CLARKE, James Henry

James Clarke was born in Cradley and attended the Cradley C of E School. He volunteered in 1914 for the Worcesters and was posted to the 4th Battalion. In April 1915 the battalion landed on Gallipoli on the first day of the campaign but, as with the rest of the force, remained pinned down on the coastal fringe. Fresh landings with ANZAC forces, together with a major diversionary attack from the Worcesters at the village of Krithia, were attempted on the 6th August but no breakthrough was achieved. Casualties were heavy and included Private James Clarke who was killed on this day. He is commemorated on the Helles, Cradley, Halesowen and Cradley C of E School Memorials.