1571 Pte. William Joseph Connolly British Army 1/7th Btn. A Coy. London Regiment from:27 Prusom Street, Wapping, London (d.7th Jun 1917) William Connolly was employed as a van guard for a wine agent before enlisting into the 1st/7th (City of London) Battalion of the London Regiment. Two of his brothers also enlisted, John with the R.A.M.C,and James into the 2nd London Regiment (later discharged due to ill health). William's Company 'A' were given the task of taking what was known as the 'White Chateau' on the day of the 7th June, after the 19 mines were blown at Messines. Very few made their destination that day, and those that did were reduced in number by German snipers. Sadly, William fell that morning, although the battle itself was a success. The land won that day was retaken by the Germans some months later!
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