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| Name: |
R |
| Location: |
Oxford |
| Email: |
rubybolt123@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I’m looking for a Joe (Joseph) Woodley. He was a prisoner of Japan and escaped during the war. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Julie, to add to the useful information supplied by John, he was in Changi Singapore prior to 27/10/1942 when he entrained in Party "V" for Siam and Chunkai. This train had 650 men and the vast majority were 227 of Manchester Regiment and 234 of Gordon Highlanders. I believe that the 259km camp was probably called Kurikonta (close to Konkoita) , but usually just called 259 camp. I can see a few articles referring to "Sh*t Creek" but not once does anyone confirm another name. One POW clarifies that (thankfully) it is called that due to thick sticky mud they had to work in. The Camp Leaders were : Lt. Col. John Rowley Williamson, 2 Indian Heavy Anti Aircraft R.A., awarded DSO for POW leadership in 1946. Lt. Col. George Edward Swinton , Battalion Commander East Surrey Regiment. Major John Edward Dobbs, Middlesex REgiment.
Lt. Col. James Dow Sainter, 1st Punjab Regiment Indian Army. |
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| Name: |
Julie Johnson-Hill |
| Location: |
Newark, Nottinghamshire |
| Email: |
eledanjos12@outlook.com |
| Comments: |
John, that"s really valuable information, thank you so much. I wonder if you or anyone else is able to explain the time gap between his capture in February 1942 and the first camp of Chungkai listed on his liberated pow questionnaire with the dates October 1942 to August 1943? |
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| Name: |
John |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Two of his commanding officers, Swinton and Dobbs had camps named after themselves on the TBR at about the 250km point on the railway. The 250km relates to the distance from the start of the railway in Thailand towards the destination in Burma. 250kms was close to the joining point at Konkoita (262km). This was where the line built from the Thailand end joined the line built from the Burma end in October 1943. Kenneth was attached to work group 2 on the railway and must have worked in this area. |
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| Name: |
Julie Johnson-Hill |
| Location: |
Newark, Nottinghamshires |
| Email: |
eledanjos12@outlook.com |
| Comments: |
I"m looking for information about Lieutenant Kenneth Lucas Branston of 1st Manchester (number 103254), captured Singapore 15th Feb 1942. I have found his Japanese index card and liberated POW questionnaire so I do have some information and I have tried to make sense of the dates and places he listed he was imprisoned from capture to liberation. There are some gaps in the dates which it would be good to understand, even if they cannot be filled. Also, the only commanding officer he had which I have found out more about is the famous Lt. Col Toosey - the others are a mystery to me. Can anyone explain 259km please and -sorry about this - Shit Creek. Thanks in advance. |
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| Name: |
Naomi |
| Location: |
Leeds |
| Email: |
trynot4get@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike.
Thank you so much for the reply. Iv been ill for a long while and did not know I had this reply from you. Yea please any documents would be very helpful. Thank you so much
Original message from you
Hi Naomi, re William Henry Othick. I had difficulty tracking much information on him but hopefully these few facts might help to investigate further. His service number is 7637629 and he was a private in the R.A.O.C. , Royal Army Ordnance Corps. His service number belongs to the RAOC so he must have enlisted with them and you then take your number with you wherever you go, so I cannot see any connection to the Yorkshire Regiment. There may be a possibility he was RAOC attached to Yorkshire Rgt. at one time. However, at the time of being captured on 19.02.1942 he was RAOC attached to the 137th Field Regiment. He appears in records as belonging to 137LAD, which is 137 Field Regiment Light Aid Detachment. He was captured at Banka Island, South Sumatra, and although I have no documented proof, this suggests he was probably on an escape ship from Singapore as the 137th never were in action in Sumatra. William was held at four camps , Mulo School, Chunghwa School Sungei Ron and No.2 camp Palembang. There are documents to show him at camps, and eventually liberated from Sumatra. It is clear he was never in Japan but certainly a prisoner of Japan. Singapore and Sumatra were known as Malaya during the war. I can email a few wartime documents showing his name if required. |
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| Comments: |
Maryann. What "more" information are you looking for. The sea journey home or the war history of 1942/45? If its the war story please tell us all that you already know to save duplications and much time. What was his regiment or squadron, what was his service number etc etc etc. |
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| Name: |
maryann williamson |
| Location: |
Glasgow scotland |
| Email: |
maryastevenson11@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Not sure if anyone will be able to give any more info.Looking for more information on my father John Williamson
He was on USS Admiral Hughes sailed for Vancouver 24th September 1945
Passenger no 1194. |
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| Name: |
Jacquelyn Frith |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
info@Suezmaru.com |
| Comments: |
Hello all,
I run a FB page and website for the families
of the FEPOWs who were killed on the
Suez Maru. My great uncle was aboard.
We build a memorial at the NMA in 2013,
and I wrote a book about it, and campaign for
recognition of these 550 men.
We have a research project where we are
actively searching for "Suez Maru families",
as many were not told of the facts of the case.
So many are unaware of the fate of their loved ones.
The reason for the message is to raise awareness
of this war crime on 29 November 1943,
to seek families and to seek researchers.
Please contact me for any further, and thank you for
the opportunity to message your group.
Jacquelyn
info@suezmaru.com
www.facebook.com/suezmaru
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| Name: |
Rhiannon |
| Location: |
South west |
| Email: |
rhi_ray@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Ref: Corp William Gray and Donald duck. Hi I have been researching into my family in Scotland and came across a book called aberdeen at war. Inside the book my grandma has written about Corp W. Gray as he was my grandma"s uncle. She write about Donald as well and how she used to knock her beak against the back door of her grandmother"s (my great great grandmothers)house to get a ration of beer and have the run of the house. The famous picture of William and Donald also contain his mother on the left of him and his sister on the right, my grandma at 8 years old still remembered the picture being taking. She doesn"t know very much about his time as a POW and I wondered what other information was available about his time in the Gordon Highlander"s. Thank you. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
24.06.2024 |
| Comments: |
Hi Louis. A photo and enlistment was sent on Friday 21.06.24 |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
23.06.2024 |
| Comments: |
Phil. re George Thomas Hillier no 1110022. I cannot find anything relating to him. All I can tell you is he enlisted with the Royal Artillery as that number belongs to them. He may have transferred and taken the number with him. I dont believe he was taken prisoner in 1941/ early 1942 with with the thousands of other allied troops. I have even checked the membership of the Burma Star Association from post war. I would suggest you now go down the route of the Chindits in Burma. See this site https://www.chinditslongcloth1943.com/ |
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| Name: |
Louis Brown |
| Location: |
Fife, Scotland |
| Email: |
louishflb@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
RE: Alexander Sinclair. Hi Mike thanks so much for your message it was really eye opening, thank you for the useful information, a photo would be great
My email is: louishflb@gmail.com, thanks again, Louis |
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| Name: |
Phil Cottam |
| Location: |
Callington Cornwall |
| Email: |
cottamphil@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello Mike, my sincere apologies I had made a mistake and copied information about my uncle george incorrectly. He was George Thomas Hillier no 1110022 born in 29th October 1911 and served in Burma and became a prisoner of the japanese. If you are still able to help I would be most grateful. Thanks Phil
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
19.06.2024 |
| Comments: |
Hi Louis. re Alexander Sinclair. He may have been a train driver in Scotland but he became a sheep shearer. He had joined the Australian 2/21 Battalion in June 1940 at Melbourne. He stated he was single, and lived at Birchip, north east of Melbourne. His service number was VX25223. He embarked for Ambon on 13/12/1941 referred to as Gull Force. He was taken prisoner on Ambon and later died there of dysentery. His death certificate was sent to Miss Margaret Sinclair in Caithness, who duly signed for it, and posted back to Melbourne. There is a photo of him if you would like it emailed. |
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| Name: |
Louis Brown |
| Location: |
Fife, Scotland |
| Email: |
louishflb@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi there Phil I was wondering if you be able to help,
I’m currently doing some digging into our family tree, My late grandmothers father abandoned her and his family when they where very young, so not much is know about him or his side of the family, however after receiving a hint in ancestry.com that lines up with our family timeline we now believe he died in Indonesia in 1944, this has led me to believe that he was a POW of the Japanese, his Name is Alexander Sinclair, Engine Driver, Died 6th November 1944, Born 12th December 1904 Caithness Scotland, hope you’ll be able to help! |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
18.06.2024 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Phil. re Rifleman George Hillier. After spending time searching POW files for George, did you truly not know that he died on 30th March 1942, or did you just forget to inform us? George was definitely with the 1st Cameronians having arrived from India in February 42. I believe he died with 35 of his regiment over two days at the Battle of Paungde, The Japanese immediate objectives were to take the Yenangyuang oilfields, located in the Irrawaddy River valley, 250 miles north of Rangoon. The action around Paungde was fierce and lasted two day; Allied casualties were high. 1st Gloucestershire Regiment, 2nd Duke of Wellington"s, 1st West Yorkshire Regiment (Prince of Wales Own), all took heavy losses. Unfortunately, I very much doubt that the Japanese would have taken any prisoners at this time. There are now 27,000 men without graves, remembered on columns at the TAUKKYAN WAR CEMETERY in Myanmar. |
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| Name: |
Phil Cottam |
| Location: |
Callington Cornwall |
| Email: |
cottamphil@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My Uncle George Hillier no 3244603 was I believe
