The Second World War in Northern Ireland

Sergeant William Wilson from Douglasbridge Killed in Action.

Sergeant William Wilson, Service Number 1544912, was serving with 514 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve and was aboard aircraft DS669 JI-C during a mission into Germany on 23rd April 1944.
It is believed that the aircraft was hit by Flak or collided with Lancaster DS828 and crashed in the target Area at Ecke Rethel / Schubertstrasse in Dusseldorf.
William was 20 years old and the Son of Henry and Isabella Jane Wilson and was from Douglasbridge, County Tyrone.

This selection of ten photographs show 207 Anti-Tank Battery, Royal Artillery who were based at Coalisland.

They are seen negotiating a waterway on 19th June 1941. (IWM Photographs)

6th Battalion, Royal Berkshire Regiment thrusting a "Pole Charge" into a Pillbox before attacking. (IWM Pictures)

This selection of photographs was taken on 22nd July 1942 (IWM Pictures)

Descending a wall under cover of a Smoke Screen then being joined by a Universal Carrier in the attack. (IWM Pictures)

The Royal Berkshire Regiment attacking up a cliff (IWM Pictures)

The Coagh Platoon, Ulster Home Guard

Back Row. Wm. J. Lamont, 22858. Robt. Duff, Tom Hutchinson. Unknown.

Third Row. Buick (Ballinderry), John Taylor. John Jeffers. Ernie Gibson. Willie Rice. Bob Hagan. Fred Young.

Second Row. Fergy Causby. Stewarty Ashcroft. Jimmy Creighton. Tommy Elliot. Buick. Robt. Young. Sam Taylor.

Front Row. Buick. Jimmy Somerville. Billy Duff. Jim Duff. Willie McCorkle. Simms. Bert Simms.

Sitting. Billy Mitchell. Fred Taylor.( Photo consists of factory owner, business men, farmers and local workers)

(Thanks very much to Ken James)

(Thanks to Ray Spence and Robin Abbott)

The two articles above are from the 'Mid Ulster Mail' Newspaper dated 20th February 1943.

(Thanks very much to Will Lindsay)