Born on 18th October 1899 at Woodford, son of John Alexander (Master Draper and Fur Maker) and Grace Julia Boardman (nee Thomas). Educated at St Aubyn’s, Bancroft’s and Mill Hill Schools, where he was a member of the OTC. 1901: With family at “Hazelhurst” Coachman’s Cottages Woodford Wells. 1911: With his family at “Hadley” Mornington Road, Woodford Wells. This was his address on death.
He was Commissioned in February 1918. Having undergone training at 1 Observer School of Aerial Gunnery at Hythe/New Romney, he had been due to go to France, but was kept back because he was slightly too young by one month. He was instead allocated to a Bombing Course for one month.
On 29th April 1918 he was flying in BE2C C7009 as an Observer with Pilot Lt. Robert Brinton Hill from New Jersey. After pulling out of a nose dive, the aircraft collapsed in mid air and crashed on Salisbury Plain killing both crewmen.
Ironically he had written home; "There have been a good many accidents here because the weather has been so bad, but don't let mother know, else she will only worry. Anyway, I am not frightened, because my life is in greater hands than any stunt pilot."
The funeral was held at Woodford Union Church (United Free), which the family regularly attended. A Guard of Honour included men of the “Woodford Balloon Section” - Number 2 Balloon Squadron whose Headquarters were at Bananie House in Woodford. Men of the Essex Regiment fired 3 volleys over his grave at Chingford.
His brothers Howard and John Boardman also attended Mill Hill School and served, the latter being wounded.
Research by Adrian Lee, Local Historian
Sources:
Ancestry.com
Woodford Times
Mill Hill School Roll of Honour
For more information on this individual please see The Old Bancroftian website.