Wolverhampton War Memorials

WW2 Roll of Honour M-Z

Markham Eric Thomas 657257 Leading Aircraftman
34 Service Training School Royal Air Force.
Born 8th December 1918 in Wolverhampton son of Alfred John and Annie Elizabeth Markham, of Stowheath, Wolverhampton. In 1939 Eric was living with his widowed mother (his father dying in 1933) at 'Parkside', Hawthorn Road, Bilston along with Eric's younger sister Joyce, Eric was employed as an industrial chemist.
Eric transferred into the Royal Air Force from the British Army sometime after January 1939.
Eric was killed 22nd January 1942 aged 23 when an aircraft Harvard AJ761 of 34 Service Training School, Alberta, Canada swung on take-off and crashed into the stationary Harvard AJ828 in which Eric was sitting as a pilot under training, Pilot Officer John Green the pilot instructor was also killed; the crew of AJ761 were uninjured.
Lot 10. Block 139D. Sec. C. Medicine Hat (Hillside) Cemetery, Alberta, Canada.

Mason Walter Leonard Lance Serjeant 2002471
42 Field Coy. Royal Engineers.
Walter was born 21st April 1917 in 49 Green Lanes Bilston son of Walter Bernard and Ellen Mason. In 1921 they were living at 69 Green Lanes, Bilston along with Leonard's older sisters Phyllis and Dora.
By 1939 Walter, his parents and younger brother Anthony remained living at the same address, Walter was employed as a builders plasterer.
Walter died of wounds 22nd July 1944 aged 27. There was heavy fighting in the Chiana Valley in July 1944, where the Germans made their last stand in front of Arezzo.
II. O. 6. Foiano Della Chiana War Cemetery, Italy.

Millward Harry Serjeant 4913269
2/6th Bn. South Staffordshire Regiment.
Son of Thomas and Ellen Millward. Harry married Alice Harper December 1941 in Bilston.
The 2/6th Bn South Staffordshire Regiment was part of the 59th Division. This Division was part of the follow up force in the 1944 Normandy campaign. The Staffords crossed the Channel in late June and by the 1st July had moved to the front-line facing Caen. The city was fiercely defended and earlier attempts to outflank it had been frustrated by continued German counter attacks. General Montgomery had, therefore, decided on a frontal attack preceded by heavy aerial bombardment.
On the 8th July, the 2/6th as part of the 197th brigade was ordered to attack and take Galamanche a small French hamlet.
Just before dawn a barrage was brought down on the German frontline in support of the 2/6th by the 241st Battery (Stafford Battery), Royal Artillery which the troops followed. Galamanche was defended by the 12th S.S. Panzer Division fighting fanatically. The 2/6th found that the supporting artillery was having little effect on the hidden German trenches, machine gun and mortar positions. The British barrage continued but the attack was halted, the 2/6th lay in the crops being assaulted by accurate mortar fire with any attempt to move being answered by accurate German machine gun fire; casualties were heavy, there they remained until relieved later in the day having lost half its officers and 200 men, Harry being one of them.
Harry was killed in action 8th July 1944 aged 33.
Row A. 13. Cambes-en-plaine War Cemetery, France.

Mottram Albert Edward Gunner 5254184.
Royal Artillery.
Albert was born 13th January 1918 in Bilston son of Albert and Florance Mottram. In 1921 they were living at 32 Bridge Street, Bilston along with Albert's older brother Harry.
Albert married Winnifred Wedge October 1939 in Bilston and were living with her parents James and Emma at 39 Fraser Street Bilston. Albert was employed as a labourer at a steel rolling mill. Their son Albert J. was born March 1943 in Bilston.
Albert died of wounds 8th June 1944 aged 27.
XIV. M. 26. Bayeux War Cemetery, France.

Mould Samuel Gunner 1142741
93 (6th Bn. The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders) Anti-Tank Regt. Royal Artillery.
Samuel was born 23rd August 1920 in Bilston son of David and Emily Mould. In 1921 they were living at 30 Coseley Street, Bilston along with Samuel's older siblings Hilda, David and Emily.
By 1939 Samuel was living with his parents, David and Emily and younger siblings William, and Alice at 49 Vernon Road, Bilston, he was employed in a boot making factory.
Samuel was killed in action 8th November 1944 aged 24 in the heavy fighting capturing the towns of Rimini and Ravenna which took place in appalling weather from October to December 1944.
Coll. grave II, D, 12. Forli War Cemetery, Italy.

Muddell Vincent George Pilot Officer (Nav.) 162982
107 Sqdn Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve.
Vincent was born 6th August 1921 in Tamworth son of George Walter Muddell and of Lucy Jane Muddell. In 1939 they were living at 68 Proud's Lane, Bilston along with Vincent's younger siblings Janet, Dennis and Philip. Vincent was employed as junior tube draughtsman. Vincent's father died March 1943 aged sixty eight in Rowley Regis, soon after this the family moved to Ettingshall, Bilston.
Vincent was promoted to Pilot Officer 5th October 1943.
Vincent was killed in action 22nd October 1943 aged 22 when the Boston Bomber BZ223 in which he was flying was shot down by flak near Vere during a raid on an aircraft factory at Courcelles.
Row G. Grave 16. Flushing (Vlissingen) Northern Cemetery, Netherlands.

