William PHILLIPS

01 June 1917

PHILLIPS – Killed in action, May 12th, Corporal Wm. Phillips, of the East Lancashire Regiment, son of Mrs. S. A. Phillips, of 20, Hartley Street, Earby, aged 20.

01 June 1917

EARBY CASUALTIES – “DIED IN A GLORIOUS CAUSE”

Corporal William Phillips, East Lancashire Regiment, officially reported killed in action in France on May 12th, was the son of Mrs. S.A. Phillips, 20, Hartley Street, Earby. He was 20 years of age. A member of the Territorial Force, he was called up on the first mobilisation, and served 14 months in Egypt before going to France, where he had been only six weeks at the time of his death. Before the war he was employed at the Victory Gum Works, Nelson. Mrs. Phillips has received the following letter from an officer:–

“By the time you receive this letter I suppose you will have received official intimation of the death of your son, Corpl. W. Phillips. He was killed by shrapnel on the night of 12th May. Your son was in my platoon from the time of my arrival in France until about a week ago. I always found him most cheery and a willing and hard worker. He was greatly respected by the men of his platoon and by everybody with whom he came in contact. I am sure it will be some comfort to you to know that his end was practically painless – he died before we had tine to finish dressing his wound. I can assure you he had a decent burial in a quiet French village, the name of which you will no doubt learn in due course. I wish to extend to you my deepest sympathy in your sad bereavement. May you find comfort in the thought that your son died in a glorious cause – that of justice and honour. – Yours sincerely, W.L. Carter, 2nd Lt.”