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the letter of the alphabet from the list below to view requests
for help concerning that surname, location or camp.
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PEOPLE
Sands, Charles Henry
Saunders, Alf
Schild, Heniz
Scott, Ron
Scott, Thomas Glenville
Seabridge, Thomas
Secretan, Holford Cave
Sellers, Harry M.
Sharp, James Walker
Shaw, William Henry
Sipley, Richard
Siedlecki, Jan
Silva, Francis
Simmonds, Ronnie
Simmons, Irwin
Sinclair, Charles J. (Charlie)
Siniewsky, John
Slay, Noel G.
Smart, Reginald Alfred Ernest
Smart, William
Smith, Arthur Henry
Smith, Charles
Smith, Douglas
Smith, Fergie
Smith, Harry
Smith, Henry Samuel
Smith, Herbert Henry
Smith, Jack
Smith, John
Smith, Joseph Edwin
Smith, Robert George
Smith, Rodney H.
Smith, Anthony Ambleton
Solly, Stanley Reginald
Southan, E.
SQMS RASC BEF
Squires, William (Bill)
Stanley, Robert Edward
Stapleforth, Stan
Stapleton, Arthur
Stave, Albert Edward
Sterio, Elias
Stone, Stanley Victor
Stevens, Brian (Bob/Robert)
Stevens, Edward John
Stevenson, Frank
Stewart, Noel Thomas
Stewart, Robert (Bobby)
Stirley Hill Hostel, Leeds or
Huddersfield
Strange, Harold
Sweatmon, Willie
Sylvester, William
Szwemin, Edmund (aka Lacki)
Szul, Josef
STALAG
CAMPS
Stalag XVIII C (Markt-Pongau
in Austria)
Stalag Luft 3
Stalag 2B and 3B (IIB and IIIB)
Stalag
XVIIID - PoW named "Eddy"
Stalag 2A (IIA)
Stalag XVIII C Markt-Pongau, George
Smith Longster
Stalag V-A (5A), Ludwigsburg, Germany
Stalag XVIII, PoW 5175
Stalag IB
Stalag XIIA
Stalag VIIA
OTHER
CAMPS
Spittal
an Drau Camp
Jennifer
is trying to find details about the time her stepfather was
a PoW at Stalag Luft 3. He was there for 2 years and was forced
on one of the several death marches of WWII. The march he
was a part of lasted approximately 5 days and went from Stalag
Luft 3 to Munich, Germany.
Her
stepdad's name is Bill (William) Kidwiler, and he was and
still is from the Seattle area of Washington. He was in the
99th bomb group, Squadron 416. His B-17 was shot down around
Foggia, Italy. At that time, they were flying their missions
out of north Africa. Jennifer did find information on a death
march from Stalag Luft 3 to Stalag Luft 4, which was very
close to Munich, Germany. However, her stepfather does not
remember all of the details, although he was loaded onto a
boxcar and remembers trying an escape.
Jennifer
has found stories of some of the other marches, but no information
on that one in particular.
These
particular PoW's were rescued by General McArthur (and his
troops with tanks), because a friend of Jennifer's family
was with McArthur's troops that day. Any information would
be greatly appreciated.
Can
you help with further information on Frank? He was a
driver with 'B' Company, 1st Battalion Queen Victorias Rifles
(QVR) stationed at Whitbread Hop Farm, Beltring, Paddock Wood,
Kent from September 1939 - May 1940. He was a friend
of my father, Lewis Edwards, and I would like to find out
what happened to him and the other men who were stationed
there.
Johnny
Johnson (RPs), Jack
Smith (Signals) and Ron
Harwood (Signals)
Below
is a picture of them all (click to enlarge).
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Back
Row (L-R)
Johnny Johnson (RPs), Jack Smith (Signals), Frank Crockford
(Driver)
Front Row (L-R)
Ron Harwood (Signals), Dad: Lewis Edwards (Signals)
'B' Company - 1st Bn QVR
Whitbread Hop Farm, Beltring, Paddock Wood, Kent
September 1939 - May 1940 |
 I
have heard from Frank's grand-daughter (Clare Fay) and her
father is compiling some information for me. As soon
as I have it, I will put it up on the site. I am really
looking forward to reading it and seeing the photographs that
John has from his father.
Clare
wrote:
"Amazingly
I was searching through the internet for any information on
my family's surname Crockford, when I found your website looking
for information on my grandad, Frank Crockford.
Sadly my grandad passed
away in 1987, however my dad (his son John Crockford) and
his wife Phyllis are still alive, greeted this news with some
excitement. Both my nan and Dad remember your father and offered
me loads of memories. I have printed all of the info off for
my dad to read and he will be getting back to you. He also
has many photos from the war including some of Lew as well
as some of the ones you have.
We will be in touch very soon, however in the meantime you
have my address."
If
you can help with any information, please contact Clare
P/O
Thomas (grandfather of Tom Forbes) was a Lancaster bomber
pilot during the war and was tragically killed on July 13th
1943. Three of his crew survived the crash in
the Bay of Biscay to be picked up and eventually became prisoners
of war. One, Leslie Matthews, was taken to Camp 357,
Torun (Thorn) in Poland. Tom has found out a great
deal about his grandfather, the squadron he flew with
and has been in touch with many relatives of 12 squadron crew.
However,
the PoWs have eluded him. His aunt remembers visiting
Leslie's parents in Palmers Green in London - she thinks after
the war - which might mean the Leslie never came back.
Tom understands that between 2,500 and 3,500 died during the
horrific death marches.
Although
Tom is not related to Leslie, he would like to find out more
about him and the other bomber crew.
Sgt
Leslie Matthews,
Lancaster Navigator, 12 Squadron, RAF Service No - 148817.
Leslie and/or his parents lived in Palmer's Green, North London.
He was a PoW at Camp 357.
