John DINSDALE (1)

12 October 1917

DINSDALE – Killed in action on the Western Front, Private John Dinsdale, Yorkshire Regiment, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Dinsdale, Gayle Lane, Hawes, aged 24 years.

12 October 1917

ANOTHER HAWES LAD PAYS THE GREAT PRICE

News was received on Monday by Mr. and Mrs. William Dinsdale, Gayle Lane, Hawes, that their son, Private John Dinsdale, Yorkshire Regiment, had been killed by a shell. Private Dinsdale enlisted in March 1916, and went to France the following July. He was invalided home in December of the same year, and was again sent overseas in July last. He was 24 years of age, and a native of Hawes. Though never a robust chap and slim of physique, Private Dinsdale was a true Briton, and his fearlessness and courage in the face of danger won the admiration of his comrades, and the knowledge that he has died a hero’s death must assuage somewhat the parents’ deep and poignant sorrow.

The following letter, received from his Commanding Officer, is a sufficient testimony to his gallant conduct and noble death:– “It is my painful duty to inform you of your son, Private Dinsdale’s, death. He was killed at his post by a shell, which burst right in the trench and killed another four of my brave platoon. I shall never forget your son’s courage; he stood to his post, never flinching one inch as the shells flew round us. Not only myself, but all the platoon, feel the loss very much, as he was always so bright, and willing to volunteer for anything. It may comfort you to know that he did not suffer at all, as death was instantaneous. We gave him the best burial possible under the circumstances. I share with you in your great loss, and extend my sympathy to you.”