Meese Ernest Allen Private 4974835
2nd Bn. Sherwood Foresters (Notts and Derby Regiment).
Ernest was born in June 1918 in Bradley, Bilston son of Ernest and Lillian Meese in 1921 they were living at 1 Homers Fold, Bilston along with Ernest's older sister Lillian and younger sisters Violet and Nellie.
Ernest was awarded the General Service Medal with Palestine clasp 15th February 1940 while serving with the 1st Bn. Sherwood Foresters (Notts and Derby Regiment).
Ernest’s death certificate records that he died in Folkstone Military Hospital of wounds received due to war operations, 5th June 1940 aged 22.
This was during the period of the BEF’s evacuation at Dunkirk. The 2nd Bn. Sherwood Foresters (Notts and Derby Regiment) were defending the Dunkirk perimeter before the successful evacuation.
Sec. G.B. New Part. Grave 4893. 11. Bilston Cemetery.

Martin James Kenneth Guardsman 2612584
Grenadier Guards.
James was born December 1912 in Coseley son of Robert and Perthina Martin. In 1921 they were living at 15 Swan Row, Broadlanes, Coseley along with James's older siblings John, Harold, and Elizabeth.
James married Louisa Tyer March 1942 in Bilston.
Died 9th December 1945 aged 33.
Sec. G.A. New Part. Grave 4953. 11 Bilston Cemetery.

Massey Benjamin Lance Corporal 4919928
1st Bn. South Staffordshire Regiment.
Benjamin was born 7 March 1917 in Bilston son of Benjamin and Jane Massey. By 1939 they were living at 11 Selwyn Road, Bilston along with Benjamin's younger brothers Reginald and Ronald and sister Joan. Benjamin was employed as a draw press operator in the holloware trade.
Benjamin married Phyllis Lilian Clarke April 1940 in Bilston.
Died 8th June 1941 aged 25.
P. 97. Alexandria (Chatby) Military And War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt.

Nicholls Joseph Gunner 1503146
4 A.A. Regt. Royal Artillery.
Joseph was born in September 1918 in Bilston son of Joseph and Sarah Ann Nicholls. In 1921 they were living at 94 Beckett Street, Bilston along with Joseph's older sisters Clarice and Joan. Joseph's father died September 1936. In 1939 Joseph's mother and sisters were living at the same address.
Died 30th August 1942 aged 24.
Sec. G.A. New Part. Grave 3058. 6. Bilston Cemetery.

Norman Andrew Ronald Private 14711531
1st Bn. Black Watch (Royal Highlanders).
Son of Thomas and Mary Norman.
Killed in action 27th September 1944 aged 20.
Plot 6. Row A. Grave 2. Longuenesse (St. Omer) Souvenir Cemetery, France.

Overton Douglas Leonard DFM Sergeant (Air Gnr.) 940865
97 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve.
Douglas was born 14th October 1920 in Bilston son of Leonard Ernest and Elsie Minnie Overton, of Bilston. In 1921 they were living at 10 Cambridge Street, Bilston along with Douglas' older sister Dorothy.
By 1939 Douglas and his parents were living at 'Dyseren' Wolverhampton Street, Bilston. He was employed as a house decorator.
Douglas enlisted into the RAF at Cardington Bedfordshire between September 1939 and August 1940.
Douglas was awarded the Distinguished Flying medal the citation reads - On the 17th of April 1942, a force of twelve Lancaster heavy bombers was detailed to deliver an attack in daylight on the diesel engine factory at Augsburg in Southern Germany. To reach this highly important military target, and return, a most daring night of some 1,000 miles over hostile country was necessary. Soon after entering enemy territory and whilst flying at a very low level the force was engaged by 25 to 30 enemy fighters. Later, the most intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered. Despite this formidable opposition eight of the bombers succeeded in reaching the target and in delivering a successful attack on the factory. The following officers and airmen who participated, in various capacities, as members of the aircraft crews, displayed courage, fortitude and skill of the highest order - London Gazette No. 35539, Dated 28 April1942.
Douglas took off at 23:49 hours 8th June 1942 from Woodhall Spa Lincolnshire in a Lancaster bomber serial number R5495. The aircraft crashed near Marl about 13 Miles North of the target during a raid on Essen.
Killed in action 9th June 1942 aged 21.
Grave Reference: 17. F. 8. Reichswald Forest War Cemetery.

Orme Alan Bert Flying Officer (Bomb Aimer) 129182
78 Sqdn Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve.
Alan was born 9th March 1921 in Bilston son of George and Ethel Orme. In 1939 he was living with his parents at 34 St Chads Road, Bilston; Alan was employed as a costs clerk (material) handling equipment.
Alan was made a Flight Sergeant 19th September 1942 and promoted to Flying Officer 19th March 1943.
The Halifax bomber in which Alan was flying took off 22:16 hours 23rd May 1943 from Linton-on-Ouse, North Yorkshire. The aircraft was shot down by a Bf110 night-fighter flown by Captain Wolfgang Thimmig, during a raid on Dortmund, crashing south of Wierden, Holland with all crew members lost.
Killed in action 24th May 1943
Row B.Coll.grave 3-7. Wierden General Cemetery, Netherlands.