Sgt
E. Southon, Lancaster
Mid Upper Gunner, 12 Squadron, RAF Service No - 1622030.
Debby
is searching for information on this PoW camp. Her father,
who is still alive, served with the East Surrey Regiment,
1st Battallion in Italy and North Africa. She understands
he was shot and captured in Germany or Austria. Information
on this camp is scarce. The area is now known as 'St Johann
im Pongau'.
Deb
wrote to tell me the following when I asked her how she was
getting along with her search [edited]:
"I
began my search for my dads war mates as he was so sad and
lonely when mum passed away. He began talking about his war
days and I listened hard taking in everything I could. He
mentiond The Battle Patrol often, his best mate Reg and his
former Lt.'Charlie'. I knew his Regiment name etc... I was
lucky in my search as my dad remembered his former Lt. was
in the brewery business. I found Charlie first, searching
for his surname at UK pubs on the net, first I recieved an
email saying he was dead(!) then after some double checking,
found out his real name was John (only called Charlie in the
war...) and after 60 years he remembered dads name and who
he was. They talk on the phone now and then as John cannot
write due to Parkinsons. After searching the net for Reg and
getting nowhere, I emailed People Finder who gave me 3 addresses/phone
numbers. A few weeks later I received an email from Reg's
son, Mark, saying how 'thrilled' his dad was to hear my dad
was not only looking for him but found him too - from Australia
as well! He too remembered dad very well, after 60 years also,
dad and Reg joined the army together. Now both dad and Reg
are emailing-swapping photos etc.....they are happy. Now thinking
of visiting the UK next year to see John and Reg, and Reg
is now thinking of visiting Australia next year.....:) dads
smiling again - mission accomplished."
Margaret
Ray is looking for information on her half-brother. Her father
was Albert Edward Stave. He was a serviceman 14706220-854
Light Recovery section REME and had a son with a woman name
Trude (?). Trude had a brother named Venzil. Albert Stave
served in the upper western section of Europe - possibly Brugge.
He enlisted in Colchester, England in 1943 and their baby
was born between 1945-1947. Margaret is seeking information
leading to the wherabouts of this half brother.
Tom
is looking for information on Stalag 2A and 2B. His grandfather
passed away in 1962 so he has little information to go on.
Please
contact Tom if
you can help.
Trisha
is looking for information on her father-in-law, Robert Edward
Stanley, Captain or Corporal, No. 6897628 of
8th Kings Royal Rifle Corp (KRRC). She would like to know
whether he was killed during the war.
Robert's
father was Edward Waldo Stanley, who lived in America.
Robert
Edward Stanley was born in 1913 in London. He was an accountant
and first got married to Nan Thomas on Rhode Island in St
James Church on 20th March 1935. He then got married again
on 13th February 1942 at Brixworth Registry Office to Nana
again.
Please
contact Trisha
if you have any information.
Brian
(aka Bob and Robert) Stevens
Annemarie's
father (who died 9 years ago) was in the Queen Victoria Rifles
and was captured at Calais in 1940.
He
was marched to Poland and was in a PoW in a Stalag. At his
first camp he worked at a stone quarry and he was then moved
to another camp.
Her
uncle, Douglas Vincent, was in the same Gulag and wrote a
book called (she believes) 'The Long Road Home'. However,
she has been unable to check if this is correct or get a copy
of his book.
Annemarie
would like to follow in her father's footsteps and follow
the route he marched in 1940 to Poland.
If
anybody has any pointers as to where she can get information
of the march route or if anybody knew her father or uncle,
please contact Annemarie
James
Walker Sharp
Monica's
grandfather, James Walker Sharp, was in the Black Watch (she
believes).
He
was captured at Dunkirk and held at Stalag XXA (143), camp
14126 for the duration of the war.
She
thinks that he was involved in escape attempts and would like
some more information on him. He finally escaped on the march
from the camp before liberation, with another prisoner. Apparently
James and his co-escapee were offered money by a film company,
and that part of their escape story was used in the film 'The
Great Escape'.
Here
are some photos that Stuart has sent me:
| |
|
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James
(middle) |
James
(front, left) |
James
(left) |
| |
|
|
James
(2nd from right) |
James
(front in white shirt) |
James
(with hat) |
| |
|
|
James |
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|
Do
you recognise anyone else in these photos?
If
you can help, please contact Monica
or Stuart
William
Silvester
Ian
is researching his great uncle, William Silvester, Army Number
5248047. William was in the Worcester Regiment and was a PoW
from 25th August 1939 to 2nd September 1944. He was in Sudan
at the time of his capture.
William
was born in 1910 and Ian believes he was captured at the Battle
of Tobruk and sent to Stalag IVB.
Ian
has provided a little more information illustrating where
his research has lead him. He told me that he has been in
touch with the Worcestershire Regiment and they provided him
with some information but it has proved to cause even more
confusion. A lady at the Worcestershire Regiment suggested
that William might have been in the Prince of Wales Regiment,
hence him being a PoW, but Ian feels this is incorrect as
that regiment was not formed then. Ian has visited Louis Scully's
website which has information on the Worcestershire Regiment
and includes a photograph of some PoWs at Stalag XXB, thus
causing even more confusion. Ian has a list of medals that
William was awarded and they include Palestine g.s., African
Star, Defence Long Service and g.c. Medal with Gratuity, and
War Medal 1939-1945. Ian is not sure but believes that William
should also have a PoW Medal. He has spent many hours on the
Internet searching for information on William and would love
to hear from anyone who knew him, was in the Worcestershire
Regiment or can just help with some pointers.
If
you can help with any information, please contact Ian
Stanley
Reginald Solly
Geoff's
father, Stanley Reginald Solly, was captured at St Valery
12th June 1940 and remained a PoW until 1945 at Marienburg,
Poland. His Army No. was 901262 and his PoW No. was 16190.
