James
Leach
Date of Birth
Place of Birth
Great Island, Campile, Co. Wexford
Service No.
K/11874
Rank
Regiment
Date of Death
Circumstances of Death
Accidental drowning, passenger, SS Great Western
Other Biographical Details
Son of John and Kate Leach nee Ryan. His father was a labourer. His gallantry medal was presented to him by King George V. He was part of a specially selected group of 100 men that lined the aisle of Westminster Abbey for the interment of the Unknown Warrior. Widow was Ellen Mary 'Helena' Leach nee Kennedy and later Mrs James Heneberry. Left two children. Died from drowning off Great Island while returning to England as a passenger on the SS Great Western. Cause not determined at the inquest but witnesses indicated that it was not suicide. His father helped to recover the body from the river on 24th April. Buried 25 yards south-west of entrance to Kilmokea Cemetery, Co. Wexford.