Ordinary Signalman Walter Ina Smith
BZ/6890 Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve
Walter was born on 28th September 1899 at Jacksdale, Notts son of Albert Smith an ironwork’s fitter from Codnor Park and his wife Eliza (nee King) of Pye Hill. In 1901 the family was living at Pye Hill. In 1906 when Walter was only aged 7 his mother died and in 1908 his father married Eliza (nee Booth) of Riddings. By 1911 the family had moved to Riddings. Walter had half siblings Hilda Maria, Winifred and Frederick. The family later moved to Providence Road, Jacksdale as Walter is listed on the Absent Voters Roll as absent from that address in 1918/1919, based at Portsmouth Barracks.
Walter joined the Navy at Bristol on 5th November 1917. His height was noted as 5′ 3″. He had brown hair, blue eyes and was of a fresh complexion. His only distinguishing mark was a mole on the inside of his left shoulder blade. He gave his occupation as electrician. Walter served in the UK at various Naval land bases, Victory I, VI and X all based at Portsmouth. After hostilities had ceased with the surrender of the High Seas Fleet Walter remained at Portsmouth and was involved with preparing HMS Agincourt for transfer to the reserve at Rosyth. His duty done, on 12th March 1919 Walter was demobbed. He was awarded the British War Medal.
Photo: HMS Agincourt 1918.
In 1928 Walter married Eva Knight and they had children Albert, Jean and Janet.