Sydney Vincent Andrew Brown is my Great Uncle. He was my father(Vincent Russell's) uncle from his mothers side (Alice Brown). My grandmother Alice was very upset when her brother Sydney was killed on this day 5th April 1918 and then again when my father (her son) Vin Russell was captured in the 2nd world war and the news was sent her just before Christmas.
The story of Sydney Vincent has been remembered through the 100 years in our family with deep regard and in 2005 I visited his graveyard as I believe, the first relative, to visit Collincamps Cemetery in Euston Road France, where he peacefully is laid to rest. So sad to see a 22 year old taken in his prime. The cemetery however is the most beautiful, peaceful place and I felt it was like a touch of home in the countryside so carefully and lovingly looked after by the local people in Collincamps.

Sydney is my great great uncle on my mother's side. I have read his letters to his mum and to his sister (my grandad's mum) as well as a letter from his superior after his death. All very interesting to read and so sad to see such a young 22 year old man fall in action.

Thinking of Sydney on this day 5 April 2018 - 100 years since his death in action.

Mark Skurr