with the cameronians and served in Burma from 1942, I am told by family relatives that he was wounded and taken prisoner by the japanese but cannot find anything further, can you help me with my understanding |
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| Name: |
John Rush |
| Location: |
Wales |
| Comments: |
Thank you so much Mike! Your research and insight really means a lot. Much appreciated.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
10/06/2024 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Anthony. Re your grandfather Gunner David Callaghan. There seems to be very little I can add that you are not aware of already. He arrived in Batavia on the Warwick Castle. He was a member of 239 Battery/77 Heavy Anti Aircraft (77HAA). I have come across his service number as 1459945 several times. He sailed from Java on the Roko Maru as part of Java Party 13 to Singapore. He is listed as being in Changi in the liberation files of 5th September 1945. If you are intending to visit Thailand, I would contact the TBRC for his camp detail. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
09/06/1924 |
| Comments: |
Hi John (Rush). Your uncle Gunner Patrick Rush was with the 85th Anti Tank Regiment. He was captured by the Japanese on 17th March 1942 on Sumatra. The 85th were never based on Sumatra so this must mean he made his escape from Singapore prior to the capitulation of 15 Feb 1942, and had remained free for a further month. The POWs on Sumatra formed themselves into what they called The British Sumatra Battalion. On 15/05/42 they were taken to the port of Belawain where they boarded the cargo ship England Maru, joined a convoy which contained Australians, and sailed for Mergui in Burma. They were enslaved to enlarge an aerodrome here. A couple of months later on 10/08/42 they sailed to Tavoy where aerodrome work was also done before sailing to Moulmein. A train now took them to Thanbyuzayat and camp Hlepauk, the Burma end of the Burma/Siam Railroad of Death. For the next 18 months the men worked in many locations on the railroad and continuously moved from camp to camp. Patrick states he was at Tamarkan from March 1944 to October, but thereafter I cannot trace his story. I believe his Index card states he was liberated into the safeguarding of Lt. Col. Eachern at Bangkok on 04/0901945. Unless there were medical problems, he would have probably sailed home from Rangoon. |
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| Name: |
Stacey |
| Email: |
Staceymcquade89@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, trying to find out information about my grandfather who was pow in Singapore. His name was James McLaughlin d.o.b 14.02.1920 gunner 88th field regiment royal artillery service number 1464674. He survived but all he ever mentioned to us was burma railway any information would be appreciated thank you. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
04.06.2024 |
| Comments: |
Hi Julie. re Signalman Herbert Ernest Watts. I have not been able to source much information about him, but hope this may fill in a few gaps. He enlisted at the age of 35 in 1941, and was married to Minerva Mabel Watts , living at Yeppoon. He embarked at Sydney on 29.07.1941 on H.M.T.-FF, which was the Johan Van Oldenbarnevelt. This arrived Singapore on 15.08.1941, and I believe the battalion were kept around Johore. After the Singapore surrender on 15.02.1942 I do not have the information of what part of Changi he was imprisoned. On 18.03.1943 he was entrained for the Burma/Siam Railroad as part of "D Force" and the POWs would have slaved around the camps at Tarsao, Hintock, Konyu and Kinsayok. After liberation and return to Australia, I believe he was admitted to the 102 Australian General Hospital at Ekibin, Brisbane. |
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| Name: |
Anthony |
| Location: |
South Wales, UK |
| Comments: |
Hi There, I"m visiting the far east later this year and with it being 80 years since my grandfather was held as a POW in various locations.
As far as I can tell he spent a year in java, then onto Singapore for a few months amd onto thailand, i"d really like to know where he ended up...
I"d appreciate your help if you possibly can help thst would be really appreciated...
My grandfather was a welsh soldier from senghenydd in south Wales, a gunner In The Royal Artillery,
I have 2 slightly different service numbers from 2 different sources, not sure which is correct..
David Callaghan
Service number is either 1439945... or .... 1459945 |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 02.06.2024 |
| Comments: |
Hi Heather (Cook). Your Dad must have been one of the few men of the Welch Regiment in Malai in 1941/2. I imagine he had been seconded/transferred as he was actually with the 12.1. Infantry Brigade, rank of sergeant or sergeant major, making this a difficult story to follow and trace, as the Welch are not listed as being in the countries attacked by Japan. He was captured at Klang City, Selangor, a province of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on 18.02.1942 and imprisoned in Kuala Lumpur Jail. I believe he was sent directly to the Burma/Siam Railroad on 14.10.1942 and joined the workforce of Group 1 (sometimes referred to as being in Thailand Camp 1). Group 1 were enslaved at the camps between Non Pladuk and Tamarkan, but I do not have details of his camp movements. From what I have seen there does not appear any evidence that he was ever in Changi. On 30.08.1945 it is recorded on his Japanese Index Card as "Bangkok, handed over to representatives of the United Nations". I have a few documents showing his name that I could send if you want them, although some are extremely feint as wartime documents produced in POW camps. |
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| Name: |
John Rush |
| Location: |
Wales |
| Email: |
suzie.rush@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, I am looking for information about my uncle Patrick Rush who was a POW in Burma from February 1942 until the end of the war. His army number was 4193827 and his date of birth, 10/6/1919. Any information would be very much appreciated. |
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| Name: |
Gillian Walsh |
| Location: |
Northwich Cheshire |
| Email: |
john195550@aol.com |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find any information on Malcolm Harper who was in the Royal Air Force and a Japanese Prisoner of War. Malcolm was from Northwich in Cheshire. Thank you for any help |
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| Name: |
Julie Deaves |
| Location: |
Canberra |
| Email: |
deaves1954@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am trying to find more information about my maternal Grandmother"s brother,
Herbert Ernest Watts, QX20432, 2/20 Inf Bn. I was told years ago he was a POW in Changi, however
I am unsure if he spent all his time there or elsewhere. He survived the war and I remember
him visiting when I was a child and I always thought he was unmarried. His wartime has affected
him greatly & he had left his family. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
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| Name: |
Deanna Wicks |
| Location: |
Reading |
| Email: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you Mike for your prompt answer I have found a few no 5 camps port dicson kinsai,yako,nakong yakong,though dates,don"t seem to match apart from making which is 1945,the others 1943 and 1944,the camps coming under .Thailand and Malaya,.Making seems to far away a days travel.I know he was in Singapore hospitals in 1945 feb .I presume kranji as it transferred there in 1944,Harry Reeves isn"t my dad.m,but my friend Pauls.lategrandfathr.Harry in the hosp was with mostly Dutch fepows andhe came home on thrOranje.I believe his last camp was Sime rd thank you again |
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| Name: |
Heather Cook |
| Location: |
Gloucester UK |
| Email: |
heathercook@blueyonder.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi I’m trying to find out more information on my dad Frank William Gibson of the Welch Regime
Who was captured in Singapore . I always thought he was sent to Changi
but not sure. His no was 4077390.
Many thanks |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
22.05.2024 |
| Comments: |
Hi Heather. You never gave us the name of your Grandfather, but I found him by number, Leslie Elms. There is very little I am able to give you, so hope someone else may come along to add information. Your grandfather had the rank of Bombardier A.C. which was Artillery Clerk. He was a Regular Soldier having enlisted in 1934. Without seeing his service records it has not been possible to establish what regiment in the Royal Artillery he was originally with but at the time of capitulation he was listed as being with "Head Quarters Fixed Defences". One document listed him as " 9 Coast Regiment " and as this was the Big Guns of Singapore, a transfer from this regiment would seem logical. (no evidence). He was entrained to the Burma/Siam Railroad on 24.10.1942. His liberation occurred on 05.09.1945 when he was entrusted into the security of Lt. Col. Eachern via Bangkok. Have you seen the photo of the handkerchief he signed before leaving Kaorin Camp ? |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
22.05.2024 |
| Comments: |
Hi Jade. You asked the same question on 10.05.2020, so rather than spend more hours searching, I will post the same reply. Signalman William Coates, Royal Corps of Signals attached to the 155 Field Regiment, service number 2345796. Captured at the surrender of Singapore, 15.02.1942. Imprisoned at Changi for 6 months. On 25.10.1942 a large contingent of the RCoS were amongst the 1100 men who were herded to the docks to board the Japanese hellship ‘England Maru’. A three week journey ensued locked down in the holds previously occupied by cattle (with all the remnants left behind). On arrival at Keelung in Northern Formosa, they were split into two groups. 523 were sent to the Kinkaseki Copper Mine Camp, and the rest, were sent to Taihoku #6 Camp in Taipei. Williams prisoner number at Kinkaseki was 106 which he thereafter had to refer to himself as, in Japanese. William managed to survive the brutality and starvations of Kinkaseki until March 1945, when he was sent to Shirakawa Camp which had generally become a hospital camp. His homeward journey started on September 6th 1945, when two American destroyers entered Keelung Harbour and ferried the POWs out to sea where they were transferred to the aircraft carriers USS Santee or USS Block Island, for sailings to Manila. Unfortunately I cannot trace his homeward ships. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
22.05.2024 |
| Comments: |
Deanna. Im afraid I do not know where Malai camp 5 was, and I usually resist from giving an answer unless I have seen 95% proof. However, knowing your dad was in X-4-A party it may be worth your while investigating Orchard Road Camp as I have read the men of X4A stayed there. There appears to be very little written about Orchard Road Camp but there is a book available on Abe Books with a chapter devoted to it. The book is " Railroad to Burma" James Boyle.
(Australian POW). ISBN 9781863730082 . At date of posting this it costs £6.50 inc. postage. I would re stress that I have no evidence and would welcome corrections about Malai 5 |
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| Name: |
Nick Goodale |
| Location: |
Wisbech Cambridgeshire UK |
| Email: |
nick.goodale@btconnect.com |
| Comments: |
I have recently been investigating my Grandads POW life I have discovered that he was sent to Chunkai camp but that is about as much as I can find.
