EW Bedford

Edwin Worthy Bedford was born in Hampstead London on 16th February 1899. He moved to various address in East London before enlisting into the Army at 18 years old on 19th March 1917. Prior to this he worked for R.Cheke & Co Surveyors, 749 Romford Road, Manor Park, London E13.

Following his medical at Warley Barracks in Brentwood, Essex he was then stationed at St Albans Hertfordshire the following day. His records show he was 5' 8" tall, weighed 116lbs (8st 4oz) and was with the 11th Rifle Brigade as Private EW Bedford, reg no 38423. During his training he suffered a concussion and was assigned to light duties for a short period of time. Following his training he was stationed at various locations around the UK.

He was then sent to France on 27th March 1918 and served until 8th November 1918, as part of the British Expeditionary Force. It is documented that he was diagnosed with Trench Fever in France on 8th November 1918 and was hospitalised in the 22nd General Hospital in Camiers France. He was later transfered by Military Hospital Ship Stad Antwerpen to Scotland and was a patient in the 4th Scot General Hospital, Stobhill, Glasgow, Scotland. Trench Fever is generally caused by lice and was common in WW1 probably caused by the conditions at the time in the trenches.

After his release from hospital, he was then stationed at various locations in UK being a reserve from 9th November 1918 to 31st March 1920. His record shows that he ended his military career with no disabilities and was awarded the British War and Victory Medals for his services.

Edwin was my Grandfather