Current Information:

Born-Sydenham

Bailleul Communal Cemetery, France

Between 12.20 and 1.45am on 17th June, 1916, the Germans released gas against the trenches held by 72 Brigade and 73 Brigade of 24th Division along the Messines Ridge in Belgium, but did not follow this up with an infantry attack. Nevertheless the gas itself caused a number of casualties among the troops of these two brigades which included 8th Royal West Kent of 72 Brigade. Horace Cheasman was among those who lost their lives as a result.