His name was Raymond George Henry Goodale and served for the Cambridgeshire Regiment 2nd Battalion and spent a lot of the war as a POW.
Any information would be great as the work that people put into these informative sites is excellent. |
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| Name: |
Heather Cooper |
| Location: |
currently Australia |
| Email: |
heatherelmscooper@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I have found your site to be most informative. I am trying to find further details on my grandfather who was a POW in Koarin Camp, he was a bombardier #842428 |
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| Name: |
Deanna wicks |
| Location: |
Reading England |
| Email: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike thank you for your help and answers which have been very informative and helpful.I would be interested if you could tell me the location of Malai camp number 5.Henry Thomas Reeves who"s fepow story you were so helpful with sent a postcard from there.in march 1945.I can"t find it in.the list of any of the Changi camps many thanks Deannaf |
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| Name: |
Jade |
| Location: |
Bradford |
| Email: |
bonnie_jade@homail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hello, I am looking for information on my grandad William h coates, service number 2345796. Thank you |
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| Name: |
Jonathan Moffatt |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
jonathanmoffatt@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
I have: BOYS R.C. [Richard Charles] ‘Dick’ born 1908 Streatham, London. Engineer. Assistant, National Cash Register Dept. Brinkmann & Co. French Bank Building, Singapore. Enlisted VF 1937. Pte 13622 S Company1SSVF POW Singapore to Thailand with D Battalion 12.10.42. Died in captivity 1.7.43[34] Chungkai. ...So Singapore Volunteers [1SSVF] since 1937 - working in Singapore since then. No information on the firm in Siam. . |
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| Name: |
Sally |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
sturdyhome10@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello,
I am trying to investigate the death of a cousin, which I have recently discovered was in the Chungkai camp, where he was working as a POW on the Thai-Burma railway. His name was Private Richard Charles BOYS. He died on 1/7/1943, but had been a POW from 1940. His service No was 13622 (Straits Settlement Volunteer Force)
I am interested in a comment on the Colonial Office Register of his death as it states that he was with the SSVF but adds "John Molonoy & Co, Siam". Does this mean anything to anyone? Although he was born in the UK, how would he have ended up in the SSVF? And how do I go about finding out exactly which camps he may have been in (or would he have been sent to Chungkai?) I"d be really grateful for any assistance.
Although I have other family members of the forces who perished abroad during WW1 & WW2, Richard is the first I"ve discovered to die outside Europe and I don"t know what resources I should be checking out. Any help much appreciated. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Joanne, can you please post again but give every piece of information you have, so time is not spent looking for unnecessary information. The more information you give may lead to the more information you may get. |
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| Name: |
Joanne Gill |
| Location: |
Leeds |
| Email: |
sleepyspringer@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I am looking for info on Joseph Gill he was a prisoner of war in Japan. |
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| Name: |
Elly |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Email: |
Elly15@virginmedia.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you Mike, I was unaware of the site you recommended in
relation to finding out about my father. |
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| Name: |
Anna Hodgson |
| Location: |
London UK |
| Email: |
anna.hodgson@ukgateway.net |
| Comments: |
I forgot to add I have a book called The Burma-Siman Railway, the Secret Diary of Dr Robert Hardie 1942 - 45 in which my grandfather is mentioned. Do you know this book? |
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| Name: |
Anna Hodgson |
| Location: |
London UK |
| Email: |
anna.hodgson@ukgateway.net |
| Comments: |
Thank you SO much. That"s far more information than I have been able to obtain. Or my brother who for some years was digging into my grandfather"s war history before he died last year of cancer. I really appreciate this information. Thank you angain. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
25.04.2024 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Anna. Ref: George Basil Adams. Right from the beginning I was confused how anyone would be able to enrol in 1942 when the Japanese were already so advanced or even already into Singapore. I was even more confused when I saw that he was with the 5th Field Regiment who were a Regular Army regiment. The London Gazette states that he re-enlisted on 17/02/1941, (NOT 1942). When I found his Japanese Index Card it showed he was 51 years old (in 1942) and this led me to his WWI history. WOW, Military Cross awarded twice (Cross and Bar) and Croix de Guerre. His Index Card shows his contact to be Mrs LET Adams in Maidstone, but his Regiment Roll shows his brother in Cooksditch, Faversham. His rank was confusing as he had previously retired as a Capt, and was now a Regular Army Reserve, Royal Artillery, so this explained his re-enlistment into the 5th Field Rgt. His new rank back into the regular army was Lt, but this soon was promoted back to Capt., which appears on all the WWII documents. After being imprisoned at Changi after the surrender on 15/02/1942, and 9 months later was sent to the Burma / Siam Railroad as part of "L Party" on 6/11/1942. Unfortunately I have not been able to identify any of his camps, and hope someone else will be able to help. Alternatively you can contact the TBRConline who will have more information. The only further piece of information comes from his Index Card which states in Japanese "30/8/45 Bangkok United Nations Extradition". There is a 1946 September entry in the London Gazette where he is shown now as Major who displayed "Distinguished Service" as a POW, maybe this was an oakleaf to pin on his war medal. So it appears he was promoted to Major after the war for his services whilst a POW. Much respect. |
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| Name: |
Anna Hodgson |
| Location: |
London UK |
| Email: |
anna.hodgson@ukgateway.net |
| Comments: |
I am looking for any information about my grandfather Major George Basil "Bill" Adams who was a prisoner of war. He had worked for the Asiatic Petroleum Company in Thailand prior to joining up in 1942 and being captured by the Japanese. |
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| Name: |
Jonathan Moffatt |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Jonathan, just to add to Mike"s information: D.J. Fleming arrived in Malaya in 1924.1924. He was Agent, Eastern Smelting Co.Ltd, Connolly Rd, Ipoh in the 1930s then Assistant, Eastern Smelting Co.Ltd, Dato Kramat, Penang. Wife Hester Leonie [b.1902] & 2 children evacuated to Australia. He was Sapper 5350 3SSVF [Penang Volunteers]POW Singapore to Thailand with D Battalion 12.10.42 – remained at Ban Pong 10.42. Later to Nong Pladuk then 1. 45 to Ubon. He was repatriated to the UK via Bombay on Dominion Monarch, arriving Southampton 9.11.45. |
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| Name: |
Jonathan Langford |
| Location: |
London |
| Comments: |
Thank you so much Mike. This is fascinating. I didn’t know any details of where my grandad had been during the war. He never spoke about his experience ever after coming home. All the details you mentioned fit in with what I do know. My grandad was a lovely gentle humble man. Religion was a focal point and I understand this developed during his time under the Japanese. On a happier note, I remember he was a very skilled table tennis player and these skills I believe he learnt in camp! These camps must have had such far reaching consequences for so many, both the individuals unfortunate enough to be in them and their families, whether or not they came home. Thank you so much for this information. Best wishes, Jonathan |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
11.04.2024 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Syl. ref: Drummer John James Martin. 3055168 Royal Scots. You asked about after liberation, and although I dont have evidence of his initial ships we can probably assume he went to Yokahama and was then shipped to Okinawa. From there he would be shipped to Manila. At Manila his name emerges as being passenger number 869 on USS Admiral Hughes which sailed via Hawaii for Vancouver. This journey started on 24/09/45 and ended on 09/10/45.There is no paperwork thereafter for any taking this route, but the majority of diaries state they took a 5 day train journey across Canada to either Halifax or New York. The most likely ship was Ile de France from Halifax to Southampton on 26.10.45 arriving 31.10.45. There is a possibility though it was either Queen Elizabeth or Queen Mary at a later date. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
11.04.2024 |
| Comments: |
Hi Jonathan, re: David Johnstone Fleming. A little information found but also leads to several more questions which I am assuming your family history confirms. He was a member of the Straits Settlements Volunteer Forces, service number 5350. Does this suggest he lived a civilian life on Singapore or area? I can see two contact addresses, one being a "care of" in Paignton, Devon, and another at a bank in Adelaide , Australia. His birth area is shown as Jarrow, County Durham. He was initially a POW in Changi for 3 months, and then moved to River Valley Camp for 5 months. In October 42 he was sent to the Burma/Siam Railroad. He arrived at base camp Non Pladuk and then remained there for 28 months. Whether he had a special role there, or maybe it was his age of 40 it must have been considered he was of more use where he was. In February 1945 he was sent to Ubon where a Japanese airfield was to be built. It was from this location he was liberated on 21.09.1945. His probable route home would have been air to Bangkok , then onto Rangoon, and chosen destination thereafter. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
11.04.2024 |
| Comments: |
Hi Jim H. Ref: Gnr. Ronald Edwin Freeman. 943560. 135 Field Regiment R.A. Belgrave, Leicester. Note: although you named him as Roland, all documents name him as Ronald, including his Liberation Questionnaire which he wrote himself. Imprisoned Changi until 22/10/1942 when he was entrained to the Burma/Siam Railroad initially with the men of Group 1 but later with Group 4. His camps were Tamarkan (55Km), Konkita (258Km), Hindato (198Km), Non Pladuk II (Base camp), Tamuanang (39Km), and Pratchai. His card states his liberation on 30/08/1945 bought him through Bangkok, so I assume he sailed home from Rangoonhe came through bank |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
10.04.2024 UK |
| Comments: |
Sara. Re Frank Ellis Robertson. Sorry, but very little information found. Service number 12638, 2/A.A. HKSRA. Imprisoned Changi until 26/10/1942 when he was sent to the Burma/Siam Railroad in "W Party" consisting of 125 officers and 525 O/R. His Index Card suggests the first part of his liberation was to be flown by air to Bangkok around 31/08/1945. All the documents I have seen for him gives his rank as Major, so if you have documents showing Lt. Col., then he must have got promotion whilst a POW or after the war ended. |
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| Name: |
Jonathan Langford |
| Location: |
London, UK |
| Comments: |
David Johnstone Fleming - sorry, I’m not sure that it was Changi that my grandfather was in. It might well have been another POW camp run by the Japanese. I’d really appreciate any further information. Thanks, Jonathan |
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| Name: |
Jonathan Langford |
| Location: |
London |
| Comments: |
My grandfather, David [Johnstone?] Fleming was a POW in Changi camp. I would really appreciate if you could confirm this and also tell me any further information you may have. Many thanks, Jonathan |
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| Name: |
Syl |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Comments: |
My father, John James Martin, Royal Scots
2 Battalion, taken prisoner in Hong Kong,
on Lisbon Maru and recaptured on an island
were soldiers were waiting then taken
to Osaka Japan. Can anyone please help
with details of his journey after liberation?
