William Gerald Wright

2^nd Lieutenant, Hampshire Regiment

William Gerald Wright lived in Harold Road, Upper Norwood and joined the war effort as part of the London Rifle Brigade in August 1914. During his time with the Brigade, he saw service overseas on the Western Front and was involved in a number of operations as part of the Machine Gun Section. In March 1916, he was wounded in action but was later able to rejoin his regiment at the front after making a full recovery from his injuries. After strenuous service in France and Flanders, he was granted a commission in January 1917 and reeived the rank of 2^nd Lieutenant after completing his officer training. In 1917, he was serving in France during the Battle of Messines when he was killed in action on June 7^th after being hit in the throat and the head by a piece of shell. He was known for his skill and capability as a Bombing Officer and for having the second best revolver shot in the Brigade. After his death his Colonel noted that ‘he was a most capable officer, thoroughly deserving the confidence we all felt in his judgement, capability and personal gallantry’. He is buried at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery.