Albert Langridge was born at Lewes, Sussex on 12th August 1897.  He appears on the 1901 census of England & Wales as a three year old living at Broomfield, South Common, Chailey.  The family comprised George Langridge (head), aged 33 and working as a farmer; his wife Harriet (also aged 33) and their two sons: Albert and Cecil (aged one).  Like his older brother, Cecil Langridge would also later join the Royal Navy and would be killed at the Battle of Jutland on 31st May 1916.

 

When Albert joined the Royal Navy on 23rd August 1915, he stated his trade as cowman.  He enlisted for five years with the colours and seven years with the Royal Fleet Reserve.  His hair is described as light brown his eyes as blue and his complexion as fair.  He was given the number SS6327 and the rating of ordinary seaman.

 

His service history reads as follows:

 

HMS Victory I: 23rd August – 13th October 1915

HMS Myngs: 14th October 1915 – 4th February 1917 (promoted to the rating of able seaman on 18th December 1916)

HMS Torrent: 17th February – 31st December 1917

HMS Victory I: 1st January – 28th April 1918

HMS Winchester: 29th April 1918 – 30th January 1920

HMS Victory I: 31st January 1920 – 20th September 1920

 

On 21st September 1920, he joined the Royal Fleet Reserve.

 

He held the sub-rating of seaman gunner between 8th July 1918 and his demob on 20th September 1920.  He was also awarded a good conduct badge on 22nd August 1918.

 

Throughout his service with the Royal Navy, Albert Langridge’s character was rated “very good” with his ability ranging from “satisfactory” to “superior”.

 

There is a note on his record that he was wounded when HMS Torrent was sunk on 23rd December 1918.

 

 

Sources & Acknowledgements

 

• 1901 Census of England & Wales
• Chailey Parish Magazine
• Albert Langridge’s partial service record exists at the National Archives in London, ref: ADM 188/1109
• www.battleships-cruisers.co.uk