Ninetieth Day of the Third Battle of Ypres

Sunday 28th October 1917

We understand that 5th Division is being relieved in the front line by 14th (Light) Division following its attack two days ago. The 1st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment have been relieved by the 1st Battalion, Devonshire Regiment. The relief began at 4.45 pm and is drawing to its conclusion as I write these lines. The adjutant tells me that during the time the battalion was in the line it has suffered 101 casualties to other ranks, with two officers also being wounded one of whom, Second Lieutenant Croockewit, has subsequently died of his wounds.

Source: X550/2/5

Eighty Seventh Day of the Third Battle of Ypres

Thursday 25th October 1917

The adjutant of the 1st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment, which is in support at Stirling Castle near Hooge, reports that they have been shelled at intervals throughout the day. A victim of this has been Second Lieutenant A E Croockewit who has been severely wounded and Second Lieutenant L J Hobson somewhat less so(1).

A number of men from the 6th Battalion have been awarded the Military Medal: Lance Corporal L Orpin, Lance Corporal F Lee, Lance Corporal R Grubb, Lance Corporal W Wright and Private B Smith.

Sources: X550/2/5; X550/7/1

(1) Alexander Edward Croockewit died on 26th October and is buried in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, he was 31 and came from Dover [Kent] but had been educated at Bedford School. Hobson seems to have survived the war.