Frederick was born in around 1895 to Emily Watson and Phillip Godfrey. Phillip was a farm labourer. In 1901 Frederick lived with his parents and siblings, Amy, Thomas, Henry Herbert (who enlisted as Edward H, Rose and Charles in Russell Cottage, Plumstead. His brothers Charles and Henry (known as Edward) also died in the Great War. Frederick also had other siblings, Ada, Aaron, and Annie.
Frederick married Maria Eliza Mortlock in 1912 and he worked at the Co-operative Society in Woolwich. The couple had two children, Ivy Emily born 1813 and Daisy Rose born 1918.
Frederick was injured in France and was returned to Sheffield Hospital. He died here having suffered injuries to his right leg, influenza and bronco pneumonia. The Telegram was sent to Maria in Upper Wickham Lane.It appears that he was around 23 years old, although the Commonwealth War Graves Commission states he was 27.
Frederick was buried on 6th November 1918 in Plumstead Cemetery. His wife Maria was able to collect his pension. Amongst the items the army returned to her was his leather belt and prayer book.
Frederick’s Battery was deployed to France in October 1916. They took part in the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 1917 and was supported by the Canadians. In March 1918 they were South of Ypres-Comines cannel. Here seven of the men were killed.
Frederick’s unit was responsible for providing heavy artillery fire. They were equipped with heavy howitzers sending high explosives shells high in the air. As British artillery tactics developed, these Siege Batteries were most often used in destroying or neutralising the enemy artillery, as well as putting destructive fire down on strong points, dumps, stores, roads and railways behind enemy lines.
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