Thomas Joseph Mead

Thomas Joseph Mead, born in Brentwood, enlisted for the Rifle Brigade at Harwich, Essex. He served with them on the Western Front during the Great War starting from December 20, 1914. Rising to the rank of Sergeant, he was part of the 9th (Service) Battalion within the 42nd Brigade, 14th (Light) Division during the Somme campaign.

During the engagement at Delville Wood on August 24th 1916, the Battalion faced heavy losses. The battalion's movements are detailed in records: they moved to the forward area, took positions at Delville Wood, and encountered severe losses, especially from enfilade machine gun fire during an advance toward Flers. This tragic encounter resulted in casualties amounting to 294, including Company Sergeant Major Mead.

Tragically, Mead succumbed to his wounds on the Western Front on September 15th 1916. He is remembered on the Thiepval Memorial in France, and his final resting place is unknown.