More about Norman Deboys

Following Normans death his Officer wrote the following to his Mother,

“A more cheerful worker I could not wish for. His Sergeant was equally full of praise for his industry and cheerfulness. Steady pleasant to deal with, and diligent, he was always ready for a job, however unpleasant, and his coolness under fire was a great help to those in charge, and a fine example to the rest.  He has endeared himself to the whole battery, and I feel his loss as a personal one.”

Norman Deboys   636217   Royal Field Artillery

GROCER KILLED IN ACTION.

Gunner Norman Deboys, of the R.F.A., whose parents reside at 40 St Vigeans Road, has fallen in action.  He served his apprenticeship as a grocer in the High Street Co-operative Society, and on returning to Arbroath after being some time in Port-Glasgow he joined the colours.

ADMIRABLE TRIBUTE TO LATE DRIVER DEBOYS.

The following letter has been received from Driver Deboys officer regarding his death:―“I deeply regret to inform you that your son, Driver Norman Deboys, was killed in action on the night of June 24th.  It will be a relief to know that his death was instantaneous.  He could have felt no pain.

Although your son only joined this Battery in February, yet everybody liked him.  He was in my section, and a more cheerful worker I could not wish for.  His sergeant was equally full of praise for his industry and cheerfulness.  Steady, pleasant to deal with, and diligent, he was always ready for a job, however unpleasant, and his coolness under fire was a great help to those in charge and a fine example to the rest.  He had endeared himself to the whole battery, and I feel his loss as a personal one.  I am sure you will be proud to receive this small tribute to your gallant son.  Permit me to sympathise with you both on behalf of the battery and myself upon your loss.”

1. P. Coghill, Lieutenant, R.F.A.

Arbroath Herald 6th July 1917

In Memoriam.

In loving memory of our dear son, Norman Deboys, Royal Field Artillery, who was killed in action, 23rd June, 1917, Interred in Dickebusch Cemetery in Belgium.

Arbroath Herald 27th June 1919