Remembering L/Cpl Albert Green 1917

To you, the above photo may look like an old, weathered photo of an unknown soldier, but to me, this guy was one of the most noble soldiers that ever lived. This is my great grandfather, Albert Leonard Green, and this is the only photo that has been preserved of this hero. For context, he had previously volunteered to fight in the Boer War in 1902 when he was 16 years old, but the war ended before he was sent overseas. The above photo of Albert is of him in his South Staffordshire uniform at that time.

My Grandfather’s Story

Born in Sheffield in the 1880s, he and his family moved to Birmingham to find work, and at the start of WW1, he was working as a jeweller in the Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham, UK.

As all patriots did during those times, he volunteered to go fight for his country, and left for France with the 10th Battalion Royal Warwickshires in 1916. His battalion would see much front line action, both at Albert, and also at Messine Ridge. Unfortunately, he was killed in action on the 25th of July in 1917 at age 31, leaving behind his widow and a young family. Grandmother always spoke of the sadness of not knowing her father, as she was a small child when he was killed.

For many years, the details of his death remained unknown. Just imagine how it feels not knowing exactly where a family member was killed or whether they even had a proper grave or burial. Fortunately, I managed to discover that he is buried in a cemetery in Vormezeele, not far from Ypres.

Why I Need Your Help

I have a strong desire to have my great grandfather’s name to added to the local War memorial in the Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham where he lived and worked, yet I don’t have the funds I need just yet. I hope that you all will find it in your hearts to give even just a little towards this cause -- any amount, great or small will be greatly appreciated!

Thank you for reading my story, and helping a hero to get the memorial and recognition he rightly deserves.