Stanley was in the Territorial Army (TA) but was captured
as part of the 51st Highlanders at St Valery.
Sadly
he died some 15 years ago and whilst he told of some stories
he had in the camps, there were many things that Geoff did
not ask and Stanley did not discuss. Therefore, Geoff would
dearly love to know more and wondered if anyone could help
with information especially on the route of the March which
took them to the Marienburg camp, as he would like to travel
the route himself.
When
Stanley ended up in Stalag XXA, he worked on a farm.
Sam Kydd, the actor, was with him.
If
you can help with any information, please contact Geoff
Rodney
H. Smith
Karie
Gunderson is looking for information regarding her grandfather,
Rodney H. Smith, held in Stalag IIIC, Company 7, Room 20,
until "liberation" on January 31, 1945.
Karie
has her grandfathers Red Cross diary listing many names of
soldiers he was in Camp with.
She
would especially like information about the comrades that
he walked many miles with after "liberation".
Karie
kindly said "Thank you so much for your wonderful website
and your help with this mission of mine to feel closer to
the grandfather I was only allowed to know for 7 years of
my life."
Karie
has provided me with some photographs to help jog memories
(click to enlarge them)
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|
|
Rodney
Smith - Enlarged PoW photograph |
Rodney
Smith - German PoW Registration Card |
Photo
of Rodney (on right) with his buddy, Bob Duncan, in
Minneapolis, MN.
|
If
anyone has any information or remembers him, please email
Karie.
Josef
Szul and Katherine Dickson
Polish
servicemen trained to be paratroopers in Scotland in the field
where Christina's grandparents lived near Lundin, Links.
Her aunt met one of the officers, who had earlier been a PoW
somewhere. When he was posted to Europe (Belgium Christina
thinks), she joined the NAAFI and was sent quite close to
where he was. They married in November 1945 at St Mary's Euschede.
However, Christina cannot find 'Euschede' but has found Euschede
in The Netherlands. His name was Josef Szul and she was Katherine
(Kate) Dickson.
They
were both with BAOR. Josef was a Lieutenant with the Polish
Paratroop Brigade and Katherine was a Private ATS/EFI.
If anyone knows about their wartime marriage, or knows of
them, please email Christina
Heniz
Schild
Derek's
grandfather, Heniz Schild, was in the German Army. He was
born in Vienna, Austria and Derek was told he was shot down
in a plane and was a PoW in Scotland until after the war.
Heniz returned to Austria and moved the family Vancouver.
He died when Derek was young and so he never knew him. Derek
is trying to find out if what he has been told about his grandfather
is true.
If
anyone can help, please email Derek
George
Alfred Greeves
Pete's
father was George Alfred Greeves. He was born in 1926 and
Pete knows he was at the crossing of the Rhine. He mentioned
Goch Riechwald and the surrender of Germans either at Bremen
or Cuxhaven.
George
ended up in hospital in Hamburg and then for three months
in Warminster.
George said he was a Bren gunner. He went in to the War a
boy who lived a sheltered life and came out quite the opposite.
After the War he went back to France with a mate, Ronnie Simmonds.
Pete
has seen only one photo of him during War in kilt and with
his grandfather.
George
was born in Bermondsey and sadly died in 1990.
If
you can help, please email Pete
Harold
Strange
Glynn
is
trying to locate information on his grandfather, Harold Strange,
who served in the Navy during both WWI and WWII. In
the latter Harold was a petty officer.
After
attempting to use various methods of research Glynn keeps
coming to a dead end. It is believed that at some point Harold
was in the Secret Service and it is known he went to France
prior to the landings. During WWII he was, at various times,
taken away by British Police for his duties.
If
you can help, please email Glynn
Edmund
Szwemin
Mr/s
Lacki is trying to find information on their grandfather,
Edmund Szwemin, who was born in Poland in 1921.
He
was captured in 1944 at Normandy and taken to No19 PoW camp
but s/he cannot find any records of this camp.
He
then enlisted in the Polish Army under British Command with
the assumed name Edmund Lacki.
If
you can help, please email K. Lacki
Anthony
(Tony) Ambelton Smith
Daphna is trying to trace Anthony (Tony) Ambelton Smith.
Tony
was with her father Chaim
Braufman (called Maxi by fellow servicemen)in Stalag VIIA
(Moosbourg) and in Stalag XVIIIC (Markt Pongau). Tony and
her father also escaped from the Stalag together.
If
you can help, please email Daphna
Robert
George Smith
Robert
is reserching is late grandfather, Pte. Robert George Smith
(known as George) time spent at Campo 65 and Stalag XVIIIC
at Markt Pongau.
Robert
was born in Cardiff and served as a Pioneer, belonging to
the 1st Battalion, The Welsh Regiment.
After
serving with the BEF in France he was posted to the Middle
East in 1941 and captured in 1942 somewhere in North Africa.
From there he was taken to Campo 65 at Gravina, and then in
1943 was handed over to the Germans at Stalag XVIIIC. He escaped
just before the end of the War and was repatreiated in March
1945.
Do
you know Robert or remember him from Army days or prison camp?
If so, please email Robert
Stalag
XVIIID (18D) - PoW named "Eddy"
Help required to trace a soldier who fought in WWII, though
the information on him is fairly sketchy.
Clare is looking for him lives with her husband in Slovenia
and has a very dear elderly gentlemen friend there who is
98 years old and would love to know what happened to an English
soldier he was imprisoned with. The main problem is that he
can't remember the man's surname. All they know is that he
was known as Eddy. However, they do have some other quite
specific information that may help in tracking him down:
- They were in prison together in Maribor, Slovenia, (Stalag
18D) for a short period in 1944.
- Eddy was half British and half Slovenian, his mother being
from Ptuj, Slovenia.
