The Second World War in Northern Ireland
The Second World War in Northern Ireland
Budapest War Cemetery, Hungary
There are three men from Northern Ireland who are buried in the Budapest War Cemetery and all of them served with the Royal Air Force.
The headstones on the left and right of the photograph below are two of these men.
Sergeant George Robinson McKnight, Wireless Operator / Air Gunner was 23 years old and the son of Thomas and Mary Ann McKnight from Belfast.
Flight Sergeant Joseph Thompson was a Navigator and just 21 years old. He was the Son of Joseph and Una Thompson from County Armagh.
Both of these men were serving with 142 Squadron, Royal Air Force and were aboard Vickers Wellington X LN748 -E which failed to return from an Air Raid at Budapest where the target was the distillation plant of the Shell Koolag Oil Refinery.
Luftwaffe Airman,Staffelkapitan Wilhelm Johnen of 8./NJG 6. claimed to have shot down the Wellington.
The Rear Gunner, Sgt J Robertson RCAF R161677, survived and was taken prisoner in the Budapest area.
Sergeant John James Robinson was the Son of John and Helen Jane Emma Robinson. He was serving as an Air Bomber with 178 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
On the night of 13th / 14th October 1944 he was flying in Liberator B.VI EW280 on a mission to Szekesfehervar in Hungary when the aircraft went missing and was claimed as being shot down by Oblt Joseph Kraft from 7./NJG 6. All of the eight Crew members were Killed.
Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Malta
Stoker Second Class Victor Campbell was the Son of William and Agnes Campbell from Belfast. He was serving on H.M.S. Bonaventure which is shown below (IWM Photo)
Leading aircraftman Robert Dowds was serving with 221 Squadron and was the Son of Hugh and Elizabeth Dowds from Belfast.
Able Seaman Samuel John Watson Dunbar was the Son of Robert and Jane Watson Dunbar from Sydenham, Belfast. He was serving at H.M.S. Euroclydon which was Fort Verdala, Cospicua, Valetta, Malta.
Sergeant Observer Ronald Desmond Fletcher was serving with 21 Squadron. He was the Son of Samuel and Kathleen Fletcher from Campsie, Londonderry.
At 1720 hrs on 6th February 1942 Two RAF Blenheim aircraft of 21 Squadron returning from an anti-shipping patrol off Libya are attacked by ME 109 fighters and shot down into the sea off the Island of Filfla. (From the Malta War Diary www.maltagc70.wordpress.com )
.JPG)
Aircraftman First Class, I. Thomas McCann was the Son of Thomas and Emma McCann from Lisburn. He was serving with 40 Squadron R.A.F.
Shown above is the Citation for the award of his B.E.M. from the London Gazette.
Ordinary Seaman Andrew McIlwaine was the Son of David and Isabella McIlwaine from Monkstown, County Antrim. He was serving on H.M.S. Wrangler shown below (IWM)
Flying Officer Samuel Cecil Morrison was the Son of Samuel and Rebecca Morrison from Londonderry. He was serving with 104 Squadron.
Flying Officer Morrison was Second Pilot of Vickers Wellington. Six Wellingtons took off to bomb airfields in Sardinia. His was the last and failed to gain height, since the undercarriage was still down it struck a wall, causing the plane to crash, and all the crew were killed. 7th November 1942.
(From website.online.net/remosliema/airman1915702.htm)
The Malta Memorial, Valetta
As can be seen in the Panel shown below left this Memorial records the Names of Servicemen who were Killed in Action and have no known grave.
I have photographed the names of all of those men from Northern Ireland.
Sergeant Thomas Adair was the Son of James and Elizabeth Adair from Donaghadee and was aboard Wellington JA104 which took off on 13 February 1944 detailed to carry out an anti-sub patrol during a flight from RAF Bone to Ghissonaccia, Corsica.
At about midday the aircraft lost air speed at a rapid rate and no effort the pilot made could keep it from losing height.
From 1500 feet the aircraft came down in 3 minutes, ditching 15 miles off the south west coast of Corsica in Pinarello Bay and sank immediately.
Of the crew of 6 and 3 ground crew on board, three survived the ditching – FO Male (Captain), Flt Sgt Baines (Rear Gunner) and Sgt Percy (Fitter 2E).
After about an hour in the dinghy they were picked up by a French Walrus but the load was too heavy for take off.
The Walrus taxied towards shore and the survivors were transferred to a dinghy rowed out by two Americans.
They were put ashore near Solenzara in Corsica and were conveyed by ambulance to the 3rd American Dispensary at Ghissonaccia village.
It was considered later that an accumulation of ice on the wings was a likely cause of the crash.
Crew: RAF FO Male, R H Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt H W Brandon, (2nd Pilot) RAAF 421740 Flt Sgt W McI M Lipscomb, (Navigator) RAF Sgt T Adair, (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 412335 Flt Sgt S N Campbell, (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 420911 Flt Sgt H W Baines, (Rear Gunner) Ground crew : RAAF 5220 Sgt C F A Percy (Fitter 2E) RAAF 9352 Corporal K Kenny (Fitter 2E) RAAF 10158 LAC G G Parkin, (Fitter 2E) (From www.458raafsquadron.org)
Sergeant Victor Arnold was the Son of Sarah Arnold and was from Belfast. He was serving with 104 Squadron and is on Panel 8
Sergeant William Barriskill was the Son of David and Charlotte Barriskill from Portadown. He was serving with 104 Squadron based at Hana West in Tunisia and is on Panel 8.
On completion of his training he was posted to No. 104 Squadron at Hani West in Tunisia. The squadron was flying Wellington aircraft and carrying out raids on targets in Sicily and Italy. On 7 August he took off in his Wellington for a night raid on a target in Sicily however the aircraft was lost. (From www.secondworldwarni.org )
Flight Sergeant Thomas Gilchrist was the Son of Robert and Sarah Gilchrist from Lurgan. He was serving with 14 Squadron and is on Panel 14.
Sergeant Eric Jenkinson was the Son of Edward and Margaret Jenkinson from Lurgan. He was serving with 104 Squadron and is on Panel 8.
Leading Aircraftman James Longmore was the Son of John and Jennie Longmore from Belfast. He was serving with 815 Squadron and is on Panel 2.
He was killed during an attack on H.M.S. Illustrious by Luftwaffe Aircraft on 10th January 1941 when west of Malta. (www.maritimequest.com/warship_directory )
Sergeant David Lovesy was the Son of Arthur and Mary Lovesy from Belfast. He was serving with 150 Squadron and is on Panel 8
Sergeant Mervyn McCrea was the Son of John and Caroline McCrea from Clogher, County Tyrone. He was serving with 69 Squadron and is on Panel 4
The Malta War Diary records the following:- RAF ATTACK TANKER
21 Spitfires today carried out a second Rodeo raid over Sicily and six Beaufighters escorted by six Spitfires attacked an Axis fuel tanker off Tripoli. The raids were not without casualties: two Spitfires ditched into the sea with the loss of their pilots. A Martin Baltimore was sent on search patrol failed to return.
AIR RAIDS DAWN 25 AUGUST TO DAWN 26 AUGUST 1942
AM His Excellency the Governor and Commander in Chief returns from the Middle East.
1139 hrs 30 plus enemy fighter aircraft approach the Island but only half cross the coast. Spitfires engage.
1520 hrs Six enemy aircraft approach the Island, believed to be on reconnaissance. Malta Spitfires scrambled: no engagement.
Military casualties Pilot Officer Basil Butler; Royal Canadian Air Force; Flying Officer Reginald Round, Royal New Zealand Air Force; both 249 Squadron. Sergeant Eric Cragg, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR); Flying Officer John Foster, RAF VR; Flight Sergeant Raymond Harvey, RAF VR; Sergeant Mervyn McCrea, RAF VR; all 69 Squadron.
Unfortunately there are no specific details regarding Sergeant McCrea however 69 Squadron flew Baltimore aircraft at this time. One is shown below (www.militaryfactory.com)
Here we have two Northern Ireland man named close together.
Sergeant William Malley was the Son of Agustus and Annie Malley. He was the Husband of Margaret Malley from Lisburn.
Sergeant David Nicholl was the Son of James and Annie Nicholl. He was the Husband of Annie Evelyn Nicholl from Newtownhamilton. Serving with 614 Squadron he is named on Panel 18.
