Clarence Henry Armstrong: A 17 Year-old Robin Hood, Killed 1st July 1916

Seventeen year-old, Pte. Clarence Henry Armstrong, “C” Company, 1/7th (Robin Hood Rifles) Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Regiment, was reported missing on 1st July 1916. His death was confirmed by a notice placed in the local press nearly a year later on 7th June 1917.

“ARMSTRONG. – Reported missing July 1st, 1916, now killed, Private C. Henry Armstrong, Notts. and Derbyshires, Machine Gun Section, aged 17 years. Although young, daring, and brave, he now lies in a hero's grave. – Sorrowing family and soldier brother Bernard (in France).” [1]

Though only 17 at the time of his death, he had served in France since 27th October 1915.

He was the son of Walter Henry Armstrong, of 59 Church Drive, Carrington, Nottingham, and the late Ada Armstrong. He is buried in Gommecourt Wood New Cemetery, Foncquevillers.

[1] 'Nottingham Evening Post', 7th June 1917.