RUSSELL, Harry

Harry Russell was married to Hilda, who was later living at 24 Hopkins Street, Tipton. He enlisted in the South Staffords but was transferred to the 7th Battalion of the Suffolks. They went to France in July 1915, fought on the Somme in 1916 and had already taken part in the Third Battle of Ypres in 1917. In November they were ordered to the front line for the Battle of Cambrai. This was the first significant battle with tanks and the British forces succeeded in penetrating the Hindenburg Line. The huge German counter-attack of the 30th was expected and, after considerable losses in a retreat, was eventually held by the British forces. However, Private Harry Russell was killed in action on the 30th. He was 37 years of age and is commemorated on the Cambrai, Cradley and Halesowen Memorials.