Pilot Officer Maurice Reid was the Son of William and Sadie Reid from Londonderry. He was serving with 14 Squadron and is on Panel 13
Sergeant David Todd was the Son of Robert and Ann Todd and the Husband of Emily Todd from Portadown. He is on Panel 2
Flying Officer John Townsend was serving with 200 Squadron. He was the Husband of Ruby Townsend from Belfast and is on Panel 6
Imtarfa Military Cemetery, Malta
The Imtarfa Military Cemetery is behind the wall in my photograph above.
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This is the stone on the final resting place of Able Seaman Frederick Barr who was 19 years old and serving on H.M.S. Kingston when he was Killed in Action.
On 4 April 1942, whilst H.M.S. Kingston (Which is shown above) was in dock at Malta repairing the damage from a naval encounter, a bomb fell directly at the entrance of the Corradino tunnel, where part of her crew was taking shelter.
Fourteen crewmen were killed by the blast including Commander Philip Somerville DSO., Lieutenant P. Hague, and Yeoman of Signals John Murphy, who was at their side, whilst directing the men into the safety of the Corradino tunnel. All 14 crewmen are buried in Malta.
Frederick was the Son of Samuel and Mary Ann Barr from Strabane in County Tyrone.
Some of the older headstones within this Cemetery show Bomb Damage from Luftwaffe attacks such as those shown below.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Sergeant (Wireless Op./Air Gunner) Dallas Boyce, Service Number 1023450, was 22 years old when he died on 30th April 1942.
He was serving with 269 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve and was a Crew Member aboard Lockheed Hudson Mk. III, T9391 on a reconnaissance flight to the North of Iceland.
One engine failed and the Pilot made a forced landing North West of Ísafjörður however all of the four Crew members died.
Sergeant Boyce was the Son of John and Rachel Anne Boyce, of Portstewart, Co. Londonderry.
(Thanks very much to Sharon Blair for the Headstone photograph and Lynn Stewart for the photograph of Dallas Boyce below)
Oosterbeek War Cemetery, Arnhem, Netherlands
Serjeant Charles Thomas Brackstone was serving with 2nd Wing, The Glider Pilot Regiment, Army Air Corps. He was the Son of Rupert and Lily Ada Lydia Brackstone and the Husband of Ethne Brackstone from Dundonald.
Private James Cameron, 21st Independent Parachute Company died on 26th September, the seventh day of Operation Market Garden.
He had received a serious leg wound and was taken to the Casualty Clearing Station where he succumbed to his wounds.
He was the Son of Thomas and Ellen Cameron from Carrickfergus.
Corporal Anthony Leslie Clarke was serving with 1st Battalion, The Parachute Regiment, Army Air Corps and was from Northern Ireland.
Private Francis George Dolaghan was serving with Headquarters 4th Parachute Brigade, Army Air Corps.
He was the Son of James and Maria Dolaghan from Belfast.
Private Robert Alexander Dougan was serving with 1st Battalion, The Parachute Regiment, Army Air Corps.
He was the Son of Arthur and Sarah Elizabeth Dougan from Lower Glenanne, County Armagh.
Private Sidney Ellis was serving with 1st Battalion, The Parachute Regiment, Army Air Corps. He was the Son of William and Clara Ellis and the Husband of Elizabeth Ellis.
He was from Belfast and it is worthy of note that he was a paratrooper at 38 Years Old!
Private John Mallon Hamilton was serving with 156th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment, Army Air Corps. He was the Son of John and Margaret Mallon Hamilton and was the Husband of Robertina Hamilton. He was from Belfast.
Staff Serjeant James Frederick Boyd was serving with 1st Wing The Glider Pilot Regiment, Army Air Corps.
He was the Son of Jeanie Boyd from Portstewart.
Lance Corporal Ernest Lynas was serving with 156th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment, Army Air Corps.
He was the husband of Violet Lynas and from Portadown.
Lance Corporal John McClune was serving with 11th battalion, The Parachute Regiment, Army Air Corps.
He was the Son of Mr and Mrs James McClune and from Belfast.
Private George Tansley was serving with 156th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment, Army Air Corps.
He was from Northern Ireland.
Private Joseph Walker was serving with 1st Airborne Battalion, The Border Regiment.
He was the Son of James and Sarah Walker from Moira and the husband of Irene Walker.
The photographs above were taken during "The Airborne March" which takes place every year and stops at Oosterbeek Cemetery.
The photograph on the right shows Danish Soldiers after they had paid their respects at the Cross of Remembrance.
Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, Germany
Flying Officer Pilot Joseph Edward Adams was serving with 207 Squadron, Royal Air Force. He took off from R.A.F. Spilsby in Lancaster III ND555, EM-D on a Mission to Gravenhorst. He was killed in action with the rest of his Crew.
Joseph was the Son of Joseph Edward and Margorie Adams. He was the Husband of Maude Adams and was from Belfast.
Private William Ernest Adams was serving with 9th (Essex) Battalion The Parachute Regiment, Army Air Corps. He had taken part in the Rhine Crossing during Operation Varsity.
William was the Son of William and Annie Adams from Ardmore, Londonderry.
Fusilier John Akehurst was serving with 4th Battalion, Royal Welch Fusiliers and was the Son of John and Nelly Akehurst from Belfast.
Flying Officer George Frederick Alderdice was serving with 61 Squadron, Royal Air Force and was flying in Lancaster III ED613 from Syerston to Essen in Germany.
He was the son of Gerald Leslie and Katherine Anne Hay Alderdice from Lisburn.
Flying Officer Alderdice was known as "Paddy" because he was from Northern Ireland and the photograph here shows him at a Girlfriends home in Macon, Georgia, U.S.A. in 1941. He had learned to fly in the United States under the Arnold Scheme and during his training he became a close friend of Arthur "Sandy" Sandison who was from the Shetland Islands.
They trained together for a year in Georgia, sharing a room throughout. After they had gained their wings in January 1942 they were both then enrolled as flying instructors for the next group of British recruits, remaining in Georgia for most of 1942.
Sandy Sandison returned to the UK in late 1942, underwent bomber conversion and became a pilot on Lancasters in 619 Squadron. He completed a full tour of operations and reached the rank of Squadron Leader.
George "Paddy" Alderdice was very sadly killed on his very first Operation.
Initially reported as "Missing"
In a letter to his Parents dated 3rd August 1943 Arthur Sandy Sandeion wrote:-
‘A terrible thing happened on last Sunday’s trip to Essen. Paddy did not return. Honestly it came as a terrible shock to me, and I still can hardly believe it.
It was Paddy’s first operation with his crew.
He was a long way behind me on this job and I wish I could have helped him on his way a bit.
Anyone’s first trip is the worst one.
There is so much to learn, and no second chances, as one mistake and you’ve had it.
It was a tough target for a first trip too.
Essen is considered the hottest spot in the Ruhr, and in Germany as it’s right in the middle of a big belt of defences.
We were on but we didn’t hear a thing from Paddy’s crew, not that we ever do, so all that we can hope for is that they are prisoners of war – the next best thing.’
(Thanks very much to Terri Sandison for this Photograph and Information)
Flight Sergeant William George Allingham was serving with 640 Squadron, Royal Air Force. He was in Handley Page Halifax III MZ494 C8-B on a mission from Leconfield to Witten when the aircraft was hit by Flak and shot down. He was the Son of Robert and Margaret Hanna Allingham from Belfast.
Lance Corporal James Ballantine was serving with 4th Battalion, Kings Own Scottish Borderers. He was the Son of James and Elizabeth Ballantine from Donegal Pass in Belfast.
Rifleman George William Bell was serving with 1st Airborne Battalion, Royal Ulster Rifles. He had seen action in Normandy and The Ardennes and was killed during Operation Varsity, the largest one day Airborne Operation in history, which was to cross the river Rhine.
George Bell was the Son of George William and Mary Jane Bell from Banbridge.
Sergeant William Bell was serving with 44 Squadron, Royal Air Force. He was in Handley Page Hampden P2087 and had flown from Waddington to Krefeld. The aircraft was hit by Flak near Munster putting the starboard wing and engine on fire.
William was the Son of Samuel and esther Bell from Doagh, County Antrim.
William Bell is in the photograph above as well as to the left of the large bomb in the picture below (Thanks very much to Robert Drummond)
All of the above relating to William Bell have been provided to me by Robert Drummond.
Richard "Dickie" Bolitho, The 617 Squadron Dambuster From Portrush.
Sergeant Air Gunner Richard "Dickie" Bolitho was a member of the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve serving with 617 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
At 21.59 on 16th May 1943 he was Rear Gunner on board Avro Lancaster III ED864 AJ-B which left R.A.F. Scampton as part of the Final Section of the First Wave of aircraft to attack the Mohne Dam in Operation Chastise however his aircraft crashed into electric cables and crashed in flames with the loss of all on board.
