The Memoirs of R. F. Ackerley (3)

Relates to a record of our father's (R F Ackerley) experiences as an officer in the Lancashire Fusiliers, written by him in later years. He was wounded on April 16th. 1918, a German sniper's bullet striking him over his heart but the impact reduced and the direction altered by his cigarette case which saved his life. He recovered from his wound, and assured the continuance of the family name, unlike the many families who so tragically lost their sons. For his bravery he was awarded the Military Cross. Surviving documents and items associated with his service have been handed to the Lancashire Fusiliers Museum, including the cigarette case which still contains one damaged original cigarette.