Also i do not have any photos of him,
would there be one on file somewhere?
Many thanks. |
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| Name: |
Jim H |
| Location: |
Sussex |
| Comments: |
Hello, I believe he was a prisoner in Thailand, taken prisoner as a Gunner in the Royal Artillery. , Roland Edwin Freeman of Northamptonshire, my father"s cousin. Believed taken prisoner at Fall of Singapore in Feb 1942 and held in captivity until after Japan surrendered. Would value any info, greatest thanks |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
06.04.2024 |
| Comments: |
Elly, ref: your father Robert Thompson. I assume you have already contacted the Hong Kong expert who is Tony Banham. If you have not his website is hongkongwardiary.com |
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| Name: |
Sara Robertson-Jonas |
| Location: |
London |
| Comments: |
I am looking for information about my Dad"s Father Lieutenant-Colonel Frank Ellis Robertson Royal Artillery who was a prisoner of war of the Japanese in Burma - we have very little information and I would appreciate anything relevant |
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| Name: |
Linda Shillabeer |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
lindashillabeer@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Does anyone know Chester Langham of Norwich who was a POW at Changi Jail. He did return from the war. Just interested to know more. |
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| Name: |
Elly |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
Elly15@virginmedia.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for any information regarding my father
Robert Thompson who was in the RAMC and take prisoner in Hong Kong on Christmas Eve
I understand he helped Norman Leath who was a survivor of a massacre and whilst in the camp had a dog with him. He was meant to have done many things to have helped obtain
Medical supplies and was a driver at the towards the end of the war carrying messages between camps at a great risk to his own personal safety.
If anyone can give me any further information with regard to these antics it would be greatly appreciated, thanking in advance.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
28.03.2024 |
| Comments: |
Hi Rachel. ref; Cpl William Scott Gray. 2nd Btl Gordon Highlanders. OH NO. NOT THE DUCK AGAIN. Are you aware that as you scroll down this page you will see 3 people asking about William with his duck. In March 2021, Jennie asked about William and his duck ref. "Mums father".
In September 2023, Fergus Webster asked about William and his duck ref. "Great great Uncle". And now Rachel asks ref "Grandad". I have seen a photo of the duck being cuddled by soldiers, one MAYBE William ? Apparently the duck, named Donald, laid 163 eggs in 18 months. The importance of this to starving men must have been immense. It is rumoured the duck was last seen outside a Chinese restaurant in Aberdeen. |
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| Name: |
Satgunalan Kandiah |
| Location: |
UK/Malaysia |
| Comments: |
Anyone with any information on my late maternal grandfather Mr Seetha Vengadasamy- Station Master at the Sungai Patani Railway station at the outbreak of war was abducted by the imperial Japanese army to “help” in the disastrous railway project. He never returned. My mother is 90 now- the only surviving child of 3 sisters. It would help to put her mind and soul to rest knowing what happened to him and if there’s any grave site for him. Thank you. |
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| Name: |
Rachel |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
Littlerach121@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, looking for any information on William Scott gray he took the duck home from war. He would be my grandad. Thanks |
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| Name: |
Rachel |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
Littlerach121@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, looking for any information on William Scott gray he took the duck home from war. He would be my grandad. Thanks |
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| Name: |
Rachel |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
Littlerach121@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, looking for any information on William Scott gray he took the duck home from war. He would be my grandad. Thanks |
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| Name: |
Philippa |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
philippa@haslegrave.co.uk |
| Comments: |
My great uncle Cyril Owens was in Singapore when it fell. He was an engineer and I know he was both in Changi and worked on the Burma Railway. Any information would be gratefully appreciated. |
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| Name: |
Shelly Hobson Higgins |
| Location: |
Reading, Berkshire, England |
| Email: |
shellyhobson@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, Trying to find further information about CYRIL RAYMOND VARDEN [Corporal. #5828196. 4th SUFFOLK REGIMENT]. Believe it is possible he spent time at Changi & Hokkodai-1B Ashibetsu POW Camps.
Thank you very much for any and all help!
Best wishes
Shelly |
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| Name: |
Connie |
| Location: |
County durham |
| Email: |
Conniegmo7@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
My father William Seymour was in the shangi jail and worked on the Burma railway horrible things happened to him and he bore lots of scars on his head from beating as he worked on the railway he was captured early on in the war and there until his release after the war was over, he had malaria when he came home and never really wanted to speak much about the horrific ordeal that the all had |
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| Name: |
w |
| Comments: |
Betty (Perth). Can you repost your request as some letters have corrupted. Its unclear who is the POW. Is Colin the POW or the son? Is he army/navy/airforce? Is he Australian ? Is regiment known? |
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| Name: |
Margaret Josephine McLean |
| Location: |
Baradine 2396 |
| Email: |
rmmt25@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
My father was taken prisioner of war in world war 2. He was in the south china sea for 6 days and 6 nights before he got recusied by the uss sealion. His name was Michael Deguara. |
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| Name: |
Betty |
| Location: |
Perth WA |
| Comments: |
Saw this in google but unable to find post related to this wrt Beardshaw.
“Beardshaw who was taken prisoner in Singapore on 15 Feb
Can anyone help? Asking for a friend researching his father Colin Beardshaw
Thank you |
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| Name: |
Louise |
| Location: |
Lancashire |
| Comments: |
Hello. Thankyou for your reply. His parents were George and Eliza Brown and he was born in Driffield, East Yorkshire. His parents lived there until their deaths. I"ve only recently discovered he existed. He was my mum"s uncle, but she had no knowledge of him at all ( she was born in 1938 and her dad never spoke about him) Since I left my original message I have found his birth online and checked the certificate to ensure I have the right person. His date of birth was 21.12.20, so it turns out he wasn"t underage during the war, but may have joined the army prior to that when he was underage. As I said previously, my cousin is a very old lady now, and all her dad"s papers were disposed of after his death, so I have nothing more to go on. I would dearly love to solve the mystery for my cousin if I could, as she remembers her dad searching as much was possible in those days to find out what had happened to his brother. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
28.02.2024 |
| Comments: |
Louise, --- Are you able to supply his date of birth ? -- What was his parents first and middle names? . --- Where was his hometown? |
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| Name: |
Louise |
| Location: |
Lancashire |
| Comments: |
Hello, It"s a long shot, but I am looking for any available information on my great uncle George Arthur Brown. I have only recently been told that he enlisted at the age of 17, having lied about his age, and that he was shipped out and died shortly after as a Japanese POW. His brother tried for years to find out what happened to him. My cousin is now a very old lady with no documentation, just the knowledge that her dad tried everything available at the time to find information. I don"t even know the regiment, though his 2 brothers joined the Duke of Wellingtons prior to the war so that"s a possibility. I would be grateful for any information. Thank you. |
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| Name: |
Brian martin |
| Location: |
Suffolk |
| Email: |
briangmartin1957@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Dear Mike,
 Thank you so much for the information you posted about my Father. It really does mean a lot to me.
