Soldiers of The Great War: Jewish Military Service in WW I, as Reported in The Jewish Chronicle – “Proud of Being a Soldier” [Schoenthal Brothers], October 2, 1914

“You always said it was honourable, and it is at such a time at this that everyone respects a soldier or sailor.”

This article from The Jewish Chronicle presenting excerpts from the brothers Schoenthal to their parents, reveals their anticipation and optimism about military service.

Happily, the absence of their names from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission database indicates that both survived the war.

Given the text of Cosman’s letter, it seems evident that his parents shared their son’s letter with the Chronicle.

____________________

PROUD OF BEING A SOLDIER

The Jewish Chronicle
October 2, 1914

Corporal H. Schoenthal, of the 1st Essex Regiment, writing from Vacoas, Mauritius, on August 6th, states that it was only on the preceding day that the Regiment knew that England was very near to war with Germany: “and about half-an-hour ago,” the letter proceeds, “it came through to us officially.  You cannot picture the excitement we are going through.  Our Regiment is in Port Louis Fort, but we have no idea whether we stay here or go to another country.”

“Be of good cheer, the same as I am.”  – In a postscript the Corporal writes that he is looking forward to another medal.

A brother of the Corporal – Private Cosman Schoenthal – writing from camp on August 30th, states that he is under orders to move, but he neither knows where or when he is to go.

“I expect,” he goes on, “to be made either a lance-corporal, or full corporal, as soon as the list arrives from England.  Of course, you must still address me as Private until you hear definitely.”

“Anyhow, our Sergt.-Major told me that in all intents and purposes I am a corporal now, as, when I am made, it will be dated back.  So, with a little luck, I will beat Harry’s rank soon, and he the proud possessor of a medal, too.  A spirit of enthusiasm prevails everywhere, and I am proud to say now that I am a soldier.  You always said it was honourable, and it is at such a time at this that everyone respects a soldier or sailor.  Anyhow, the honour will rebound on to your shoulders for having two sons, who are both proud to be in the Army.”

In a postscript, the writer, says ironically, “It’s a rotten Navy that we have, isn’t it?  A little bit too good for the one that was made in Germany, though – (I hope this will pass the Censor.)”

(Photographs of the brothers will appear in the next Wednesday’s issue of the Jewish World.)