Bolland R. Pte. R.W.F.

Richard Bolland was born at Upper Common, Claverley in 1898 where he was baptised at the Parich Church on 27th February. He was the son of John Martin Bolland and his wife Mary. The Bollands were farmers, latterly at The Wellings, Claverley. John Martin died towards the end of 1911. Mary retired to 22, Victoria Road, Bradmore, Wolverhampton. Richard's brother Frederick is also commemorated on the Claverley War Memorials.

Richard was called up in January 1917. He went to France in July 1917 where he was posted to the 6th King's Shropshire Light Infantry before being transferred to the 1st Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers a month later. On 9th October, 1917 Richard was wounded in action, probably at the Battle of Poelcapelle. He was sent home to Huddersfield where he was treated for shrapnel wounds to the shoulder and chest.

After a period of recovery at the base depot (including leave in Claverley in early December, 1917) Richard returned to France in late March, 1918, where he joined the 9th Battalion, RWF. He was wounded again on 30th May, 1918 (during the Battle of the Aisne). He died of his injuries at the Central Hospital, Bar le duc on 12th June. He is buried in Bar le duc French National Cemetery.

Private Richard Bolland, 235702 Royal Welsh Fusiliers (previously 203549 KSLI) was awarded the Victory and British Medals.