KING (Kings), Thomas Frederick

Thomas Kings lived in Owen Street, Dudley, and probably worked with father, a carter. He was one of the last age-group to be conscripted and was sent to the1st Battalion of the Wiltshire Regiment. They were awaiting the German March offensive and were stationed in the reserve line outside Bapaume. The great attack opened on the 21st March and the Wiltshires were ordered forward but on the next day they were caught up in the British retreat in the face of overwhelming force. Private Thomas Kings was probably injured in the retreat and died on the 27th March. He was 19 years of age and is commemorated on the Soissons, Dudley and St. John's, Kates Hill, Memorials.