Hi Folks, I have been thinking today of my Uncle Jack (my Dad's brother) who died in the first world war. John (Jack) William Gibbs was baptised at Broughton on 7 Jun 1891. He was a shepherd when he joined up with the Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry. The war must have been particularly gruesome for one with such a gentle job. He died of dysentery on 20 Jun 1816 on board ship and was buried at sea. I believe he was being shipped home at the time and the story goes that his ship passed that of the one my father was on as he went to India. He is remembered on the War memorial at Tadmarton and on the Commonwealth graves memorial at Basra. The news must have reached my Father, Frank Gibbs (also in the Ox & Bucks) some time later and the following is a poem that he wrote about his brother. Please remember that this is written by a chap who left school at thirteen and who was only 17 when he wrote it. Dorothy --------------------------------------------------- In Ever Loving Memory of my Dear Brother Jack Saviour in Thy precious keeping, We leave our dear Jack safely sleeping. You will link the broken chains When we meet again. His King and country called him, The call was not in vain, On Britain's Roll of Honour, You will find my brother's name. We never knew the pain he bore We never saw him die, We only know he passed away, And never said goodbye. But now dear Jack your pain is o'er, In the Ocean's bosom you lie at rest, But aching hearts you left behind, No one but God knows best. The silent grief that's in my heart, No human eye can trace, For many a broken heart is hid, behind a smiling face. Sleep on dear brother in a far off grave, That we will never see, But as long as life's memories last, We will remember thee. Our thoughts often wander to a far off ocean grave, Your name is often spoken in a home you died to save, For our hearts are all united with the same fond love for you, And loving thoughts are cherished for one so brave and true. Private F Gibbs Diwhali, India Dec 1916 -- Dorothy Gibbs (in Hertfordshire UK)