| Surname: | Blythe |
| Initials: | P F |
| Rank: | Pte A/Cpl |
| Army Number: | P/1261 |
| Notes: | MFP. From Walthamstow. Awarded the 1915 Star, Victory and War Medals. First served abroad (1) France, 11/10/1915 to 11/11/18. Discharged class Z reserve 8/7/1919. Letter sent to the widow of No. P/416, Cpl. P Jay, MFP, 3 Traffic Control Company Dear Mrs Jay, I am deeply grieved to have to inform you that your husband was very severely wounded on the 24th last month and died about three hours later of wounds received. it is an unthankful task to have to communicate such sad news to his people at home, but believe me, madam, in conjunction with the remainder of the NCO's and men of this company, I tender you our deepest sympathy in you irreparable loss. No NCO enjoyed greater love and respect than did Corpl. Jay from the rest of the NCO' and men, and his loss has been deeply mourned by all, but by none more than myself. I am an old G E Railway policeman, a pal of poor old George's in civil life, as well as Army life. No doubt you will have heard him speak of me when he was home on leave last time. As soon as I heard of him being wounded I went to see him at once. but he was unsonscious and remained so till the end. He has been buried, amongst other heroes and a nice cross erected over his grave, which will always receive attention from us while we are here. I have gone through his personal effects and there are no letters left, as one generally burns those kind od things out here. I have forwarded some photos found amongst his things to my Company Officer to be forwarded to you. A subscription is being raised among the NCO's and men of his 1/2 company, to help to defray the cost of mourning for both you and dear little ones left behind, as a token of respect from his comrades and will be forwarded as soon as completed. A sketch facsimile of the cross is being forwarded also. Dear Mrs Jay, you have my deepoest sympanthy and condolence, but I hopoe and trust for the sake of the little ones you will bear up as bravely as possible and remember your late husband died as he had always lived - a hero. Anything I can do for you and any adivce I can give you, I shall be pleased to do so. A letter addressed to P/1261, Cpl P Blythe, No.3 Traffic Control Coy, Mobile Police, BEF will always find me. Yours respecfully, P F Blythe. |
Decoration Record: | |
| Decoration: | Meritorious Service Medal (London Gazette: 31132 Page: 1016 Jan. 18, 1919) |
| Citation: | France & Flanders. Devotion to duty. L/Cpl (A/Cpl). |