Much regret will be felt at the news that Sub-Lieut. Geoffrey G. Kitchen, R.N., second son of the Vicar of Podington (the Rev. Walter Kitchin) and Mrs. Kitchin, was killed in action last week on H.M.S. Queen Mary. Sub Lieut. Kitchin was born on September 12th 1895, at Chakrata, India, and his preparatory school was "Hillside," Godalming. He was educated at St. Cuthbert's College, Worksop, and commenced his sea career on the training ship Worcester as a P. and O. cadet. When he left he was awarded the King's gold medal for being the best all-round seaman, and became a midshipman in the Royal Naval Reserve. In September, 1914, he joined H.M.S. Donegal and he commenced service with the battle cruiser Queen Mary as acting sub-lieutenant in November, 1915, being transferred to the Royal Navy in January of this year. He became full sub-lieutenant in March. The deceased officer, who was very well-known and respected in Podington, was 20 years of age. His father has been Vicar of the parish for ten years.
