Hello, I am new to the Forum and am researching my wife's father, Pte Edward George COUSINS. He was born in 1914 in Seacombe, Wallasey, Cheshire. I believe he enlisted in the Manchester Regiment around 1940-41. His widow's papers included the attached mounted photo which you will see is printed with the wording "MANCHESTER REGIMENT. Official Photographers: Mayfair Studios, Old Street, Ashton under Lyne" and the Fleur de Lys badge. We have positiveely identfied him sitting front row second from right. I am just guessing that this was typical photo taken soon after a recruit's enlistment, possibly at Regimental HQ at Ashton. Is anybody able to tell from the photo setting if this is likely?
He subsequently transferred to the Devonshire Regiment and was eventually killed in action in Normandy in July 1944 whilst serving with 86 Battn (5th Devons) Anti-Tank Regiment, Royal Artillery. We got his service number, 3535809, from his 1944 Soldiers Will and the CWGC. I gather that a soldier would normally but not necessarily have kept his service number throught his army service, so I presume that this number was given to him when he first joined the Manchesters. Would this be in their range? Is it possible to tell which battalion from his service number? If so, whether Territorial / Volunteer or Regular?
I am currently seeking his Attestation record from Tameside Local Studies Library on assumption that is the only place I am likely to find it unless anybody can tell me otherwise. I am also applying to Glasgow for his service record but in the meantime would welcome any information / guidance / pointers that any one you can provide.
If I have posted this in the wrong section please accept my apologies. Any assistance will be much appreciated.
John R
