Robert Arthur Winnington Gamlen
Born 1898, the son of Arthur George Loraine Gamlen & Annie Georgina Gamlen of 'Palmerscroft', London Road, St Albans & later of 3 Gray's Inn Square, London WC
Educated Rugby & Sandhurst
Commissioned 2nd Lieutenant, Worcestershire Regiment in August 1916
To France 9/11/16 where he served as the 4th Battalion's Machine Gun Officer
Noted as having been 'specially distinguished in the fighting at Ypres'
Wounded at Monchy-le-Preux in the Second Battle of the Scarpe 23/4/17
Promoted Acting Captain & Adjutant of 4th Worcestershire Regiment
'Shot through heart' on Welsh Ridge, Cambrai & KIA 30/11/17
His Colonel wrote of his young Adjutant "...what an excellent officer he was... at the critical time on 30th November he rendered invaluable service throughout the day in collecting and directing various parties. He was a very great assistance to me, and for his excellent services I recommended him for the Military Cross, though I am sorry to say it was not granted"
Note: The MC was not awarded posthumously if the officer died in the action for which it was recommended
Buried at Flesquieres Hill British Cemetery, France - his CWGC Headstone is inscribed 'DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP IN VICTORY'
Also commemorated in the UK on St.Albans Citizens Memorial, the old St.Albans Town Hall Memorial & on St.Albans Cathedral window
His Officers Papers exist at TNA but we have not checked them Ref: WO 339/71131
With copy of his Medal Index Card, ODGW & CWGC details plus a printed file of supporting research documentation
'WA' Woolwich Arsenal stamp on reverse
Condition: In old waxed card plaque case, NEF