- Eddy was at least 10 years younger than her friend, so he
would have been around 25 years old in 1944, possibly younger.
- He was an officer, not a regular soldier.
- Their friend, Luka Grobelsek, remained in prison until the
Germans freed all prisoners so that they could join in the
fighting. Eddy, however, escaped with the partisans before
this happened. He also received regular parcels from the Red
Cross beforehand.
- Luka has a photograph of Eddy, with some inscriptions that
may be helpful.
Here
is the photo back and front that Clare kindly sent:
Clare has no idea how to go about finding out what happened
to Eddy, but was hoping that this information may be enough
for someone to recognise him.
Do
you know Eddy now or were you a fellow Army comrade or PoW
at Stalag 18D with him? Please email
Clare if you can provide any further information.
Stalag
IIA
Nancy's
father, William Edward Lee Elble, was a PoW, Army, captured
in 1942 at the age of 21 and spent 9 months in Stalag IIA
He earned 7 medals, including the Bronze Star. He, along with
Nancy's mother, a WWII WAC, (she sadly has Alzheimers) presently
reside at the Ohio Veterans Home in Georgetown, Ohio.
Nancy
would like to locate some other PoWs that spent the same time
as her father did in this camp. He may even have a fellow
camp IIA living in this home as well!
If anyone knew William or was at Stalag IIA, please email
Nancy
Ron
Scott
Royce's
uncle served in The Royal Sussex Regiment and was taken prisoner
at Dunkirk and ended up in Stammlager XXB (127). His name
was (Drm) Ron C. Scott and he wouldn't speak about the camp
or how he got there because of the horrible things he saw.
His PoW number was 9541.
Royce
is doing my family tree and would like to find out as much
as he can about the camp and the march to get there.
If anyone knew Ron or was in PoW camp with him, please email
Royce.
George
Smith Longster, Stalag XVIII C
Richard has a website dedicated to his father, George Smith
Longster, who was imprisoned in Italy and Stalag XVIII C,
Markt Pongau, Austria.
George
is nearly 95 so would probably be one of the older prisoners
in the camp and helped to build the Chapel.
Richard
is looking for anyone who remembers George from the camp.
If
you can help with any information, please email Richard
Spittal
an Drau Camp
I have heard from a gentleman who is 'm looking for a list
of 20 British prisoners who were held in the Spittal an Drau
camp. He was one of the 20 and would like to find his comrades.
Can you help?
Any
information, please contact
me.
Stalag
V-A (5-A), Ludwigsburg, Germany
REQUEST
1
Tracey
is trying to find information on Stalag V-A (5-A) camp which
was outside Ludwigsburg in Germany.
Her
grandfather was admitted there after being injured during
WWII by a sniper. He was stationed on the island of Crete
and escaped on a boat. He was recaptured by the Italians who
in turn handed him over to the Germans. He was then transferred
to Stalag V-A for medical attention and during this time presumed
dead by his family. He was part of the Welsh Regiment of Wales
1st Battalion.
Any
information on the conditions or about Stalag would be greatly
appreciated - this information is for his great grand daughter
who is doing research on him.
Any
information, please contact Tracey.
REQUEST
2
Ed's
father was wounded and captured on March 11, 1945 outside
Trier, Germany. He arrived at Stalag V-A just before Easter
weekend. The camp was was being evacuated Sunday evening because
of Allied advancement. They were marched to Ettringen, Germany.
He was liberated there in late April.
The
camp was a former German military installation, which had
once billeted German cavalry troops. It was located outside
of Ludwigsburg.
Ed
is in contact with some former PoW from his father's company
that were captured with him. He is helping them obtain information
and is currently looking for pictures and the location of
the camp.
Any
information, please contact Ed
REQUEST
3
Ricahrd
is looking for information on his father, James Ayers who
was also at this camp. See here.
Stirley
Hill Hostel (Leeds or Huddersfield)
Fabbi
is trying to trace a camp in which her grandfather was held
during WWII. She enlisted the help of Hazel Stockdale from
Huddersfield Library and Jane Helliwell from Dewsbury Library,
who subsequently contacted this site. Here is the information
provided. If you can assist with information on the camp or,
indeed, knew Fabbi's grandfather, please make contact.
Fabbi's
grandfather, Igino Costi, was incarcerated at Stirley Hill
Hostel in Leeds or Huddersfield from 1944 - 1946. Igino will
be 90 on 19th May 2006 and Fabbi is trying to locate the commander
of the camp who was very kind to him. She appreciates that
he is unlikely to be alive but wonders if any of his family
are and could make contact prior to his birthday (if possible).
Igino
was given an identify document, serial number Z253614 and
his PoW number was 505330.
To
help anyone who may remember, Igino was born in Casina (on
the hill of Reggio Emilia county) on 19th of May 1916 and
he now lives in downtown Reggio Emilia, Italy. At the end
of 1940 he was captured and detained as a PoW in Libya (North
Africa) by the Sixth Division of Australian Army under General
Wavell's command. He was later sent to India where he lasted
until 1944.
From
India, Igino went to England where he was kept from May 1944
until May 1946 when he was released and went back to Italy
by sea. He docked in the port of Taranto, Italy on 1st June
1946.
The “camp” where he was kept as a prisoner was
located in Huddersfield, the chief in charge of the camp was
a man from Dewsbury whose name was Francis Hemingway or Hamigway.
Igino has fond memories of him and he still keeps a book received
from Francis the title of which is “The Mill on the
Floss” by George Eliot.
Once
back in Italy, Igino tried to write some letters to his former
chief Francis but at that time he realized that the address
that he used was not the right one, so he lost any contact
with the man at that point.
If
you know about the camp, are a relative of Francis Hemingway
or Hamingway or remember Igino himself, please contact
me, Jane,
who is a Local History Projects Officer at Dewsbury Library
or Fabbi whose
grandfather was at the camp.