O'Connor John Able Seaman C/JX 227877
M.V. Empire Star Royal Navy.
John was born 8th July 1913 in Bilston son of Daniel and Julia O'Connor. In 1921 they were living at 11 Straw Yard Railway Street, Bilston along with John's younger siblings Kate, Mary, Denis, and stepbrother H Ready. By 1939 the family were living at 5 Stawley Place Bilston along with John's siblings Kate, Mary and Daniel. John was employed as a general labourer.
John married Alice Annie Webb December 1940 in Rowley Regis.
John was killed in action 23rd October 1942 aged 29. On 20th October M.V. Empire a refrigerated cargo liner designed to ship frozen meat from Australia and New Zealand to the United Kingdom left Liverpool independently and unescorted, bound for Cape Town, South Africa. On 23rd October the Empire Star was in bad weather and had stopped zigzagging to avoid damage to her deck cargo. About 15:40 hrs the German submarine U-615 fired a spread of four torpedoes at the ship, two hitting the ship.
The order was given to abandon ship and despite a heavy sea, all passengers and crew were evacuated except for four men killed in the engine room, where a torpedo had struck. The ship was eventually sunk by the submarine and the survivors were left adrift. On the 25th and 26th October the survivors were picked up by H.M.S. Black Swan, 38 people were lost aboard a lifeboat which was found by H.M.S. Black Swan upturned amidst wreckage.
Panel 55, Column 2 Chatham Naval Memorial, Kent.

Parlow William Frederick Gunner 14326149
33 Field Regt. Royal Artillery.
William was born 6 April 1924 at 22 Princess Street, Bilston son of William Henry and Flossie Parlow. His father died September 1927; his mother married Alfred Broadfield June 1930 in Wolverhampton.
By 1939 William was living with his mother and stepfather at 11 D'Urberville Road, Bilston along with his younger sister Vera, and half-siblings Ronald, Alfred, Stanley and Jean.
Killed in action 8th June 1944 aged 20.
XI. C. 10. Bayeux War Cemetery, France.

Phillips John Sergeant (Air gunner) 1631900
623 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve.
John was born 13 October 1921 in Wolverhampton son of William and Elizabeth Phillips. In 1939 they were living at 46 Hall Street East, Darlaston along with John's older siblings William and Pearl and younger brothers Joseph, Sidney, and Raymond. John was employed as a carpenter's assistant.
John joined the Royal Air Force at Cardington, Bedfordshire sometime after October 1941.
The Stirling Bomber LK387 in which John was flying took off 23:41 hours 4th December 1943 from Downham Market, Norfolk to plant mines off the Friesian Islands. The aircraft was shot down into the Waddenzee Sea by a night-fighter flown by Master Sergeant Karl-Georg Pfeiffer.
Killed in action 5th December 1943 age 22.
Panel 161. Runnymede Memorial.

Potts Frederick William Private 14434636
7th Bn. Black Watch (Royal Highlanders).
Frederick was born January 1925 in Bilston son of Samuel and Mary Ann Potts. In 1939 they were living at 42 Bickley Road, Bilston along with Frederick's three older sisters Selina, Annie and Edna, older brother George and younger siblings Elsie, Harry, Brenda, and Herbert.
Reported wounded and missing 25th July 1944 officially reported to be presumed dead 1st June 1945 aged 20.
Panel 5. Groesbeek Memorial, Netherlands.

Potts John Henry Private 3977284
2nd Bn. Monmouthshire Regiment.
John was born July 1924 in Bilston son of David and Dorothy Potts. In 1939 they were living at 174 Wolverhampton Street, Bilston along with John's older siblings David and Beatrice and younger siblings Dorothy, Julia, Winifred, Patricia, and Douglas.
Killed in action 1st August 1944 aged 20.
XIV. E. 5. St. Manvieu War Cemetery, Cheux, France.

Probert James, Gunner 11253903
495 Bty., 135 H.A.A. Regt. Royal Artillery.
James was born 23rd February 1903 in Bilston son of Frank and Mary Probert. In 1911 they were living at 74 Coseley St. Coseley Rd, Bilston along with James's older siblings John, Isaac, William, Alice, and David and younger brother Arthur. By 1921 James was living with his widowed mother at the same address his father dying 28th August 1920. Also living at the address was James's older brothers John and Frank younger brothers Arthur and adopted brother Louis. James was working as an enameller for iron signs for Messrs J A Jardan & Sons Ltd, Beehive Works, Bilston.
James married Blanche Jones January 1933 in Bilston. They had three children two sons and a daughter, Gordon born 1933, Jean born 1934 and, Leslie born 1936, in 1939 they were all still living at 74 Coseley Street along with James's older brother John. James was employed as a 'sprayer' in a factory.
James died 8th March 1942 aged 40 in Ryhope, England.
Sec. G.B. New Part. Grave 4897. 11. Bilston Cemetery.

Porter H. Dvr RASC (unable to identify)

Prichard H. Pte Guards Regt. (unable to identify)

Pugh William Lance Corporal 2622088
4th Bn. Grenadier Guards.
William was born 24th February 1921 in Dudley son of David and Annie Pugh. In 1921 they were living at 18 George Street, Dudley along with William's older siblings Alice, David, Violet, and Florence.
By 1939 William was living with his parents, his sister Florence and his younger brother John at 22 Linwood Road, Dudley. William was employed as a journeyman housepainter & decorator.
William married Joan Hague January 1943 in Bilston they had a son Gary born in early 1944
William died of wounds 23rd January 1945 aged 23.
VI. 263. Brunssum War Cemetery, Netherlands.

