WW1 Medals Reaney KOYLI Yorkshire Infantry KIA Casualty Derby Man Rossignol Wood For Sale

William was born in Coal Aston, Derby and resided in Sheffield. He served as number 6118 before being transferred as number 242929 in the Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry. In March 1918 he would find himself in the Battle of Arras when on the 21st March the German army began their spring offensive. On the 27th the battalion were in Bucquot-Puiseux. The German attack started on the right flank of the 62nd division near Rossignol Wood. B and C Companys moved in brigade reserve on right flank and counter with tanks driving the enemy back to Rossignol Wood. A and D Companys moved up to right flank in readiness for counter attack on the right of the 28th. Counter attack launched at 5:30am in Rossignol Wood. A, B and C Company moved well forward and retake objectives (being our original front line). D Company being held in reserve. Later A, B and C companies cut off by enemy and are missing. The commanding officer (Lieutenant Colonel O C Watson, Victoria Cross, Distinguished Service Order, Mentioned in Despatches) killed during this counter attack. The battalion lost over 55 men over these 2 days including William.

Included is Williams Pension Card, Forces War Record, Medal Index Card, Medal Roll, Soldier Effects, 1901 and 1911 Census, War Diary and other information.

242927 Private William Reaney

Killed in action 27th March 1918

5th Battalion, Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry

Remembered with honour at Arras Memorial