Richard Bolitho was the Son of William and Jane Bolitho from Portrush. Shown below is AJ-B from "The Dambusters" film.
Sergeant Flight Engineer William Robert Bryans was serving with 804 (Royal Canadian Air Force) Squadron. He was flying in Handley Page Halifax JD216 EQ-P from R.A.F. Leeming on a mission to Gelsenkirchen when the aircraft was lost.
William was the Son of William Robert and Annie Bryans and the husband of Jane Bryans. He was from Belfast.
Flight Sergeant John Kean Burnside was serving with 61 Squadron of R.A.F. Bomber Command based at Skellingthorpe.
He was the Son of Samuel and Agnes Burnside from Belfast.
Sergeant Richard Sweet Cruise was from Belfast.
He was serving with 214 Squadron, Royal Air Force as a Flight Engineer.
On 30th May 1042 he was on board Short Stirling W7534 BU-E which took off from R.A.F. Stradishall on a mission to Cologne as part of Operation Millenium.
This was the largest Bombing Raid to date with over 1000 aircraft taking part.
When BU-E was reported as missing a Crew Member of another aircraft reported that on passing Munchengladbach he had seen a Wellington, which is believed to have been climbing to avoid flak, collide with a Stirling from below.
The result of the impact was that the tail of the Stirling was detached and the Wellington exploded on impact while the Stirling exploded on hitting the ground.
Pilot Officer Sydney Campbell was an Air Bomber serving with 90 Squadron, Royal Air Force. He was the Son of Albert James and Rebecca Campbell from Belfast.
Warrant Officer Second Class, Company Sergeant Major William Stanley Carter was serving with 1/5th Battalion The Welch Regiment.
William was the Son of Francis and Ellen Hennessey Carter and the husband of Grace Carter. He was from Belfast.
Sergeant William Clyde was an Air Gunner serving with 106 Squadron, Royal Air Force. He was in Lancaster LL953 ZN-O which took off from R.A.F. Metheringham at 16.30 on 16th November 1944 on a mission to Gravenhorst. The aircraft was lost over Gravenhorst and is believed to have been shot down by Hauphtmann Modrow of 1 Nachtjagd Force at 19.24 hours.
William was the son of William and Francis Maud Clyde and was from Bushmills.
Sergeant Thomas Foster Darragh was serving with 218 (Gold Coast) Squadron, Royal Air Force.
He was the Son of Robert and Elizabeth Mary Darragh and was from Ballymagorry, County Tyrone.
Lieutenant Henry Wharton Derbyshire was serving with The Staffordshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps.
He was the Son of Henry and Eleanor Derbyshire and Husband of Edith Jean Hurst Derbyshire and was from Lisburn.
Guardsman Robert James Devine was serving with 3rd Battalion Irish Guards and was the Son of Samuel and Martha Devine.
He was from Londonderry.
Rifleman John Elkin was serving with 1st Airborne Battalion, The Royal Ulster Rifles.
He was the son of Thomas and Sarah Jane Elkin. From Drumquin, County Tyrone.
Sergeant John Green was a Flight Engineer serving with 106 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
He was the Son of Frederick and Ellen Green and was from Ballymena.
This photograph shows Samuel John Greer and the rest of his Crew buried together. (Thanks to Catherine Smyth)
Sergeant Flight Engineer Samuel John Greer was serving with 214 Squadron, Royal Air Force. He was in Stirling Mk3 BK686 BU-C in a mission to Essen. The aircraft crashed at Essen-Borbeck.
Samuel was the Son of J.H.W. and Mary Greer and was from the Bloomfield area of Belfast
Sergeant Pilot Jay Andrew John Duke Hatton was serving with the Royal Air Force.
He was the Son of Jabez George and Helen Izett Hatton and was from Belfast.
Rifleman Francis Hilton was serving with 1st Airborne Battalion, Royal Ulster Rifles. He was killed in action when the Battalion was moving between Coesfeld and Greven. There were 9 casualties on that day.
Francis was the son of Frederick and agnes Hilton and was from Ballymena.
Sergeant Observer William Arthur Hughes.
Sergeant Hughes was originally from Birmingham and when based at R.A.F. Aldergrove he subsequently met and married his Wife, Evelyn in Glenavy in 1938.
In 1940 Sergeant Hughes was based at R.A.F. Hemswell, Lincolnshire with 144 Squadron who operated Handley Page Hampden aircraft.
On the night of 16th / 17th August 1940 Sergeant Hughes was briefed to attack the I.G. Farben Synthetic Oil works at Leuna near Merseburg.
He was in Handley Page Hampden P4291 PL-E with Pilot, Flight Lieutenant Henry Aidan Thomas Skehill, Navigator Flight Sergeant David Perritt and Aircraft Engineer Flight Sergeant Robert Leslie Wake.
The aircraft was carrying four 500 Lb General Purpose Bombs.
German FLAK Crews reported that P4291 was hit and began a steep dive before breaking apart with the fuselage falling into the Courtyard of St Josef's Church in Altenhagen with the tail. Parts of wing and one of the engines landed at the Railway Goods Yard.
It appears that the aircraft was shot down on its way to the target as all four Bombs were found within the wreckage.
Of the Crew of 4 men Sergeant Wake and Sergeant Hughes were killed and their bodies recovered and removed to Remberg Cemetery
Flight Sergeant Perritt was found alive within the wreckage of the cockpit. He was seriously injured and taken to Hospital.
Flight Lieutenant Skehill had been able to parachute from the aircraft. He was slightly injured on landing and was soon captured.
Both Perritt and Skehill were Prisoners of War until their release in May 1945 and in 1947 the bodies of Sergeants Hughes and Wake were exhumed from the Remberg Cemetery in Hagen and re-buried at Reichswald Forest War Cemetery. Shown below is the Letter sent by the Station Commander to Sergeant Hughes' wife.
Sergeant Hughes' family were keen to know more about what had happened and wrote a letter which amazingly found it's way to Flight Lieutenant Skehill in Stalag XXA!
Shown here is the reply by Aidan Skehill which was written on 14th March 1941 and explains the final moments of the aircraft.
It is interesting to see that Skehill was able to pass details of where Hughes and wake had been laid to rest and that Perritt was also a P.O.W.
Shown below is the Letter received from Pilot Officer Aidan Skehill explaining the circumstances of the loss of Sergeant Hughes.
Shown here is Sergeant Hughes' Headstone and a photograph of him with his Father and the Son, Gwyn, who he know for such a short time.
Below is a photograph of Father and Son, William Arthur Hughes and Gwyn Hughes to whom I am very greatful for the Information anf Photographs without which this brief item would not have been possible. *****THESE ARE PRIVATE FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHS. PLEASE DO NOT COPY*****
Sergeant Thomas Leith-Ross was serving with 408 Squadron and was Flight-Engineer aboard Halifax JB790 with the Code EQ-V when it took off from R.A.F. Leeming at 23.39 on 12th June 1943.
The mission was raid on Bochum however the aircraft was attacked at 01.22 by Hptm. Egmont Prinz Zur Lippe Weissenfeld who was serving with 111 / NJG 1 Night Fighter Squadron.
The attack took place at 15,000 Feet above Sellen near the City of Burgsteinfurt which is Northwest of Munster.
Of the Crew of Seven men aboard the Halifax only Sergeant Leith-Ross and Canadian Francis Milburn were killed with the five others becoming Prisoners-of-War.
The two Crew members are buried Side by Side.
Thomas was the son of James Alexander Ross and Margaret Ross from Carclinty, County Antrim.
*****It is interesting to note that the Townland in which he lived is written on his headstone***** PLEASE DO NOT COPY THESE PHOTOGRAPHS
(Thank-you very much to Hazel Ross-Hughes for the photographs and Information. Thomas Leith-Ross was her Uncle and the photographs of him above were taken when he was at his Sisters Wedding when just 19 years old and the second only a short time before his death.
The last photograph shows a Family visit to the Crash Site a few years ago. Thanks again Hazel.)
Sergeant James Anthony Lynch was serving with 2nd Battalion, Royal Ulster Rifles. He was the Son of James Edward and Mary Lynch and was from Belfast.
Sergeant Air Gunner William Matchett Mahaffy was serving with 158 Squadron, Royal Air Force. He was Tail Gunner in Wellington W5525 which was on a Mission to Essen in Germany. The aircraft was lost and he was Killed in Action.