Ramsbottom James Corporal 4916781
1/6th Bn. South Staffordshire Regiment
James was born July 1919 in Coseley son of William Edward and Edith Ramsbottom. In 1921 they were living at 33 Broad Lanes, Bilston, Coseley along with James's older siblings Edith, Nancy and Joseph.
He married Nellie Maud Etchells 3 October 1937 at St. Leonards Church Bilston and they had a son Ronald. By 1939 they were living with Nellie's parents at 15 Lawley Road, Bilston.
James was killed in action 16 July 1944 aged 25.
The 1/6th Bn. South Staffordshire Regiment crossed the Channel in late June as part of the 59th Division and by the 1st July had moved to the front-line facing Caen. The city was fiercely defended and earlier attempts to outflank it had been frustrated by continued German counter attacks. General Montgomery had, therefore, decided on a frontal attack preceded by heavy aerial bombardment. On the 8th July, a strong attack was launched on a broad front and by the 9th most of the city had fallen. The Division moved quickly south to the bocage country; their task was to take the village of Noyers.
On 15th July, the troops assembled in their assault positions the 1/6th on the right of the assault. At 5.30am on the 16th the attack commenced in thick morning mist by about 6.45 am the Battalion had captured the village of Brettevillette 1½ miles north of Noyers and two hours later Queudeville. Both were defended strongly and only taken at the cost of many casualties sadly James was one of them.
V. C. 17. Fontenay-le-Pesnel War Cemetery, Tessel, France.

Rhodes Frank Aircraftman 1st Class 1128717
Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve.
Frank was born 17th July 1920 in Bilston son of Herbert Thomas Rhodes and Charlotte Elizabeth Rhodes. In 1921 they were living at 24 Coseley St. Bilston along with Frank's maternal grandfather and older siblings Florence, Elsie, Herbert and William. By 1939 Frank was living at 39 Russell Rd., Bilston along with his parents and brothers Herbert and William. Frank was employed as a constructional driller, motor presser.
Frank enlisted into the RAF at Padgate, Warrington between September 1939 and February 1940.
At the time of his death Frank had been medically discharged from the RAF.
Frank died 4 March 1943 aged 22 in the Royal Hospital, Wolverhampton of rheumatic heart failure.
Sec. G.A. New Part. Grave 3298. 8. Bilston Cemetery.

Richards Albert Henry Lance Serjeant 4914779
1st Bn. South Staffordshire Regiment.
Albert was born 1920 in Bilston son of George and Ester May Richards. In 1921 Albert was living with his parents at 74 High St, Bilston along with his older sister Freda.
He was awarded the General Service Medal with Palestine clasp, 13 February 1940. Given the date it would leave one to believe he was a regular soldier before the outbreak of war.
Albert was killed in action during the latter stages of the East African campaign 21st November 1941 aged 21.
4. F. 6. Asmara War Cemetery, Eritrea.

Richards Bernard Horace Gunner 19067114
108 H.A.A. Regt. Royal Artillery.
Bernard was born 25th November 1923 in Bilston son of Edward and Florence Richards. In 1939 they were living at 18 Harrowby Road, Bilston along with Bernard's older siblings Thomas and Kathleen; Bernard was employed as an assistant tool tender.
Bernard enlisted into the Army 12th September 1946.
He died of tuberculosis and meningitis 27th July 1947 in Catterick Military hospital.
Sec. G.A. New Part. Grave 4900. 11. Bilston Cemetery.

Robinson Harry Driver 2002466
292 Army Field Coy. Royal Engineers.
Harry was born 16th September 1917 in Bilston son of Arthur and Martha Robinson. In 1921 Harry was living with his parents at 55 Parkfield Road, Ettingshall along with his older siblings William, Dora and Edna. By 1939 Harry remained living at the same address along with his parents and younger brother Arthur; Harry was employed as a milk salesman.
Harry died of wounds 16th February 1941 aged 23.
8. E. 11. Benghazi War Cemetery, Libya.

Sandland L. Spr Royal Engineers

Seabridge John Fusilier 14316836
6th Bn. Royal Welch Fusiliers.
John was born in January 1924 in Wolverhampton, the son of Sarah Jane and John Seabridge and later the stepson of Samuel Whitmore. By 1939 he was living at 27 Park Road, Bilston with his mother, maternal grandfather Joseph, and siblings Vera, William, and George, and working as a fitter’s labourer and motor presser. In April 1944 he married Blanche Yardley in Bilston.
John was killed in action 16 December 1944 aged 20 during the period when the Germans launched their major counter offensive in the Ardennes (the Battle of the Bulge) in December 1944. The 6th Battalion, Royal Welch Fusiliers serving with 53rd (Welsh) Division was among the formations rushed forward by 21st Army Group to reinforce the northern flank of the Bulge. The division later advanced to recover much of the lost ground despite determined German counter attacks.
V. D. 103. Schoonselhof Cemetery, Belgium.

Shelley William Arthur Able Seaman P/JX 333333
H.M.S. SS New Brunswick.
William was born 28th June 1942 in Ettingshall son of Isaiah and Sarah Shelley, of Ettingshall. He had three older siblings Isaiah, Leslie and Albert and a younger sibling Robert. In 1939 William was living with his parents and brothers Albert and Robert at 3 Pump Street, Bilston. William was employed as a press stamp operator.
At 03:25 on 21 May 1942, 140 miles east-southeast of Santa Maria, Azores SS New Brunswick was torpedoed and sunk by U-159. The master, fifty-three crew members and five gunners were rescued (twelve by HMS Totland and ten by HMS Wellington). Two crew members and one gunner William were lost.
Killed in action 21st May 1942 aged 19. Panel 64, Column 3. Portsmouth Naval Memorial.

