THOMPSON, Gerald Pittis Newman

Gerald was born in Newport in 1898 to Dr. Charles & Mrs. Emily Theresa (nee FARRELL) THOMPSON & at one time lived at 95 The Mall in Newport.

The Battle of Hazebrouck (one of the Battles of the Lys), including the Defence of Nieppe Forest, lasted from 12 to 15 April 1918. The line east of Nieppe Forest was defended against overwhelming forces by the 29th & 31st Divisions, the latter including the 4th Guards Brigade. Although Vieux-Berquin village was lost on 13 April, the rest of the line was held until the 1st Australian Division had de-trained & arrived on the field. The cemetery was used from April until September 1918.

Gerald, aged 19, was Killed in Action on the 4th May 1918. He is buried in the Nieppe-Bois British Cemetery in France beneath a Commission Headstone bearing the family inscription, chosen by his Father, “TO LIVE IN THE HEARTS OF THOSE WE LOVE IS NOT TO DIE”. Gerald rests alongside 69 of his First World War comrades.

Gerald is also remembered on the County & Newport Borough War Memorials.