Leonard FOSTER (1)

15 November 1918

LONG PRESTON – Another Local Soldier Killed

Mr. Len Foster, of this place, has received from Major Vickers, 74th M.G. Battalion, a sympathetic letter stating that he had with profound regret to inform him that his son, Private Leonard Foster, had been killed. He was just returning from the trenches on the lst November and was entering his billet when an enemy shell landed, killing him instantly. He would be buried the following day, when his officers and comrades would be present to pay their last respects to a very keen soldier and a good pal. Private Foster had been with him over a year in India and France and it grieved him very much to lose a soldier who had served with him so long, and whom he had found so willing, cheerful and thorough. A cross would be erected over his resting place.

Private Foster was 26 years of age and joined the Army three years since. He last came on leave on September 12th, and just previous to that had had his mule shot from under him. On his next leave he had intended being married to a Settle young lady.

15 November 1918

LONG PRESTON – Memorial Service

On Sunday night at the Parish Church the Vicar said they were assembled there in token of their respect for one more lad of Long Preston – Leonard Foster – who had laid down his life. It was just four years since they had the first memorial service. What did that wastage and sacrifice of human life mean? That the world might be rid of militarism, that a great race with its pride and cruelty should be humbled? That was not much comfort to those who had lost those who were near and dear to them. At the close of the service, the Dead March was played.

31 October 1919

FOSTER – In loving. memory of Driver Leonard Foster, M.G.C., killed in action November 1st, 1918.

“He sleeps with England’s heroes ‘neath the watchful care of God.”

From Father and Mother, Long Preston.

FOSTER – In loving memory of our dear brother Driver Leonard Foster. M.G.C., who was killed in action on November 1st, 1918.

May heavenly winds blow softly
O’er that sweet and hallowed spot;
Though the sea divides his grave and us
He will never be forgot.

From his loving Sisters, Maria, Bell, and Lena.

29 October 1920

FOSTER – In loving memory of our dear brother, Driver Leonard Foster, who was killed in action, November 1st, 1918.

One by one earth’s ties are broken,
One by one they’re linked above;
Some day there’ll be sweet reunion
In the land of light and love.

From Marian and Dick, Earby.