In January 1916, Chailey Parish Magazine notes that Beal, Pte G, RFA is serving in England.  I had surmised that this was probably George Beal who was born around 1884 in Balcombe, Sussex.  This assumption is wrong however as this man’s record survives in the WO 364 series at the National Archives and clearly shows that he enlisted with the Queen’s (Royal West Surrey Regiment) on 5th October 1914 and was discharged, medically unfit, fifteen days later.

It is possible of course that he re-enlisted later with the RFA but I think this is unlikely.  In any event, in February 1916, Chailey Parish Magazine notes that G Beal’s rank is ‘Driver’ and that he is still in England.  This George Beal appears to have served throughout the war, his details appearing continuously in Chailey’s Parish Magazine up to and including the final published roll call in July 1919.

He is possibly the same 223381 Dvr G Beal as noted on the National Archives’ medal index card.

Sources & Acknowledgements

• The National Archives
• Chailey Parish Magazine