Herbert Frank Crofts (1899-1918)

Service No: 704252^nd Battalion Devonshire Regiment

Herbert Frank Crofts, known as Frank, was born in Castle Bromwich on 9^th March 1899 and was baptised in St Mary and St Margaret Church on 26 April of the same year, He was the youngest of four sons born to Joseph Crofts and Mary Ann Teal. Joseph had been a widower with three children, a boy and two girls born to him and Annie Ensor.

Frank joined the army in March 1917 and by June he moved north to Ypres with his battalion. He was involved in a number of battles including Pilckem Ridge, the attack on Westhoek and the Battle of Langemarck. After which his regiment returned to Ypres. The 2^nd Devonshire was in reserve on 21^st March 1918 but was ordered to Peronne on the 24^th and 25^th. Whilst they held off several attacks, they suffered 322 casualties before withdrawing.

Frank died of his wounds at 55 Casualty Clearing Station on 26^th April 1918. Both his parents had died and his next of kin was given as his eldest brother George. He is buried at Longpre-les-Corps, Saints British Cemetery, France. He is also commemorated on the Castle Bromwich War Memorial and the roll of honour in St Mary and St Margaret Church.