World War I British Soldier Sgt. David Harkness Finally Put To Rest After 100 Years; Homemade Metal Tag Helped Confirm The Hero’s Identity

The Guardian reported Oct. 8 that World War I British soldier Sgt. David Harkness Blakey, of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, was finally given a proper burial with full military honors almost 100 years from his death.

The 26-year-old British hero was killed in the first day of battle at Somme on July 1, 1916. His body was found 97 years later during a roadwork near Connaught cemetery in Thiepval, northern France. He was immediately identified through an "R Innis Fus" cap badge and a homemade metal identity tag. Most soldiers' tags were made from decomposable paper or compressed fibres, which made it difficult to confirm their identities.

A citation in the London Gazette on Dec. 14, 1986 reported that Blakey was given a medal for "bravery in the field," which was pinned on his seven-year-old son's chest during a concert put together by the Winlaton Welcome Home Committee in August 1917.

According to Sky News Oct. 8, Blakey's burial was attended by his relatives from three generations, who were found in the north east of England following an appeal to trace his family members last year.

"This is a very special and fitting end to our search for him and one we will always treasure," said one of Blakey's relatives. "Sadly my father is not here to share in this. He and my mother spent many years trying to find David."

The funeral for the British soldier was organized by the MOD's Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), noted iTV News on the same day.

"It is a very rare occurrence to hold a military funeral for a fallen WW1 hero when the event is attended by the soldier's living family," said JCCC Officer Steve Brown. "The MOD's Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre, part of Business Defense Services, have the enormous privilege of working with others, including the Royal Irish Regiment, to make this possible for Sgt. Blakey's granddaughter and great-granddaughter."

Blakey's father wrote a poem in memory of him, which was read by his great-great-grandchildren during his burial. The Last Post was given, followed by a gun salute and wreath-laying ceremony by dignitaries, military officials and Blakey's family.