Benjamin Wall, Age 21

Private, 5979, 2nd Battalion, King's Shropshire Light Infantry.

K.S.L.I Regiment Cap Badge.

Benjamin was the son of John (a miner) and Jane Ellen Wall of 30 Crown Street, Dawley. Before that they had lived at 58 Fingers Row, according to the 1901 census.

He had joined the KSLI before the war and had served 4 years with them before being killed in action on the 25th May 1915. On the 24th May the Germans had launched an artillery and gas barrage against the British front line at Bellewaerde Ridge; this was followed up by an infantry attack that made some ground. Later that same day (4.30 pm) the 2nd KSLI were put under orders to retake the lost positions at Bellewaerde and Railway wood which had been lost by the remnants of the 28th Division.

The KSLI supported by the 4th KRRC on the left and the 3rd KRRC with the 4th Rifle brigade in support on the right moved forward down the Menin Road but the forward movement was very slow and took the greater part of the night 24th/25th this was due to having to pick up parties of other regiments who had been ordered to support the attack.

When the attack went in led by ‘X’ & ‘Y’ companies the KSLI advancing through Railway wood and captured the German front line but was unable to take their second line due to heavy machine gun and rifle fire, ‘Y’ companies position thrust into the enemies line became untenable after the Germans brought up fresh troops at day break and so they withdrew and dug in west of Whitteport Farm.

Benjamin was killed during this action and his name is on the Menin Gate on panels 47 – 49

Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial Bay 49, Stone (E above) and H.

He had from a young age been connected with the Stirchley Wesleyan Chapel and after his death a memorial service was held there for him on the 5th September 1915.

Private Benjamin Wall.

WWI Medal Rolls Index Card

Commonwealth War Graves
Commemorated Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial

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Victory Medal	British War Medal	1914-15 Star Medal