In memoriam
Private William Thomas Elliott
William Thomas Elliott of Letterbreen, County Fermanagh, enlisted with the Inniskilling Dragoons (Service Squadron) at Enniskillen in 1915 (Service No.UD/284). Sent to France as a reinforcement for the Squadron in 1916, he was reported as wounded in August of that year (see press clip above).
In June 1916 the Squadron became part of the 2nd Regiment North Irish Horse. In August 1917 the Regiment was dismounted and became the 9th (North Irish Horse) Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers. Elliott was given Service No.41159.
He was killed in action on 18 April 1918. The Battalion diary for that day stated:
2am. Moved to Kemmel as composite Battalion with 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Kelly. Heavy casualties, while moving into position, from enemy shelling. Captain Despard wounded and died soon after. 8pm. Relieved by French troops and marched to Siege Camp.
Having no known grave, his name is inscribed on Panel 141, Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium.
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Images of memorial Copyright © Phillip Tardif with all rights reserved as set out in this Use of Material policy. Image of Private Elliott from the Belfast Evening Telegraph of 26 August 1916 kindly provided by Nigel Henderson (see Fitzroy Presbyterian Church: Wartime Service and Sacrifice).