Private Percy Frederick Charles Harrison
| Date of Birth | c.1895 |
|---|---|
| Age at Death | 23 |
| Date of Death | 17 June 1918 |
| Service Number | 48081 |
| Military Service | Lancashire Fusiliers |
| Merton Address | 9 Smiths Buildings, Mitcham |
| Local Memorial | St. Mark's Church, Mitcham |
Additional Information
Percy was born c. 1895 but not baptised until 12 June 1898 in SS Peter and Paul Parish Church Mitcham. His parents were Frederick Charles and his mother Ada and he had six siblings, Florence who was born c. 1893 and Frederick who was born in 1900 but died young, and younger brothers and sister Alfred, Herbert, George and Rosina.
At the time of the 1901 census they were living at 5 Lewis Cottages but by 1911 they had moved to 9 Smiths Buildings.
When he left school he became a general labourer but enlisted 23 August 1913 in Kingston, aged 18. He was described as being 5ft 7ins tall, weighing 125lb with a fresh complexion, hazel eyes, brown hair and an indistinct tattoo on his forearms.
Percy initially served in the East Surrey Regiment, number 10706. In 1914 he had trouble with his feet which caused several periods of sick leave then on 11 April 1916 he was reported absent without leave and deemed to be a deserter. By 25 April 1916 he had reenlisted in the Lancashire Fusiliers, number 48081. His record was marked “Man reported as Deserter or Absentee who has rejoined or who, for any other reason, is NOT to be apprehended” so his reason for being absent was apparently accepted.
He married Helen Christine Rudge in January 1917 and they had a son in October 1917 who they called Frederick Charles.
Percy died of wounds on 17 June 1918 and is buried in Lapugnoy Military cemetery X.A.16 and commemorated in St Mark’s Church.