Grave of Guilford soldier missing since 1918 identified

The previously un-named grave of an officer from Guildford, Surrey, who served with the Seaforth Highlanders been identified and rededicated in his name 108 years after his death on 22 September 2026.

A rededication service for Frank Fleming was organised by the UK 's 'War Detectives' at Voormezeele Enclosure No. 3, Belgium. The service was supported by soldiers from 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland.

Caseworker, Nicola Nash, said:

More than 100 years after his death, it was an honour to be there today to pay tribute to Frank's bravery and sacrifice.

Frank Fleming was one of three sons of Alexander and Mary Fleming, and all three would ultimately lose their lives during World War 1.

Born in Guildford, Surrey, on 15 October 1894, Frank grew up on his family's farm before moving to London to work as a market clerk. He later joined the Army and was commissioned into the Seaforth Highlanders.

During the German Spring Offensive in April 1918, Fleming was attached to the 7th Battalion and took part in fierce fighting near Hollebeke, Belgium. While leading his men in an attack against German positions on 11 April, he was seriously wounded. Displaying remarkable courage and selflessness, he ordered his men to withdraw to safety and refused to let stretcher-bearers risk their lives attempting to rescue him. Unable to be recovered, he was later listed as missing and was commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial.

Subsequent research submitted by a member of the public has now shown that 2Lt Fleming was actually buried in the Hollebeke area of Belgium and moved to Voormezeele Enclosure No. 3 after the war.

His headstone, replaced by Commonwealth War Graves Commission, now carries his name and the service today has commemorated his loss.

Catherine Nell, Identifications Manager at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, said:

It has been a privilege for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission to be involved in Second Lieutenant Frank Fleming's identification. We shall continue to care for his grave, alongside his comrades, in perpetuity.