Hugh Tomlinson (1882-1917)
An ongoing project to commemorate and research the lives of those who appear on war memorials and rolls of honour in the local area, who served in the military, or whose deaths were linked to conflict.
Huddersfield's Roll of Honour: 1914-1922
The following extract is from Huddersfield's Roll of Honour: 1914-1922 (2014) by J. Margaret Stansfield:
- TOMLINSON, HUGH, MC. Captain. 57th Squadron, Royal Flying Corps. Born Huddersfield 1882. Son of the late G. W. Tomlinson, F.S.A., of Woodfield, Huddersfield, and Charlotte Tomlinson, 65 Iverna Court, Kensington, London. Educated at Lockers Park and Charterhouse Public School. Worked in Java as a tea planter. On the outbreak of war he came back to England to enlist. He joined the Red Cross as a motor ambulance driver and served in France. In April, 1915, he went to Hendon and was gazetted into the Royal Flying Corps in November, 1915. After being stationed at various places, he was put on the night defence of London and was up in several Zeppelin raids. Had a bad accident during one raid on 31.1.1916. He did a great deal of experimental night work and had another serious accident in May, 1916, due to engine failure
- He was awarded the Military Cross in June, 1916, for, 'gallantry and devotion to duty. Captain Tomlinson has taken part in several raids. On two occasions he has had serious accidents at night flying, but he has not been in the least discouraged, and he has continued to do most valuable work.' (London Gazette 27th July, 1916).
- Was Mentioned in Despatches in January, 1917. Involved in a battle over Oignies, France, and was seriously wounded. He was taken prisoner and died of his wounds in a German Field Hospital on 2.4.1917. He was 34 years of age. Buried CABARET ROUGE BRITISH CEMETERY. Grave location:- Plot 7, Row J, Grave 3.
- ROH:- Huddersfield Parish Church.