William was the Son of William Irwin and Jeannie Mahaffy and was from Bangor.
Sergeant Howard Torrens McQuigg was serving with 35 Squadron Royal Air Force. He was in Halifax L9500 involved in a mission to Magdeburg when he was killed in action.
Howard was the Son of William and Annie Torrens McQuigg from Aghadowey, County Londonderry. Photographs of him and his medals below
(Sincere thanks to Sean Smith and Alan Laverty)
*****It is interesting to see that his home townlandof Knockaduff, Aghadowey is written on his headstone.*****
Private Robert John McShane was serving with 5th Battalion, The Seaforth Highlanders.
He was the son of Frank and Mary Ann McShane and was from Ballymena.
Sergeant Air Gunner John Hubert O'Farrell was serving with 75 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
On 30th July 1943 he was in Stirling Mk III BF458 JN-P taking off from R.A.F. Mepal to join 273 aircraft on a raid to Remscheid in the Southern Rhur area of Germany.
Sergeant O'Farrell was Mid-Upper Gunner when the aircraft was brought down North of Krefeld near Bockum with the loss of 5 of the 7 Crew.
Sergeant O'Farrell was from Dundrum, County Down.
Private Robert O'Hare was a member of the Army Catering Corps and was attached to 2nd Battalion Royal Ulster Rifles.
He was the Son of Thomas and Brigid O'Hare from Belfast.
Sergeant Air Gunner Charles O'Neill was serving with 83 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
He was the Son of Edward and Mary Ann O'Neill and was from Armagh.
Sergeant Navigator Norman Peter Plenderleith was serving with 10 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
On the night of 23rd/24th May 1943 he was on board Halifax HR696 on a mission when the aircraft crashed with the loss of all crew.
Norman was th son of James p and Essie E Plenderleith from the Balmoral area of Belfast.
Lieutenant Samuel Ralph Ritchie was a member of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers who was attached to 7th Battalion The Seaforth Highlanders.
He was the Son of James and Kathleen Ethel Ritchie from Belfast.
Corporal Martin Ryan was serving with 1st Battalion The East Lancashire Regiment
He was the Son of Tim and Ann Ryan and was from Holywood, County Down.
Sergeant Pilot Randal Archibald Scott, Service Number 981198,was serving with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve and is shown above.
On the night of 27th / 28th December 1941 he was with 58 Squadron and was based at Linton-on-Ouse from where he flew on a Mission to Dusseldorf.
Sergeant Scott was flying an Armstrong-Whitworth Whitley Mk V Aircraft, number Z9210 which was shot down by Anti-Aircraft Fire over the city of Moers which lies to the west of Duisburg.
He was the Son of Randal Brown Scott and Mary Catherine Scott. It is interesting to note that "Ballydonaghy, Crumlin, County Antrim, Northern Ireland" is written on his Headstone.
An Armstrong-Whitworth Whitley aircraft is shown below.
(Thanks very much to Randal Scott for Information and Photograph)
Sergeant Eric Shaw was serving with 101 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
He was the Son of John and Margaretta Shaw and was from Belfast.
Rifleman David Topping Spence was serving with 1st Airborne Battalion, Royal Ulster Rifles. He died of wounds received during Operation Varsity.
He was the Son of Robert and Agnes Spence and was from Whitehouse, County Antrim.
The photograph above shows that Robert O'Hare and David Spence, although Killed at different times, are buried Side By Side.
Corporal James Stewart was serving with Kings Shropshire Light Infantry, 1st Battalion The Herefordshire Regiment.
He was the Son of Mr and Mrs William Stewart and was from Slatt, Ballymena.
Rifleman Samuel Thompson was serving with 1st Airborne Battalion, Royal Ulster Rifles.
He was the son of William and Agnes Thompson and was from Belfast.
Private John Troy was serving with 6th Battalion The Kings Own Scottish Borderers.
He was the Son of John and Isabella Troy from Lisburn.
Private Henry McDowell Wales was serving with 7th Battalion The Parachute Regiment, Army Air Corps.
He was the Son of James and catherine Wales and was from Belfast.
Sergeant William Wilson was serving with 514 Squadron, Royal Air Force and was aboard aircraft DS669 JI-C during a mission into Germany.
It is believed that the aircraft was hit by Flak or collided with DS828 and crashed in the target Area at Ecke Rethel / Schubertstrasse in Dusseldorf.
William was the Son of Henry and Isabella Jane Wilson and was from Douglas Bridge, County Tyrone.
William Wilson is second on the left front row in this group photograph (Thanks to John Wilson)
Jonkerbos Cemetery, Nijmegen, Netherlands
Private William Hodge was serving with Highland Light Infantry (City of Glasgow Regiment) 1st Battalion The Glasgow Highlanders.
He was the Son of Herbert and Margaret Hodge from Limavady, County Londonderry.
Private Patrick Leonard was serving with 7th Battalion The Seaforth Highlanders and was the Son of Mr and Mrs Felix Leonard from Boho, County Fermanagh.
Private Stanley George Sheldon was serving with 7th Battalion The Hampshire Regiment.
He was the Son of George and Hannah Sheldon and the husband of Mary Charlotte Sheldon from Richill in County Armagh.
Corporal Edward Howlett Spence was serving with 5 / 7th Battalion The Gordon Highlanders.
He was the son of William and Jane Spence from Sydenham, Belfast.
Cassino War Cemetery
Lance Corporal Williamson J. Benson, Service Number 7902796, Died on 23rd May 1955.
He was 28 years old and serving with North Irish Horse, Royal Armoured Corps.
William was the Son of Joseph and Isabella Benson and Husband of Margaret Benson, of Portrush.
Serjeant John Walter Best, Service Number 7904280, died on 23rd May 1944. He was 32 years old and serving with "A" Sqn. North Irish Horse, Royal Armoured Corps
He had previously been Mentioned in Despatches
John was the Son of David and Rebecca Jane Best, of Londonderry.
Captain Gilbert Harris Leny Buchanan, Service Number 177281, Died on 22nd May 1944. He was 33 years old and serving with 51st (The Leeds Rifles), Royal Tank Regiment, Royal Armoured Corps.
Gilbert was the Son of Maj. Harris L. Buchanan and Emily Buchanan and Nephew of J. Arthur Baker, of Belfast.
Fusilier John Cormican, Service Number 6980314, Died on 15th May 1944. He was 26 years old and serving with 6th Battalion, Royal Inniskilling FusiliersJohn was the Son of Andrew and Mary Cormican, of Crumlin, Co. Antrim.
Serjeant Albert George ELLIOTT, Service Number 7903226, Died on 23rd may 1944.
He was 23 years old and serving with "C" Squadron, North Irish Horse, Royal Armoured Corps.
Albert had been Mentioned in Despatches and was the Son of William George and Margaret Anne Elliott, of Tullyhommon, Co. Fermanagh.
Fusilier Thomas Henry Elliott, Service Number 6983246, Died on 15th May 1944.Thomas was the Son of Thomas H. and Margaret Elliott, of Belfast and Husband of Jennie Elliott, of Belfast.
Trooper John Galloway, Service Number 7902610, Died on 23rd May 1944. He was 24 years old and serving with North Irish Horse, Royal Armoured Corps.
John was the Son of John and Susan Galloway, of Armagh.
Serjeant Francis Girr, Service Number 6976967, Died on 1st June 1944.
Corporal Robert Jackson, Service Number 7021058, Died on 15th May 1944.
He was 21 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion, The London Irish Rifles, Royal Ulster Rifles
Robert was the Son of Samuel George and Agnes Jackson, of Ballyduff, Co. Antrim.
Fusilier James Johnston, Service Number 14401888, Died on 15th May 1944 when he was 19 years old.
Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Lionel Kirwan, Service Number 34470, Died on 9th May 1944 when he was 38 years old.
Patrick was serving with Royal Engineers attached to 8th Indian Division and was the holder of the O.B.E.
He was the Son of Major Lionel Edward Kirwan and Evelyn Kirwan and the Husband of Alayne Lindsey Kirwan, of Ballycastle.
Corporal Albert Lyttle, Service Number 7015490, Died on 8th April 1944 when he was 23 years old.Albert was serving with Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and was the holder of the Military Medal.
He was the Husband of Margaret Lyttle, of Portadown, Co. Armagh.
Trooper Archibald Dougal McCall McAvoy, Service Number C/70730, Died on 19th May 1944 when he was serving with 4th Reconnaissance Regiment, 4th Princess Louise Dragoon Guards, R.C.A.C.
