Walter Keevil was born in Fulham and remained there throughout his childhood. He was the son of a London Cab Driver.
Walter attested in the Middlesex Regiment at the age of seventeen and was promptly discharged underage. In the fervour for recruitment, Walter re-enlisted in the 9th Battalion Devonshire Regiment in June 1915, still prior to his eighteenth Birthday. The 9th Devonshires served in the 1916 Battle of the Somme and Walter was wounded twice. He returned to duty in Bulgaria and South Russia, contracting Malaria and leaving the Army in August 1919.
Walter was employed as a Hairdresser. He married and had one son. The family lived in Winchmore Hill, Enfield, Middlesex.
Walter’s son Gordon died in 1988. No beneficiaries were identified for his Estate. Walter’s service mementos were salvaged prior Gordon’s house clearance. We’re seeking to return some of the mementos to family members, or the Devonshire Regiment Museum.
