Peterborough & The Great War

Biography

Private George Parkinson was serving with the Northumberland Fusiliers when he passed through Peterborough East Station on 14 April 1917.  He wrote in the visitors’ book “With many thanks for the kind and gentle reception when worn out and tired by the people i/c Soldiers and Sailors rest room.”

We have been unable to trace George’s service records, but from his medal records we know that he joined the Northumberland Fusiliers on 1 September 1914, and disembarked in France on 15 July 1915.  We also know that he was wounded on 19 December 1915 and possibly twice more in January 1916 and July 1917.  He served in both the 9^th (Service) and 12^th (Service) Battalions and was made acting Corporal, a rank he maintained until transfer and discharge from the Durham Light Infantry on 28 April 1919.

He was awarded the 14/15 Star, British War and Victory medals and Silver War Badge.

“During WW1 the Northumberland Fusiliers was the second largest regiment (after London) and of its 52 battalions, 29 saw service overseas in Europe, Salonika, Egypt, Suez, Gallipoli and Malta during the 1914-1918 conflicts.”  http://bit.ly/2nASVKe

George mentioned Newcastle-upon-Tyne in the visitors’ book.  Is this where he was stationed or where he lived?  We have been unable to positively identify George from census records.  Can you help us to find out more about George Parkinson?