stewart, Waveney Avenue, has received information that her son, Rfn. John Stewart, RIR is a POW in Germany.  He was wounded at the Battle of the Somme in 1916 and had been a painter in the employ of Mr. Matthew Ross, High Street. He was a member of the UVF.

Mr. James Taylor of Galgorm Parks has received a communication from his son, Rfn. David Taylor, RIR stating he is a PoW. Prior to enlisting at the outbreak of war, Rfn. Taylor was employed by Messrs. James Lindsay and Co. Belfast. He was a member of the UVF. His brother, Lt. John Taylor is in the R. Innis. Fus. and was wounded.

Mr. James Watson, 7 Gilmore Street, Ballymena, has received a postcard from his son, Rfn. John Watson RIR stating that he is a POW in Germany. He enlisted in 1915 and took part in the Battle of the Somme. Before joining up he was employed in the Braidwater Mill. His brother, Pte. Charles Watson ASC has been wounded twice.

Captain F. R. Skillen, King’s Liverpool Regt., eldest son of Mr. Joseph Skillen, formerly of Claremont Ballymena, has been mentioned in despatches by Field Marshall Sir Douglas Haig.
Ballymena Observer, May 31, 1918

GREER Joseph Lcpl. 1st Gordon High. Did of wounds 5th June 1918. Service no.S/13953. Aged 23 son of M. Greer, Sprucebank, Portglenone. Buried Mont Huon Mil. Cem. Le Treport.

MAGILL James Pte Royal Irish Fusiliers 9th (North Irish Horse) Bn. KIA 6th June 1918 (Killed by friendly fire; French air raid) Service No:  41435 Aged 25. Son of Dyas and Catherine Magill, of 25, Springwell St., Ballymena. Co. Antrim . Buried Ham British Cemetery, Muille-Villete

Wounded
Mrs. McGill, Queen Street, has been notified that her husband, Rfn. Hugh McGill, RIR, has been wounded and is in hospital in England. Prior to the war he took a prominent interest in the UVF.

Prisoners
Mr. John Hamilton, Kirkinriola, has received a postcard from his son, Rfn. Thomas Hamilton RIR, stating he is a prisoner in Germany. He joined the colours about a year ago. His brother, Rfn. William Hamilton RIR is also a prisoner, his wife Mrs. Hamilton, who resides at Broughshane Street having received a card from him to that effect.

Mrs. McFall, Clonavon Place North, has received a communication from her son. Rfn. Robert McFall, RIR, stating that he is a prisoner in Germany. Rfn. McFall enlisted about two years ago and was previously wounded. His brother, Daniel McFall RIR was killed in action two years ago.

Mr. Robert McIlroy, Parkhead, Ballymena, has received information that his son Rfn. Robert McIlroy, RIR, was posted as ‘missing’ on April 14. Rfn. McIlroy was wounded in July 1916 at which time his brother, Rfn. Harry McIlroy, RIR was killed.

Mrs. James Rock, Ballygarvey, Ballymena, has been notified that her son, Rfn. Jas. Rock, RIR, previously reported missing since March 21st is now a PoW. Prior to enlisting, Rfn. Rock was an employee on the Midland Railway and was a member of Craigywarren LoL. He had been wounded twice previously.

Mr. John Russell, Springwell Street, Ballymena, has been notified that his son, Pte. William Russell, R. Innis. Fus. is a PoW in Germany. Prior to enlisting he was employed in the Loco. Motor Works, Glasgow. He is three years in the army and has been wounded twice.

Mr. Wm. H. Adair, 7 Greenvale Street, Ballymena, has received a postcard from his son, Cpl. David Adair, RIR, officially reported missing on April 20th is now a PoW. Cpl. Adair was wounded at the Somme on 1st July 1916.

Mrs. Perry, Russellstown, Galgorm, has been informed that her son, Rfn. Sam Perry is a PoW in Germany. He is the eldest son of the late Robert Perry and enlisted soon after his father’s death. He only went to France a few days before the great battle began. Prior to enlisting, he was in the employment of Lisnafillan Works, Galgorm.
Ballymena Observer, June 7 1918

Military Cross Awards
Captain R. F. McKeown, General List, attached to a trench mortar battery, has been awarded the Military Cross. He is the third son of Mr. Wilson McKeown, formerly a well-known Ballymena solicitor and was educated at the Ballymena Academy and Campbell College. He enlisted shortly after the outbreak of war and was recently wounded.

Lieut. J. Adams, RAMC, youngest son of the late Mr. J. J. Adams of Carnstroane, Broughshane, has been awarded the Military Cross. Lt. Adams was educated at the Ballymena Academy and Queen’s University. He received his commission in June 1917 and went to the front in July.

Wounded
Mrs. Johnston of Ahoghill has received intimation that her husband, Rfn James Johnston, Royal Irish Rifles, has been wounded. Rfn. Johnson, who is a son of Mr. James Johnston of Ahoghill, enlisted at the outbreak of war and came through the Dardanelles without a scratch. Before enlisting he was employed with his father at Galgorm Castle.

