Phoenix, T (Thomas)
Private Thomas Phoenix was originally from Dungannon.[1] He had previously served with the R.A.M.C.[2] for over 4 years and was unmarried. He had just joined the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 3rd Battalion.
Private James Mattison, who was also with the 3rd Inniskillings stated that on the 23rd of November 1915, Private Phoenix was pacing up and down the barracks, he seemed in good form. He then went over to his bunk and took a razor blade out. At this point he said to the four soldiers in the room “Goodbye boys!” and then preceded to cut his own throat from ear to ear. He died within minutes. Nothing could be done to save his life. He had only been at the barracks 3 days. Witnesses stated that the only way to explain the situation was “compulsive insanity.”
Thomas was serving with the 3rd Reserve Battalion, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers which was based in Ebrington Barracks, Londonderry since September 1914.
Thomas Phoenix had a full military funeral on Tuesday, 23rd November 1915. He did not receive any medals as he did not serve abroad.
Date of Death: 23/11/1915 (Aged 31)
Service: Private, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 3rd Battalion.
Service Number: 27915
Burial Location: Londonderry (or Derry), City Cemetery, GA. Mil. 12.
[1] Dungannon is a town in central Northern Ireland.
[2] R.A.M.C.: Royal Army Medical Corps