Brenda McMahon has submitted the following:-
George was the son of coal hewer Robert and Sarah Elizabeth (nee Iley) who married in 1899. He was born at Shildon in 1900.
The 1911 census shows George had been joined by siblings Hugh and Emma. Also living with the family were in laws Hannah Iley and her family.
George attested on September 18th 1916 aged 17 years 4 months. His records show him to be 5’7” tall, his occupation was as a blacksmith and his faith was Church of England.
He was originally posted to the West Yorkshires (possible service number 19804) then to the Training Battalion as from December 13th 1917. This battalion later became known as the graduated battalion which was for young soldiers (no. TR/11890). Lastly he was posted to 22nd Durham Light Infantry no. 85241.
He had probably turned 18 when he proceeded overseas to France on April 5th 1918 sailing from Folkestone to Boulogne then joined his battalion the following day at Etaples.
At the end of April 1918, five divisions of Commonwealth Forces (IX Corps) were posted to the French 6th Army in this sector to rest and refit following the German offensives on the Somme and Lys. Here, at the end of May, they found themselves facing the overwhelming German attack which, despite fierce opposition, pushed the Allies back across the Aisne to the Marne. Having suffered 15,000 fatal casualties, IX Corps was withdrawn from this front in early July, but was replaced by XXII Corps.
George was reported missing on May 27th 1918 but, in fact, he had been taken as a prisoner of war. He was later presumed to be dead on or about that date. He had been at the front for just over a month.
His prisoner card reads:- SHAW GEORGE A80299; Pte., Durham Light Infantry 85241, “A”Coy., 4th Plat., Pioneers, missing 27/05/1918; Rep: Mr R Shaw (father) 9 Eden Terrace, Kirk Merrington via Ferryhill, Co. Durham, England.
His total service amounted to 1year 252days.
His father received the monies due to him which amounted to £7.10s.08d including war gratuity of £5.0.0
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
George Shaw is remembered at Kirk Merrington on K26.01
He is also remembered in The DLI Book of Remembrance page 133
