From our ‘Family histories’ section: The Dray Family: ‘Courtesy of Pam Dray’
Private Alfred Horace Dray (Son of John Dray and his wife Louisa Dray) was 22 years old and was born and raised in Saltwood. He worked as a Gardner when he enlisted at Lichfield, Staffordshire. He had been in the 2nd Bge RFA but had a free discharge, Private 11842 2nd Battalion Durham Light Infantry.
Alfred had been in France from 8th September 1914 till November 1914 where a Telegraph states he died on the Ambulance Ship “Asturias” on the 5th. A letter dated 7th January 1914(but believed to be 1915) was written by Alfred’s father requesting to have his son’s Christmas gift from H.R.M Princess Mary. Alfred is buried at Netley Military Cemetery, Hampshire. Grave Ref: C.E. 1630.
Alfred’s brothers also served in The Great War:
• John Dray, born in Saltwood, 1885-1965, stationed at the Gun Station in Folkestone.
• Charles Thomas Dray, born Saltwood 1886-1954, was in the British Army in Germany.
Pte Christopher Cyril Dray L/10383 The Buffs, (Son of William Dray and his wife Ellen Dray.) was born in Saltwood on the 31st August 1894 and was the only son of William and Ellen Dray. Christopher was a baker by trade and eventually moved to 2, Warren Road, Folkestone before signing up. Sadly Ellen lost both her husband and son within 7 months of each other when Christopher died on the 15th March 1917 in France. At the time of his death, William and Ellen were living at 1, Avonshire Terrace, Horn Street, Nr Hythe where they received a medal for their late son.
Henry Dray 1987-1918 G/7618 East Kent Regiment The Buffs (Son of George Dray and his wife Sophia Dray.) Henry was born in Saltwood, Hythe, Kent in 1897. He was 19 years old when he enlisted at Canterbury on the 13th May 1915. His service record stated he died of wounds on the 2nd July 1918. Henry was the son of George and Sophia Dray (see 63HYT)
Image & text courtesy of Pam Dray.