RSM. C.H. Buss

FIRST NAMES: Charles H.

UNIT: 6th Somerset Light Infantry

NUMBER: 5346

STATUS: Killed in Action

DATE OF DEATH: 3rd May 1917

CEMETERY OR MEMORIAL: Tigris Lane Cemetery, Wancourt, France

AGE: 33

RSM Buss was killed during the Battle of Arras, aged 39, in one of the final attacks of the Battle. The attack took place at 3.45am to the east of Wancourt. Unfortunately, the troops were silhouetted against the moon as they prepared to advance and the element of surprise was lost. As soon as the attack began the German artillery opened up a deadly barrage on the attacking troops. This, together with the darkness, led to utter confusion amongst the attacking troops who became easy prey to German counter-attacks.

Charles Buss was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in 1916, though no mention of this is made on the Northallerton Memorial. The DCM is the second highest award for gallantry next to the Victoria Cross. His award was cited in the London Gazette on 20th June 1916 and his citation stated that the award had been given for "consistent good work and gallant service. He has set a fine example to those under him."

He is commemorated in Northallerton Cemetery on a gravestone along with an Elizabeth Ann Buss who died on 15th September 1916, aged 33. It is not known whether this would have been his wife or his sister.