Elias
Sterio
Brian
is looking for information on his uncle, Elias Sterio who
was born in Swansea on 23rd October 1919 and lived in Cardiff
with wife Bridget and daughter Mary. Whilst serving with the
6th Battalion of the Durham Light Infantry, in 1943, was sent
home wounded.
D
Day 6th June 1944, arrived on Gold Beach at approximately
11am, then moved off the beach to it`s assembly area at Ver
su Mer. At 3pm they moved off through Villiers le Sec to Esqaiy
sur Suelles.
The
Durhams were part of the 50th Division whose objectives were
the capture of Tilly sur Seulles, Hottot & Villers-Bocage.
13th
June 1944- The
6th Battalion lined up on the main Tilly - Bayeux road and,
with `A` Company leading, moved down the road to Le Pont de
la Guillette. On turning right at this point, to clear a German
position, the leading companies were almost immediately engaged
by mortars and machine guns from an area of nearby farm buildings.
Elias
Sterio was one of the first down the lane and gave the ultimate
sacrifice, Elias was just 24 years old and left a wife, Bridget
and a 1 year old daughter, Mary.
Elias
Sterio now lies at peace at the war cemetery at Tilly sur
Seulles - a hero. Any
info on Elias Sterio or anyone else that was with him on that
fateful day would be welcome
Any
information, please contact Brian.
Douglas
Smith
Alice
is looking for any information on Douglas Smith, 702 Bb Sq
445Bb Gp, Serial Number 35559850 who died on 27 September
1944. His plane crashed in Germany.
Alice and her family have adopted graves in Henri Chapell
and in Neuville en Gondrozand. They would like to find out
if Douglas has any living relatives.
Any
information, please contact Alice.
Francis
Silva
Jim's
father, Francis Silva, was, he believes, in the 101st druing
WWII (also possibly the 82nd). Francis is still alive but
he has talked very little about his service. He lost a leg
in the war.
Jim
would very much like to find information about Francis's service
and has spent much of his 43 years trying to get information
from Francis but to little avail.
If
you have any information on Francis, the 101st or can give
Jim a starting point for his search, please contact Jim
Charles
Smith
Neil recently watched a documentary entitled 'Sink the Manchester'
on the History Channel.
His
grandfather, Chief Mechanic, Charles Smith was one of the
13 who died when HMS Manchester was hit by a torpeado on 13th
August 1942. Neil would very much like to hear from anyone
on that ship who may have known him.
If
you have any information on HMS Manchester or Charles, please
contact Neil
Charles
Henry Sands
Madelyn
is trying to trace records relating to her grandfther, Charles
Henry Sands, thought to be one of the 70 PoWs (survivors)
from the 7th Batallion of the Royal Sussex Regiment taken
on the 20th May 1940 outside of Amiens, France.
Any
records or information relating to him and his time spent
in Stalag XXA Thorun Poland would be appreciated. Madelyn
knows that he made 3 unseccessful escape attempts with mates,
but little more than that.
If
you have any information on Charles, please contact Madelyn
Stan
Stapleforth
Susan
is trying to trace anyone who would have been in service with
her late father, Stan Stapleforth.
Stan
was born on 1st March 1916.
Susan
appreciates this is a difficult task to find former regiment
friends as many will have passed away by now.
Stan
was missing - believed dead - after the war for 4 years. Somehow
it seems he went back to the West Country (Lyme Regis) with
Susan, his daughter, and his wife who whom Susan thought was
her mother. Susan has a strong reason to believe she was not
her birth mother.
Stan
was stationed in Egypt and Greece and possibly in the RASC
or maybe REME. Susan has no War medals.
Stan
died at 50. Susan hardly knew him as she was sent away at
9.
If
you have any information on Stan, please contact Susan
Thomas
Seabridge
Sarah
is trying to find out information on her father who died 10
years ago. His name was Thomas Seabridge and he was with the
South Staffs Paratroopers and had taken part in Market Garden
at Arnham, Holland where he may have been taken PoW but Sarah
is unsure.
If
you have any information on Thomas, please contact Sarah
Stalag
XVIII - PoW No: 5175
We
have in our posession a WWII Lemon Squeezer Hat, with the
NZ Army. It has Stalag XVIII insinde with PoW No: 5175. Is
there any way we can find out the prisoners name?
If
you have any information, please contact Serah
Joseph
Edwin Smith
Kevin
would be interested in anyone who may have known his grandfather,
Joseph Edwin Smith of 2/5th Queens Platoon Srgt Major captured
at Dunkirk and PoW at Thorn Stalag XXA and Stalag 383 Germany
where he eventually died in February 1945.
Joseph
came from Woking, Surrey and used to use the drill hall in
Walton Road, Woking.
Kevin
contacted me as he had read Harry
Tapley's story.
If
you have any information, please contact Kevin
Alf
Saunders
Please
see Harry Tapley's
account for details.
April
2008
I heard from Carol Holmes who said:
"I was particularly interested in your story about Alf
Saunders. He was, I think, my mother's brother, all the details
fit. My mother was called Rose Saunders, her brother was Alf
Saunders born 1914 in Bethnal Green. Alf married Mary and
had 2 daughters, Anna and Maria. If these facts fit please
could you pass my details on to his grandson as we have all
lost touch after Alf died in 1972. I hope I am not wasting
your time with a case of mistaken identity."
Charles
(Charlie) J. Sinclair
Lorraine
is investigating her uncle's history and is trying to trace
one of his comrades.
Lorraine's
uncle is Patrick Hall who was flight engineer with 9 Squadron
when he was killed. They were on their way back from a night
bombing in Cologne on June 17th 1943 when they were shot down
over Belgium flying Lancaster ED487. Patrick was born in Dublin
and joined the RAF 1938/1939. He was married and had a daughter
who was just 6 months old when he was killed.
