Sergeant René Thomas was a dear friend of Belgian army Lieutenant Henri Langie.






Sergeant René Thomas was a dear friend of Belgian army Lieutenant Henri Langie.

 Pictured below together in 1915 at the trench 'Maison Du Passeur' in Noordschote, Belgium.

In 1918, René was fighting at Saint Jacob's Chapel in Diksmuide when he was gassed by German mustard gas.

 He was transported to the military hospital in Hoogstade where he died the same day. René was an only child and teacher in Neufchateau.

After hearing of his friends passing Henri wrote in his diary: "Oh cruel death, once again you strike blindly. It's always the best friends who depart, and one always finds oneself alone. 

Yet, dear René, I will not forget you! As good friends, I will pray for you, and God willing, until we meet again!!!"

R.I.P. René Thomas

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