The Sole Survivor’s Legacy: Frank Large and the Grim Realities of World War I

World War I, often referred to as the Great War, saw the enlistment of millions of young men from across the globe. Among these brave soldiers was Frank Large, a laborer and platelayer with Great Western Railways, who, at the tender age of 21, was among the first to answer Kitchener’s call to arms. Joining the 10th Gloucestershire regiment on August 9, 1914, his journey was a testament to the sheer human resilience and sacrifice.

Enlistment and Early Service

On August 9, 1914, Frank Large enlisted and joined the 10th Gloucestershire regiment, one of the earliest to answer the call. His records are a window into the grim realities of the Great War. They detail a remarkable 38 months of service out of the 51-month duration of the war, serving in France, a place that was to become a graveyard for many.

Wound and Wounds: A Bullet in the Arm

Frank’s records describe a significant encounter that would forever change his life. Wounded in the left forearm by a bullet on September 25, 1915, at Loos, he would find echoes of this trauma years later. Interestingly, my grandfather, Herbert Large, also recounted being wounded in the same arm in 1942 during World War II with the Royal Marines. This shared injury reveals the personal toll of war and its lasting legacy.

Punishments and Promotions

Frank’s service wasn’t without its challenges. Records show he received Field Punishment Number One for being late to parade multiple times. Additionally, he was confined to barracks a few times. Despite his military accomplishments, he requested to revert back to the rank of private. This decision underscores the personal and emotional toll of warfare.

Service in the Machine Gun Corps

During the latter stages of the war, Frank served in the 74th Battalion of the Machine Gun Corps. This involvement highlights the evolving nature of warfare and the introduction of new combat roles. His second service number for this battalion further emphasizes the dynamic and changing nature of military service during this tumultuous period.

Returning Home and Life After the War

Frank returned to his life as a laborer working for the railways after the war. His service was not without tragedy. Upon returning, he learned that his fiancée had succumbed to the Spanish flu. This anecdote paints a stark picture of the dual impact of war, affecting not just soldiers but also those left behind.

Life and Stories of the Soldier

Most of the stories from Frank’s war experiences were kept silent, a common phenomenon among veterans of the Great War. However, in later years, his stories became more frequent. In his later years, he shared stories with my grandfather, often humorous. These stories, while light-hearted, provided insight into the daily struggles and the camaraderie among soldiers.

Archival Records and Historical Context

The historical records, including his paybook from late 1917, detail periods of service in the field and one period of leave. His pension records also detail instances of field punishment. These documents offer a detailed glimpse into the daily life of soldiers during the war. Additionally, war diaries from the 10th Battalion of the Gloucestershire Regiment provide fascinating insights into the routine and life of troops.

William Ingles and the Ingles Family Connection

Another notable soldier who served with the 10th Gloucesters is William Ingles, who won the DCM on September 25, 1915, but succumbed to his wounds just two weeks later at the Hohenzollern redoubt. Intriguingly, the maiden name of Frank’s mother was Ingles, leading to speculation about a possible familial connection to William.

The story of Frank Large is a poignant reminder of the profound impact of the Great War on individual lives and the families they left behind. The quotidian and ordinary events of war make it a remarkable illustration of human resilience and sacrifice.