Prisoners
Mrs. Matilda Balmer, New Row, Ahoghill, has been informed that her son, Rfn. R. J. Balmer, RIR, is a PoW. He had been reported missing from March 31st. He enlisted over three years ago.

Mrs. Sarah Leith, Drumrankin, Cullybackey, has received a letter from her son, L.cpl. Adam Leith stating that he is a PoW. He was previously reported missing. Prior to enlisting he was employed by Mr. Holmes of Cullybackey.

Mrs. Jane Thompson, 44 James Street, Harryville, Ballymena, has received a postcard from her husband, L/Cpl. George Thompson, RIR, stating that he is a PoW. Prior to joining the army he was employed in the Braidwater Mill and he has four brothers and a brother-in-law with the colours.

Mr. William Thompson, James’ Street, Harryville, has received a letter from his son Rfn. Adam Thompson, RIR stating he is a prisoner in Germany. Before enlisting he was employed in Messrs. Sinclair’s Pork Store, Belfast. He has four brothers with the colours of whom George (above) is also a prisoner.
Ballymena Observer, June 14, 1918

ABOVE: The four young men in the picture joined up together in September 1914. Norman Henry rose through all ranks to become an officer in 1918, Frank Thompson was wounded and discharged, William Grant became a Sergeant and died on 1st July 1916. Samuel Cumming won the DCM and MSM and in later life became President of the Law Society. (details below)

Double honour
Regimental Quartermaster Sgt. Samuel Cumming, RIR, son of Mr. Thomas Cumming of Bottom, Ballymena has been granted the Meritorious Service Medal. The recipient of the honour enlisted at the outbreak of war and went to the front with the Ulster Division. Previous to enlistment he was in office of Mr. J. K. Currie, Solicitor, Ballymena.
And :-
12/18926 R.Q.M.S. Samuel Cumming, RIR  has been awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for conspicuous gallantry in action. The announcement of two such awards in so short a time is a unique record. 
3rd September 1918 page 10285

12/18926 r.q.m.s. S. Cumming R. Ir. Rif.(Ballymena)
for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. he took charge of a lorry bringing up rations, and with great difficulty distributed the rations among detached parties in the front line. it was due to his efforts that these men got rations. they did not belong to his battalion, and his work was entirely voluntary.

Captain H. W. Wier, RAMC (Territorial Force) attached to the British Salonika Expedition, youngest son of Mr. John Wier JP, Liscoom, Ballymena, has been mentioned in despatches for gallant conduct and distinguished service during the war from September 21, 1917 to February 28, 1918.

Wounded
Mr. Johnston of Ahoghill has been informed that his son, Rfn. S. Johnston, RIR, has been wounded.

Prisoners

Mr. Samuel Esler, Kells, Ballymena, has received information that his son, Rfn. William Esler, RIR, is a PoW in Karlsruhe, Germany.

Rev. A. Spence, MC, Chaplain with the 36th Division, has been missing since March 22nd. Any information to his father, Mr. A. Spence of Brookfield, Portglenone, will be thankfully received.

Signaller James Stead, R. Innis. Fus. has sent a communication to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Stead of Skerry east, Newtowncromellin, stating that he is a PoW in Germany.
Ballymena Observer, June 21, 1918

Rfn Robert Glass

Rfn. W. J. Lynas

LYNAS William John Rfn. 12th R I Rifles. Died while POW. 29th June 1918. Service no. 17/1552. Aged 21 son of William and Mary Lynas, Cambrai Street, Belfast. Named on stone in Ballymena Old Cemetery, Church Street. Buried Premont Brit. Cem. Aisne, France.

Military Medal
Mrs. McCarley, Casement Street, Ballymena, has received a letter from her son Pte. William McCarley, Royal Irish Fusiliers, formerly of the North Irish Horse, stating that he has won the Military Medal for bravery in the field. He is now serving a year with the colours and prior to joining up was employed by Messrs. Morton and Simpson.

Mr. Harry Brown, Moat Road, Ballymena, has received a post card from his son Rfn. Harry Brown, RIR, stating that he is a PoW in Germany. Rfn. Brown enlisted at the outbreak of war and went with the first volunteers from this district to Cleggan Camp. He went to the front with the Ulster Division but was subsequently sent to a home camp, being under-age for active service. Prior to enlisting he was employed as a painter.

Mrs. Gibson, Slatt, Ballymena, has received intimation that her son, L/Cpl. Matthew Gibson, RIR, is a prisoner of war in Germany. His brother, Rfn. David Gibson, RIR , is missing from July 1916 and another brother, Rifleman John Gibson RIR, was wounded in March.

Mrs. Hamilton, Cullybackey Road, Ahoghill, has received a postcard from her son, Rfn. William Hamilton RIR, stating that he is a prisoner of war in Germany. He enlisted at the outbreak of war and was formerly in the employ of the Lisnafillan Works.

Mrs. Agnes Moody, Drumraw, has received a letter from her son, Rfn. Thomas Moody, RIR. stating he is a PoW. Prior to enlisting he was employed by Mr. Robert Holmes, Ballyconnelly, Cullybackey.

