SOLDIERS IN OTHER REGIMENTS
Private Alfred Oliver, 32924
Private Alfred Oliver, 32924
Manchester Regiment 22nd Bn.
Newspaper obituary:
"News has been received of the death in the recent British offensive of Private Alfred Oliver (32922), Manchester Regiment, of 337, Rochdale-road, Royton. He was 21 years of age and enlisted about six months ago, being a joiner-minder at the Holly Mill before that.
Writing to his parents at Haggate, Royton, under date July 6, Private R. Blomley, of the same Manchester Pals Battalion, says: -
I am well considering what I have just gone through. I suppose you have read about the big success we have had. We were the first lines over in one part of the line. We got on the top, but I don't want to go through anything like it again. You know the lad I had my last leave with, Alfred Oliver, I am sorry to say that he has gone under. He was shot through the ears. The sights are awful I can tell you. I cannot write very much now, but if I am spared I will let you know more. I and the lad I made pals with at Etaples are still together, having come safely through. Keep smiling and waiting for my return. I did not think for a minute I should have had another letter to write home when I got on the top to see them falling on either side of me, but I thank the dear Lord, as I want you to thank Him, that I am still alive. . . It was the first time I had been in the first line of trenches to hold it. When we had to go over for the advance you can imagine what a sensation it would be."
And in the newspaper at a later date:
"In corroboration of the news sent to Royton by a Royton solider nearly a fortnight ago, Mr and Mrs Oliver of Rochdale Road, Royton, have been officially informed that their son, Private A Oliver (32924), Manchester Regiment, was killed in action on July 1st on the western front."
CWGC
Private
32924
Date of Death:01/07/1916
Age:21
Manchester Regiment 22nd Bn.
Pier and Face 13 A and 14 C.
THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
Additional Information:Son of John and Ann Oliver, of 330, Rochdale Rd., Royton, Oldham.
