Private William (Willie) Parkinson was born 30th August 1899 and enlisted into the 11th Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers in 1816. When it was discovered he was underage, he was placed in a training unit, the 6th Reserve Battalion Lancs Fus, until he was of age. At this point he was transferred to front line duties. On the 27th/28th May 1918 there was a massive German offensive that included an attack on the section of the River Aisne where Pte. Parkinson was stationed. He was killed during the attack on the 27th, while defending a stretch of higher ground, near Muscourt on the south side of the river. The battalion was annihilated by the German offensive. Prior to going on active service he sent a letter to his sister, Pollie. In it he mentions the penknife that he was awarded on 12th February 1918 'for cleanest equipment in No. 3 Platoon'. His mother, Ann, made up a memorial package, including family photos, to celebrate Willie after his death. On it she states he was killed at Metz. The memorial silk in the assembly also states he was killed at Metz but the battalion history states it was near Muscourt. Private Parkinson was awarded the Victory medal and the British War Medal. He lies with his comrades at Marfaux British Cemetery.
Framed Victory medal, British War Medal, cap badge, photo in uniform, and bronze memorial plaque. Silk memorial ribbon. Memorial certificate. Memorial package (with inscription by mother) containing three large format family portraits. Letter from Pte Parkinson to his sister Pollie