Current Information:

Enlisted-Kingston-on-Thames

Born-Barnes

At the outbreak of war in 1914, the 2nd East Surrey battalion were in India but they soon returned home where they joined 85 Brigade of 28th Division. In late January, 1915, 28th Division arrived in France and being a regular division they were quickly put into the trenches which in the case of 85 Brigade meant water-logged positions south of Ypres near St. Eloi and Oosthoek. It was a far cry from the warmth of India and there were many cases of sickness and frostbite.

During the night of 14th-15th February 1915, the 3rd Middlesex battalion, with five platoons of 2nd East Surrey attached, had their trenches, “O” and “P” thinly manned whilst they dug a new line to the rear. The Germans took advantage and captured “O” Trench in a raid. The other battalions of 85 Brigade were sent to reinforce but despite the efforts of 2nd East Kent (Buffs), the rest of 2nd East Surrey and some of 3rd Royal Fusiliers, the captured trench remained in German hands. The casualty list was long and included Charles Bennett of 2nd East Surrey.