Photo: B. Chandler

Geordie at War Project states:

“There is little information about Private Boakes other than he was stationed at Rugeley Camp, Cannock Chase, Staffordshire when he died.

The Labour Corps was formed in July/August 1917 to provide support to the Army by performing the myriad of tasks required to keep the forces functioning in the field. They built camps and defences and were employed as cooks, storemen, sanitary men and Military Policemen. They were generally older and less fit than men required for the front line. They were medically examined every month and those deemed fit enough were sent to France to serve as combat soldiers." (Information from the websites listed below and Lt.Col. John Starling, Royal Pioneer Corps)

Royal Pioneer Corps
The CWGC entry for Private Boakes