A letter from Captain W J Oliver describes how George died 'almost at once' from a bullet to the thigh as he was leading men into action. He goes on to say that 'We are all awfully sorry to lose so fine a friend and officer. The men will miss him terribly, as they liked him immensely. As for myself I cannot express to you my feelings, as he was one of the best officers I have ever had.'
Teesdale Mercury-05/09/1917: News item: Killed in Action
Teesdale Mercury-19/09/1917: News item: The late second Lieutenant G W Berry
Teesdale Mercury-19/09/1917: Return Thanks Notices
George was the second son of the late Thomas Berry and Mrs T Berry of 11 Montablo Terrace. He also had a sister. His father was a well known hosier and draper in Horsemarket as well as being the registrar of marriages.
He joined the Army in October 1914 in the City of London Fusiliers and was sent out to Malta to help the wounded returning from Dardanelles. On 30th December 1914 the Teesdale Mercury reported that George had spent Christmas Day with his regiment in the Bay of Biscay. In October 1915 he arrived home from the Mediterranean on a 'somewhat extended furlough'.
His death notice in the Mercury describes how George was 'known to be a thoroughly good soldier and was greatly esteemed by fellow officers and the men under his command. Always of a cheery and hopeful disposition he never feared danger and was ever willing to undertake the task allotted to him, however hazardous it might be.'
His mother, Mrs T Berry, received a telegram from Buckingham Palace expressing 'regret for the loss sustained' by the death of her son.
Teesdale Mercury-30/12/1914: Local and other notes: In Bay of Biscay for Christmas
Commonwealth War Graves Commission record gives date of death as 25/08/1917 and regiment as D.L.I.19th Bn.
Teesdale Mercury-06/01/1915: Local and other news: Arrival on continent
Teesdale Mercury-13/01/1915: Letter to Editor: Congratulations on joining up
Teesdale Mercury-27/10/1915: Local and other notes: Visiting Barnard Castle
Teesdale Mercury-05/09/1917: Roll of Honour Notice
Teesdale Mercury-19/09/1917: Local and other notes: Telegram from Buckingham Palace