We Remember Them.

Percy Albert Jennings, like the rest of us Jennings/Janko's was a rather small man standing only 5'3'' and a tiny size four shoe size. However, he had the heart of a lion when it came to standing up for what was right. He had some terrible experiences during several major battles in World War One but he would like many men of his time, never speak of them. Not for them counseling or treatment for Post Traumatic stress (not right or good but how it was).

He was my Granddad!

When I was in GSE year at school I chose to do modern History including coverage of this dark dreadful time and asked for his help. I opened a Pandora's box of memory for him which was both traumatic and cathartic for this beautiful man.


He received the citation after his friend beside him was shot and killed in a gruesome manner, Apparently this poor boy's guts spilled out of a wound in his stomach and for a few minutes my Granddad thought he would be OK if only he could put this guy's guts back inside of him. It dawned on him that he was dead and in his own words, " It really got me mad, I saw the red mist and just went."

This tiny, quiet, gentle man who we all loved dearly showed bravery and compassion such that I hope none of any of us will ever need to.

He stayed friendly with one of the prisoners who he nicknamed Fritz, (the prisoners had to be kept at the front until they could be transported elsewhere) this 'Enemy' had a young wife and baby at home, Granddad saw pictures of them. Fritz also carved a beautiful walking stick for Percy which is in our family to this day.
I am very happy to say Percy lived to a wonderful 86 years old saw my two boys born and was a wonderful Granddad who loved nothing more than to grow Roses and work his allotment with two grubby little girls in tow picking his peas for him and learning the names of all the roses in his garden.


Awarded Military Medal During 1st World War
Citation Reads
P.T.E (L/C) P.A. Jennings 11th Suffolk Regiment (Cambs)

During the attack near Vendige on 24th October when the line of consolidation was exposed to much machine gun and trench mortar fire this NCO went out to deal with a party of riflemen who were causing casualties to our men.
By a bold dash he succeeded in completely overwhelming the enemy and brought back seven prisoners. Throughout the operation he showed a fearless determination to succeed.

God rest you Grandad, you were so loved.