Private Hubert Noel Hewitt
| Date of Birth | c 1896 |
|---|---|
| Age at Death | 21 |
| Date of Death | 9 October 1917 |
| Service Number | 5148 |
| Military Service | Honorable Artillery Company 2 battalion |
| Merton Address | 30, Sydney road, West Wimbledon |
| Local Memorial | St. Saviour’s Church, Raynes Park |
Additional Information
Born in Islington in 1896, Hubert was the son of Arthur and Marie Hewitt. The couple also had two older children - Arthur and Ethel, plus four younger offspring - Henry, William, Gladys and Lily.
By 1911 the family was living at 30, Sydney road, Merton. Hubert’s father was a commercial traveller selling cardboard boxes, whilst his elder brother, Arthur jnr. was an apprentice engraver and 15 year old Hubert was an errand boy.
With the outbreak of war, Hubert enlisted at Armoury House in November 1915. Initially he was a Private in the 3rd Battalion, Honourable Artillery Company but was transferred to the 2nd Battalion on 7 September 1916. His unit was sent to France on 1 October 1916 and took part in several major offensives, including fighting at Burquoy on 25 February 1917 and the Battle of Arras in ( 9 April – 16 May 1917).
The 2nd Battalion, Honourable Artillery Company also saw action in Flanders during the 3rd Battle of Ypres, notably during the British offensive at Poelcappelle on 9 October 1917. The unit attacked Reutal, Judge Copse and Juniper Cottage, east and south-east of Polygon Wood. The assault commenced at 5.20am and Hubert’s battalion achieved its objectives but at the heavy cost of 56 dead, 197 wounded and 42 missing.
Hubert was amongst the casualties and was probably buried as an unknown soldier. His name appears on the Tyne Cot memorial and he is also commemorated at St. Saviours Church, Raynes Park.