George Roberts - Soldier
George Roberts was born on the 1st August 1891 in Trinidad in the West Indies. When the First World War broke Roberts joined the British West Indies Regiment (BWIR).
The BWIR was formed in 1915, over 15,000 men from across the Caribbean including Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Grenada, St Lucia, St Vincent and other British colonies volunteered to fight for Britain. BWIR soldiers were mostly labourer's who undertook support roles, for example digging trenches and moving supplies. However, some of the soldiers engaged in combat. Roberts fought in battles at Loos and the Sommes in France.
During battles Roberts would pick up live grenades and throw them back over enemy trenches. Roberts mastered his throwing skill in Trinidad when throwing coconuts.
After sustaining an injury on the battle field Roberts was allowed to return to Trinidad to recuperate. And recruit. Whilst in Trinidad he helped recruit over two hundred soldiers. After the war he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) for his service.
George Roberts died on the 8th January 1970.