Arborfield
Local History Society

 The 'Mercury' and the Home Front in WW1

Memorial Service for Private Baston

From June 9^th 1917:

ARBORFIELD – MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR PRIVATE F BASTON

A memorial service for Private Frank Baston, of the Royal Berks Regiment, who was killed in France on May 5^th, was held at the Parish Church on Tuesday.

The rector, who officiated, in the course of an address, referred to a number of fine traits in Baston’s characters and to his helpfulness as a Boy Scout, bell-ringer, and choir member. He also spoke of his signature shortly before his death, of the war roll for soldiers:

"I hereby pledge my allegiance to the Lord Jesus Christ as my Saviour and King,
and by God’s help,
will fight His battles for the victory of His Kingdom."

Mr. T. H. Allen presided at the organ, and played the Dead March in "Saul". A muffled peal was rung before the service.

Another brief article followed on June 30^th, page 6:

ARBORFIELD: CASUALTY LIST – Private Frank C. Baston of Arborfield Cross, who was killed in France on May 5^th with the Royal Berks, was an apprentice with Messrs. S. Goodall and Co., The Butts, Reading. He joined up on reaching the age of 18 years, volunteered for the front, and was sent to France in August 1916, and served until killed as stated, just seven days after his 19^th birthday.

Back to WW1 Arborfield Church Page

Back to WW1 Local Life Page

Back to WW1 Main Page

Back to Memories Page