Mexborough and Swinton Times September 15, 1917

Posthumous Honour
Wath Military Medallist

Cpl Albert Smalley (Royal Field Artillery) eldest son of Mr Mrs Smalley, Fitzwilliam Street, Wath, has been awarded the Military Medal.

He went out to France on November 4, 1914, with his battery, and went to the battle of Neuve Chappelle, at the close of which he was the only survivor, having worked the gone he was in charge of single-handed.

On July 1, 1916, the battle of the Somme, he was reported missing and subsequently reported killed. This week his parents had the sad pleasure of receiving the Military Medal which had been awarded in for distinction and conspicuous bravery in the field.

There have also received a letter from a sergeant attached to an infantry battalion, who wished some special work doing, and selected Cpl Smalley as telephonist. During this work the sergeant himself was wounded, and had to lie in the trench all night, as they were so near the enemy’s lines, and when he was able to crawl back, he picked up the telephone which Cpl Smalley carried. He concluded that the Cpl was killed.

He said the copper will be very much missed by the whole battery. Prior to the war the couple saw service in South Africa.

Mr and Mrs Smalley’s younger son is serving with the Pacific fleet.

C.W.G.C.:

Corporal
SMALLEY, ALBERT
Service Number 21019
Died 01/07/1916

1st Bty. 45th Bde.
Royal Field Artillery

M M

THIEPVAL MEMORIAL