Current Information:

Enlisted-Willesden

On 16th June 1915, 7 and 9 Brigades of 3rd Division launched a limited attack against Bellewaarde Ridge in the Ypres salient. It was partially successful inasmuch as some ground was gained but not the ridge itself. 8 Brigade was in reserve and, in the days that followed, the 4th Middlesex battalionwas engaged in clearing up the battleground. They buried the dead, salvaged equipment, filled in shell holes and provided carrying parties up to the men in the captured trenches. This took place to the backdrop of German retaliation which meant increased artillery and sniping activity and all the casualties that went with this. One of these was Joseph Kirk who was killed in action on 19th June.