Leonard Victor's Story.
Leonard Victor Smith was born on 4th June 1897 to parents Joseph, a gas fitter, and Clara. At the time of his birth the family were living at 2, Neston Street, Birkenhead. Leonard was baptised on 1st August of that year at St. Anne’s Church. By 1901 they had moved to 39, Vulcan Street, Birkenhead and Leonard had three brothers, Frederick, Thomas and Arthur.The 1911 census reveals that Leonard, was at school and lived with his family who had moved to 125, Old Bidston Road. In addition to his three brothers Leonard now had a sister, Grace.
With the outbreak of the First World War Leonard enlisted in the 1st Battalion of the Cheshire Regiment, arriving in France on the 7th October 1914; he was only 17 years of age.
By early November 1914, the 1st Battalion had moved to the Ypres salient and took part in what is known as the 1st battle of Ypres. They were based in trenches south of the Menin Road. This period was marked by heavy shelling and infantry attacks by the Germans and it was during this period that Leonard Smith was taken prisoner. Pow records report that he was captured on or about 9th November and we can assume he was wounded when captured as the pow records note that he was taken to the German field hospital No 8 and died subsequently. British military records show that Leonard was reported missing and death presumed on or since 16th November.
Private Leonard Smith’s body was never recovered or identified therefore he is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial, Ypres.
Leonard’s brother Thomas Ernest Smith 28209 was killed in action on 30th September 1916.
Research and Leonard Smith’s photograph by Chris Booth.