William's Story.
William Rose was 33 years of age, and was the youngest son of the late Mr and Mrs William Rose of Runcorn. He was married to Eliza Ann and lived in Perry Street, Runcorn before moving to Birchall Street, Warrington, where he was employed at Crossfileds Soap Works, having previously worked at Wigg Works.William enlisted in January 1915, and was drafted out to France in the following June, having taken part in numerous engagements during his 16 months service.
His relatives received the official notification of his death, and then in addition to that his wife received a letter from his officier, who wrote
"You will have recieved the sad news of your husbands death from the War Office by now, but I want to convey to you on behalf of myself and the other officiers of the company our deepest sympathy with you in your sad loss. William was a fine man and a good soldier, and his death is a loss to the Company. It was while doing his duty that he fell, and I trust that the thought will in some way soften the pain for you. He died bravely for his King and Country, and though you mourn him, yet will be proud of him. may God bless and comfort you".
Compiled by Graeme Ainsworth with assistance from Percy Dunbavand.