Military Medal. Corporal 14566, 8th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment. Died 12/10/1917.

 

Born 1886 at Ashbocking. The son of Samuel Runacres & Elizabeth nee Fairweather. Samuel died before William’s 10th birthday & his mother married Benjamin Gladwell. Elizabeth then died in 1909 & William is found living with his step father, a farm labourer, at Hive Cottage, Ferry Lane, Felixstowe in 1911.

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William joined the 8th (Service) Battalion, Suffolk Regiment who were given orders to embark for France in July 1915 where they joined 18th Division. The division didn't engage with the enemy until July 1916. During the Battles of the Somme (30/09/16) William received a gunshot wound to his left thigh and was transferred to No. 30 Ambulance Train. After recovery he returned to the front and was killed during the first Battle of Passchendaele 12/10/17, he was identified by his discs. Buried at Poelcapelle British Cemetery. His next of kin was recorded as Benjamin Gladwell.

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William is on the register of Military Medal recipients but I have been unable to find any more details.