Mr. Robert Sands, Cullybackey, has received cards from his two sons, L/Cpl. Alex. Sands and Rfn. Samuel Sands, RIR, stating that both are PoWs. A third son, Rfn. Thomas Sands, RIR, is still serving at the front.
Ballymena Observer, June 28, 1918

Recruitment
The following have enlisted from the town and district in the past seven weeks:-
Royal Irish Rifles - Michael Malone, Ballyclug, Ballymena; Wm. Jas. McMaster, Tullygarley.
North Irish Horse - Jas. Hanna, Crumkill; Hillis Wright, Killyless, Cullybackey.
Royal Field Artillery - Wm. Mooney, Broughshane Street.
RAMC - Samuel Jas. Moore (late of Messrs. Gilmore, Moore and Chestnut).

Prisoners
Mrs. Mitchell, Springwell Street, Ballymena, has received official intimation that her nephew, Rfn. H. Marshall, RIR, is a PoW. Rfn. Marshall served three years with the colours and was previously reported missing. Prior to joining up he was employed in the Braidwater Mill, Ballymena.

Mr. Andrew Mills, Craigdoo, Broughshane, has received a postcard from his son, Rfn. G. Mills, stating that he is a PoW.
Ballymena Observer, July 5, 1918

CURRIE, W. H. 2nd Lt. 55th Squadron RAF. KIA 16/7/1918. Wife at Drumrankin, Cullybackey. Buried at Charmes Military Cemetery, Vosges, France. Mrs. W. H. Currie, Drumrankin, Cullybackey, has been notified that her husband, 2nd Lt. W. H. Currie, Royal Air Force, was killed in action in France on 16th July 1918 in a fight with German aeroplanes. Deceased was a son of the late Mr. William Currie of Clonard Gardens, Belfast and joined the army previous to the outbreak of war. Some time ago he was transferred to the RAF where gained rapid promotion. His younger brother is a PoW in Germany.

Bar to MC
Captain J. F. Hodges, MC, Royal Irish Fusiliers, the son of Mr. J.F.W.Hodges of Glenravel House, Glenravel, has been awarded a ‘bar’ to the Military Cross.
The London Gazette stated:-

‘He led his company with great courage and skill under heavy fire in an attack. His company was the first to reach the objective and owing to his good leadership was largely responsible for the success of the attack.”

Mrs. A. Barr, Lower Tannybrake, Kells. has received a letter from her son, Sgt. Major A. Barr, Canadian Machine Gun Corps, stating he has been awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for special attention to duty in the field. Sgt. Major Barr has been through almost all of the heavy fighting with the Canadians including Ypres, Vimy and Paschendaele. Prior to enlisting he was employed as a foreman planer with the Jewell Lumber Co. , Hamburg, British Columbia.

Prisoner - Rfn. Robert Glass, RIR, son of Mr. Robert Glass, Main Street, Cullybackey is a prisoner of war in Germany.
Ballymena Observer, July 12, 1918

The following have enlisted from town and district in the past fortnight:-
North Irish Horse - Charles Reid, Rasharkin; Royal Irish Rifles - Henry Letters, Princes Street.

Rfn. R. Dempsey RIR is a PoW in Germany. He is the son of Mr. Robert Dempsey of Castleton, Ahoghill.

Mr. Robert McIlroy of Parkhead has received a card stating his son Rfn. Robert McIlroy is a prisoner in Germany, Rfn. McIlroy was previously posted as missing on April 14. he was wounded in July 1916 when his brother Rfn. Harry McIlroy, RIR, was killed.
Ballymena Observer, July 19, 1918

Mrs. Agnes Cathcart, Tullygarley, Ballymena. has received information that her son Seaman Robert Cathcart is missing with HMS Asonza which was torpedoed. he served eight years with the Navy prior to which he was employed by the Midland Railway Company. He joined up at the age of sixteen and was home on leave a short time ago.

Mr. James Cathcart, Castle Street, Ballymena, has received intimation that his son Cpl. James Cathcart. RIR is wounded and a prisoner in Germany. Cpl. Cathcart was previously reported missing and was wounded earlier in the war. Before joining up he was a woodturner in the Braidwater Mill, Ballymena. His brother Rfn. William Cathcart is also a PoW.

Rfn. Joseph Miligan, Royal Irish Rifles, has written to his mother, who resides at Galgorm Parks, stating he is a prisoner in Germany. Rfn. Milligan, who was previously reported missing since March last was, prior to enlisting, in the employment of Mr. S. Ruddle, High Street, Ballymena.
Ballymena Observer July 26, 1918

Lance Corporal David Holmes

HOLMES David Lcpl. 1st R I Rifles. Died of wounds 20th July 1918. Service no. 167. Aged 21, son of David and Jane Holmes, Hugomont Villas, Ballymena. Buried Bertenacre Mil Cem. Fletre, Nord, France. Comm. Ballymena New Cemetery.

