Raised from the Ranks

Friday 7th June 1918

The Thirsty First Battalion spent today practising a new attack scheme. They then had the luxury of baths at a nearby village. Corporal Connolly has been promoted to the rank of Second Lieutenant - quite a leap which suggests he has exceptional leadership qualities.

Source: X550/2/5

A Triumvirate of New Officers

Friday 9th March 1917 from our correspondent in the field

Folliwing Sergeant A W Joyce and Company Sergeant Major F T Matthews the 2nd Battalion has its third new officer, commissioned from the Battalion’s ranks this year. 9515 Sergeant T G Searle has just received his commission and will remain with the Battalion(1).

Source: X550/3/WD

(1) Thomas George Searle MC, MSM would be killed on 20th September. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial.

Another Promotion from the Ranks

Saturday 3rd March 1917 from our correspondent in the field

Readers may remember that on 23rd January 10353 Sergeant A W Joyce returned to the 2nd Bedfords as a Second Lieutenant. We have learned today that another capable 2nd Battalion non-commissioned officer has been given his commission. 8051 Company Sergeant Major F T Matthews has been promoted to Second Lieutenant and will remain with the battalion. Clearly this Battalion has a pool of first class NCOs.

Source: X550/3/WD