Edward Lawrence

Bank: National Provincial Bank

Place of work: London Cornhill branch

Died: 15 March 1944

Edward John Lawrence was born on 23 June 1917, the son of Ellen and Wilton David John Lawrence. He joined the staff of National Provincial Bank as a junior messenger at its London head office in 1933. He moved to London Cornhill branch in 1937 where he worked as a messenger. 

In 1940 Lawrence left the bank to go on military service, joining the Royal Artillery. Gunner Lawrence was killed in action on 15 March 1944. An officer in his unit later wrote of his bravery, his fine company, and his culinary talents – ‘there was no one to touch him at making tea or at producing a fine spread when he cooked for us on reconnaissances.’. The officer also credited Lawrence with saving his life by raising the alarm a moment before they were hit by enemy fire, giving the officer enough time to take cover. 

Gunner Lawrence was 26 years old and left a widow, Florence, whom he had married in 1941.