Pte. William McIlvenna

Mr. William McIlvenna, Mount Street, Ballymena, has received notification that his son, Pte. William McIlvenna, Canadians, was killed in action by shrapnel on August 6th. Before emigrating to the USA several years ago he was employed in the office of the late J.H.Bradley as a clerk. On the outbreak of war he journeyed to Toronto and joined the colours. His brother Stuart McIlvenna is serving as a sergeant with the US army in France.  

Ballymena Observer, August 30, 1918

Private Alex. Grahamslaw

GRAHAMSLAW Alexander, Pte, 7/8 KOSB. Died 23rd July 1918. Service no. 19940. From Broughshane. Buried Vauxbuin Cemetery, France. Comm. 2nd Broughshane Pres. Church and village war memorial.

Cpl. John Davis

DAVIS, John Cpl. 1st (Depot) Btn. Canadian Inf. (Manitoba Regt.) Died in service 30/7/1918. Aged 27, son of Archibald and late Margaret Ann, Ballynulto, Broughshane. Buried Winnipeg Cemetery, Manitoba.

Sergeant Samuel Wilson, Royal Irish Fusiliers, son of Mr. Thomas Wilson, Bridge Street, Ballymena, is at present home on leave. He enlisted at the outbreak of war and is one of three brothers with the colours. He came through the Dardanelles and was in Serbia, Salonika, Palestine and Egypt. This is his first leave since proceeding on active service. prior to joining up he was in the employment of Messrs. Barclay and Crawford, Ballymena.

Private William Murphy, son of Mr. A. Murphy, 11 Park Street, is at present home on leave after being on active service for three years and six months in the Dardanelles, Salonika, Serbia, Macedonia, Palestine and France.
Ballymena Observer, August 2, 1918

Seaman David Foster

FOSTER, David, Able Seaman, Royal Navy, H.M.S. Ariel, (aged 20) Died 02/08/1918, Service No: J/36501. Son of David and Elizabeth Foster, of Ballycraigy, Ballymena, Co. Antrim. Grave/Memorial Reference: 27. Comm:Plymouth Naval Memorial

Chaplain gassed
Rev. W. H. Hutchinson, officially reported gassed is the Presbyterian Minister of Cuningham Memorial Church, Cullybackey. He volunteered early in the war serving as a despatch rider at the front for two years. In February of 1917 he accepted a chaplaincy and returned to active service.

Acting Sgt. Major Thomas Kerr, RAMC, of Ballee, has been promoted to full rank. he went to the front with the original BEF and he was recently awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.
Ballymena Observer, August 23, 1918

Forty-four in a week
Forty-four local man have joined the army since the recruiting meeting on August 21. This is the biggest recruiting week since September 1914 when the men of the Ulster Volunteers joined the 12th btn. RIR. The town boys have set a good example to the boys of the country districts.

RAF:- Albert Kernohan, Queen Street; James Adger, Alfred Street; Samuel Ellis, Henry Street; Archie McNeice, Moat Road; John McAuley, North Street; Alex, Grant, Bridge Street; Robert Mullan, Queen Street; William Barr, Waveney Avenue; Hugh Morrow, Ballee; Charles Montgomery, Leighinmohr; Hugh Herbison, Railway Street; Harry McIvor, Moat Road; Robert Balmer, Carniny; James Rea, Broughshane; Thomas Kelly, Larne Street; John Mitchell, Railway Street; William Caulfield, Ladysmith Terrace; Alex. Wright, Moat Road; Patrick McClintock, Wellington Street; Herbert Ross, Bridge Street; Robert Ross, 12 High Street; James Gribben, Broughshane Upper; Robert Scullion, Laymore; M. Scullion, Railway Street; Thomas Reid, Greenvale Street; George Lorimer, Edward Street; Henry Torbitt, Moat Road; Robert Kennedy, Waveney Avenue; Isaac Murray, Broughshane Street; James Scullion, Leighinmohr; William Millar, Brocklamont; Alex. Adair, Railway Street; John Avery, Ladysmith Terrace; William Johnston, Waveney Crescent; Samuel Scullion, Railway Street; Hugh Boyd, Kellswater.

Royal Irish Rifles - John Millar, Tullynamullan; Jos. Douglas, Broughshane Road; Thomas McFall, Clonavon Road.
Royal Navy - Robert Madill, Broughshane; Robert Reynolds, Broughshane; Samuel Quigley, Broughshane.
Royal Scots - Samuel Logan, Bridge Street. Drummer - William John McCullough, Bridge Street.

Sergeant Major Barr, Canadian MG Corps, son of Mrs. A. Barr of Tannybrake, Kells, has been admitted to hospital suffering from wounds on the right knee. He was recently awarded the MSM.
Ballymena Observer, August 30, 1918

McILVEEN William Pte. R Ir. Fus. Died 1st September 1918. Service no. 6140. Born Ballymena, enlisted Belfast. Buried Cologne Southern Cemetery, Germany.

McCOSH Samuel James Pte. 46th Can Inf. (Saskatchewan Regt) KIA 2nd September 1918. Service no. 781211. Aged 30, son of David and Lydia McCosh, Knockboy, Broughshane. Buried Dury Crucifix Cem. France.

