WWI BWM. Bates. Army Cyclist Corps. KIA with 6th R W Surreys July 1916. Born Dartford.

Correctly named 2206 Pte WHT Bates A Cyc Corps

William Henry Thomas was born to William and Alice in Dartford c1898.

We know the family lived at 2 Elizabeth Street, Stowe, Greenhithe.

He went overseas to France in May 1915 earning himself the 1915 Sar Trio.

After serving with the Army Cyclist Corps, William was transferred to the 6th Bn Royal West Surreys, The Queens.

He was with these in the trenches at Ovillers when on the the 28th of July 1916, whilst digging a new trench formation, he was killed with 4 other soldiers by an enemy bombardment.

He is buried at Aveluy Communal Cemetery Extension in France.

The medal has an original silk ribbon.