  Best wishes,
    Brian |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
25.02.2024 |
| Comments: |
Hi Georgia. ....Ref. your Great Grandpa. Unfortunately I am unable to find details about his time on the Burma Siam Railroad. Dvr Albert Birch, service number T/197894, was a member of the 18 Division RASC. After his initial imprisonment at Changi he was sent to the Railroad on 08/10/1942. Unfortunately I cannot trace his camps in Thailand. Although I do not have files showing his name to confirm the next detail, I believe them to be correct based on dates that match up. Eventually he was returned to Singapore, probably on 01/06/44 and into Haverlock Road Camp. On 03/06/44 he was taken to the docks and I believe sailed on Hioki Maru to Manila, Takao (Taiwan) and probably into Nagasaki Docks rather than Moji Docks where most of the Maru docked, arriving 26/06/44. Transferred to Fukuoka 17 prisoner camp. His liberation occurred on 15th September 1945 at Nagasaki Docks when he was handed into the care of Col. Griffin. His name next shows up when he has arrived at Manila in the Philippines. He boards HMS Implacable on 25/09/1945 and sails via Hawaii for San Francisco. During the journey the destination is changed to Vancouver, Canada, and they arrive on 11/10/1945. Although there is no passenger information, many diaries state they had a 5 day train journey across Canada to either Halifax or New York. Their final sailing was on the Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth or Ile de France. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
24.02.2024 |
| Comments: |
Jackie. Your GF was definitely listed in "W Party" on 26.10.1942. The George Anderson in D Force was a Gunner with 135 Field Regiment. He died on 15.08.1943 and is buried at Kanchanaburi. He can be seen on the CWGC website, just put in his service number of 994855. |
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| Name: |
Jackie |
| Location: |
Devon |
| Email: |
jackieoferny@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Trying to research my GF Sapper George Victor Anderson reg no.1872454, enlisted to the 35th Fortress company. Have been told he was sent to a Thailand on 26/101942 with W Party which conflicts with other advice that he was with D force between 14/18th March 1943; any help and info gladly received thank you |
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| Name: |
craig bedford |
| Location: |
haifax uk |
| Email: |
cbedford2005@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
hi i am looking for details of my grandfather w/bdr 907812 stanton frank royal artillery captured feb 1942 |
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| Name: |
Georgia |
| Location: |
Sheffield, England |
| Email: |
Geealbi@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for any info on my great grandpa. His name was Albert Birch, DVR. I know he was in Fukuoka Camp #17 from June 1944/5 but I would like to find out any more information about him. He passed before I was born & when asking my father about him, he said he never really spoke about his time as a POW which is understandable. Any info would be really appreciated. Thanks! |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
23 Feb. 2024 UK |
| Comments: |
Brian, re your father Lieutenant Sydney Martin. EC 1824. 5/11 Sikh Regiment. After imprisonment in Changi he was sent overland by train on 05/11/1942 in "Party M" to the Burma/Siam Railroad. He lists his camps over the next nearly three years as Wan Run (68Km), Takilin (97Km) Wampo (114Km) Takunun (218Km) Chungkai (60Km) Kanchanaburi (53Km). His final camp was Nakon Nayok which was 350Km away from Kanchanaburi at a site N.E. from Bangkok. The workforce here was mainly to dig tunnels into the hillsides for storage of fuel and ammunition. Many men also believed it would be where they would be herded for extermination when the "Final Disposition" order was to be carried out. Brian, there wasn"t a camp 2, but there were men who formed Group 2. This group could have worked at any camp within a designated area under a designated Japanese Administration. |
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| Name: |
Nick Tanner |
| Comments: |
Looking for information on Fred Heywood, from Swindon Wilts.
I believe he escaped from a Japanese POW camp and made it back to the UK.
Sorry I can't be more specific.
Thanks for replying
Nick Tanner |
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| Name: |
brian martin |
| Location: |
uk |
| Email: |
briangmartin1957@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for any information on my Father Sydney Martin. He was in the Indian Army and Captured in Singapore.
I think he ended up at Malai Camp No2 ?
Thank you |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
14.02.2024 |
| Comments: |
Hi Helen. Your Grandfather, Gunner Wilfred Heywood, service number 1587626, was a member of 241 battery, 77 Heavy Anti Aircraft Regiment (77 HAA). He was stationed at Soerabaja on Java. On 01.03.1942 with the impending Japanese assault, they moved to the Tjilatjap area. The Java capitulation occurred on 08.03.1942 and Wilfred became a POW, initially being taken to the camp at Tanjong Priok in Batavia. On 09.02.1943 he was taken to the docks and boarded the hellship Roko Maru, as part of "Java Party 13", for journey to Singapore and then destination to be decided thereafter. There were 1000 men put into the holds for what was thankfully a short journey arriving on 12.02.1943. Taken to Changi, and later Selarang camps, before a return to Changi, he avoided the shipments of many of the other men to the Death railroad or Japan Mainland. He is listed as still being within Changi at Liberation on 2nd September 1945. Copies of files available if wanted, showing his name. |
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| Name: |
Helen Sherwood |
| Location: |
New Zealand |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am looking for information regarding my grandfather, Wilfred Lionel Heywood. I know he was a Pow in Changi prison for some part of the war. He was in the British army. Any details gratefully received. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
03.02.2024 |
| Comments: |
Linda. re your father Jack Halliday. He is not listed on the master lists as a POW, and also does not appear on lists of captures from the following years of the Burma Campaigns. Many had a terrible time just trying to survive against the Japanese, and would return home in a terrible state. Perhaps this could be the fate of your father. I believe it to be extremely unlikely he was on the Railroad. |
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| Name: |
Linda Halliday |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
lindajduffell@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My father would never speak of the war but was extremely damaged.
He was posted to Burma is all I know..
My mother was told he was near death on hi return.
His name was Jack Albert Halliday from London.
I wonder if he was on the railway? |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
30.01.2024 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Jane. Unfortunately, despite a long period of search I have found absolutely no trace of your uncle. Hunting through all the main POW lists find just one Glyn Lewis but he died in Burma in 1945. (you have confirmed via email that your uncle did return to UK). His gravestone lists he was from Pontypridd and mother was named Gertrude, so no match.
So with no POWs by that name the next most likely result (no proof, just suggestions) is that he was caught in the Burma Campaign, fighting the Japanese, and possibly the battles in India at Kohima.
It seems highly unlikely he was ever at River Kwai as his name does not appear on any list, so this is probably a family story that has come from an assumption of where he was. This is extremely common and has occurred to hundreds over the years, and only now as documents are opened at the National Archives are true facts able to be confirmed or rejected. I do hope I am proven wrong and someone finds some evidence for you. |
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| Name: |
Jane |
| Location: |
Wales |
| Email: |
Mid.jane@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Long shot I know my dad’s brother originally from Rhhonda Valley in south Wales Glyn Lewis was a Japanese pow and was apparently part of the crew they were to build the bridge over the river Kwai. His mother was Annie May Lewis my dad was his younger brother Douglas Erith Lewis and I believe there were 2 older sisters myfanwy and I actually don’t know the name of the other sister. There were different fathers so am unsure of Glyn fathers name . |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
David, yes thats him. Born 24/11/1917. Mother Ethel, father Samuel. 59 Lid Lane Cheadle. Not clear but I think it says he was a baker. |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
Kentucky USA |
| Email: |
david.keeling@wku.edu |
| Comments: |
Thanks Mike - I never knew that information - I had always been told he was in Changi the entire war - Could there be another with the same name? He was from Cheadle, Staffs, born in 1917 (?} |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
12.01.2024 |
| Comments: |
Hi David. I am certain your father had a more dramatic experience than, as you quote, " He was kept in Changi until liberation" Gunner George Keeling, 842394, was in the 9th Coast Regiment, Royal Artillery. These were the Big Guns of Singapore. After surrender on 15/02/42 he was involved in Work Parties around Singapore. On 24/10/42 he was entrained for Siam to work on the Burma/Siam Railroad of Death. Unfortunately his Liberation Questionnaire is so feint it is impossible to read his camps. We do know however that he returned to Singapore as he boarded one of the hellships at Singapore on 3/2/45. This was the Haruyasa Maru which five days later arrived in Indochina at Port St. Jacques on the Mekong Delta, and then sailed up to Saigon. George was taken to Camp 10 on the Rue Catinat opposite the docks, where I assume he laboured until liberation.
Although I have not seen paperwork to confirm, most men from this camp were liberated by flying to Bangkok, then onwards to Rangoon. Many then boarded the Chitral for sailing to Southampton, arriving 28/10/1945. |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
Kentucky USA |
| Email: |
david.keeling@wku.edu |
| Comments: |
My father - George William Keeling - served in one of the gunnery regiments
in Singapore and was captured by the Japanese when it fell. He was kept in Changi until liberation in 1945. Does anyone know the name of the regiment or the names of any others who served in the British artillery regiment at the same time? |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
08.01.2024 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Holly. Reference Sgt. Frank Holmes. 16th Defence Regiment R A. Service number probably 860431 but often put as 860471. (The number you gave of WO361/2172 is a Government file reference and now stored at the National Archives). He was a regular soldier having enlisted on 11.07.1936. He listed his sister Mrs Rowbotham to be his contact back home in Sheffield. He was captured at the surrender of Singapore on 15.02.1942. Involved in work parties around Singapore until 24.10.1942 when he was entrained to slave on the Siam railroad. Five days of hellish conditions bought them to the southern end of the railroad. By 16.11.1942 he had moved to Kanchanaburi, a large transit camp and hospital. Further movements took him to Nakom Patan (June 43) and then Tamuang ( September 43). After this his final camp was Pratchai (many different spellings) in (May 1945). He was liberated from this camp on 01.09.1945. Although no documents have survived regarding passenger lists home, he probably was flown to Rangoon and then shipped home via Ceylon/India, Suez, to Southampton or Liverpool. |
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| Name: |
Holly |
| Location: |
Yorkshire |
| Email: |
thatsteelerhol@outlook.com |
| Comments: |
Hello...
We are currently doing our family tree and have come
to a dead end and are looking for some information on Frank Holmes.
We think he was a Sergeant in POW 4 Thailand. We have his WO number as 361/2172?
Any extra information would be fantastic as this is all we can find! |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
02.12.2023 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Susan, The camp was Nakom Paton. This was about 50 miles from Bangkok and opened in May 1944 as a replacement hospital, ready built, for 10,000 men, as Chungkai closed down. You can confirm the camp name by looking at Michaels Liberation Questionnaire, and you will see his camp leader id James Sainter. If you now go back to COFEPOW and get James Lib. Q. you will see the correct spelling. (or at least one of many spellings) |
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| Name: |
Susan |
| Location: |
Canada |
| Email: |
uglyduckling@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Trying to identify POW camps where my father"s cousin Michael Henry Swann was held
https://lq-cofepow.org/collections/swaminathan-taylor/products/swann-michael-henry
I am familiar with/have identified all the camps with the exception of the second last one.
What I see is Noncompaton, which doesn"t fit at all.
Changi
Ban Pong
Chungkai
Ban Khao
Chungkai
??????
Kamburi (until 8/45 so assuming that"s when the camp was liberated)
Grateful if you can shed any light!