Shirley Ernest Private 14730686
129 Coy. Pioneer Corps.
Ernest was born 2nd July 1917 in Bilston son of Elizabeth and Arthur Shirley. In 1921 they were living at 51 John Street Bilston along with Ernest's younger brothers Frank and Stanley. Ernest's father died in March 1926 aged 44.
By 1939 Ernest remained living with his widowed mother and brothers at 51 John Street, Bilston; Ernest was employed as a sheet metal galvanizer.
Killed in action 8th June 1944 aged 27.
Panel 11, Column 1. Bayeux Memorial, Normandy, France.

Shorthouse John Joseph Private 14703954
4th Bn. King's Shropshire Light Infantry.
John was born 2 July 1925 in Wolverhampton son of Arthur and Annie Shorthouse. In 1939 they were living at 24 Mill Street, Bilston along with John's older siblings Arthur and Florence and younger brothers Frederick and Ronald. John was employed as a makers assistant motor presser.
On 4 September 1944, British tanks captured Antwerp in a rapid armoured advance. On 6 September, the 4th Battalion, King’s Shropshire Light Infantry as part of the 53rd (Welsh) Infantry Division crossed the Albert canal, but by then the Germans had blown the bridges. An enemy counterattack by infantry and five tanks isolated the 4th Battalion, King’s Shropshire Light Infantry in a factory complex, and the British infantry, incapable of ferrying some antitank guns across the canal, was forced to withdraw. The war diary of 4th Bn. King's Shropshire Light Infantry records 'Battalion HQ moved to the area of the Sports Palais, just short of MERXEM bridge. From the small bridgehead then held, Companys were ordered to advance in the order A C B. A Company was to clear to another bridge (also blown) West of the bridgehead; C Coy was to clear East; B Coy was to clear North to a large road junct. As A Company leading platoon went off, 5 enemy tanks appeared & made movement down the street impossible. These were engaged with PIAT’s [projector, infantry, anti tank] and withdrew.
A Company then continued. Just as the first platoon of C Coy set out, the enemy put in an attack supported by tanks. A Coy & the platoon of C Coy were cut off and we were hemmed in on three sides against the canal. In this built up area, intercomn was very difficult. No anti-tank guns had got across, & PIAT ammo. was rapidly exhausted. B & C Companies were disposed in two factories. Enemy tanks then proceeded to make the factories untenable, aided by snipers & heavy machine gun fire. With no defence against the armour, our casualties were becoming heavy, and withdrawal to another factory was ordered. The position was reorganised with C Company less 1 platoon, in the factory, and B Coy lining the canal bank & the factory scrap yard.' It was during this action that John was killed.
Killed in action 6 September 1944 aged 19.
II. H. 26. Schoonselhof Cemetery, Belgium.

Simpkins Samuel Laurence Private 4917664
2nd (Airborne) Bn. South Staffordshire Regiment
Samuel was born in Bradley, Bilston, in October 1918, the son of John and Harriett Simpkins. By 1921 the family were living at 21 Sales Street Bradley, Bilston with Samuel’s older siblings John, James, Doris, Winifred and Phyliss and his younger sister, Violet.
By 1939 the household had moved to 'The Haven' on Bradley Lane, where James, Phyliss and Violet were still at home, along with two younger sisters, Dorothy and Florence.
Samuel married Irene Tranter in Bilston in July 1942.
In November 1941 the 2nd Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment was converted to a glider borne infantry unit within the 1st Airlanding Brigade of the newly formed 1st Airborne Division. The battalion deployed to North Africa in May 1943.
In July that year, the 2nd (Airborne) Battalion took part in Operation Ladbroke, the glider assault that opened the Allied invasion of Sicily. Flying from Tunisia, the 1st Airlanding Brigade was tasked with landing near Syracuse, securing the Ponte Grande Bridge, and helping pave the way for the capture of the city and its vital docks.
The mission was ambitious and unprecedented in scale, but the approach to Sicily proved disastrous. Sixty-five gliders were released too early by their towing aircraft and came down in the sea, resulting in the loss of around 252 men. Of those who reached land, only eighty-seven made it to the Ponte Grande Bridge, yet they succeeded in capturing and holding it beyond their planned relief time. Even so, the brigade suffered the heaviest losses of any British formation involved in the landings, with 313 killed and 174 missing or wounded.
It is believed that Samuel was among the men who drowned when his glider came down short of the coast.
Killed in action 10 July 1943 aged 24
Panel 8. Cassino Memorial, Italy.

Siverns S. Pte Worcs.

Siverns William Gunner 944316
241 Bty., 61 Field Regt. Royal Artillery.
William was born 28 September 1918 in Bilston son of Zachariah and Mary Ellen Siverns.
In 1921 they were living at 22 Wolverhampton Street, Bilston along with William's oldest sister Kathleen and younger sister Mary. By 1939 they were all living at 'Felstead' George Street, Bilston along with younger siblings Nellie, Lilian, Dora, Margaret, Annie John, Albert and Alan. William was employed as a polisher in a brass shop.
William died 25 December 1945 aged 27. Sec. G.A. New Part. Grave 4899. 11. Bilston Cemetery.

Slater Edward Alfred Marine PO/X 103293
Royal Marines, Royal Navy.
Edward was born 28th February 1914 in Bilston son of Alfred and Priscilla Slater. In 1939 they were living at 2 Lavender Grove, Bilston along with Edward's younger siblings William and Florence. Edward was employed as a 'puller up' at an enamel furnace.
Edward died 26th October 1945 at 94th British General Hospital, Germany after an accident which caused him an abdominal crush injury.
1A. G. 2. Hamburg Cemetery, Germany.

