Malcolm Keys, born on 21st March 1896, was admitted to King Edward’s School in September 1911, having previously attended King Edward’s Stourbridge. He was the youngest son of Ada and Clement, a chartered accountant, and the family, including three other siblings, lived at 48, Chantry Road, Moseley.
At School, Malcolm was strong academically, coming second in his class overall, with a particular aptitude for science. His absence from the School magazines suggests that he was not an outstanding sportsman. After School, in 1912, with the intention of taking up farming, he went to Sydney, Australia, where he entered Hawkesbury Agricultural College, gaining many certificates of proficiency.
On the outbreak of war, Malcolm returned to Britain and obtained a commission with the 10th Border Regiment in October 1915. He left for France in July 1916, and died in Warloy Hospital on 31st August 1916, aged twenty, from wounds received the previous day in action at Thiepval. His Commanding Officer wrote: “his courage and manliness in most trying circumstances proved him more man than boy. He endeared himself to all, and took such an interest in his platoon that it was easily the most efficient in the company. The men were greatly distressed and asked eagerly after him. I have lost a most promising officer and cherished comrade and friend. In all circumstances, his very presence was an inspiration to me.” Malcolm is buried in Warloy-Baillon Communal Cemetery Extension, France, and is commemorated on St Mary’s Church Memorial, Moseley. He left his estate of £83 to his father.