“Wallsend Soldier’s Gallant Services.
A letter from the King.

Mrs. Allen, 25, Appletree Gardens, Walkerville, Newcastle, has received the following letter:-

‘War Office, Whitehall
4th March 1916
Madam – I have it in command from His Majesty the King to inform you as next of kin of the late Company-Sergeant-Major James Allen, No.2258, of the 5th Northumberland Fusiliers, that this warrant officer was mentioned in a despatch from Field Marshall Sir John French, dated 30th November, 1915, and published in the London Gazette dated 1st January, 1916, for gallant and distinguished service in the field.

I am to express to you the King’s high appreciation of these services, and to add that his Majesty trusts that their public acknowledgment may be some consolation in your bereavement. I have the honour to be, your obedient servant.
M.D. Graham, Lieut-Col.
(Assistant Military Secretary.

Company-Sergeant-Major Allen was well-known in Wallsend and district, having been for many years a cashier with the Walker and Wallsend Gas Company.”