HALESOWENROOTS

This photograph was submitted by Anthony Farrar and shows the scout troop from  about the 1910-1914 era.

Anthony writes 'Quite a poignant picture really, when you consider, that most, if not all the boys in this photograph probably served on the Western Front during the War. How many returned – we will never know.'

Richard Baker of Halesowen and District Scouts writes '  2^nd Halesowen Scout Troop were active around the time suggested by Mr Farrar.  In June 1912 they were the holders of the “ County Express Trophy" and their Troop Leader was Alec Boucher, who was also a teacher at Halesowen Church Schools.  Could it be Mr Boucher in the photograph, 4^th from the left on the front row with his left hand resting on the trek cart?  

Second Lieutenant Alec Edward Boucher was awarded the Military Cross for gallant conduct on the battlefield during the Somme offensive and was killed in action whilst serving with the 11^th Battalion Royal Warwickshire Regiment on 18^th November 1916 , aged 27.'

The soldier above is Second Lieutenant Alec Edward Boucher while the picture of the scout leader is taken from the Scout Photo above.

There appears to be a definite likeness .Can anyone confirm they are the same person?

If anyone can put a name to any of the boys/young men in the photograph or has any other information about the scout troop ,please contact

 Halesowenroots