Michael survived the war, married, had two children, and passed away in 2015 at the age of 95. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
28.11.2023 |
| Comments: |
Hi Stewart, As I stated when you previously posted on 20.01.2023, Liang is on Ambon Island, and your Dad would have suffered at the hands (and boots) of the Japanese Marines. If you pull up a map of Ambon, it is right up the north and slightly east. |
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| Name: |
Stewart Lait |
| Location: |
Monks Risborough, Bucks |
| Email: |
stewart@stewartlait.com |
| Comments: |
Hello,
I understand that my father, Graham Lait, was one of the 1200 men of Liang. He died as a result of his privations in 1960, when I was 9. I plan to visit Indonesia in February 2024 and cannot find Liang in atlases or anywhere else. Can you give me any guidnce as to its location so I can set about getting transport from Djakarta.Thank you in hopes. |
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| Name: |
Gavin McAndrew |
| Location: |
Aberdeen |
| Email: |
gav_mc_86@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi,
I’ve got quite a bit of info on my Great Uncle but apart from the CWG and Gordon Highlanders museum here in Aberdeen I don’t know where else to look. Would be nice to see photos or anything else available to me that I’ve maybe missed. His name was Donald Findlay and enlisted in the 2nd battalion of the Gordon Highlanders. Service number 2876342.
Thanks for your time and help with this. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
27.11.2023 |
| Comments: |
John, I believe the information already posted by Andrew and Glenda is going to be hard to add to. |
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| Name: |
John Smith |
| Location: |
Essex |
| Email: |
smithjohn111rough@googlemail.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for any information with regard to Frank Jeremy Hedges service number 915462.He was xaptured on 15 February 1942 and liberated on 4 September 1945.This is on behalf of a friend |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 25.11.2023 |
| Comments: |
Lisa, although I am not going to be able to offer any more clarity, and its only probably the service records will do this. Its beginning to look like the outcome is heading towards the fact that he was a member of occupying forces in Japan after the Japanese surrender.It sounds more likely that the Japanese became his POWs rather than he was a POW. |
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| Name: |
Lisa Trotter |
| Location: |
West Midlands, UK |
| Email: |
Lisatrotter22@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I’ve just found one of his army documents which states:Â
14427112 Pte E Potter
H.Q. Coy
2nd Btln Dorsetshire Regt
British and Indian Troops in Japan
C/o 165 Sub Area
23 A.B.P.O
INDIA COMMAND
Is there a possibility that the listing that shows him with 1st Battalion was incorrect? |
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| Name: |
Lisa Trotter |
| Location: |
West Midlands, UK |
| Comments: |
Thank you Mike and Dorsets Archives. Really appreciate you responding.Â
That’s really helpful. We have photographs of him in the Army and they each have India and Burma written on the back.
Yes, family info can certainly get distorted. My Mum and other family members clearly remember him talking about being in Burma.
I have Malaysian currency and far east items that he came home with, which I think were dated between 1945-47, and so it’s a little confusing really.
We’ll apply for his service record and hopefully that will fill in the gaps. |
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| Name: |
Lisa Trotter |
| Location: |
West Midlands, UK |
| Comments: |
Thank you Mike and Dorsets Archives. Really appreciate you responding.Â
That’s really helpful. We have photographs of him in the Army and they each have India and Burma written on the back.
Yes, family info can certainly get distorted. My Mum and other family members clearly remember him talking about being in Burma.
I have Malaysian currency and far east items that he came home with, which I think were dated between 1945-47, and so it’s a little confusing really.
We’ll apply for his service record and hopefully that will fill in the gaps. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
23.11.2023 |
| Comments: |
Lisa.............. I posted at the same time as Dorset Archives. They have the accurate information. Its not unusual for family history to get distorted like this. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
23.11.2023 |
| Comments: |
Lisa, ....ref. your grandfather Pte Ernest Potter. He was certainly not with the thousands of POWs taken prisoner as the Japanese advanced between December 1941 and March 1942. He is not listed on any documentation or have a Japanese Index Card. The Dorsetshires were not in the Far East at this time. However, the 2nd Dorsetshire Regiment were involved in Burma campaign of 1944/45 so he may have become a POW then, although few were taken prisoner. It sounds like you need to apply for his service records for accurate dates and locations. |
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| Name: |
Dorsets Archives |
| Location: |
Dorset |
| Comments: |
Lisa Trotter Ernest Potter was a Private in 1st Battalion. The second battalion fought in Burma in 1944 but Ernest wasn’t with them. He was reported as wounded in Northern Europe on casualty list 152. He wasn’t a Japanese POW and didn’t serve in the Far East but in Tunisia, Sicilly and then after D Day, Northern Europe. |
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| Name: |
Lisa Trotter |
| Location: |
West Midlands, UK |
| Comments: |
Hello
I wonder whether you could help with any PoW information about my Grandfather.Â
He served with the Dorsetshire Regiment (Service No. 14427112). He was Private Ernest Alfred Potter DoB 23 Sept 1925. Â
He would have joined the Army younger than expected as he lied about his age.
We know that he was in Burma at some point and we understand that he was a PoW captured by the Japanese, eventually returning home to Birmingham, England alive but seriously ill for some time.Â
His parents were Louisa and John Charles Potter of Birmingham.Â
Any information that you can provide would be much appreciated. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
21.11.2023 UK |
| Comments: |
Deanna, when I look back on emails I found that I had sent you 9 pages from files on 23.08.2019. One Of these showed Harry with X-4-A against his name. This came from "British Army Java. : Nominal Roll" with reference WO361/2195. It sounds like you are after information about "Funk Holes" and I can only recommend articles by John Cooper and written up also by Ronnie . Copy and paste this link : https://www.far-eastern-heroes.org.uk/Funk_Holes_of_Singapore/html/x_work_parties.htm |
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| Name: |
Deanna Wicks |
| Location: |
Reading |
| Email: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you Mike.I do have most of the information on Harry Reeves R A and I appreciate you don"t have the files on him now,but is it possible you could redirect me to the source of his work party transport.I assume it one of the sources at Kew(WO?) .It"s a list of names with transports to various places,which included the work parties for Changi.Possibly the year is 1943 or 1944.Then I could look it up my self.Thank you Deanna |
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| Name: |
Ross |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
rgcooperuk@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
Good day,
Is there an effort to locate and restore all the graves of POW"s lining the Sumatran railway line (officiated by the Japanese, WW2)? For remembrance and for their families.
Kind regards
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 15.11.2023 |
| Comments: |
Dawn, Going by the information you gave, it does not sound like Edwin was a Japanese Prisoner of War. Are you perhaps posting on a wrong website? He is not listed on any POW information that I have. |
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| Name: |
Dawn |
| Location: |
Lincoln, England |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find out what my Grandads role in Java was. His name is Edwin Astell Mains, DoB 16.1.06.
Service number 14689725. I know he enlisted in December 1943 . The records i have show he was in the Steveadore Company.. he went to India on 20.5.1945 and embarked in Bombay on 11.6.1945.
I’ve then drawn a blank as to what his role was. Any help would be greatly appreciated. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 06.11.2023 |
| Comments: |
Deanna, The search I did for you was over 4 years ago. I usually keep files open for about 3 months in case folk want copies, but not 4 years. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 06.11.2023 |
| Comments: |
Natalie, see email. |
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| Name: |
Natalie manser |
| Location: |
Essex, England |
| Email: |
mosquitocreative76@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I was recently asking my mother (75) about her uncle who was a Japanese pow in world war 2. She said his name was Charlie Wilson, was held as a POW at The Bridge of The River Kwai. He was treated very badly. Had hardly any layers on skin left on his back, and survived only to marry his long awaited sweetheart on the return home and die within 6months of his return can you tell me anything more? |
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| Name: |
Sue Thompson |
| Location: |
Eastbourne UK |
| Email: |
suethompson64@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am researching for a friend his grandfather Stanley Knight ,he was a Sergeant in the 242 Battery, 48 light anti aircraft regiment royal artillery. No 1542738. DOB 24 Mar 1912.
Not sure of the date of capture. Born in Eastbourne.
He was a Mechanic. This information was from WO 345 Japanese Index Cards of Allied POWs 1942-1947
30: Japanese Index Cards of Allied Prisoners of War and Internees, World War II: King M-Lawrence
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| Name: |
maryeleanor cameron |
| Location: |
scotland |
| Email: |
eleanor_douglas@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
looking for any information on / mentions of my father donald cameron [1914-2004]. 4th SSVF , 2n Lt. . Scot, Botanist, Piper. Assistant Planter at Durian Tanggal ,Malacca. Camps: Changi, Kinsayok, Kanu, Tarsao, Chungkai, Tamuang, Nakom Paton, Tamuang, kam Buri, Nakhon Nayok. . Repatriated to Dundee, Scotland
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| Name: |
Deanna wicks |
| Location: |
Reading england |
| Email: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Harry reeves R A 2051224 Malai camp 5,sorry for spelling mistake on previous comment |
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| Name: |
Deanna Wicks |
| Location: |
Reading England |
| Email: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike you kindly answered my enquiry about Henry Thomas Reeves driver with/15/77RA2051224.Can you kindly email me the documents you have of him and information if any of the X 4 a work party and any information or location of Malawi camp number 5.He sent a post card from there in march 1945.You saud he wasn"t sleeping at Changi when liberated ,so perhaps camp no 5.Many thanks Deannah |
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| Name: |
Dino |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
bigbrother1471@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Am asking for help for any further information on Lance Corporal HECTOR MARCUS AVERY MORRISON (1909-1945) (Royal Army Service Corps / Royal Artillery). (Num: 273236)
I know he was a POW at Sandakan. And died on 10th March 1945 (Dysentery). I have read a bit on Sandakan and the three death marches.
