Gunner Horace Concannon Richardson
| Date of Birth | c. 1892 |
|---|---|
| Age at Death | 25 |
| Date of Death | 4 October 1917 |
| Service Number | 925493 |
| Military Service | Royal Field Artillery, "B" Battery, 290th Brigade |
| Merton Address | 28 Crusoe Road, Mitcham |
| Local Memorial | Mitcham War Memorial |
Additional Information
Horace was born in Newington in 1892. The earliest record we have is the 1901 Census when 9-year-old Horace was living with his family at 16 Pitcairn Road, Mitcham. His mother was Alice, and his two sisters were Constance 13 and Grace aged 2. His father Harry Concannon Richardson was working as a Printer Reader. Concannon was also the name of Horace’s Grandfather.
By 1911 the family had moved to the next street – 28 Crusoe Road. Father Harry was now described as a Wholesale Newsagent Manager, and Horace was employed as a Shipping Clerk.
During the First World War, Horace was assigned to the Royal Field Artillery as a Gunner. He was in ‘B’ Battery, and part of the 290th Brigade. The Royal Field Artillery (RFA) was the largest arm of the artillery. It was responsible for the medium calibre guns and howitzers. Artillery played a huge role, and guns were used for a range of vital work. New recruits underwent training before being sent to the front.
The Battle of Passchendaele also known as the Third Battle of Ypres took place between 31 July and 10 November 1917. During that period on 4 October, the Battle of Broodseinde was fought near Ypres in Belgium against the German 4th Army. This battle was the most successful Allied attack of the Third Battle of Ypres. It is probable that Horace lost his life during this battle as he was killed in action on 4 October 1917.
Horace is buried in the Buffs Road Cemetery, Belgium. His grave is marked with a cross with the inscription: “HAVE MERCY UPON HIM LORD AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON HIM”. Horace is also commemorated locally on the Mitcham War Memorial.
His parents shared his last pay, with his father receiving £7.11.6 and his mother receiving the War Gratuity of £13.10. According to his will, Horace also left the considerable sum of £453.12.3 to his father Harry.