| WILLIAM RITCHIE (1833 - 1902) |
Private William Ritchie was a Crimean War veteran of the 57th "Die Hard" Regiment*, whose body was carried to Weaste Cemetery on a gun carriage.
The Salford Reporter of 18th October 1902 records: "William Ritchie enlisted on 2nd August 1851 and was discharged on 13th September 1872. He served with his regiment through the Crimean War and was awarded the medal with clasps for Alma, Inkerman and Sevastopol, together with the Turkish medal. Afterwards, he served in India and was then sent to New Zealand where he went through the Maori War for which he was awarded the medal. On his discharge he also received the medal for long service and good conduct, with a gratuity of £5. He died at his home in New Brunswick Street, Salford on Friday 10th October 1902."
The funeral was held on Tuesday 14th October. The coffin was covered with a Union Jack and conveyed to the final resting place in plot K on a gun carriage drawn by four horses. Six Army Service Corps men acted as bearers. The service was conducted by Father Salvatore Carruccio, Priest at All Souls R C Church.
* The 57th "Die Hard" Regiment was actually The Middlesex Regiment. The term "Die Hard" was coined in the smoke of war during the battle of Albuhera, fought on 16th May 1811, which was the bloodiest battle of the Peninsula War. At this battle, the 57th were out-numbered four to one. The commanding officer, Colonel Inglis took his position in front of his men. When the fighting was at its heaviest he was struck down by grape shot. He refused to be carried to the rear for treatment, but lay in front of his men calling on them to hold there position and when the fight reached its fiercest cried "Die hard, the 57th, die hard". The casualties were 420 out of 570 men and 20 out of the 30 officers, but they managed to repel the French. The soldiers of Wellington’s army dubbed the regiment "The Die Hards" to honour their courageous endeavour.
During the Crimean War the Middlesex Regiment won four Victoria Crosses; in India it took part in the closing stages of the Indian Mutiny although no battle honours were granted; and in New Zealand two VCs were awarded.