Archibald was the Son of Mr. and Mrs. W. J. McAvoy, of Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Serjeant James McLaughlin, Service Number 7903208, Died on 23rd May 1944 when he was 32 years old.James was serving with "C" Squadron, North Irish Horse, Royal Armoured Corps.
He was the Son of Ezeckiel and Elizabeth McLaughlin and Husband of Mary McLaughlin, of Dervock.
Warrant Officer Class II (C.S.M.) Terence McParkland, Service Number 5882353, Died on 30th October 1943 when he was 31 years old.
Terence was serving with 2nd Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment and was the Husband of Margaret McParkland, of Enniskillen.
Serjeant Robert Bowers McWilliams, Service Number 7013179 Died on 30th March 1944.
Lance Corporal Robert Milliken, Service Number 7903287, Died on 23rd May 1944 when he was 24 years old.
He was serving with "A" Sqn. North Irish Horse, Royal Armoured Corps.
Robert was the Son of John and Annie Milliken, of Mosside, Co. Antrim and the Husband of Agnes Milliken, of Mosside.
Major Gilbert William Nangle, Service Number IA/966, Died on 2nd March 1944 when he was 41 years old.He was the Son of Colonel Kenlis E. Nangle, Indian Army, and Sybel B. Nangle, of Portstewart.
Fusilier Michael John O'Donnell, Service Number 7044319, Died on 27th May 1944.
He was serving with1st Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers, and was the Son of Richard and Elizabeth Wilson, of Aughnacloy
Captain Robert Patrick Percival-Maxwell, Service Number 226390, was 20 years old when he died on 5th December 1943.He was serving with10th (The Rangers) Battalion, King's Royal Rifle Corps, attached to 9th Battalion Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Robert was the Son of Major John Robert Perceval-Maxwell and Phoebe Laura Perceval-Maxwell, of Downpatrick.
Lance Corporal James Howard Moore Pryde, Service Number 7903481, was 26 years old when he died on 23rd May 1944.
James was serving with "B" Squadron, North Irish Horse, Royal Armoured Corps and was the Son of Arthur R. M. and Lucie S. Pryde, of Ballymena.
Lance Corporal George Rollins, Service Number 14418439, Died on 15th May 1944 when he was 19 years old.
Private Samuel Shaw, Service Number 2992044, Died on 15th May 1944.
He was 33 years old and serving with 1st Battalion, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders.
Samuel was the Son of Andrew and Margaret Shaw, of Ballymena and Husband of Elizabeth Shaw, of Ballymena.
Trooper Cecil James Frederick Smith, SMITH, Service Number 7902393, Died on 23rd May 1944 when he was 24 years old.Cecil was serving with North Irish Horse, Royal Armoured Corps and was the Son of John Smith, and of Martha Jane Smith of Armagh.
Fusilier Charles Smith, Service Number 6980688, Died on 16th May 1944.
He was serving with 6th Battalion, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers
Charles was the Son of Charles and Mary Smith, of Londonderry.
Corporal Robert Walker, Service Number 6979926, was 22 years old when he died on 12th November 1943.He was serving with 2nd Battalion, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and was the Son of William and Ann J. Walker, of Londonderry.
Corporal John Williams, Service Number 6981913, was 30 years old when he died on 17th May 1944.
He was serving with Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and was the Son of William and Alice Williams and Husband of Annie Williams, of Newtownards.
Naples War Cemetery
Lieutenant Maurice Watt Bell, Service Number 277993, was 28 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers when he was Killed on 24th January 1944.
He was the Son of William and Sarah Bell, of Woodstock Road, Belfast. He had been a Primary School Teacher and was a mean jazz pianist!
Maurice Watt Bell is shown below. (Thanks to Will Leitch)
Lance Serjeant James Gilmour, Service Number 1455996, was killed on 21st October 1943 when serving with 25 Battery, 9 Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery.
He was the Son of James and Matilda Gilmour, of Londonderry.
Corporal James Harris, Service Number 541809, was serving with the Royal Air Force when he was Killed on 15/03/1944. He was aged 32 and the Son of William and Mary Jane Harris and Husband of Emma Harris, of Belfast.
Fusilier George Kennedy, Service Number 7047367, was 25 years old and serving with 1st Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers when he died on 7th July 1944.
He was the Son of James and Ellen Kennedy, of Lisnaskea. Co. Fermanagh.
Serjeant Walter King, Service Number 6977150 was serving with 2nd Battalion, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers when he was Killed on 3rd April 1944.
He was the Son of William and Jeannie King, of Waterside, Londonderry and Nephew of Margaret Alford, of Waterside, Londonderry.
Corporal Robert Lynas, Service Number 530316, was serving with the Royal Air Force when he was killed on 14th May 1945.
He was the Son of James and Margaret Lynas, of Portadown, Co. Armagh, Northern Ireland.
Flying Officer (Pilot) William Church Mann, Service Number 174377, was killed on 23rd November 1944 when he was 22 years old.
He was serving with Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve and the Son of John K. and Nellie Mann, of Castledawson, Co. Londonderry.
Bombardier James Lyle Douglas Mark, Service Number 1466744, was 27 years old when he was Killed on 21st October 1943.
He was serving with 9 Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery and was the Son of John Martin Mark and Jaenie Elizabeth Mark, of Limavady, Co. Londonderry.
Fusilier Samuel Joseph McGaw, Service Number 6983631, was 24 years old when he was Killed on 30th May 1944.
He was serving with 6th Battalion, Royal inniskilling Fusiliers and the Son of Robert and Agnes McGaw, of Ballyward, Co. Down, Northern Ireland.
Corporal David Montgomery, Service Number 7043852, was 22 years old whenhe died on 25th February 1944.
Lance Bombardier William Stewart Peoples, Service Number 1489361, was 28 years old and serving with 25 Battery, 9 Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery when he died on 21st October 1943.
He was the Son of George and Elizabeth Peoples, of Londonderry and Husband of Margaret Kathleen Peoples, of Waterside, Londonderry.
He was the Son of Emily Price, of Belfast.
Serjeant Thomas John Pring, Service Number 3908609, Died on 18th October 1943. He was 27 years old and serving with 44th Reconnaissance Regiment, Reconnaissance Corps, Royal Armoured Corps.
He was the Son of Mr. and Mrs. George Pring and Husband of Kathleen Pring, of Londonderry.
Leading Aircraftman George Wilkinson, Service Number 1504624, Died on 16th October 1945 when he was 25 years old.
He was serving with Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve and was the Son of James and Jane Wilkinson, of Belfast.
Anzio Beach Head Cemetery
Serjeant Frank Louis Baines was 27 years old and serving with 6th Battalion, Cheshire Regiment when he was killed on 28th February 1944. He was from Waringstown.
Private Robert John Brown was 33 years old and serving with 7th Battalion Oxford and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry when he was killed on 16th February 1944. He was from Belfast.
Fusilier Desmond Robert Crozier was 33 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers when he was killed on 20th May 1944. He was from Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh.
Lance Serjeant Robert samuel Crozier held the Military Medal and was 26 years old. He was serving with 252 Field Company, Royal Engineers when he was killed on 24th April 1944. He was from Caledon, County Tyrone.
John James Cunningham was 30 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment when he was from Londonderry and was killed on 13th March 1944.
Captain James Lang Gibson was 24 years old. He was serving with the Royal Army Service Corps and Number 9 Commando and was killed on 4th July 1944. Captain Gibson was from Lisburn.
Fusilier John Graham was serving with 2nd Battalion, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He was 22 years old when he was killed on 2nd May 1944 and was from Garvagh, County Londonderry.
Private William Heyburn was 29 years old and serving with 1st Battalion Kings Shropshire Light Infantry when he was killed on 25th April 1944. He was from Larne, County Antrim.
Fusilier George Johnston was 32 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He was from Lurgan and was killed on 13th April 1944.
Lance Corporal Robert Lyness was 30 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He was killed on 25th April 1944 and was from Lisburn.
Corporal John Anderson Moffit was 21 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He was killed on 2nd May 1944 and was from Aughnacloy, County Tyrone.
Corporal Michael Murphy was 28 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He was from Omagh, County Tyrone and was killed on 10th April 1944.
Private Bernard McCrystal was 46 years old and serving with 79 Company Pioneer Corps. He was from Ballymena and was killed on 2nd April 1944.
Lance Corporal Samuel McFeeters was 22 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He was killed on 15th April 1944 and was from Londonderry.
Fusilier John O'Brien was 21 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He was killed on 15th March 1944 and was from Londonderry.
