Abel Pittman [1899-1918] was the son of Benjamin and Mary Ann Pittman of Brickyard. He enlisted in the Royal Newfoundland Regiment in April 1917. He was wounded in action in France in the Battle of Bailleul.
He died the following day, April 14, 1918, and was buried in Nine Elms British Cemetery. A memorial service was held at Harcourt for Private Pittman on Sunday, May 5, 1918, with the Reverend E. Pollett Ward officiating.

In "The Methodist Monthly Greeting" [August, 1918:16], 'A Cousin' wrote "that on April 24th Mr. Benjamin Pittman, Brickyard, received the sad news that his gallant son, Pte. Abel Pittman, was killed in action April 14th. . . .
The deceased soldier, being a bright and intelligent young fellow of 19 years, was the first from here to give his life for King and Country upon the bloodstained battlefield of France."

On 10th December 1917, Abel had written the following letter to his Aunt, Hester [Pittman] White [my Grandmother]:
Dear Aunt,
It is with the greatest of pleasure I now start to write you a few words to let you know that I received your letter a little while ago.  I am very sorry that I could not answer it before this time.  Well, Auntie, I am in Hospital now.  I was wounded in November but I am getting on fine now.

I had a letter from Mother yesterday that was written in October 28.  They was all well home.  Then it takes a letter so long to come up from NFLD sometimes I am tired looking for a letter.

Aunt, I would like to see you again, now, and the little ones.  I suppose they are growing like everything. Well, Aunt, you told me if I wanted socks or cigarettes send and let you know and you would try to send me something.  Mother sends me socks and mitts.  I would be very thankful if you could send me some cigarettes to smoke as you know Mother don't send me cigarettes.  Ha Ha.

Well Aunt Christmas is coming along soon.  If I was only home.  I hope the war well soon be over.  I am getting homesick.  Remember me to Uncle George and the little ones.  I will try to write you again soon and let you know how I am getting along.  I must close now wishing you good night.

From Able Pittman To my Dear Aunt Hester