In Memory Of

HOPTROFF, WALLACE FRANK

Service Details
Age:
 43
Date of Birth:
 -0001-11-30
Rank:
 Captain
Unit:
 2nd Regt.
Unit 2:
 "D" Coy.
Regiment:
 South African Infantry
Date of Death:
 1916-07-18
Cause of Death:
 Killed in action, at Delville Wood. Frank Marillier (2nd Bn C Coy) owed his life to a courageous officer: "July 18th. Absolute hell turned inside out. I never expected to get out whole. Shells dropped everywhere. We got orders to return in the afternoon late. I think, in fact I am almost sure, that our lives were saved when a very brave officer, Capt Hoptroff (2nd Bn D Coy), made his way to our position. He wasted no time. "Get out! Get out!" he said, and was almost immediately hit by a bullet and killed outright. It is strange how in the most urgent and tragic circumstances, one notices things of minor importance."
Commemoration
Grave Reference:
 XXIX. F. 8.
Cemetery:
 SERRE ROAD CEMETERY No.2
Localitly:
 Somme
Country:
 France
Additional Information
Decorations:
 Brought to the Notice of the Secretary of State for War
Citations:
 LG Sup 22 August 1918 - "For distinguished service in the Field and in connection with the campaign in German South-West Africa, 1914-15"
Son of Frank and Ellen Hoptroff, late of Langton Green, Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Born St. Mary Magdalen, St. Leonards, Sussex. Educated at The Skinner's School, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, England. Served as a sharpshooter and Quartermaster Sergeant (#32856) with the 71st Company, 18th Battalion of the Imperial Yeomanry in Boer War. Settled in South Africa after the war. A government official in Pretoria. He served with the Durban Light Infantry in GSWA.1914-1915; served with the 2nd Regiment in Egypt & France; WIA (slightly) at Mersa Matruh during the Senussi campaign 23 January 1916.