Rifleman Harold Orr was 20 years old and serving with 1st Battalion Royal Ulster Rifles, The London Irish Rifles. He was killed on 1st March 1944 and was from Belfast.
Fusilier William Alexander Patrick was 27 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He was from Newtownstewart, County Tyrone and was killed on 27th May 1944.
Fusilier John Phillips was also serving with 2nd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and was 33 years old when he was killed on 20th March 1944. He was from Lisburn.
Fusilier James Ramsey was serving with 2nd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He was 22 years old when he was killed on 2nd May 1944 and was from Ballymoney, County Antrim.
Private Norman Roy was 21 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion North Staffordshire Regiment. He was killed on 13th March 1944 and was from Belfast.
Lance Corporal Robert Sprott was serving with 1st Battalion The Loyal Regiment (North Lancashire) He was 23 years old and was killed on 18th February 1944. He was from Belfast.
Fusilier Gordon Turnbull was 20 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He was killed on 2nd May 1944 and was from Kilrea, County Londonderry.
Serjeant James Wylie had won the Distinguished Conduct Medal and was serving with 1st Battalion, Irish Guards.
He was from Belfast and was 37 years old when he was killed on 24th February 1944.
Anzio War Cemetery
There are thirteen Servicemen from Northern Ireland who are buried in the Anzio War Cemetery - All their headstones are shown here.
These three Guardsmen from 1st battalion, Irish Guards were killed on the same day, 30th January 1944 and are buried side by side.
Guardsman John O'Neill was 20 years old and from Belfast.
Lance Corporal William Samuel Johnston was 28 years old and from Ballymoney.
Lance Serjeant Frederick Charles Cartlidge was 23 years old and from Belfast.
Major David Hutcheon was 39 years old and serving with 6th battalion Gordon Highlanders.He was from Castlerock, County Londonderry and was killed on 4th February 1944.
Guardsman Edward Michael Kelly was 32 years old and from Belfast. He was serving with 1st Battalion, Irish Guards and was killed on 30th January 1944.
Private Thomas John Martin was 21 years old and serving with The North Staffordshire Regiment when he was killed on 8th February 1944. He was from Belfast.
Lieutenant Christopher Michael Musgrave was 20 years old and serving with 1st Battalion, Irish Guards. He was the son of Lieutenant -Colonel Sir Christopher Norman Musgrave of the 6th Battalion and Lady Musgrave from Strandtown, Belfast. He was killed on 30th January 1944.
Guardsman William Rawlings was serving with 1st Battalion, Scots Guards. He was 23 years old when he was killed on 11th February 1944. He was from Lisburn.
Private Joseph Edward savage was serving with The Queens Royal Regiment (West Surrey) 2/5th Battalion and was from Belfast. He was killed on 23rd February 1944.
Driver Frank Vallely was 30 years old and serving with the Royal Army Service Corps when he was killed on 7th February 1944. He was from Cladybeg, Mowhan, County Armagh.
Lance Bombardier Alfred Williams was 30 years old and serving with Royal Artillery, 312 Battery, 90 Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment when he was killed on 17th February 1944. He was from Londonderry.
Lance Corporal Walter Willis was 20 years old and serving with Royal Ulster Rifles, 1st Battalion, The London Irish Rifles. He was killed on 6th February 1944 and was from Belfast.
Lance Corporal Andrew Woods was 34 years old and serving with 1st Battalion, Irish Guards. He was from Tempo, County Fermanagh and was also killed on 6th February 1944.
Rome War Cemetery
Guardsman John James Duffy was serving with 1st Battalion Irish Guards and was 29 years old when he was killed on 8th February 1944. He was from Monea, County Fermanagh.
Guardsman Robert John Frazer was serving with 3rd Battalion Welsh Guards when he was killed on 22nd May 1945. He was from Belfast.
Gunner Bernard Ignatius McSperitt was 28 years old. He was serving with Royal Artillery attached to 4th Battalion, Parachute Regiment, Army Air Corps and was killed on 2nd March 1945. He was from Belfast.
Aircraftsman 1st Class George Douglas Nethery was 23 years old and serving with Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He was killed on 28th June 1944.
He was from Drumquin, County Tyrone.
Lance Serjeant Frederick James Wray was 21 years old and serving with the North Staffordshire Regiment.
He was killed on 8th February 1944 and was from Waterside, Londonderry.
Hamburg - Commonwealth War Graves within Ohlsdorf Cemetery
Shown here are the headstones of 14 Servicemen from Northern Ireland who are buried in the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Plot within Ohlsdorf Cemetery in Hamburg, Germany.
Sergeant William Yarr Alderdice was a member of the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve and was serving in Bomber Command with 408 Royal Canadian Air Force Squadron which is known as "Goose Squadron"
On 28th April 1942 he was a Wireless Operator / Air Gunner in Hadley Page Hampden Bomber AE 426 which had flown from R.A.F. Balderton on a Mission to Keil, Germany.
At some stage during the mission this aircraft was shot down.
Sergeant Alderdice was the Son of George and Mary Alderdice from Belfast.
Private William Joseph Cushnie was serving in the Pioneer Corps . He was the Husband of Isabella Cushnie and the Son of Mr and Mrs William Cushnie from The Maze near Lisburn.
G.S. Davies (Unfortunately I cannot find the name of this Soldier) was a member of 2nd Battalion, The Rifle Brigade. He was the Son of William Charles and Kate Davies and the Husband of Mary A. Davies. He was from Banbridge.
Ronald Edgar Gilfillan was a Leading Aircraftsman with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve and the Son of William and Mary Gilfillan.
He was from Crindle in County Londonderry and is shown in the two pictures above. (My sincere thanks goes to Matt Gilfillan for the photographs)
Lance Corporal Mark Harrigan served with 279 General Transport Company of the Royal Army Service Corps. He was the Son of William and Bridget Harrigan and the Husband of Mary. He was from Londonderry.
Sergeant Samuel Hugh Albert Jess was a Wireless Operator / Air Gunner in an Armstrong Whitworth Whitley Bomber of 102 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
The aircraft he was flying in, T4273, took off from R.A.F. Topcliffe and was shot down by FLAK at Kampstrasse, Hamburg.
Whilst visiting Hamburg I photographed one of the huge FLAK Towers which remain in the City and indeed the one shown here is on Feldstrasse being only 2 streets from where the Aircraft in which Sergeant Jess was flying crashed after being struck by FLAK.
This Bundesarchiv picture shows the same FLAK Tower that I have photographed below, as it looked in 1945.
This picture shows Sergeant Jess buried with other members of his Crew - Pilot A.C. Elliott, Pilot A.L.R. Cook, Observer J.M. Oxley and Wireless operator / Air Gunner N.R. Skinner.
Sergeant Jess was the Son of James and Ellen Jess and was from Killyleagh. (Some of this information from Worldnavalships.com)
Flight Sergeant Isaac Kennedy was a Wireless Operator / Air Gunner in Vickers Wellington Bomber BJ711 of Bomber Command 142 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
His aircraft took off from R.A.F. Waltham but failed to return. It is believed that the aircraft was a likely victim of FLAK (Aviationarcheology.org.uk)
Isaac, who is shown above, was the Son of Robert and Margaret Kennedy from Ahoghill.
(Many thanks to Mildred Logan for the photograph of Isaac shown below)
Lance Corporal William John Laird was serving with the 2nd Battalion, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders when he died on 24th August 1945.
He was the Son of William and Margaret Laird from Galliagh, Londonderry.
Private Henry James Nixon was serving with 53 Company, Pioneer Corps.
He was the Son of James and Sarah Jane Nixon from Belfast.
Sergeant Daniel Patrick McAleese, who is pictured here, was serving in Bomber Command with 149 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
He was a Flight Engineer on Short Stirling R9253 QJ-C which took off at 16.35 on 8th December 1942 from R.A.F. Lakenheath being flown by Flying Officer Laurence Theodore Izzard of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
The force consisted of 80 aircraft from 1, 3 and 4 Groups Royal Air Force Bomber Command and was taking part in Mine Laying sorties to the German and Danish coast.
Sergeant McAleese's aircraft went to the Jasmine Region off the coast of Travemunde near Lubeck, Germany and crashed onto mudflats in the Westermarsch district of Lower Saxony with the loss of all on board. A total of 5 Bombers were lost on this Mission.
Sergeant McAleese was the Son of Daniel and Mary E. McAleese of Scarva.
