Three Unidentified World War I Soldiers Honoured with Military Burials

The services were organised by the Ministry of Defence’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC) and supported by serving members of the Royal Horse Artillery. Reverend Mark Henderson, Chaplain to the 32nd Regiment Royal Artillery, conducted the ceremonies.

Reverend Henderson remarked:

“It is a personal honour to give these men a dignified burial. I became a chaplain to respect the sacrifices of those who came before us, and I have always been moved by the graves marked ‘Unknown soldier but known unto God.’ I am grateful to help honour their sacrifice and remind us that they are known to the Almighty.”

The remains interred at Peronne Communal Cemetery Extension were discovered in a shell crater near Cléry-sur-Somme during an archaeological survey. No regimental artefacts accompanied the body, confirming only that the individual was a Commonwealth soldier.

Two other soldiers were laid to rest at Tyne Cot Cemetery after being found in a shell hole on Tresoriersstraat in Zonnebeke. Artefacts recovered with them included an Australian Rising Sun badge, a Cameron Highlanders shoulder title, and artillery equipment bearing the marking “330 RFA.” The 330th Brigade Royal Field Artillery operated in the area from 8 October to 13 October 1917, and the site remained on their medical evacuation route until the end of October. DNA testing of potential candidates from the 330th Brigade has not yet yielded a match, and their identities remain unknown. JCCC will continue its identification efforts.

Rosie Barron, JCCC caseworker, said:

“Although the identities of these three men remain unknown, it is essential that their sacrifice is honoured with military rites. Working with the Royal Regiment of Artillery has ensured that they receive the dignity and respect their families would have wanted.”

The graves of all three soldiers will be maintained in perpetuity by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC).

David Royle, Recoveries and Ceremonies Manager at the CWGC, added:

“Burial services like those held this week remind us of the immense cost and tragedy of the First World War. These soldiers were sons, brothers, fathers, and husbands who left behind loved ones. Though we cannot identify them by name, it is an honour to lay them to rest among their comrades and to care for their graves forever.”

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