The
men, including my uncle, are buried at Schoonself Cemetery
Antwerp.
They
were:
Sgt
Gerald Trembly (RCAF) - Rear Gunner
Sgt Dennis Webster - Navigator
Sgt Bert Poynter - Mid Upper Gunner
Lorraine
was able to visit their graves and pay their respects in August
2007. The remaining crew became PoWs. They were Pilot Tony
Aldersley and Sgt Harold Popplestone (Bomb Aimer) and Charles
Sinclair (Wireless Operator). Charlie is the only one she
has not been able to find and she is interested in finding
him to discover what happened to him after the War.
If
you have any information, please contact Lorraine
Noel
Thomas Stewart
Emma is looking for information or anyone that might have
known her grandfather, Noel Thomas Stewart (NZEF2), who was
captured in Greece and spent time in Stalag XVIII C, and later
Stalag XVIII A, from 1943.
Any
small detail might be the missing piece to this jigsaw puzzle.
If
you have any information, please contact Emma
Arthur
Henry Smith
Mary
is looking for anyone who remembers or has information about
her uncle. He was a PoW in Stalag Luft III. His name and rank
PTE Arthur Henry Smith, PoW number Y266, Orderlies Battalion,
Stalag Luft III, Germany.
Arthur was born on 3rd July 1918, Edinburgh, Scotland to RSM
John Charles Smith, Black Watch Regiment and Mary Smith nee
Sinclair. Mary believes Arthur died somewhere in Nottingham,
England.
If
you have any information on Arthur or his family, please contact
Mary
18th
May 2010
Email
from Mary to say:
"Hello Everyone
Well, I have not only found my Uncle Arthur Henry Smith's
family but also my Uncle John Charles Smith's family. Uncle
Jack changed his name to Saunders but still lived in Scotland.
Uncle Arthur did lived in Nottingham as do his children. It
is most unfortunate, that travelling to and from England and
Scotland between 1965 to 1970, that I never found them. In
2011, my sister and I are travelling to the UK to meet with
our Cousins. Thank you for posting my message and Good Luck
to all with your searching. Love Mary."
William
Squires
Neil
and his
family are trying to find out information or commrades of
his grandfather, Private William (Bill) Squires of the 1st
Battalion 51st Highland Division Blackwatch taken PoW at St
Vallery.
Any
information will be most grateful. There are two pictures
they have noticed on here in the Stalag XXB camp photos but
just trying to find more info as he passed away when Neil
was young and unable to ask questions now.
On
the black watch
photograph - back row 5th man in from left is Ernie Squires
and on the middle row second man in from left is William Squires.
They were brothers from Loughborough, Leicestershire.
If
you have any information on William, please contact Neil
SQMS
RASC BEF
Peter
is looking for information regarding his grandfather's unit
and when they were wounded/captured in 1940.
Particularly,
from the RASC :
Padre
Price Rees
GW Hamilton
Corporal Sutcliffe
Gair
Holmes
Hyde
Purdue
Whetton
Ball
Wilson
If
you have any information on this unit and the persons mentioned,
please contact Peter
Stanley
Victor Stone
Sara
is looking for information on Stanley Victor Stone (1919 -
1998).
Stanley
was her partners' father and served in the British Army during
WWII.
Unfortunately
they were largely estranged so they know very little about
him. However, his neice told Sara he served in North Africa
and was Montgomerys Batman at some point.
If
you have any information on Stanley, please contact Sara
Arthur
Stapleton
Barbara
is looking for information on her father, Arthur Robert Stapleton,
who was a PoW in Stalag XXA in Thorn (Torun), Poland.
Arthur
was born in 1919 and he lived in Northfleet in Kent. He was
taken prisoner of war on May 23rd 1940 aged 21years. He was
a private in the 7th Battalion Queens Own Royal West Kent
'C' Company 6347167.
He died when Barbara was 10, but there are several names in
his diary that could be fellow PoWs. They are:-
Samuel
Cox
9 Holt Street
Wigan
Lancashire
W McEvoy
46 Stocks Street
Cheetham
Manchester
(I believe this man was with Arthur and they kept in touch
as he and his wife would visit Barbara's family but he is
now dead)
Sgt
Seager 6347225
m. room H Q Coy?
2nd Batt Q.O.R.W.K Regt
Hastings
Arthur
was frinds with my father, Lewis
Edwards, in the camp.
If
you have any information on Arthur, please contact Barbara
Jan
Siedlecki
John
is searching for information on his father and his unit.
His name was Jan Siedlecki L/cpl and he was with the Transport
and Supply Company, 1st Polish Parachute Brigade.
He
traveled to Arnhem via the Seatail from Tilbury. He was wounded
on the 7th of October 1944 by "friendly" fire but
managed to survive. Three other Poles in the same patrol were
killed.
John
has his fathers War Records but they have very little information.
He is searching for information on this unit and of the men
who served in it and any photographs of the men.
If
you have any information on Jan or the 1st Polish Parachute
Brigade, please contact John
Henry
Samuel Smith
Terry
is looking for details of his grandad and the camp he was
in during WWII.
Terry's
grandads name was Henry Samuel Smith and he was at the camp
PG 53 during 1943 and left the camp on the day after liberation
on the 12th of October 1943 and escaped to Switzerland.
This
is an extract of his diary:-
"Had
3 letters on the 7th heard of invasion on the 3rd and capitulation
on the 8th orders to move on the 10th owing to jerry still
remained. moved on the 12th liberated. hid in woods plenty
of food. also grapes. still hiding uptill 19th also till 25th
and finished the month still hiding plenty of jerrys around
and caribineers plenty of vino left on the 5th near casteletto
railway casa caught train at 7 oclock on the 6th to luino
walked to frontier plenty of jerrys on stations cut wire through
sewer entered switzerland 12-20 treated well clothes fumigated
and hair off left bellizona for wil on the 13th at 1 oclock
in the morning fitted with new battle dress and kit left wil
f for bauma permanent camp hotel on 16th. there is alot more
even going to liechestein to the picture to watch swamp water.
one name mentioned wasken walmsley."
