Lance Corporal Samuel Robert Williamson
Samuel Robert Williamson was born on 24 November 1896 at Ballymarlow, Ballyclug, County Antrim, the tenth of twelve children of linen finisher David Williamson and his wife Alice (nee Crockard). By 1911 he was living with his parents and five siblings in Muckamore, County Antrim.
Williamson enlisted in the North Irish Horse between 2 and 4 June 1915 (No.1661 – later Corps of Hussars No.71489). He embarked for France between 1916 and 1918, perhaps with E Squadron on 11 January 1916.
He served with his squadron in the 1st North Irish Horse Regiment throughout the war, including from February/March 1918 when it was dismounted and became a cyclist regiment.
Williamson was transferred to Class Z, Army Reserve, on 3 February 1919. At the beginning of 1920 his name was added to Field Marshal Haig's despatch of 16 March 1919 "for distinguished and gallant services and devotion to duty" while serving with the North Irish Horse cyclists.
Three of Williamson's brothers also served in the war. Edward served in the Royal Air Force; Thomas in the 23rd Field Company, Royal Engineers, awarded a Military Medal; and Frederick in the 14th Battalion, Royal Irish Rifles, killed in action on 1 July 1916.