Marcus Jenkins

Story:
Marcus Jenkins was born on 21st October, 1871 in Donhead St. Mary, Wiltshire. He was the son of Eli Jenkins, a farmer, and Sarah Jenkins (née Witt). He had enlisted on 11 Oct 1907 and at the time of the 1911 Census he was single and a Sergeant in the Royal Marine Artillery (Service No. RMA/5814), stationed at H.M.S. Warrior in Devonport, Plymouth. Later records up until his death show him as a Gunner. In 1911 he was awarded the Coronation Durbar medal for service on the Guard of Honour to the visiting Royalty in India. For his service during the war he was awarded the Victory and British Medals as well as the 14/15 Star. He died "by means other than disease, accident or enemy action" later confirmed as accidentally killed on 29th July 1918 on board HMS Africa and was buried at Freetown (King Tom) Cemetery (grave id. 1.F.11). His mother was in receipt of a dependent's pension. Charles Jenkins, who lived at Donhead St. Mary, was his executor his father having died in 1917. Marcus is remembered on the war memorial at Ludwell, Wiltshire.