But was just curious if there was any more information or any specific information relating to him. Many thanks |
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| Name: |
David Haigh |
| Location: |
Melbourne |
| Email: |
da_haigh@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
Amazing research Mike. You are correct about his capture in Singapore and subsequent movements before arriving in Japan.
I originally thought he was in Java, because the grandson of Capt. Dermot Grehan of the SSRE(V), Royal Engineers, sent me a letter from his grandfather dated 30 June 1942 (after Grehan had escaped from Singapore and reached Ceylon) that mentions "Lieut. Plunkett went to Java attached to Wavell’s HQ at Bandoeng to help with certain demolitions".
There must have been 2 Plunketts in the SSRE(V), Royal Engineers (can you believe it!), and Grehan refers to the other one!
However, the POW Index Card for Lieut-Col. J.O.Plunkett tells the correct story, now that I inspect it more closely.
It would be fascinating to know if the Plunkett in Java survived the war - I must do some more research into that.
Thank you for your research. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
14.09.2023 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi David. Ref: Lt. Col. John Oliver Plunkett. Some of the information I have found , differs from your research. I can only give you what I have found and you must decide what to accept or investigate further. I could not see any evidence of him being in Java, but hope you have some evidence to prove me wrong. His Japanese Index Card (prisoner card) lists him as captured on Singapore on 15/02/42, the date of capitulation. His name appears on the list of the high ranking officers who sailed on the "England Maru" to Taiwan on 16/08/1942 and was referred to incorrectly as Japan Party B. The men disembarked at Takao, Taiwan on 29/08/1942. They were imprisoned at Heito Camp in the south of Taiwan. His name can be seen today engraved on a memorial wall in Kinkaseki, Taiwan which lists all POWs of Taiwan. Appx 10 weeks later on 15/11/1942 he embarked on the Dainichi Maru and sailed to Moji in Japan, arriving 25/11/1942. His Index card reads "28/11/42 transfer to Tokyo camp". John died shortly after on 08/12/1942, and his ashes now rest in grave A.C.9 at Yokohama War Cemetery. |
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| Name: |
Fergus Webster |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
Fergieweb@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
Hi I was wondering if anyone could possibly find any information on William Scott gray my great great uncle he was a pow who rescued a duck and eventually took it back home after smuggling it on the boat back any information would be greatly appreciated thank you |
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| Name: |
David Haigh |
| Location: |
Melbourne |
| Email: |
da_haigh@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
My grandfather John Oliver Plunkett was in the Singapore Royal Engineers (Volunteers) – SRE (V) – as Lieut-Colonel of the 1st Battalion Straits Settlements Volunteer Force [1SSVF SRE(V)] and was captured in Java March 1942 while on a mission to destroy infrastructure ahead of the advancing Japanese, and imprisoned in Bandoeng.
I want to discover on what transport he boarded around the end of December 1942 to be taken to Japan and imprisoned at ‘Tokyo No.1 Dispatched Camp (Mitsubishi Dock, Yokohama)’ or ‘Tokyo 1-D’, also known as Mitsubishi shipyards.
We believe he landed at Yokohama about 8 December 1942 and died a short time later of septicemia.
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| Name: |
Lesley Edwards |
| Location: |
Canada |
| Email: |
lesley_rose84@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Yes! This John Frederick Jay IS him I just confirmed with my grandmother. Thank you and God bless! This is a great start for me! I don"t suppose anyone knows how to send flowers? |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
10.09.2023 |
| Comments: |
Hi Lesley. ref. John Jay. I had a go at this one but did not have much success. There were two John Jay who died in the Far East in WWII. One was John Frederick Jay, the other John Charles Jay.
On the grave detail for John Charles it states "son of Jethro Robert and Ellen Jay."
This only leaves the one, namely John Frederick Jay who has no parent detail on the grave.
John was service number 990199 and he was in 88th Field Regiment, R A.
John died before the Japanese Index cards were produced so there is very little documentation to go by. However, what there is seems to produce its own questions. The Commonwealth Graves have his date of death as 01/04/42, but his details in the Regiment Nominal Roll has his death as 11/06/42, and was buried in grave BC6 at Changi. Upon further checks I found that the person buried alongside him, 2341177 Finch in grave BC7, did actually die on 11/06/42. There is obviously confusion here somewhere, but I would assume CWG are correct. Therefore he died only 6 weeks after the surrender and most likely never left Changi. Details in his Regiment Roll give an address of Seven Kings, Goodmayes, Ilford and his next of kin is a wife, merely listed as
J.F.Jay. After the war he was buried in Kranji Cemetery, Singapore, in grave 9.B.14. |
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| Name: |
Lesley Edwards |
| Location: |
Ontario, Canada |
| Email: |
lesley_rose84@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am searching for any information regarding my great great uncle John Jay. He was a member of the British Military captured in Malaysia as POW and died of Dissentary as a result of untreated wounds. He was buried supposedly somewhere in either Malaysia, or Singapore, his father was Charles Jay. I really don"t know much about him or where to look. |
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| Name: |
Susan |
| Location: |
New Zealand |
| Email: |
mhjolliff@xtra.co.nz |
| Comments: |
Mike, I was so thrilled to receive that information.It has fulled in alot of caps.
Dad did keep a diary but only from 16 April 1945 - until 30th Sept. In it he talks of the move from Hakodate to Bibai Camp. The move by rail from Bibai to Chitose drome, continue by air in a C54 to Yokohama, boards the USS Hansford but then boards,USS Heywood and arrive at Manila Bay which is the last entry he made. So its filled in the return to England journey. Thank you so much for your help.. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
26.08.2023 UK |
| Comments: |
Susan, ref. your father, LAC Desmond Barrie Hayes. 612572 232 Squadron. Ground crews arrived Singapore January 13th 1942, moved to Java 27th January, moved to Sumatra 2nd February, moved back to Batavia, Java 15th February. Became POWs on 8th March 1942.
Imprisoned at Boi Gloduk 25th March. I do not have the full details, but it would appear by attempting to translate some Japanese writing on his Index Card (prisoner card), that he was sent to mainland Japan on October29th 1942, and probably arrived on 1st December 1942.
He was sent to Hakodate camp where he remained until 7th June 1945, when he was sent to Bibai camp, Hokkaido.
He was liberated by air on 14 September 1945 in aircraft X-302. I have been unable to track destination, it may be Yokohama, Okinawa or Manila, by plane. and then possible next journey by ship.
His name next shows up as being in Manila, boarding USS Marine Shark for sailing to San Francisco. He was listed as passenger 590, and the ship sailed on 8/10/1945 via Pearl Harbour, Hawaii, arriving SF on 1/11/45.
For the rest of his journey home I have no documented evidence, but there are diaries from others who were on the Marine Shark, so probability is high..
They boarded a train which travelled up the west coast of USA to Seattle and Tacoma. After 5 days break they travelled across Canada for 5 days, arriving in New York. They boarded the Queen Mary on 13/11/1945 and arrived Southampton on 18/11/1945. |
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| Name: |
Neil White |
| Location: |
Nottingham |
| Email: |
skyblueneil@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello. I am researching the life of Charles Kitchener Heather who I understand was the first British soldier to be freed from a Japanese Prisoner of War camp because he was liberated with American colleagues. He had been in Hong Kong during the Japanese invasion and on the ill-fated Lisbon Maru. Any help would be appreciated. Kind regards, Neil White |
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| Name: |
John Smith |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Email: |
smithjohn111rough@googlemail.com |
| Comments: |
I have been researching my wife"s uncle Charles Frededrick Greenway. His Service Number is 1107750, I have found out that he worked on the Burma Railway and The Mergai Road and his last camp was Prachaub Kirikhan.I am trying to find out information regarding his repatriation so any help would be gratefully received |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
23.08.2023 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Davina, regarding your Grandad, Robert Hall, I can see 15 POWs named Robert Hall but none has a birth date that matches. I have also checked the mothers name and also the home address. He therefore does not appear to be a POW in the master records files. I hope you are more successful in the newspaper archives.
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| Name: |
Susan |
| Location: |
New Zealand |
| Comments: |
I am trying to piece together my fathers journey from leaving the UK to being captured in Java , spending 4 years in the care of the Japanese until his release and returning to the Uk.
His name and service number is Desmond B Hayes
, 612572 |
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| Name: |
Megan Paul |
| Location: |
Mississauga, Canada |
| Email: |
meganepaul@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello I am looking for info on my uncle Robert Irving. He was in 6 RA HAA and we have tracked him from Java to Singapore to Manila to Takao on June 18, 1944. He has been listed as missing at sea on the Tamahoko Maru on June 24, 1944, but on the national archive official death certificates, he was changed to presumed KIA on June 20. Why would they have changed it and did he die in Takao instead before the boat left? The timeline doesn"t make sense.. |
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| Name: |
Davina Elaine Carney |
| Location: |
Manchester |
| Email: |
davinacarney@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am trying to find information on my Grandad Robert Hall, Date of Birth 13 September 1914. Lived at 86 Bell Street, Beswick Bradford(Ardwick) Mother Ellen, Father Edward, partner Mary McGahan(married 1946. He was a Railway porter(drove a van). My Nana said he was a Japanese POW, but that is all I know as he died when my mum was very young so she doesnt know much else. I am currently scrolling through Manchester Evening News papers from back then to try and find him. I have found another man who lived on the same street as my Grandad who was in the Manchester Regiment and went missing in Malaya and was a Japanese POW. Any help would be amazing! |
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| Name: |
Freddie Finch |
| Location: |
Essex, England |
| Email: |
freddiefinch08@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
Hi there my mother’s grandmas (Nancy macnab )was a nurse in ww2 and was captured during ww2
In Singapore She was placed in Changi prison by the Japanese and she was referenced in the book priest in prison
Our family believed she was military intelligence 5 but we have no proof we have no details about her except from which camp
As she never spoke about it and when asked she shut it down if any one has any information please contact me by email
Freddiefinch08@icloud.com
Thanks |
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| Name: |
David Jones |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Comments: |
Kate Polybank Horace Brown was buried at Takanun camp in Thailand. The Gr. No on the CWGC site stands for grave number. He died of cholera and was cremated. As you can see from CWGC his ashes were put in communal grave number 31 with several other men who died at the same time during a cholera epidemic. The various spellings of the site of the camp can hinder research but a good place to contact would be the Thai Burma Railway Centre. They may be able to give you help with the exact positioning of the cemetery |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
12.08.2023 |
| Comments: |
Kate, Takernoon is also referred to as Tha Khanum or Takanum, and is known as the 220 Km mark from Non Pladuk. |
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| Name: |
Kate Polyblank |
| Location: |
London |
| Comments: |
I am trying to trace the location of Takanoon or Takaneen Gr.Ne.
