E. C. Smart
Service no. 263068
Rifleman, Monmouthshire Regiment, 1st Battalion
Born in Walworth; enlisted in Battersea
Killed in action on 3 September 1917, aged 35
CWGC: “Husband of Elizabeth Ann Smart, of 12, Thorparch Rd. Lambeth, London.”
Remembered at Loos Memorial, France

British Army WWI Service Records 1914-1920

On 7 November 1917 Elizabeth Ann Smart, widow of Edwin Charles Smart, wrote to the War Office: “Will you please let me have my marriage and other certificates which I have forwarded to you on 20th of Sept,” she said. “…I am sorry to trouble you only I have a [illegible] means a [illegible] £5 to me and of which I would be glad, being left with four young children.” Although some of the letter has been so damaged that it I am not able to read it, it is clear that Elizabeth is struggling to manage on the money she has coming in. Clearly the possession of these certificates, perhaps to show the relevant authorities at the local pension board, would make a difference.

Smart was killed in action on 3 September 1917, leaving Elizabeth with the children. These included her son by a previous relationship Emlyn Thomas Campbell, 13, and three she had with Edwin: Eliza Louise, 6, Alice Maisie, not yet 5, and Edwin Alexander, 3, all born before they married at Lambeth Register Office on 5 December 1914.

Smart enlisted on 11 December 1915 when he was 34 and 7 months. He was described as 5 feet 8 inches and 10 stone. His chest measured 36 inches (which he could increase to 39). His physical development was “good.”