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. 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 DLI in GSWA.1914-1915; served with the 2nd Regiment in Egypt & France; WIA (slightly) at Mersa Matruh during the Senussi campaign 23 January 1916.