TAGGART  William James Rfn. KRRC KIA 2/9/1918. Service no. A/201981. Borns Tardree, family at Craigywarren, Ballymena. Buried Dury Crucfix Cem. France. Comm. Cloughwater Pres. Church.

Pte. George Marks

MARKS George Pte. 9th RIr.Fus. (formerly 2251 NIHorse) KIA 4th September 1918. Service no. 41562. Aged 22, only son of Sam and Mary J. Marks, 40 Casement Street, Ballymena. Comm. Ploegsteert Mem. Belgium. Comm. Wellington Street Pres. Church.  

Ballymena Observer, September 27, 1918. - Mr. Samuel Marks, Casement Street, Ballymena, has received a wire from the war office stating that his son, Pte. George Marks, Royal Irish Fusiliers has been killed in action on 4th September. The deceased was for some time in the employment of Mr. Adam Gregg, Broadway, Ballymena and was in Scotland for a short period. After returning home he was employed by Messrs. J. Wilson and Son, Victoria Laundry, Larne Street. He joined the North Irish Horse in August 1916 and was transferred to the Fusiliers, going to France in March 1917. After some months he was wounded and on recovery went back to active service.  

CROWTHERS, David 20889, Rfn. 2 RIRifles. KIA 6/9/1918. Ploegsteert Memorialm, Belgium. Aged 18, born Clogher. Son of William and Margaret

Pte Joseph O'Neill

O’NEILL Joseph Rfn. 1/8th London (Irish Rifles) Regt. KIA 6th September 1918. Son of David O’Neill of Springwell Street, Ballymena. Brother David in R I Rifles; bro. John discharged unfit for further service. Buried Peronne Comm. Cem. Ext. Somme, France.

This week’s recruiting:-
RAF - James Kelly, Larne Street; James McIlwaine, Dunfane; John McFall, Dunfane; Herbert Bell, Cushendall Road.
Royal Irish Rifles - James Gibson, Rathsherry.

Mrs. Black of Carniny has received a letter from her son Pte. Frank Black, stating that he has been invalided to England sick. he has been serving two years in France and prior to joining up was employed by Mr. Gordon Black of Church Street.
 
Mrs. McAteer, Greenvale Street, has received intimation that her son Pte. James McAteer, North Irish Horse has been wounded on the left shoulder. Pte. McAteer has served sixteen months in France. His younger brother, Frank McAteer, is serving with the Machine Gun Corps.
Ballymena Observer, September 6, 1918

Information has been received that Pte. Harry Blair, Canadians, formerly of Ballymena, has been gassed and is in hospital in France, he is a son of the late Mr. William Blair of Church Street, Ballymena.

Mr. Alex. Montgomery, Kinhilt Street has been notified that his son Trooper Thomas Montgomery, NIH, has been wounded in action. Trooper Montgomery has served in France with the North Irish Horse for a considerable number of months and prior to joining up was employed in Messrs. Wilson’s of Ballygarvey.

Mrs. McNeilly of Rathkeel, Broughshane, has been notified that her son Pte. George McNeilly, Canadian Highlanders, was wounded in action on September 2 and is in hospital in England. This is the third time Pte. McNeilly has been wounded. Prior to emigrating to Canada about eight years ago he was a farm labourer in the Braid District.
Ballymena Observer, September 13, 1918

NEELY Samuel Corporal North Staffordshire Regiment 12th Bn. (Died of chest wounds at no.1 Australian CCS. 12th September 1918 Service No:  44376 . Aged 32, Son of Matthew and Margaret Neely, of Ballyclose, Cullybacky, Co. Antrim; husband of Margaret Neely, of Parkhead, Ballymena. Buried La Kreule Military Cemetery, Hazebrouck Comm. 2nd Ballymena Pres. Church.

The following 13 recruits from the town and district have joined the colours during the past fortnight.
RAF - H. T. Wigger, Albert Place; Cadet James Noble, Ballymena.
RGA - Thomas McClelland, Clough; Walter Boyd, Waveney Avenue; Robert Smyth, The Curragh, Ballymena.
RFA - Fred Wylie, Samuel Workman, William Lowry (Cullybackey).
Royal Irish Rifles - James Kirkpatrick, Waring Street; Andrew Kirkpatrick, Waring Street.
North Irish Horse - William Harkness, Broughdone, Cullybackey.
Royal Navy - William Herbison, Ballymoney Street; W. R. Kernoghan, Lisnafillan.

Mr. Robert Smith of Curmkill, Ballymena, has been inforned that his son, Pte. Hugh Smith, Royal Irish Fusiliers, has been wounded in action. Another son, Robert Smith, was recently awarded the DCM.
Ballymena Observer, September 20, 1918

EWART, James private 8th Royal Scots Fusiliers. Died 19/9/1918 in Balkans theatre. Service no. 48042. Born Ballymena, enlisted Glasgow. Husband of Margaret Fulton Ewart, Crosshouse, Kilmarnock. Comm. Doiran Memorial, Greece.

