In February “Message from God” I said I should be glad if any of Pte. Ong’s comrades could give me any particulars of his death. I have received the following letter from Pte. S. G. Scales, which I am sure my readers will be glad to read: ―
Dear Dr. Wreford,
“In this month’s edition of ‘Message’ I noticed your inquiry as to Pte. J. H. Ong, of the 49th Field Ambulance, B.E.F. Whilst home on leave last week, and at Eastbourne, I met a friend, now demobilized, who was a sergeant in the 49th Field Ambulance, and I mentioned to him your desire for particulars. He told me that Pte. Ong was killed on or about August 21St in Bucquoy Village, south of Arras. With three other stretcher bearers he was carrying a case through the village, when a shell arrived and burst right in the stretcher squad, killing him immediately and one or two others, wounding all but one man. Pte. Ong’s remains were taken by his comrades and buried at Bucquoy. It is believed that the lad who picked him-up was Pte. Rice, of the same Ambulance. It appeared from what I could gather that Ong was a faithful servant of the Lord Jesus. He had to stand a deal of chaff at first, but patiently continued in well-doing, and in confessing the Saviour’s name. After a while his comrades were ready to do anything for him, and his death was felt by them all. ―With love in the Lord, yours in Him, S. G. Scales.”
Thank God for this added, testimony to a devoted life for... God and His beloved Son. I am glad we were able to supply him with all the Testaments he asked for his work.
I have more to speak of him next month.