Henry
was in Section 3 of Camp 53 (pm3300?).
His
full details are DVR H.S.Smith not/245300 also 245300 Royal
Army Service Corps
posted
B company 23/01/1941
posted 59th Divisional supply column 07/01/1941
posted no.1 Holding battalion 18/08/1941
posted 918 General Transport Company 10/09/1941
Reported Missing 02/06/1942
Confirmed prisoner of war in Italy 02/06/42
Arrived Switzerland unknown date
Escaped Switzerland 23/10/1944
repatriated untied kingdom 07/12/1944
posted to 45 Divisional troops unit 07/12/1944
posted 5th training battalion 18/01/1945
posted Specialist Driver training centre 24/03/1945
posted 12th training battalion 31/05/1945
posted 97 field bakery 04/09/1945
posted to 24 personnel section 05/09/1945
appointed Lance corporal 12/01/1946
Released to army reserve 03/09/1946
Died on Reserve 16/10/53
Service with colours 23/01/1941-02/09/1946
Overseas Service Middle East 24/09/1941-01/05/1942
Prisoner of war 02/05/1942-22/10/1944
Military conduct Exemplary
Terry never new his grandad except for images of inside the
camp and his PoW diary; also pictures of Switzerland at the
evadees camp. Terry also doesn't even know were he was caught
or how in the Middle East.
If
you have any information on Henry or Campo 53, please contact
Terry
Stalag
IB, Hohenstein
Simon's
father was prisoner for 5 years in Stalag IB in Hohenstein.
He never spoke about what happend during such a long time
in Poland. Simon is looking for photos or anything else about
this camp.
If
you have any information on this PoW camp, please contact
Simon
Holford
Cave Secretan
John
is looking for any information about the circumstances of
the death of Holford Cave Secretan on 24th May 1940 in Belgium,
while serving with 2 Btn Royal Sussex Regiment.
He
used live in the house John now owns and there is a small
private memorial to him. John would like to find out more
about him and his War record albeit tragically brief.
If
you have any information on Holford, please contact John
Robert
(Bobby) Stewart
Lindsay's
great uncle was F/Sgt Robert (Bobby) R. Stewart 1068916, 82
Squadron. He was from Shotts in Scotland.
He
was a flight sergeant in 82 Squadron and he died in India
at the North West Frontier on Sunday 11th October 1942. He
was 27. He is buried at St Mary's Church, Chennai (Madras).
If
you have any information on Robert, please contact Lindsay
Noel
G. Slay
Mark,s
father, Noel G Slay of the 9th Armored Division, USA, was
a PoW in Stalag IIa at/near Nuebrandenburg, Germany.
At
that time he was a Tech Sergeant and Mark has some items that
someone in the PoW camp made for him. (click the image to
enlarge)
One
is a wooden box with straw type reliefs and has inscripted
pieces of straw spelling out the Stalag and the location,
a small cigarette box (aluminum) with Mark's mothers' picture
inside a raised heart, and inscription on the back with the
first letter of her middle name spelled incorrectly, and another
aluminum box with the insignia of the 9th Armored and scroll
work on the sides and top. Mark was told the pieces were made
from aircraft parts but he does not know who made them.
Mark's
father and mother are now deceased, and he would like to know
who made them or if anyone knew his father. Mark is aware
it maybe to late as his father would have been 100 years old
this August 2009. He was around 35-36 at the time of capture,
near Malmedy Mark believes.
If
you have any information on Noel, please contact Mark.
Willie
S. Sweatmon
G.
Anthony wrote to say:
"I
was looking for any information on my great uncle, Willie
S. Sweatmon, who was with the 47th Infantry in the Tunisia
campaign. He was captured there and spent the remainder of
the war in several POW camps. Two of the camps I'm certain
were Stalag IIIB and Stalag IIIA (3b and 3a). I believe he
was also in the death march from 3b to 3a. His body was not
returned to the States until 1949. Any information you can
provide would be greatly appreciated.
If
you have any information on Holford, please contact G.
Anthony
Stalag
XIIA
Roux
wrote to say:
"I'm
trying to find a picture of Stalag X11a at Limburg for my
Ancestry page on my uncle, Eric Wilson, South Staffordshire
Regiment, 1942. Any help or advice welcomed."
If
you are an Ancestry.co.uk member, you can view the details
on Eric here
There is also a photo of Eric here
If
you have any pictures, please contact Roux
Thomas
Glenville Scott
Lucy
emailed to say:
"I
am looking for any information on my grandfather, Thomas Glenville
Scott, who served with the 42 Royal Marine Commandos during
WWII. I don't have a lot of information on him, but I do know
that he served in Hong Kong in 1946, Australia in 1945 and
also was in Scotland in 1943.
He
was part of the 9th Platoon C. Company 1st Battalion Royal
Marines and he was a Bren Gunner. I also know that he was
torpedoed on the way out to the Far East in the Mediterranean.
I appreciate the information I have given is sketchy but if
anyone can help me at all please get in touch with any information
however small. Many thanks."
If
you have any information on Thomas, please contact Lucy
Stalag
VIIA Photos
Chad
emailed to say:
"I'm
looking for some photos of Stalag VIIA. My Grandfather was
a POW their from 8-28-1944 to 4-27-1945. I have found several
sites on the web ,but not what I want. I want photos that
I can frame."
If
you have any good photographs of this camp, please email Chad
Reginald
Alfred Ernest Smart
Barry
emailed to say:
"As
part of genealogy activities I am researching my Father's
Military career. He served in the RAOC from 1926 to 1956.
