Allan John Winch

Gunner, Royal Field Artillery

Allan John Winch was a student at Alleyn’s until 1894. While studying at the school, he lived at 18 Muschamp Road, East Dulwich. He later moved to 42 Holmdene Avenue, Herne Hill. After leaving school, Allan joined the Royal Garrison Volunteers, one of many volunteer units established to support the British Army. He served with the RGV until the outbreak of war in August 1914 prompted him to enlist in the Regular Army. In September 1914, he joined the Royal Field Artillery as a Gunner and was posted overseas to France where he served throughout 1916. In 1917, he was transferred to the Eastern Front and spent time serving in Salonica where the British were fighting the Bulgarian forces. In August 1917, he was wounded in battle. However, Allan’s injuries were minor and he was able to re-join his regiment in the field after a short period of rest. Allan continued to serve with the RFA until the end of the war and later received the British War and Victory Medal for his service.