Gunner James Cronin.
58297 Royal Field Artillery.
Killed in Action 4th October 1917. Aged 24.
From the Burnley Express dated 5th Dec 1917: ONE OF THE FIRST. - FORMER TRAM CONDUCTOR.
Bombardier C.E. Morris of the Royal Field Artillery, has written to Mrs Catherall of 24 Westgate, Burnley, on November 20th, relative to Bombardier James Cronin, 58297, RFA, who for many years had made his home with Mrs Catherall. He was well known in Burnley as a corporation tram conductor. Bombardier Morris says "your letter to the officer, Commanding was handed to me, with the request that I would reply to same. Bombardier Cronin and myself were close friends of long-standing, having met on enlistment and serve together in Ireland, and since the commencement of the war. It is therefore, with great regret that I have to inform you of the loss of my friend in action. I know how useless would be any endeavour on my part to write anything likely to lighten your sorrow, but I am sure that you would be proud indeed did you know how very highly Bombardier Cronin was held in esteem by officers and Men. We his comrades suffered a real loss and especially whilst out of action, we miss his debonair ways. With him on the 4th October, were killed a sergeant, bombardier, and gunner. They were unloading ammunition from the pack mules, and it was greatly to do with the swiftness of their work that many others of the party or their lives. Jim died that others might progress on towards the happiness of the Peace all hope soon to have. Those that fall are each sadly missed from their respective homes, but the thought that they fell in a Just Cause must be a consolation to those that mourn their loss. If through this strife we end forever all chance of recurrence, our loss will not be in vain, and our memories will always honour such men as Jim Cronin."
The unfortunate soldier, who had previously been reported missing, was 24 years of age. He was a single man and a reservist. He was called up on August 4th 1914 and went with the first draught to France, and had participated in many battles. His last letter home was received some 10 weeks ago and was of a cheery and hopeful nature. He was identified with St Marys Roman Catholic Church.
From the Burnley Express dated 5th Oct 1918: Cronin.- In loving memory of Bombardier Morris Cronin, who was killed in action October 4th 1917.
Ever remembered. By all at 24 Westgate.
James left his effects to his mother Johanna.
James was buried in Vlamertinghe New Military Cemetery, Belgium: Grave Ref; IX.F.15.
