Born in 1876 at Woodford, son of Thomas (Labourer) and Eliza Lee. His father died while he was still young. 1881: With his widowed mother and family at Woodford Bridge. In 1899 he married Ellen Broyd at Finchingfield. 1901: A General Labourer with his wife and son Charles at 6 Globe Road, Woodford Green. 1911: A Mess Man at Claybury Hospital, with his wife and family at 2 West Grove Cottages, West Grove Road, Woodford Green. He enlisted at Epping, was initially sent to 3 Royal West Kent Regiment, and later the Manchester Regiment where his final posting was to their 1/8 Battalion.
It is not possible to say just when Charles Lee sustained his wounds. His Battalion had been in the line at the right sub sector of Nieuport Bains (Belgium) from 24th September 1917 until 2nd October 1917 when relieved by 2/6 Manchesters. During this time general low level hostilities caused almost daily casualties. The Battalion moved on, and during 7th October 1917 arrived at Australia Camp where they remained until 21st October 1917.
While here on 17th October 1917 the camp was “shelled slightly” with five 5.9” shells, which wounded 6 other ranks. It may be that Charles Lee was injured by this attack.
It is known that two days later he Died from Wounds while being treated at 34 or 36 Casualty Clearing Station near Zuydcoote.
Research by Adrian Lee, Local Historian
Sources:
Ancestry.com
Regimental War Diary
LCC Record of Service