Slater William Henry Sapper 14341246
90 Field Coy. Royal Engineers.
William was born 9 November 1911 in Bilston son of Tom and Alice Slater. In 1921 they were living at 19 Field St, Bradley along with William's older siblings Doris and Thomas and younger brothers Alfred and Victor.
William married Mary Baker in May 1939 in Bilston and they lived in Upland Avenue, Willenhall, William was employed as a foreman builder.
Killed in action 29 October 1944 age 32.
5. D. 6. Jonkerbos War Cemetery, Netherlands.

Smith Frederick Private 4919228
2nd (Airborne) Bn. South Staffordshire Regiment
Born 1 January 1917 in Wolverhampton husband of Elsie Rose Smith, they had a daughter Joan Smith born 9th February 1939. In 1939 they were living at 10 Hartshom Street, Bilston and Frederick was employed as a book keeper.
In November 1941 the 2nd Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment was converted to a glider borne infantry unit within the 1st Airlanding Brigade of the newly formed 1st Airborne Division. The battalion deployed to North Africa in May 1943.
In July that year, the 2nd (Airborne) Battalion took part in Operation Ladbroke, the glider assault that opened the Allied invasion of Sicily. Flying from Tunisia, the 1st Airlanding Brigade was tasked with landing near Syracuse, securing the Ponte Grande Bridge, and helping pave the way for the capture of the city and its vital docks.
The mission was ambitious and unprecedented in scale, but the approach to Sicily proved disastrous. Sixty-five gliders were released too early by their towing aircraft and came down in the sea, resulting in the loss of around 252 men. Of those who reached land, only eighty-seven made it to the Ponte Grande Bridge, yet they succeeded in capturing and holding it beyond their planned relief time. Even so, the brigade suffered the heaviest losses of any British formation involved in the landings, with 313 killed and 174 missing or wounded.
It is believed that Frederick was among the men who drowned when his glider came down short of the coast.
Killed in action 9 July 1943 aged 26.
Panel 8. Cassino Memorial, Italy.

Smith George William Private 14756159
4th Bn. King's Shropshire Light Infantry.
George was born 25 September 1924 in Bilston, the son of James and Louisa Smith. By 1939 the family were living at 4 Lunt Place with George’s older sister Elsie and his younger siblings, Ronald and Irene. George was then working as a grocer’s assistant.
The 4th Battalion, King’s Shropshire Light Infantry, was a 1st Line Territorial Army unit within the 159th Infantry Brigade of the 53rd (Welsh) Division. On 17 May 1942 the battalion and brigade were transferred to the 11th “Black Bull” Armoured Division as its motorised infantry.
On 17 February 1945, the 159th Brigade returned to the front to reinforce XXX Corps during Operation Veritable the northern arm of the Allied advance through the Reichswald. The infantry of the 11th Armoured Division, including the 4th KSLI, were ordered to seize Gochfortzberg and then break through the Schlieffen Line to take Sonsbeck, supporting II Canadian Corps as it pushed toward the Hochwald.
The brigade’s attack began on 26 February under difficult conditions. Gochfortzberg was secured on 28 February, and Sonsbeck fell on 3 March. George was killed during the fighting for Sonsbeck
Killed in action 2 March 1945 aged 19.
62. F. 16. Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, Germany.

Smith G.A 1st CN RAMC

Steadman John Henry Private 4913705
1/6th Bn. South Staffordshire Regiment.
John was born in December 1917 in Bradley, Bilston, son of William and Mary Steadman. In 1921 they were living at 3, Haywoods Yard, Bradley, Bilston along with John's oldest siblings Thomas, Catherine and Joseph and younger brother William. William senior was employed as a coal boat man.
John married Cissie Waller in June 1939 in Wednesbury.
The 1/6th Bn. South Staffordshire Regiment was part of the 59th Division. This Division was part of the follow up force in the 1944 Normandy campaign. The Staffords crossed the Channel in late June and by the 1st of July had moved to the front-line facing Caen. The city was fiercely defended and earlier attempts to outflank it had been frustrated by continued German counter attacks. General Montgomery had, therefore, decided on a frontal attack preceded by heavy aerial bombardment.
On the 8th July, the 1/6th as part of the 176th brigade was ordered to attack and take La Bijude a small French hamlet. Under cover of an artillery barrage, the 1/6th began to move forward. The ground between their start line and La Bijude was open in places, broken by orchards and low hedges. As soon as the Staffords advanced beyond the protective curtain of artillery fire, German machine-guns from the outskirts of La Bijude and the neighbouring farms opened up. Mortar bombs fell among the leading companies, forcing them to ground and then forward again in short, determined rushes. By mid-morning the battalion was within a few hundred yards of La Bijude. The barrage had lifted, but the German defenders elements of the 12th SS Panzer Division were still very active. Snipers fired from upper windows and from the edges of orchards. Anti-tank guns, dug in to cover the approaches, fired at anything that moved. The Staffords’ platoons worked forward hedge by hedge, using smoke where they could, and relying on the steady fire of their Bren guns to suppress enemy positions. The final push into the hamlet was bitter and close, the leading companies entered the northern edge of La Bijude around 08:30.
Throughout the early afternoon the battalion endured heavy shelling. German observers, positioned further south around St. Contest, had clear lines of sight onto La Bijude. Several local counter attacks were attempted by small groups of German infantry, testing the newly won positions. Each was beaten off by disciplined small arms fire and the support of British artillery, which responded quickly to calls for fire
As the day wore on, the situation stabilised. The 1/6th strengthened their defensive perimeter and linked up with elements of the 1/7th Warwicks on their right. The war diary reports that '7 killed & 18 wounded by shrapnel.' Sadly, John was one of those killed.
Killed in action 8 July 1944 aged 27.
Row G. 10. Cambes-en-plaine War Cemetery, France.

