Private G/22461, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Died 20/09/1918.

 

Born in and resident of Trimley St Martin, one of five surviving children of Elijah Mayes & Emily nee Mann. William married Beatrice Day Kettle in 1908 & they had four children George b. 1909, Ethel b. 1911, Beatrice b. 1913 & Ivy b. 1916.  This left Beatrice with four children under 10 when William sadly died. The family lived at  2 Hemley Cottages (19), Mill Lane, Trimley St Martin which appears to be where Beatrice lived until her death in 1963.

 

The Battles of the Hindenburg - Battle of Epehy took place on the 18th September 1918, The Buffs were part of the 6th Division whose objective was to clear the high ground overlooking St. Quentin. The 2nd Durham Light Infantry succeeded in capturing Holnon Village but were driven out by shelling & artillery attack. The allies were unable to consolidate before being driven back by a German counter-attack. William was wounded during this time & died from his injuries 20th September 1918. He  is buried at Brie British Cemetery.

 

Private Mayes is also commemorated on the Trimley War Memorial. Surname spelt as MAYS on Memorial