(Photograph of Sergeant McAleese is from Poyntzpass History Society)
Sapper Robert Peters of the Royal Engineers was the Son of Robert and Agnes Peters from Broughshane.
Sergeant Frederick Livingston Roleston was a Wireless Operator / Air Gunner on a Short Stirling Aircraft of 218 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
His Stirling Bomber HA-Q, number N3762 flew from R.A.F. Downham Market with eight other aircraft on a Raid to Bomb a Submarine Yard at Herrenwyk, Lubeck.
During the flight this aircraft was hit by FLAK and crashed in a field at Hubertus, Hamburg. (Pictures from I.McFarland)
Sergeant Roleston was the Son of Frederick Thomas and sarah Louisa Roleston from Benburb. (Some information from Hendersongoodwinfamilytree.weebly.com)
Pilot Officer Wallace Robert Smyth was a Navigator on Bomber Command Lancaster ED616 of 57 Squadron, Royal Air Force. He took off from R.A.F. Scampton at 23.25 on 29th July 1943 on a Mission to Hamburg. and was shot down by FLAK crashing North of Hamburg at Fuhlsbuttel. All of the crew, including the Pilot G.A.N. Parker were killed.
Pilot Officer Smyth was from Holywood.
Commissioner Samuel Black Underwood of the Control Commission (B.E.) died on 1st June 1946.
He was the Son of Sam and Mary from Belfast.
Poznan Old Garrison Cemetery, Poland
Sergeant (Air Gunner) Thomas Dick, Service Number 1798176, was 19 years old and serving with 12 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve.
He was the Son of Adam and Annie Dick of Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim.
Thomas was aboard Avro Lancaster PD273 which took off from R.A.F. Wickenby for a raid on Stettin, Poland on the night of 29 / 30 August 1944.
This descriprion of what happened is from Survivor, Sergeant A. Madelaine Flight Engineer, and can be seen on the excellent carrickfergusrollofhonour.blogspot.com
"Approaching the target we were told to descend below the cloud layer by the Master Bomber and we started our nun at 10,000’. The flak was extremely heavy and we had to turn away to avoid debris from a Lancaster that exploded alongside us.
Suddenly the mid upper gunner reported a fire beneath him and I started to don a portable oxygen bottle in preparation for going down the fuselage to help douse the fire. The navigator passed me on the way to the bomb aimers compartment breaking my intercom, connection. Looking down the fuselage all I could see was a white glow and a thick white vapour. Out of this came the wireless operator wearing his parachute, he stopped me from entering the fuselage to attend to the fire and indicated that I should join him in the bomb aimers compartment. The pilot then indicated that I should leave, I left, noting that all the engine were still running.
I saw the wireless operator leave the aircraft and immediately open his chute which reminded me to open mine. Smoke was rising to 10,000’ and I was falling in the target area and worried about landing in a fire."Thomas is buried along with his fellow Crew member, Sergeant (Air Gunner) Thomas Brian Dufty, Service Number 1852960.
Sergeant (Flight Engineer) Charles Malachi Murray, Service Number 535937, was 27 years old and the Son of Patrick and Emily Murray from Acton, Co. Armagh.
He was serving with 166 Squadron, Royal Air Force and on the night of 29th / 30th August 1944 he was aboard Avro Lancaster 1, PD261, AS-S as Flight Engineer when the aircraft left R.A.F. Kirmington, Lincolnshire on a mision to Stettin, Germany.
402 Lancaster Bombers took part in this raid of which 23 were lost including AS-S which is believed to have been shot down by a German Night Fighter with the loss of all on board. Sergeant Murray is buried together with the rest of the Crew in Poznan Old Garrison Cemetery, Poland.
Krakow C.W.G.C. Cemetery
On 16th October 1944 at 4:30 AM B-24 Liberator bomber KH-152 F of 34 Squadron South Africa Air Force took off from the Celone airfield near Brindisi in the southern Italy on a Mission to drop supplies the Polish Home Army.
The crew consisted of Lieutenant J. A. Lithgow, Pilot (SAAF), Lieutenant K. B. Mac William, co-pilot, (SAAF) Lieutenant E. Colbert, Observer, (SAAF) Lieutenant G. C. Dicks, Air Gunner (SAAF), Lieutenant S. I. Fourie, Air Gunner, (SAAF) Sergeant T. Myers, Bomb Aimer, (RAF), Sergeant G. F. Ellis, Air Gunner, (RAF) and Sergeant W. F. Cowan, Air Gunner, (RAF)
At 8:30 AM the aircraft was approaching the Wisła River between Kraków and Tarnów, when it was shot down by a German night fighter piloted by Oberfeldwebel Karl Maisch from the 2. NJG 100 who had taken off from Udefeld airfield. (Which I believe is now Katowice Airport).
The Liberator crashed to the east of Krakow near Szczucin.
Five members of the Crew were killed.
Sergeant William Francis COWAN was 31 years old and from Belfast. His body was found by the Polish Resistance in the land of Kazimierz Lachut in Brzezowka where he was buried afterwards before subsequently being moved to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery in Krakow.
(The information above comes from the excellent 12oclockhigh.net Forum.)
Berlin War Cemetery
I have identified 19 Servicemen from Northern Ireland who are buried in the Commonwealth War Graves Commission 1939 - 1945 War Cemetery in Berlin and during a visit I have photographed all their Headstones which are shown here.
Serjeant John James Caves was serving with the Glider Pilot Regiment, Army Air Corps. He was the Son of Jack and Ann Caves from Lisburn.
Private Percy James Edwards was serving with 1st battalion The Welch Regiment and was Husband of Winnifred Edwards from Belfast.
Serving with the New Zealand Infantry was John Gilmore whose parents John and Margaret were from Belfast.
Corporal Desmond Mary Grant was from Toomebridge and the Son of James and Ellen Grant. He was serving with the Royal Air Force. Desmond had been taken Prisoner of War on 24th May 1941 in Crete and following his death he was initially buried in the Military Cemetery (Garnisonfriedhof) at Doberitz, Berlin in the section of the cemetery reserved for prisoners of war.
In 1948 his remains were removed from this cemetery and reinterred at the British Military Cemetery, Berlin. (Thanks very much to Eileen McKay for this information about her Uncle)
Private Thomas Hancock was the Husband of Kathleen Hancock from Belfast. He was serving with The Welch Regiment.
Pilot Officer John Graham McComb was in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve and a Pilot with 9 Squadron. He was the son of Samuel and Elizabeth McComb from Belfast.
Pilot Officer David Whiteside McConnell D.F.C. was serving with 101 Squadron R.A.F. and was the Son of David and Ruby McConnell from Newry.
Sergeant Andrew Leslie McConnell was a Wireless operator / Air Gunner serving with 463 Squadron Royal Australian Air Force.
Sergeant John Ritchie McDowell was a Flight Engineer serving with 101 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
He was the Son of John and Mary Ann McDowell from Hillsborough.
Sergeant Robert McKeag was an Air Gunner serving with 50 Squadron. R.A.F. and was the Son of Robert and Agnes McKeag from Belfast.
On the left is another photograph of Sergeant Robert McKeag's Headstone as it looked after a visit from his relatives.
Below is the letter sent to his family following his death along with his Air Gunner insignia, Sergeant chevrons and three medals.
The three medals are, from left to right the 1939 - 1945 Star, The Air Crew Europe Star and the 1939 - 1945 War Medal.
(I wish to thank Sharon Kerridge for her considerable assistance with this photograph)
Sergeant Robert Charles McLaren was from Sixmilecross, County Tyrone. He was serving in the Royal Air Force with 626 Squadron as a Navigator and was the Son of Thomas and Emma McLaren.
Pilot Officer James Stirling Moore was serving as a Navigator with 78 Squadron R.A.F.
He was the Son of Thomas and Miriam Moore from Belfast.
For more information about the shooting down of the aircraft in which Pilot Officer Moore was flying please visit http://www.78sqdnhalifax.me.uk/acclast.htm
(Thank-you very much to Fiona Moore for providing this photograph and link)
The Memorial shown above to Walter Leonard Sargent can be found in Rostrevor Church of Ireland. (Thanks to Christine Tyrrell)
Sergeant Walter Leonard Sargent was serving as an Air Bomber with 103 Squadron, Royal Air Force. He was the Son of Mr and Mrs Leonard Sargent from Rostrevor, County Down and it is worthy of note that his home town is referred to on his Headstone.
Flight Sergeant Gerald Eagleson Scott was a Wireless Operator / Air Gunner with 514 Squadron, Royal Air Force. He was the Son of David and Elizabeth Scott from Belfast.
