South Staffordshire War Memorials

Dedicated to the memory of all the men and women of the South Staffordshire area who died during the two World Wars.

Philip Jackson

Philip was the son of Henry and Sarah Jackson. He was baptised at Bishops Wood on 2nd July, 1865. At the time of his birth, the family lived at Kiddemore Green but they later moved to the Albrighton / Donington area.

Philip worked as an agricultural labourer, later specialising as a land drainer. He married Bertha Bucknell at Blymhill in 1886 with whom he had eight children. Philip and Bertha lived in Blymhill for many years before moving to Spring Lane, Bishops Wood shortly before the 1911 census.

When Philip joined up in May 1915, he declared himself to be 43 years old (though he was closer to 50). He served with the Royal Army Vetinary Corps. He presumably had animal handling skills which were badly needed at the front as he was sent to France a few days after attesting, with no time for basic military training.

Two months after joining up, Philip was returned home sick. After a few weeks in hospital he was discharged from the Army with inoperable cancer of the tonsil. He died shortly afterwards on 28 December, 1915. His death does not appear to be recorded by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

Private Philip Jackson, SE/8228 RAVC, was awarded the 14/15 Star and the Victory and British War Medals.

This memorial has mostly been compiled from official sources. It would be good to be able to expand it with more personal material - memories, stories, photos, etc. If you have any suitable material or any corrections please contact Greg.