Swinnerton Samuel Guardsman 2618872
6th Bn. Grenadier Guards.
Samuel was born in March 1920 in Bradley, the son of Samuel and Edith Swinnerton. By 1921 the family now including his younger sister May were living at the back of 100 High Field Road in Bradley, Bilston. Samuel senior worked at Sankey Sons’ Manor Works in Ettinghall as a furnace man in sheet metal, part of the area’s busy industrial workforce.
By 1939 the Swinnertons had moved a short distance to 95 back Highfield Road and welcomed another child, Harold. Samuel, now nineteen, was employed as a motor frame assistant.
On 14 June 1942, the 6th Battalion left Caterham for Liverpool, beginning the long journey that would take them to the 201st Guards Brigade in the Middle East. Their first posting was in Syria, guarding the frontier and protecting the vital oil pipelines at Kirkuk. From there, they moved on to join General Montgomery’s forces in North Africa, retraining as motorised infantry.
In March 1943, just sixteen days after leaving their base at Qatana in southern Syria, the Battalion linked up with the leading elements of the 8th Army and camped that night behind the gun lines. Four days later 17 March, the youngest Battalion in the Regiment fought its first major action at the Battle of the Horseshoe on the Mareth Line. The 6th suffered heavy losses, with 16 officers and 76 other ranks killed, with many more wounded after advancing through a dense minefield under inaccurate intelligence. They had been told the position was lightly held, when in fact it was defended by the elite German 90th Light Division. It later emerged that the battle plans had been captured two days earlier, a fact known to high command, meaning the German defenders were fully prepared for the attack. Sadly, Samuel was one of those killed.
Killed in action 17 March 1943 aged 23.
Samuel has no known grave and is remembered Face 11. Medjez-el-bab Memorial, Tunisia.

Taylor John Douglas Fusilier 6463291
2nd Battalion, Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
John was born in March 1910 in Bilston, the son of Albert and Florence Taylor. In 1911 the family were living at 11 Vale Street, Parkfield Road, Ettingshall, Bilston, together with John’s older brother, Joseph. By 1921, John and Joseph were residing with their maternal grandmother, Elizabeth Powell, along with their uncle John and aunts Mary Jane and Susannah, at 17 John Street, Ettingshall, Bilston.
Killed in action 24 April 1943 aged 33.
IV. M. 19. Massicault War Cemetery, Tunisia.

Taylor William Benjamin Leading Seaman D/SSX18852
H.M.S. Stronghold. Royal Navy.
William was born on 6 December 1918 in Birmingham, the son of William James Taylor and Maud Emmeline Taylor. In 1921 the family was living at 178 Bromford Lane, West Bromwich, together with William’s older sister Edna and his aunt Clara, a schoolteacher. William senior was employed as a works manager for a steel tube manufacturer.
By 1939 the family had moved to 15 Owen Road, Bilston, and William’s mother was widowed.
On 2 March 1942, HMS Stronghold was south of Java in the Indian Ocean when she was sighted by a Japanese E13A1 Jake long-range reconnaissance seaplane from the 22nd Air Flotilla, which reported her position as roughly 300 miles southwest of Bali.
At 5:43pm, Stronghold was intercepted by the Japanese heavy cruiser Maya accompanied by the destroyers Arashi and Nowaki. By 6:21pm the Japanese ships had closed to gun range. Maya opened fire with her main battery, closing to about 3,000 yards off Stronghold’s starboard bow and scoring repeated hits. By 6:58pm the British destroyer was immobilised, ablaze, and soon after exploded and sank. Approximately 74 of her crew, including her commanding officer, were lost in the action.
Fifty survivors were picked up by Bintoehan, a Dutch merchant vessel previously captured by the Japanese, and were later transferred to Maya, where they became prisoners of war. In total, nine officers and sixty-one ratings were killed, with a further two men dying subsequently in captivity.
William died 22 May 1945 aged 26 as a Japanese prisoner of war of dysentery and pellagra.
31. B. 13. Ambon War Cemetery, Indonesia.

Tennant W.E Pte Welsh Regiment

Turley G.G  Pte S.Staffs

Thompson T.H Trooper R.E.C.

Towersey S.M.L. Sgt RAF

Walford Roland R.A.O.C

Walker B.H Pte Manchester Rgt

Walker S.G. Pte S. Staffs

Walton J. LS, Royal Navy

Ward L. Pte S. Staffs

Wright Thomas Leslie Flight Sergeant (wireless operator/air gunner)1678692
207 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve.
Thomas was born December 1923 in Bilston son of Harold Bernard Wright and Marion Wright, in 1939 they were living at 6 Chantry Crescent, Bilston along with Thomas's younger brother Vincent.
Thomas enlisted into the RAF at Padgate Warrington, sometime after November 1941.
Killed in action 16th November 1944 aged 21. The Lancaster bomber in which Thomas was flying took off at 12:54 hours from RAF Spilsby, Lincolnshire, it was shot down over the target during a daylight raid on enemy communications at Duren in support of a US Army assault on the town.
Coll. grave V. C. 5-8. Venray War Cemetery, Netherlands.