Gerald Eagleson Scott joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve in 1939 and on completion of training he served as a Flight Sergeant / Rear Gunner on an Avro Lancaster which was a particularly hazardous position.
The mission was to be the last major raid on Berlin. It was scheduled for the night of 21st/22nd March 1944 however was postponed until 24th March 1944.
Gerry Scott is shown on the right of the photograph immediately below with a fellow Airman.
Gerry and his Best Friend, Flight Sergeant R.B. McAllister (From Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada) were enjoying a well earned Leave following the completion of their requisite number of missions and Gerry was in Belfast when he was recalled to Duty.
The two friends were assigned to Lancaster L.L. 625-C with 514 Squadron based at Waterbeach in Cambridgeshire.
The mission consisted of a total force of 811 aircraft with 577 being Lancasters, 216 Halifaxes and 18 Mosquitos.
There were 72 aircraft lost of which 44 were Lancasters and 28 Halifaxes.
The Lancaster in which Gerry was flying crashed on the return journey from the Raid. The cause of the crash is unknown.
It crashed near Worlitz which is a small town South of the River Elbe and East Northeast of Dressau.
All of the crew were killed except for one survivor – Gerry’s best friend, Ron McAllister who is shown here.
Gerry was posthumously awarded Defence Medal, 1939-1945 War Medal, Air Crew Europe Star and 1939 – 1945 Star.
The Aircrew are Flying Officer J.R. Laing, Sergeant P.C.K. Bennett, Sergeant A. Vickers, Flight Sergeant J. Knights, Flight Sergeant G.E.Scott, Flight Sergeant R.B. McAllister (R.C.A.F. Prisoner of War) and Sergeant C.A. Salt.
Gerry’s name is inscribed on the War Memorial in Ballynahinch Town Square.
(Thanks very much to Nuala Scott for the information and photographs of her Great Uncle Gerald Eagleson Scott.)
Sergeant Peter Tristan Smith was a Navigator with 61 Squadron, Royal Air Force. He was the Son of Leonard and Lilian Smith from Bangor, County Down.
Sergeant Edward John Wright was a Wireless Operator / Air Gunner serving with 15 Squadron R.A.F. and the Son of James and Mabel Wright from Belfast.
Private John Johnston was serving with the Royal Army Service Corps. He was the Husband of Mary and had a Daughter Sadie. From Belfast.
Bombardier Thomas McCutcheon was serving with 5 Battery, 2 Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery.
He was the Son of William and Margaret McCutcheon from Bangor, County Down.
Hermanville Cemetery, Normandy
This is the Entrance to the Cemetery which has the British 3rd Infantry Division Unit Insignia on the ground.
Rifleman Patrick Mullen was from Rosslea in County Fermanagh and served in A Company and was killed by a shrapnel wound to the head at "Farm Gazelle"
Rifleman Cecil Wilson was from Lurgan and was wounded by shrapnel on 9th June at Cambes. He died on 24th June.
Other Men from Northern Ireland who are Buried at Hermanville are
William Griffin who was from Derrygonnelly, County Fermanagh and serving with 2nd Battalion, Irish Guards
Corporal Eric Boyd, from Rosevale Street, Belfast who was serving in an Anti-Tank Platoon of Support Company 2nd Battalion Royal Ulster Rifles.He had been wounded in the legs by shrapnel at Cambes on 9th June 1944 when his Bren Gun Carrier was struck by shellfire.Boyd received treatment and had a leg amputated however he died the following day from his wounds.
Bayeux Cemetery, Normandy
Captain Reginald Norman Morgan was serving with the 1st (Airborne) Battalion, Royal Ulster Rifles when he was Killed in Action near Ste Honorine.
He had been listed as "Missing in Action" on 7th June 1944 and his body was found on the 11th June 1944.
Able Seaman James Crawford Clarke, Service Number D/JX 367926 Died on 3rd July 1944.
He was 20 years old and based at H.M.S. Copra. which was a Royal Navy shore establishment.
Son of James Crawford Clarke and Emily Martha Clarke, of Belfast.
Serjeant David Hugh Kerrigan, Service Number 5250370, was 31 years old and serving with 1st Battalion Worcestershire Regiment when he died on 26th August 1944.
David was the Son of John and E. Kerrigan, of Fivemiletown, Co. Tyrone.
Flying Officer (Pilot) William Robert King, Service Number 117500, was serving with Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He was with 181 Squadron when he was killed on 25th October 1943.
William was the Son of William Robert and Martha King, of Newry.
Lance Corporal John Henry McAreavey, Service Number 13031810, was 44 years old and serving with 806 Company Pioneer Corps.
He died on 16th June 1944.
John was the Son of John and Sarah McAreavey and Husband of Kathleen McAreavey, of Belfast.
Private Thomas Moreland McBride, Service Number 2197555, was 19 years old when he died on 14th March 1940. He had been serving with 109 Company, Aux. Mil.
Pioneer Corps.
Thomas was the Son of William John and Rachel Mary McBride, of Downpatrick, Co. Down.
Sapper Charles McDowell, Service Number 2199774, was 40 years old and serving with 1049 Port Operating Company, Royal Engineers when he died on 27th August 1944.Charles was the Son of Charles and Sarah Jane McDowell, of Londonderry and Husband of Sarah McDowell, of Londonderry.
Captain Reginald Norman Morgan, Service Number 176458, was 31 years old when he died on 7th June 1944.
Reginald was serving with 1st (Airborne) Battalion, Royal Ulster Rifles and was the Son of Richard and Emily Morgan, of Belfast.
Serjeant William Charles Morris, Service Number 7011150, was serving with 2nd Battalion Royal Ulster Rifles.William was the Son of William and Mary Morris of Belfast.
Guardsman James Patrick Joseph O'Hanlon, Service Number 2723994, was 23 years old and serving with 3rd Battalion Irish Guards when he died on 24th July 1944.
James was the Son of Patrick and Mary Anne O'Hanlon and Husband of Kathleen O'Hanlon, of Bessbrook, Co. Armagh.
Frank was the Son of John Francis and Ellen Osterfield and Husband of Mary Osterfield, of Belfast.
Serjeant Edward Eli Reynolds, Service Number 3907378, was 33 years old and serving with 2nd Battalion South Wales Borderers when he died on 6th june 1944.
Edward was the Husband of Elizabeth Reynolds, of Waterside, Londonderry.
William was the Son of Thomas and Isabella Rowe, of Lisnaskea, Co. Fermanagh.
When I visited this Cemetery I did not have a List of the Northern Ireland Servicemen who are laid to rest there with me however these men are listed below.
Albert Edward Berry, From Downpatrick, 4th Royal Welsh Fusiliers.
Robert Black, From Coleraine, B Squadron, 61st Regiment, Reconnaissance Corps, Royal Armoured Corps
John Casselles Browne, From Glengormley, 6th Durham Light Infantry
William Gibson, From Belfast, 1st battalion, Dorsetshire Regiment
James Hanna, From Larne, Air Gunner with 630 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
William Harper, From Ballycastle, 2/6th Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment
Thomas Ireland, From Belfast, Driver with 282 general Transport Company, Royal Army Service Corps
Hugh Francis Kelly, from Belfast, 2nd Battalion, Royal Ulster Rifles
William Alexander Millar, From Belfast, Sergeant Pilot Royal Air Force
William Moore, From Newtownstewart, Rifleman with 9th Cameronians, Scottish Rifles
Joseph McCusker, From Brookeborough, 211 Field Ambulance, Royal Army Medical Corps
William McWilliams, From Derryharney, County Fermanagh, 119 Battery, 75 Anti-Tank Regiment, Royal Artillery
Arthur Potts, rom Lisburn, Guradsman with 3rd Battalion, Irish Guards
John Alexander Smith, From Londonderry, Royal Marine with 41 Commando
John Thomas Snape, From Banbridge, 1st Hampshire Regiment
Andrew McNeilly Wright, Master of SS Eskwood.
Guardsman William Abraham Simpson from Portadown
Guardsman William Alexander Simpson was serving with 3rd Battalion, Irish Guards.
He was Killed during the advance towards Arnhem on 7th September 1944 along with a number of fellow Guardsmen and around 100 Soldiers from other Regiments.
He is buried in the Cemetery at Geel which is East of Antwerp and Southwest of Eindhoven.
William was the Son of William and Deborah Simpson from Portadown.
(Thanks very much to Michael Fisher for this)
*****PLEASE REMEMBER EVERY ONE OF THESE MEN WAS A VOLUNTEER! *****