21945 Private William Leonard Bremner, (17/11/1895-13/6/1917). "my old friend and neighbour"

In William Bremner's Army record can be found the following note from Private Albert Edward Thurlow, who saw his death: "On June 13 near Messines I saw my old friend and neighbour Bremner killed by a shell. One Battalion was passing through another. They were alongside each another when it happened. He was buried on the battlefield."

William's remains were not located after the war. His last resting place is unknown.

FOR THE EMPIRE'S CAUSE.

IN MEMORIAM. 

BREMNER. — In loving memory of Private William Leonard Bremner (Len), 18th Reinforcements, who was killed while in action at Messines on June 13, 1917, dearly beloved and only son of Kate and the late William Bremner, Warrington. [Also, William Bremner, who died at Dunedin on February 5, 1916.] Missed, sadly missed. 

— Inserted by their loving wife, mother, and sisters. 

BREMNER. — In loving memory of our dear nephew, Private William Leonard Bremner (Len), who was killed while in action on June 13, 1917, at Messines, France. 

His King and Country called him, — That call was not in vain, 

On Britain's roll of honour, You will find our brave Len's name. 

— Inserted by his loving aunt and uncle, S. and J. Matheson, Hyde.   -Otago Daily Times, 13/6/1918.

FOR THE EMPIRE'S CAUSE

BREMNER. — In sad and loving memory of our dear and only brother, Private William Leonard (Len) Bremner, 18th Reinforcements, who was killed while in action at Messines on June 13, 1917; aged 19 years. "So loved, so mourned." — Inserted by his loving sister and brother-in-law.  -Otago Daily Tmes, 14/6/1920.

 The conclusion of a quest which has its pathetic side was told by Madame Strathearn to the large audience assembled last night for her final recital. Wide publicity has been given to the story that ever since the death (in July, 1917) of a boy in the 2nd Canterbury’s, Madame Strathearn has carried with her his badge. He had told her she reminded him of his mother, and though she had lost trace of his name, Madame Strathearn came to New Zealand determined to locate the mother. That day, she told her auditors, there had come to her from Mosgiel a lady who had proved to be the mother she sought. Madame had given to her the cherished badge of her son, William Leonard Bremner, and had received a photograph of him in return.   -Evening Star, 6/4/1921.

FOR THE EMPIRE’S CAUSE.

IN MEMORIAM. 

BREMNER. — In sad and loving remembrance of 29145 Private William Leonard Bremner (18th Reinforcements), dearly loved and only son of Kate Bremner, Mosgiel, who was killed in action at Messines on June 13, 1917; aged 19 years. 

Sadly missed and too dearly loved to be forgotten. 

Till the dawn breaks and the shadows flee away. 

(Madame Strathearn’s laddies). 

— Inserted by his ever sorrowing mother and sisters.  -Otago Daily Times, 13/6/1921.

Warrington Cemetery.