Promotion for Luton Soldier

Second Lieutenant Arthur Pollard

Saturday 9th March 1918: Arthur Pollard, one of three sons of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Pollard of 44 Jubilee Street, Luton fighting with the British Army, has joined the growing number of Luton men who have been promoted from the ranks. Second Lieutenant Pollard attended St. Matthew’s School before taking a job at the High Town branch of the Luton Industrial Co-operative Society; when he enlisted in 1916 he was first provision hand and secretary to the Co-operative Grocery Employees’ Association. He attested under Lord Derby’s conscription scheme but was rejected as medically unfit. In May 1916 he joined the Royal Field Artillery at Biscot as a volunteer, and was subsequently transferred to the Middlesex Regiment. He was sent to France in September 1916 and rose to the rank of Corporal. Noticing the great interest Corporal Pollard took in his duties his commanding officer recommended him for a commission. After returning home and passing his examinations he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on 18th December. In January he was posted to the Northumberland Fusiliers. He has a wife and child living at 177 Hitchin Road, Luton.

Source: Luton News, 7th March 1918