James White/ Whyte

James was born c.6 October 1895. His father, John, was a bricklayer from Longford and likely lived and married in Dublin as his two eldest girls were born there. Prior to enlistment James worked as a postman in Longford.

Pte White enlisted in Ballyhooley, Co. Cork. Pte White's elder brother, John, also served in the Great War and was also at the Battle of the Somme. 

Pte Whyte died shortly after being mortally wounded in the opening days of the Battle of the Somme, when his Battalion suffered heavy shelling in the 14th section between Posen Alley and Railway Alley, between 9.15pm and 10pm. His injury was recorded in the Regimental War Diary for the day, under his former regimental number 8470. In writing to his sister, Mrs. Mary (Thomas) Farrell Captain Cooney wrote: 'Madam: It is my painful duty to infrom you that a report has this day been received from the War Office notifying the death of (No) 27244 (Rank) Private (Names) James White (Regiment) 8th Battn. Royal Dublin Fusiliers, which occurred while serving with the Expeditionary Force, France on the 6th day of July 1916, and I am to express to you the sympathy and regret of the Army Council at your loss. The cause of death was "killed in action". If any articles of private property are found, they will be forwarded to this Office, but some time will probably elapse before their receipt and when received they cannot be dispersed until the authority is received from the War Office. Application regarding disposal of any personal effects, or any amount that may be eventually found due to the late soldier's estate, should be addressed to "The Secretary, War Office, London, S.W." and marked outside "Effects". I am, Madam, your obedient servant, M. Cooney, Captain. Infantry Records, Dublin. Officer in charge of Recor

CWGC entry; Mention in the Longford Leader of his elder brother, John, who also served; Mention of death in Longford Leader, 5 August; Notice of death in Longford Leader, "A Longford Hero"; link to Civil Record of birth;