Wiltshire Joseph William Lance Corporal 4916982
1/6th Bn South Staffordshire Regiment
Joseph was born September 1909 in Bradley, Bilston son of Joseph and Phoebe Wiltshire. In 1911 they were living at 64 Cross Street Daisy Bank, Bradley, Bilston along with Joseph's older siblings Frances and Frederick. Joseph senior was employed as a boot repairer. By 1921 the family were now living at 60 Cross Street.
Joseph married Beatrice Robinson in September 1939 in Rowley Regis and lived at 43 Norton Crescent, Coseley, with Beatrice's parents.
Joseph was a member of Wolverhampton Wheelers cycling club and was involved in local politics.
Joseph's parents went on to live in Lane Street Bilston and owned the Wiltshire drapers in Bilston and Great Bridge.
The 1/6th Bn. South Staffordshire Regiment crossed the Channel in late June as part of the 59th Division and by the 1st of July had moved to the front-line facing Caen. The city was fiercely defended and earlier attempts to outflank it had been frustrated by continued German counter attacks. General Montgomery had, therefore, decided on a frontal attack preceded by heavy aerial bombardment. On the 8th of July, a strong attack was launched on a broad front and by the 9th most of the city had fallen. The Division moved quickly south to the bocage country; their task was to take the village of Noyers.
On 15th July, the troops assembled in their assault positions the 1/6th on the right of the assault. At 5.30am on the 16th the attack commenced in thick morning mist by about 6.45 am the Battalion had captured the village of Brettevillette 1½ miles north of Noyers and two hours later Queudeville. Both were defended strongly and only taken at the cost of many casualties some from British minefields that had not been cleared before the attack. Sadly, Joseph was one of those casulties
Killed in action 16 July 1944 aged 34.
V. C. 11. Fontenay-le-pesnel War Cemetery, Tessel, France.

Joseph's brother Frederick who is not remembered on any war memorial in Bilston or Wolverhampton was also killed during the war. Frederick was born 7 October 1902 in Bilston by 1921 Frederick was employed as a moulder at the local foundry.
Frederick joined the Royal Navy 14 April 1926 - Able Seaman P/JX 138898. After initial training on land, 23 October 1926 Frederick joined the Battlecruiser HMS Tiger a training ship which had seen action during the First World War, joining HMS Argus from 28 January to 1 November 1927. Frederick married Helena Marie Francis September 1934 in Woolwich, London. On 8 November 1937 Helena gave birth to twins Nanette and Joan in Gosport, Hampshire a major naval town. In 1939 Helena, Nanette and Joan were living at 15 Fieldmore Road Gosport. Frederick joined HMS Janus a Javelin Class destroyer in August 1939.
On 12 June 1941 Frederick was awarded the Long service and Good Conduct medal after 15 years’ service.
On 23 January 1944, HMS Janus was hit by a Fritz X guided bomb dropped by a German He 111 torpedo bomber and sank off the Anzio beachhead in western Italy. Some accounts suggest she may instead have been struck by an Hs 293 glider bomb or a conventional torpedo. The Fritz X was a radio controlled, armour piercing bomb. It was designed to be dropped from high altitude bombers, most often the Heinkel He 111. After release, an operator in the aircraft could steer the bomb using radio signals, guiding it toward a moving ship. The Hs 293 wasn’t a simple bomb it had wings, a rocket booster, and radio controls to allow it to be steered. The Hs 293 was specifically designed to attack ships like HMS Janus fast, lightly armoured, and operating close to shore.
Whatever the exact weapon, HMS Janus went down in just twenty minutes. Of her crew, only 80 men survived, rescued by HMS Laforey and several smaller craft.
During her final operation, HMS Janus had already played a significant role in supporting the Anzio landings, firing nearly 500 salvos of 4.7-inch shells in the first two days to assist Allied troops ashore. Sadly, Frederick was one of the crew lost.
Killed in action 23 January 1944 aged 41.
Remembered on Panel 83, Column 3. Portsmouth Naval Memorial.

Whittingham A. Pte 14th Army

Whittingham E. Pte Royal West Kent

Westwood H. Pte S.Staffs

Wild G.W Pte Worcs

Ward P.W Pte S.Staffs

Wilkinson C. GNR Royal Artillery

Whittingham E. R. West Kent

Walton Stoker R.N.

Willis C. Cpl Irish Fusiliers

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Woolley Gerald John Edgecombe Pilot Officer 115583
73 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve.
Born 23 October 1920 in Bilston son of John James Woolley and Elsie Florence Woolley. By 1939 they were living at 150 Moseley Road, Bilston, Gerald was employed as a decorator.
Gerald was Gazetted as a Sergent 7 January 1942.
Killed in action 17 June 1942. Gerald was shot down whilst flying Hurricane IIc BE649 over RAF Gambut military airfields, Libya by German Ace Hans Joachim Marseille. On this day Marseille was credited with six kills within seven minutes taking his total to 100. Unfortunately, Gerald was Marsielle's 99th victim of a total of 158 victories, 151 during the North Africa campaign.
The shock of Gerald’s death struck his mother, Elsie, so deeply that she never rose from her bed again. Gerald had been engaged before leaving for the front but ended the relationship fearing he might not return.
Remembered on Panel 289. at Runnymede Memorial, United Kingdom and Addenda Panel Alamein Memorial, Egypt.