HAMILTON Robert Pte. 12th A&SH. KIA 19th September 1918 at Salonika. Service no. S/7727 Aged 26 associated with Craigywarren. Son of John and Martha Hamilton of Alfred Street, Ballymena. Buried Doiran Mil. Cem. Greece. Comm. Cloughwater Pres. Church.

CLOSE John, 4258, Private, 1 R. Innis. Fus. Died of wounds as POW, September 23, 1918. Buried Niederzwehren Cemetery, Germany. Aged 23, son of John and Matilda Close of 115 Cambrai Street, Belfast, formerly of Galgorm.

PITT James Pte. 5/6th Cameronians. Died of wounds 23rd September 1918. Born Ballymena, enlisted Hamilton, lived Busby. Buried Thilloy Road Cem. Beaulencourt, France.

CATHCART, John, Private, 2 Scots Guards. Died after being gassed, September 26, 1918. Buried Terlincthun British Cemetery, Pas De Calais. Aged 30, son of William and Mary, Tullygarley. Comm. 1st Ballymena Pres. Church.

McCARTNEY William Pte. 12th HLI (f. S/10215 Gordon Highlanders) KIA 28th September 1918. Aged 22, brother of James (DOW) and John (discharged). Son of James and Martha McCartney, Legagrane, Glenravel. Enlisted Kilsyth. Comm. Perth Cem. (China Wall) Sillebeke, Belgium. Comm. Newtowncrommelin Pres. Church.

This week’s week’s recruiting:-
RAF - Harry Stott, Mount View Cottage, Carnearney, Ahoghill; Thomas Graham, Kilnock, Toome; Robert McIlroy, Tullygarley.
North Irish Horse - Thomas Service Clarence Street; Royal Irish Rifles - Wm. Kenny, Dunminning, Glarryford.

Military Cross
The following appeared recently in the ‘London Gazette’ :-
Lt. Joseph Adams of Carnstroane, Broughshane.

Engine room artificer, Goodlet Watson, RN, son of Mr. James Watson, Queen Street, Ballymena, who was amongst the survivors of the Union Castle liner, Galway Castle, arrived home on leave at the latter end of  last week looking nothing worse after his experiences with sinking of the liner which was torpedoed on its way to South Africa by a German submarine.

Engine room artificer Fred McClurkin, Waveney Crescent, is also home on leave at present. He joined the navy some months ago.

GQM Sergt. Major Bertie Letson, Royal Irish Rifles, has arrived home on leave. Prior to enlisting he was a clerk in the office of Messrs. J & A. Caruth & Owens, solicitors, Wellington Street, and was well known in town.
Ballymena Observer, September 27, 1918

This week’s recruiting:-
North Irish Horse - William Knox, Ballykeel; James Ramsey, Galgorm Street; John Patterson, Galgorm Street.
RAF - Robert Baxter, Mullinsallagh, Portglenone; John Murray, Carnlea; Samuel Hogg, Tullygarley; David McCartney, Queen Street; Thomas Cubitt, Glenleslie, Clough; James McClean, Clough; Thomas Thompson, Clough; William Wallace, Millview Place; Herbert Anderson, 4 Clonmohr Terrace.

Mr. John Henry senr., 25 Patrick Place, Harryville, Ballymena, has received notice from the War Office that his son, Pte. John Henry, Machine Gun Corps, has been admitted into hospital in Boulogne, suffering from wounds and severe gas poisoning. This is the second occasion on which Pte. Henry has been wounded, the first time being on July 31st 1917. He took part in the quelling of the Dublin Rebellion and the latest news is that he is out of danger and is progressing favourably.
Ballymena Observer, October 4, 1918.

WYLIE Archie Pte. 2nd R Innis Fus. Died of wounds 2/10/1918. Service no. 23197. Aged 24. Son of Mrs. M. Wylie, Ballywatermoy, Glarryford . Buried Haringhe Mil. Cem. Poperinge. Comm. Killymurris Pres. Church.

This week’s recruiting
RAF - John Russell, Linenhall Street; James McCready, Clonavon Road; Wilson Eagleson, 42 Bridge Street; Robert McNeice, Tullygarley; James Scullion, Railway Street; John Lindsay, Larne Road; Arthur Lamont, Queen Street; James Mullan, Queen Street, James Kernohan, Queen Street; Archd. Barr, Queen Street; William McNeice, Queen Street; James Scott, Queen Street; Albert Kernohan, Queen Street; James Stewart, Queen Street.
RGA - John Dunseith, Carnmore, Glarryford.
Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders - John Davison, Wyliestown, Ballinacaird.; ASC - Wesley Wilson, High Street.

Rfn. John Anderson, Royal Irish Rifles, youngest son of Mrs. Anderson, North Street, Ballymena, has been wounded in the left hand and is at present in hospital in England. He has been at the front for more than two years.

The Military Medal

  
Corporal William Stevenson, North Irish Horse, son of the late Mr. Wilson Stevenson, Crankill, and brother of Mr. James Stevenson, Contractor of Gracehill, has been awarded the Military Medal for gallantry in the field during the recent advance. Cpl. Stevenson joined up in November 1915 and was drafted to France in July 1916.

