Child – Brunswick Lodge, Anerley Vale

CHILD – Brunswick Lodge, Anerley Vale

By 1921, Frederick John Child (Bn 10 July 1895 Littlehampton D1985 aged 91) and his wife, Florence, a Hair Preparer and Wig Maker (Bn 1886 Greenwich D1886 aged 99) resided at Brunswick Lodge, Anerley Vale. They married in 1921. Aged 17, Frederick worked for London Brighton South Coast Railway, based at Crystal Palace Station.

During WW1, Frederick joined the Royal Sussex Regiment (No G/4728), later joining the Queen’s Royal West Surrey, aged 23, when his occupation had been a Railway Porter.

As part of 2nd Bn, Royal Sussex Regiment, Pte Frederick Child (G/4728), received the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM), a British military decoration, the second highest gallantry award for non-commissioned officers and soldiers after the Victoria Cross, for distinguished, gallant and good conduct in the field, stating:

“For most conspicuous gallantry in the attack on the enemy positions north of Gricourt, France, on the 24th September 1918. His platoon was held up by an enemy post on the flank. He immediately worked forward alone, killed several of the enemy and forced the remainder to surrender. His splendid action saved this critical situation and throughout, his courage, cheerfulness and ability to lead his platoon, were most noticeable”.

After the war, Frederick and Florence lived at 39 Palace Road (1939 Register) and Waldegrave Road (1944).