This memorial to Fr Doyle, a piece of his uniform, commemorates a much loved padre who died at Ypres. Because they worked so close to the fighting, many chaplains died in the line of duty: in total, 172 British Army chaplains were killed or later died from their wounds in the war. Father William Doyle SJ, from Dublin, was ordained in 1907 and was appointed chaplain to the 16th (Irish) Division in November 1915. Fr Doyle spent much of his time at the front lines, frequently going ‘over the top’ to help injured and dying men. His bravery was a source of inspiration to many and his good humour and generosity made him an extremely popular figure. Fr Doyle was killed in shell-fire while tending to wounded men during the Third Battle of Ypres on 16 August 1917. After his death, many of William Doyle’s wartime letters were published in a biography by Alfred O’Rahilly. Fr Doyle’s letters paint a bleak picture of life in the trenches and give us an insight into the many roles – and challenges – of the army chaplain. Despite his reputation for seeming fearless, Fr Doyle in his letters admits to feelings of terror behind the brave front he presented to the men.

Front || A small card case in which the memorial plaque was issued.

Card case for memorial plaque.