PEARSON, William

William Pearson was born in Stourbridge and was a regular soldier in the Worcesters. In 1914 he was a Reservist and called up immediately war was declared and joined the 3rd Battalion at Aldershot in the B.E.F. They crossed to France within a week and advanced to Mons, only to be forced into the long retreat. The battle of the Marne in early September frustrated the German attack and the Worcesters were able to turn about and advance as far as the Aisne. They were then moved north to stop the next German attack in Flanders. After the Battle of La Bassée they moved yet again to Ploegsteert Wood for another defensive battle. This was the last German attack of the Autumn and one which they hoped would force the British back on the Channel. However, the Worcesters fought with great courage and halted the German advance. Casualties were high and Private William Pearson was among those killed in action. He is commemorated on the Ploegsteert, Stourbridge and St. John's church Memorials.