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Andrew Charters, MM           Age 34

Regimental No.28596             Private          6th Battalion, Kings Own Scottish Borderers,                                                                                                                                                               27 Brigade, 9 Scottish Division

Died of wounds                                             17 October 1918

Buried                                                             Cement House Cemetery, Langemark, Ypres

 

Personal Background

Andrew was the son of Thomas and Helen Charters of Weirgate Cottage, St. Boswells.

Born at Ancrum, his father was a shepherd at The Fens, St. Boswells in 1901 and the family was still there in 1911.   Andrew, age 26,  was by then working as a mason's labourer.  He had two brothers, Thomas and Robert, and five sisters, Maggie, Nellie, Bella, Catherine and Jessie. It would appear that he was not married, as his father, Thomas, was sole legatee and received his War Gratuity and other monies due. 

 

Although his complete war record does not seem to be available, it is clear from the fact that he was awarded the Military Medal that Andrew served with great distinction, as this is  a decoration awarded only to personnel of the British Army and other services , below officer rank, for bravery in battle, and acts of gallantry and devotion to duty under fire.

 

 

Military Background

Private Charters fought and was wounded on the Somme in 1916 and returned to the Front in February the following year.

 

On the night of 16-17 October 1918, the 6th KOSB crossed the River Lys by means of Royal Engineers'  bridges and successfully attacked the Courtrai-Harlebeke road at 20.00 hrs.  The Battalion formed a bridgehead, which was held by three companies, "A" , "B", and "D".  "C" Company was sent back after suffering heavy casualties in an attempt to surround Harlbeke. 

A German counter-attack was beaten off during the night.  At 05.00 on 17 October, dismounted Cavalrymen of the German 7th Cavalry Division made a formidable attack.  The centre company "B" of the bridgehead was broken, but the flanking companies, "A" and "D" charged with the bayonet.  "B" quickly rallied and the enemy was repulsed, leaving 30 slain.

 

Private Charters was wounded in this action and taken to a Regimental Aid Post and from there to a Casualty Clearing Station near Langemark, where he sadly died.  His father received a letter from his son's officer informing him that his son had been awarded the Military Medal.