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David Railton
Played by Finlay Robertson
Fact title | Fact data |
---|---|
Date of birth |
13 November 1894
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Place of birth |
Stoke Newington, London
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Age at outbreak of WW1 |
29
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Occupation |
Curate and Army Chaplain
|
Address |
c/o The Parish Church, Folkestone
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A real historical figure, David Railton was the son of a leading Commissioner in the Salvation Army. Although he never carried a gun, Railton won the Military Cross for bravery in the trenches. He is best remembered for dreaming up the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, and petitioning for it over several years. A way to create a place for the bereaved to grieve, and a reminder of the sacrifice made by so many lost young men.