1741: Pte William Henry Shaw (Letter from King George)
William Shaw was the maternal grandfather of Alan Elsegood. William was a Private in the 1st West Yorkshire Regiment Company B. He was born in Boroughbridge, Yorkshire. He was taken prisoner of war near the St Quentin Sector (The Somme) and detained at Giessen POW camp in Germany.
The family received a confirmation Attestation Prisoner of War letter from the International Red Cross detailing the place and date of the capture of William. A letter was also received from King George V1 on William’s release from the POW camp. The letter was in manuscript.
Transcript of letter:
BUCKINGHAM PALACE 1918
No. 200235, Pte. W. H. Shaw, 1st West Yorks.
The Queen joins me in welcoming you on your release from the miseries & hardships, which you have endured with so much patience and courage.
During these many months of trial, the early rescue of our gallant Officers and Men from the cruelties of their captivity has been uppermost in our thoughhts.
We are thankful that this longed for day has arrived, & that backin the old Country you will be able once more to enjoy the happiness of a home & to see good days among those who anxiously look for your return.
George R I