Second Lieutenant H. A. Healey, 3rd Btn. Royal Irish Rifles, has been gazetted Lieutenant in the West African Regt. He is a native of Martinstown, Ballymena, Co. Antrim.
Ballymena Observer, October 11, 1918

This week’s recruiting:-
RAF - Joseph Galloway, Bridge Street Place; James Foster, Liminary; Matthew Carson, Ballymarlow.
North Irish Horse - Henry McMaster, Killyless, Cullybackey; James Black, The Bally, Ballymena.
Royal Irish Rifles - John McFerran, Rasharkin.

Mrs. Rebecca Torrens, Alexander Street, Ballymena, has been notified that her son, Rfn. William J. Harvey, Royal Irish Rifles, has been wounded and has been admited to the Stoke-on-Trent War Hospital. Prior to joining up he was employed by Mr. Robert Beaumont, Fairhill, Ballymena.

Lieutenant John Taylor, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, son of Mr. James Taylor of Galgorm Parks, Ballymena, sens us a leaflet found in a German ‘strong-point’ captured by the Inniskillings.
 It runs as follows:-

“Dear Tommy - Thanks for the loan on this ground. It served its purpose. Now you are welcome to have it back. Fritz.” (Lt. Taylor was later awarded the Military Cross).
Ballymena Observer, October 18, 1918

This week’s recruiting:-
RAF - Peter Mills, Alexander Street; James Hamilton, Tully, Kells; Samuel Bamber, Springwell Street; John Steele, Drumrankin, Cullybackey; Arthur Wilshaw, Drumrankin, Cullybackey.
North Irish Horse - William Adams, Aughnadore, Broughshane.

Temporary Captain, the Hon. R. W. H. O’Neill, to be temporary major 1st May 1918. Major O’Neill is the younger and only surviving son of Lord and Lady O’Neill, Shane’s Castle, Co. Antrim. He was returned unopposed for the parliamentary division of Mid-Antrim, after the death in action of his brother, Capt. The Hon. Arthur O’Neill, MP, of the Life Guards. He went to the wstern front with the Ulster Division in 1915 and was appointed a Deputy Judge Advocate General in another theatre of war on February 19th 1916.
Ballymena Observer, October 25, 1918

Private Thomas Darragh

This week’s recruiting:-
RAF - Robert Marks, Craignageeragh, Ahoghill; H. D. Kyle, Omerbane, Cloughmills; James Gregg, Omerbane, Cloughmills; M. F. Gordon, Glenleslie, Clough; Andrew McCleery, Glenleslie, Clough; Robert Beattie, Gracehill; James McClintock, Clarence Street; G. R. Thompson, High Street; Archie Wylie, Mount Street.

Mr. Archibald Beattie, Galgorm Street, Ballymena, has received intimation that his son, Rfn. Archie Beattie, King’s Royal Rifles, has been wounded. Rfn. Beattie joined up at the commencement of  hostilities and was previously wounded while serving with the Royal Irish Rifles.

Rev. W. H. Hutchinson, Army Chaplain’s Dept. wounded on October 20th was Presbyterian Minister at Cullybackey before enlisting in the ranks. After two year’s service as a despatch rider he was appointed to a chaplaincy on 2nd February 1917 and has latterly been attached to a Royal Irish Rifles Btn. He was gassed a few weeks ago and on recovery paid a visit home when he preached in the Cuningham pulpit. (Rev. Hutchinson was later awarded the Military Cross)

Sec. Lt. S. R. Millar RIR, wounded (gunshot wound left thigh and right ankle) is a son of Mr. Robert Millar, Ballymoney Street, Ballymena. Before enlisting with the YCV with whom he was wounded at Thiepval on 1st July 1916 , he was in business with a seed merchants in Belfast. On 31st July 1918 he was promoted to a commission and had returned to the front from leave a week before he was wounded. He is an old boy of Ballymena Academy.

Mrs. Montgomery, Greenmount Terrace, Ballymena, has been notified that her son, Pte. Samuel Montgomery, North Irish Horse, attached Royal Irish Fusiliers, has been wounded in action. Before enlisting two years ago, Pte. Montgomery was employed as a clerk with Messrs. J. K. Currie and Son, Solicitors, Ballymena. This is the second occasion on which he has been wounded.

The London Gazette announces that Mr. Norman Henry, son of Mr. Samuel Henry, Bridge Street, Ballymena, has received a commission in the RIR. Second Lt. Henry, an old UVF man joined in the first batch of recruits from Ballymena and commenced his training at the temporary camp at Cleggan. He was a quartermaster sergeant at the front with the local btn. of the Royal Irish Rifles with whom he went to France in 1915. His brother, Sgt. Samuel Henry, RIR is at present stationed in England.

