WALTON Frank Gnr 40232

The user is advised to read the FINDING AIDS document linked to this catalogue for an explanation of the method by which this record has been created and any terms used.

Surname: WALTON;

Forename(s): Frank;

Initials: F;

Number: 40232;

Rank: Gnr;

Resided in: Walsall;

Previous Regiment: MMGS-RA;

MGC Branch: Heavy Branch (Tanks);

MGC Unit: Palestine Tank Det.;

How killed: D;

Where: Iraq;

When killed: 27-Oct-1917;

Other Data: This soldier enlisted in the Hvy Br(Tanks, MGC, went to MEF as part of the Palestine Tank Detachment:
POW TURKEY
ICRC Ref: ????

On the night of 18th-19th April 1917, one Tank, HMLS “NUTTY” (2 Lt. Carr) moved from Wadi Nukhabiranti position behind Sheikh Abbas Ridge, and there received orders from G.O.C. 163rd Brigade to proceed over the Ridge and attack enemy positions NE of Sheikh Abbas Ridge, on the Beersheba Road. The Tank reached the enemy redoubt, coming under shell fire as she proceeded over the Ridge, took the Redoubt, and the infantry, following up, occupied the same.

This done, on moving forward, one track broke, rendering the Tank immovable. The enemy then shelled this position, and the Tank, heavily; the latter was hit & burst into flames. It is supposed the 2 Lt Carr and the crew, whilst the Tank was being shelled, abandoned her & got into the Redoubt, and during the counter-attack at noon, the position was reoccupied by the enemy. It is presumed that 2 Lt Carr & his crew were made prisoners."
The crew of Nutty was thus:
2Lt Frank Clifford Carr (died 19 Apr 17)
Cox
Askin
Sgt Malcolm Shepherd (died 19 Sep 17) - wounded, head
Pte Frank Walton (died 27 Oct 17)
Pte T W Saunders (died 21 Dec 17)
Sgt Shepherd was held at Baghtche Camp, Amanus Mountains, working on the Baghdad Railway;

Other Notes: Died as a POW - Turkey
originally buried at Nigde Cemetery, Iraq. Exhumed and reburied Baghdad (North Gate) War Cemetery
Son of William & Alice Walton, 227 Wolverhampton Rd, Walsall, aged 20;

END OF RECORD.

Users to read Finding Aids page. Further information may contain GDPR-protected information and not be released. Appointment required for access or paid research.