I have got his complete service record from the MOD but there
is one gap I would like to fill in with more detail.
He was captured by the Italians at cyrenaica June 1942. and
later held in Oflag XIIB.
Dad's
names were Reginald Alfred Ernest Smart. He was Born 1906
in Edenham Lincolnshire but the family moved to Isle of Wight,
his Mother home.
He joined the Army in 1926 as a Private and retired in 1956
with the rank of Major having gained a wartime commision.
I would be gtateful for any information regarding his time
as a POW."
If
you an help Barry, please email
Harry
Smith
Joanna
emailed to say:
"I’m
attaching the front and back of the postcard sent home by
my uncle Harry Smith, PoW No 19949 in Stalag XXA (152). I’m
afraid that I don’t know the identities of the other
two men. Harry is on the right as you look at the picture."
|
|
|
Harry Smith
(right hand side) |
|
If
you can identify the other men, please contact
me.
Harry
M. Sellers
Vicki
emailed to say:
"I
am looking for information about my father who was held in
Stalag IIA (2A). His name was Harry M. Sellers, 1st Army,
10th Infantry Division. The dates I have indicate captivity
on Decmeber 21, 1944 and return on June 29, 1945.
He never spoke of his time as a POW,
but succumbed to alcoholism and passed away 35 years ago."
If
you can help, please email Vicki
Frank
Stevenson
"I
am researching Col. Frank Stevenson of the SA UDF. He was
a POW firstly in Oflag VI B, then Oflag IX A/Z, then a Camp
12 (thus inscribed in his military records) and then was moved
elsewhere.
I
believe that Camp XII is either Oflag XII A or B, and am wondering
if there exists a prisoner list for these camps.
I
would appreciate any suggestions you could offer."
If
you can help, please email Krystyna
John
Siniewsky
"I
am trying to trace anybody that knew, or heard of my uncle
during WW11. His name was John Siniewsky, Lance Sergeant in
6th Battalion of The Grenadier Guards (army number 2617270).
His 'army nickname' was 'Gin and Whiskey' (a joke on his Polish
heritage).
His daughter, residing in the USA,
is attempting to document his heroic wartime deeds. His, like
many servicemen, should have their bravery immortalised in
print so that others can appreciate the sacrifices they made
for freedom.
He was captured in North Africa, escaped
and somehow ended up in Italy -POW Camp #82. Despite learning
fluent Italian, he was recaptured after a German Officer spoke
to him in English, in an unguarded moment, instead of pretending
he did not understand English, he replied in Italian demonstrating
he understood English). He escaped once again and trained
a group of Italian Partisans adopting the name Petardi Giovanni
– we believe this may have been in the Anzio region
of Italy.
In order to survive, he had to completely
block out any knowledge of his native tongue, eventually he
could only speak and think in Italian. Upon reaching allied
lines, largely due to his inability to speak English, he was
held by the British authorities as a suspected spy.
Some members of his regiment were brought
to identify him, but they could not be posative of his identity.
Even then, he still maintained the mental block against his
mother tongue. One of his comrades remembered 'Gin and Whiskey'
had a quick, explosive temper, to trigger this, he deliberately
stole John Siniewsky's cigarettes, the ruse worked as 'Gin
& Whiskey' became outraged; he started swearing in Italian,
as his anger gained full throttle, his cursing turned into
English and so the mental block was partially broken.
John Siniewsky spent many months in
a sanatorium recovering from his ordeal. Following his release,
his wife was his prop and lifeline until he died in his late
70's.
If anybody remembers John Siniewsky,
his story, or could offer advice where I may find out more,
I would be grateful if they would contact me or his daughter
(contact addresses below).
John
Siniewsky later changed his name to John Peters, emigrated
to the United States and had two children, both still living
in America."
If
you can help, please email Nick Peters
or Lois
Edward
John Stevens
Annette
wrote to say:
"I
am looking for my fathers records. He served in WWII at Camp
Bordon but he is no longer with us but I still have some memories
of him serving. I know he never went overseas just was at
camp. His name was Edward John Stevens from Sault Ste Marie,
Ontario."
If
you can help, please email.
William
Henry Shaw
John
wrote to say:
"Photo
of my late father in law William Henry Shaw, 8th Battalion
6th Airbourne. My wife Jacky would be interested with any
information this photo might lead too. He was the cook so
was well looked after by the others.Jacky always said his
best freinds were two of the tallist as he was only little
and was known as 6 foot. One of the two minders was known
as Enoch and Jacky seems to think he came from Nottingham."
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William
Shaw (far left) and friends |
Back
of photo |
If
you can help, please contact me.
William
Smart
Looking
for information on William Smart, fought in Egypt. Passed
away in 1991.
If
you can help, please email.
Irwin
Simmons
"Looking
for anyone that might have information on my dad Irwin Simmons
or knew him. He was a POW in Stalag IIB (2B), CoO C 7 Infantry."
If
you can help, please email.
John
Smith
"Do
you have any information on my father John Smith 7th Army
Kings Royal Rifles WWII, fought in Tobruk & El Alamien."
If
you can help, please email
Richard
Shipley
Sharon
emailed to say:
"I'm
looking for information on my husbands grandfather.
All we know about his service during
WW2 is that he didn't want his medals and wouldn't talk about.
His surviving aunts and uncles dont know any details.
I have come across info from ancestry
on a R Shipley POW no :31984 CAMP : Stalag 344(Lamsdof) Army
no: 4270906
I am not sure if this is him
We have his d.o.b as 1913 Durham
Wife Sarah (nee Brown) Shipley
Daughter Jean born 1936 and Joan 1939
Are
you able to advise if its the same person?"
If
you can help, please email Sharon
Please
send all replies to enquiries to me using the Feedback button
on the Contact page.
Copyright
© WWII Memories. All rights reserved.
Revised:
17 November, 2011
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