Private Bobbie Armstrong, son of Mr. R. Armstrong, Gilgad, Kells, Ballymena, has rejoined the colours recently. Formerly a private in the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, he went to France in August 1914 with the original BEF, styled by the Kaiser as the ‘contemptible little army’ and took part in the retreat from Mons, being later wounded in the advance on the Marne, where he sustaind a fractured knee. After partial recovery he was discharged and was lately in munition works across the channel and a few weeks ago joined the Royal Air Force. His brother, Pte. W. Armstrong, Black Watch, also went to France with Lord French’s army and was reported by the war office as missing since 29th October 1914.

Rfn. Lockart Millar, RIR son of  Mr. Alex. Millar, Larne Street, has arrived home on leave from the front. He went to the front with the Ulster Division and has seen much fighting.
Ballymena Observer, November 1, 1918

This week’s recruiting:-
Royal Air Force, Alex. Winington Harryville; North Irish Horse, John Cathcart, Moat Road.

Mr. William Barr, 138 Queen Street, Ballymena, has received a letter from his son Pte. R. Barr, Tank Corps, stating that he is a prisoner in Germany and is well. Pte Barr who has ben ‘mising’ since 2nd September, enlisted in June 1915 and served for some time with the Royal irish Rifles, being wounded in the Battle of the Somme in July 1916. Before enlisting he was a fitter in Mr. David Christie’s Foundry and a member of the Harryville Company of the UVF.

Pte. William Grant, Canadian Infantry,  native of Ballymena, has been admitted to hospital suffering from a gunshot wound to the neck. His wife, also from Ballymena, resides at 47 Chester Avenue, Toronto. Pte. Grant is a son of Mr. William Grant of 12 Prospect Place, Ballymena.
Ballymena Observer, November 8, 1918

Private Alexander Reid

REID Alexander Pte. MT Depot RASC. Died of illness contracted on active service 12th November 1918. Service no, M/344918. Son of John and Maggie Reid of 27 Springwell Street, Ballymena. Buried Ballymena New Cemetery.

Sec. Lt. John Wylie, Royal Irish Rifles, attached Royal Irish Regiment, was admitted to the 18th General Hospital Rouen on November 6th suffering from a gunshot wound on the right leg and thigh (slight). This officer is married to Miss Lily Gray, eldest daughter of Mr. Robt. M. Gray, the well known auctioneer, Belfast. He served in France, in Salonika and Palestine and was drafted to France again in April 1918. he is a native of Ballymena and was, prior to enlisting, managing clerk in the office of Mr. Robert Boal,  Solicitor, Ballymena.

Distinguished Conduct medal, Military Medal & Bar to Sgt. John McNabney

57836 Sergeant John McNabney, Royal Engineers, Signal Company, is awarded the DCM. He is a son of Mrs. McNabney, 9, Larne Street, Harryville, Ballymena and prior to joining the colours was prominent in local football circles, playing for South End Rangers and Cliftonville FC. He was awarded the Military medal in 1917 for gallantry in the field and subsequently a bar to the Medal, while he also holds the Ulster Division parchement certificate. His brother Pte. Samuel McNabney is serving with the Engineers.

Sec. Lt. S. R. Millar, RIR, son of Mr. Robert Millar, Ballymoney Street has arrived home after treatment recieved for a recent gunshot wound to the thigh.

The half-yearly fare for the hiring of male and female servants was held in Ballymena on saturday last. The attendance of servants was not os large as on former occasions but this is probably acounted for by the fact that many of them are remaining in their old situations whilst a great many have joined the colours and are fightong for their King and Country.
 The demand for servants was very keen and consequently prices ruled accordingly. Good ploughmen obtained from £26 to £30 in the half year with board and lodging. Servant boys suitable for agriculture £18 to £24. Young lads up to 18 and 20 years of age, £13 to £20. Servant girls £11 to £16 and maids for house work £12 to £15.
Ballymena Observer, November 15, 1918

Mr. William Blair, 29 Queen Street, Ballymena, has received information that his son, Pte. J. Blair, Irish Guards, was wounded on 2nd November and is at present in a London Hospital. He was formerly employed as a tailor by Mr. Davis, Wellington Street and joined the Guards three years ago. This is the second time he has been wounded.

Pte. James Galbraith, Royal Scots, son of Mr. Alex. Galbraith, Carnlea, Ballymena, who was taken prisoner inApril last, has written home stating he escaped from the internment camp at Friedrichsfield, Germany, two days before the signing of the armistice. He says he had a good breakfast that mroning, the first for seven months. Prior to joining up, Pte. Galbraith was a clerk in the office of Messrs. J. K. Currie and Son, Solicitors, Ballymena.
Ballymena Observer, November 22, 1918

Private Patrick Millar

MILLAR Patrick Pte. 17th Coy. RAOC. Died 27th November 1918. Service no. 10462. Born Ballymena. Buried Ste. Marie Cem. Le Havre.

Private Thomas McGill

McGILL (Magill?) Thomas Pte. 6th Connaught Rangers. Died 2nd December 1918 after release from POW camp. Service no. 6584. Aged 20 born Broughshane, enlisted Galway, lived Buckna. Mother lived at Delaware USA.Buried Cambrai East Military Cem.