On This Day, 21 June 1917

Birmingham Mail

Thursday 21 June 1917

DISPUTE ABOUT LEAVE

William Charles Browning (41), described as a land-owner, staying at the Y.M.C.A., Dale End, was charged before Lord Ilkeston (Stipendiary) at the Birmingham Police Court today with being an absentee from the Royal Garrison Artillery since the 19th of June.

Defendant described it as the most abominable thing he ever heard of. On the 15th, he said, he was granted six days’ leave, but finding his pass was only made out for four days he went to the office, and the sergeant-major altered the 19th to the 21st. He was then told to go to an office, and there he was told it was alright. He had worked early and late since he had been in the Army, and only a week ago he was recommended thrice for a promotion.

It was stated that defendant sent a telegram to the commanding officer yesterday, in consequence of which he was arrested the same day.  The Stipendiary said he should discharge defendant, but advised him to return to his battery at once.