Dublin invite, military medal and ‘inequality’
ERE in this regular feature we take a look back at the Rochdale Observer from 100 years ago...
●●ANOTHER VOICE FROM IRELAND
To the editor of the Rochdale Observer.
Sir, - In your issue of May 25th, you published a letter from ‘A 17 year old soldier,’ headed ‘A voice from Ireland.’
I can vouch for the truth of every word his letter contains.
I happen to be a Rochdale man, although 40 years in Dublin, and have kept in touch with my native town both by periodical visits and through the Rochdale Observer, which I receive regularly.
I have followed with interest the fine work of the Rochdale boys, amongst whom is a nephew of mine who has won the Military Medal.
If there are Rochdale boys in Dublin, I would like to get in touch with them, and may possibly be able to help them in many ways.
If they or their friends would communicate with me, I shall be glad to look them up.
Yours, GEORGE METCALF, Rathmines, Dublin.
●●ROCHDALE SERGEANT’S DISTINCTION
For conspicuous gallantry and dash shown on April 22, Sergeant Jack Metcalfe, of the Rifle Brigade has been awarded the military medal.
The official account speaks in high praise of the way in which he attacked and cleared the houses in La Pannerie.
Throughout the whole action, he inspired his men with the greatest confidence and kept up the morals of all ranks.
Sergeant Metcalfe, who is 26 years of age, formerly resided at 33 South Street, Rochdale, and was an old employee of Fethney Bros., textile machinists, Canal Street.
His name is on the roll of honour of the St George Lads’ Club, South Street.
●●ANOTHER PARENT & ARMY SERVICE
To the editor of the Rochdale Observer.
Sir, - Like a previous correspondent of yours, I think it is high time we fathers of lads who have joined up, and those of us who are likely to be called up ourselves, raised our voices against such inequality as still exists.
There is yet a battalion in Rochdale of single men, or young married men, who are enjoying all the luxuries their high wages afford, while “Tommy” is giving his all for a “bob” a day.
When is this favouritism going to cease?
Share and share alike I say, whether they be fitters, lawyers, chemists or what.
This war has to be won, and protection cards will not win it.
We are not fighting an ordinary foe, but a devil spelt with a big “D.”
Yours, A PARENT.
●●HURSTEAD SOLDIER CAPTURED
Private Tom M. Lorimer, of the Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders, previously reported missing on March 24th, has written to his parents, who reside on Halifax Road, Hurstead, stating that his is a prisoner at Baden, Germany.
He is 22 years of age, and formerly worked at the Croft Mill, Rochdale.
●●WAR CASUALTY PHOTOS
Lance-Corporal J. R. Edwards (Coldstream Guards), of 61 Kellett Street, Rochdale, has died from shell wounds received on May 27th. Before enlistment, he was employed by Tweedales and Smalley Ltd., Castleton.
Private Herbert Kershaw (King’s Shropshire Regiment), of 48 Molesworth Street, Rochdale, was killed in action on May 21st. He was 19 years old. Before enlistment he worked at Clover Mill, Rochdale and was associated with Milton, Congregational Church.