My great uncle Horace Brown died 1.6.1943 was buried here before
being transferred from this "open " site to Kanchanaburi Military cemetery
on the 8.2.1946.
We have located his grave in Kanchanaburi but can find no location for Takanoon.
Any help locating this original burial site would be greatly received. |
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| Name: |
Kathryn |
| Location: |
Liverpool |
| Email: |
Kathrynbarnes200983@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you so much for the information on private Cecil brown, service number 2878395 with the Gordon Highlanders.
You mention his liberation questionnaire, is this information anywhere for us to see? Would love know more.
We also have found out that his brother Richard Brown with the Gordon Highlanders, service number 2876171 was captured around about the same time.
Would you have any information on him? It looks like he was held longer than Cecil. |
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| Name: |
Tony Whyte |
| Location: |
Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, England |
| Email: |
t.whyte1970@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you so much for the info. I will be sending off for his Military Record in the very near future and maybe it may have info as to how he returned from Thailand, if that is the case i will update you on this site. In the meantime i will be adding this info to familysearch so that anyone Related to my family will be able to see all the info about him that you have provided me with. He died 7/9/1957 of Tuberculosis when my Father had only just turned 9. My Father also named Alexander knew very little about his Father As his Mother didn"t want to talk about his time during the war or didn"t know and my Father Died 7/9/2017 which is when i started Family research and in all that time i could not find the info that you have given me on here so once again thank you ever so much for the info that you have provided me wih. |
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| Name: |
Tony Whyte |
| Location: |
Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, England |
| Email: |
t.whyte1970@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you so much for the info. I will be sending off for his Military Record in the very near future and maybe it may have info as to how he returned from Thailand, if that is the case i will update you on this site. In the meantime i will be adding this info to familysearch so that anyone Related to my family will be able to see all the info about him that you have provided me with. He died 7/9/1957 of Tuberculosis when my Father had only just turned 9. My Father also named Alexander knew very little about his Father As his Mother didn"t want to talk about his time during the war or didn"t know and my Father Died 7/9/2017 which is when i started Family research and in all that time i could not find the info that you have given me on here so once again thank you ever so much for the info that you have provided me wih. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
19.7.23 |
| Comments: |
Hi Val. ref: Douglas Haigh Walker. In the main POW listing there is just one Douglas Walker, and he was born in 1916. However it shows his home and wartime address as Glasgow. A middle name of Haigh is not shown anywhere. There is a possibility he fought in the Burma Campaign later in the war, in which case he may not be listed amongst the main group of POWs taken prisoner in 1941/1942. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
18.07.23 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Tony. ref: your grandfather, Gunner Alex Whyte, 991817, 148th Field Regiment, Royal Artillery. Thanks to his Liberation Questionnaire, we can see his camps were Changi: Feb-Apr 42, Havelock Rd. Singapore : Apr-Oct 42, (Entrained to Siam 30/10/42), Tarsoa : 10/11/42-15/11/42, Tonchan: 15/11/42-02/6/43, Chungkai: 2/6/43- 20/5/44, Nakon Paton: 20/5/44-7/1/45, Tamuang:7/1/45-10/6/45, Takori: 10/6/45- Liberation. He was with Group 4 men whilst on the railroad, and I believe he would have been involved in railway maintenance whilst at Tamuang. His prisoner card states his liberation as "August 30th 1945, Bangkok, United Nations 2nd extradition". His liberation route would almost certainly (but no proof) have been taken to Rangoon, and then shipped home via Suez. It is most unlikely he came home via USA or Canada as this route was only for the POWs from Japan, Taiwan and Philippines, who came home via Manila. Like many other family stories, it seems his homeward story may have become elaborated. It would be good to be proven wrong though if you ever find proof. Unfortunately his ship from Rangoon will probably never be known as all paperwork was destroyed in the 1950"s by the War Transportation Dept. |
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| Name: |
Val Jaques |
| Location: |
Holmfirth, West Yorkshire |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find any information I can about a Great Uncle of mine called Douglas Haigh Walker. I know nothing about him apart from he was born in Pontefract on the 29th December 1916 and was a Japanese prisoner of War. He returned home to Pontefract where he lived for the rest of his life |
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| Name: |
Tony Whyte |
| Location: |
Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, England |
| Comments: |
Sorry i made a mistake, he was Liberated 2/9/1945 |
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| Name: |
Tony Whyte |
| Location: |
Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, England, U |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike
I"m Hoping you can help me fill in the blank"s in my knowledge concerning my Grandfather.
Alexander Whyte service number 991817 Gunner 148th Field Regiment Royal Artillery
who was captured by the Japanese in Singapore on the 15/2/1942
and was Liberated on the 15/2/1945 from Thailand.
I have no knowledge of what camps he was in or what he done during his captivity,
likewise i have no knowledge of his journey home to the UK.
I was told that he was on a round the world cruise to faten him up a bit so that it
wasn"t such a shock to Family, Friends and Loved ones when he returned but that may of
been him returning home on the Queen Mary ?
Any help would be gratefully Appreciated
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| Name: |
Leonie |
| Location: |
Geelong |
| Comments: |
I recently came across your video interview with my step grandfather, Gordon Newton. I remember interviewing him about his time as a POW for a school project around 1987. His story then and again today breaks my heart. It is beyond belief that anyone could treat another human being this way. He was an incredibly kind man that loved the simple things in life. Jumping on the trampoline, raising chickens, a game of bowls, playing a tune on the pianola and a Sunday roast. Thank you for capturing his and others stories of a tragic period in history. |
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| Name: |
Whitney Galbraith |
| Location: |
Colorado Springs |
| Email: |
wgalbraith@mac.com |
| Comments: |
POW historians: I would like to invite your attention to this volume of my father’s World War II memoir which I self-published in 2018 and edited in 2020. Col. Nicoll F Galbraith, GSC, US Army was General Jonathan M. Wainwright’s G-4, Logistics, staff officer, who survived the capture of Corregidor with Wainwright and other senior Allied officers and three and a half years as a Japanese POW. It is a valuable addition to the POW story that modern readers would gain much from. My father was in the same POW camps as Generals Wainwright and Percival which might appeal to British readers. Respectfully submitted. Whitney Galbraith, LCDR, US Naval Reserve, 1959-1964.
https://www.valleyoftheshadowpow.com
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The Flags of My Father
It can often take a long time, often too long, for a son to recognize the value of his father, in his own life and that of the society he defended. The experience of my father, Col Nicoll F. “Nick” Galbraith, GSC, US Army, has come to me in magnificent proportion with my self-publication of Valley of the Shadow: An Account of American POWs of the Japanese, published by XLibris in June, 2018, revised May, 2020.
This experience was triggered, now seemingly long ago, by the ambitious year-long exposition of our Pioneers Museum in Colorado Springs in 2010, titled So Far From Home: the American POW Experience in World War II, the entire Japanese half of which was my father’s wartime archive, from the surrender of Corregidor in May of 1942 and continuing through the three-and- a-half years of infliction as a “guest of the emperor.”
As our Galbraith family amalgamated our father’s extensive POW archive, including Gen. Jonathan M. Wainwright’s original Corregidor surrender order, that aged, dusty box containing over 1,000 handwritten flimsies was dragged out from a deep family shelf and I began to understand, page by page, what we had.
The two flags played an integral part in the Corregidor surrender process and an emotional one in August 1945, when the POWs were rescued/released by a six man OSS team and the Russian Red Army, both events being very close calls.
Col. Galbraith treats these experiences thematically, in third-person narrative format, enabling him to offer a psychological, emotional and moral matrix to help the reader interpret the challenges and personal behaviors of incarcerated American prisoners who suddenly had been deprived of their normal social and physical lives as officers, colleagues, husbands and fathers. Galbraith describes his own and his prison mates’ struggle to maintain their personal dignity and relationships.
Whitney H. Galbraith Colorado Springs, CO 719-633-2740 https://www.valleyoftheshadowpow.com
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80 years after Bataan, history has personal resonance in Colorado Springs for hero"s son
• By STEPHANIE EARLS stephanie.earls@gazette.com April 13, 2022
Colorado Springs resident Whitney Galbraith is the son of U.S. Army Col. Nicoll F. Galbraith, who was responsible for the evacuation of Manila in 1942. Whitney discovered more than 1,000 pages of his father"s writings, documenting his experiences in the war and as a POW of the Japanese.
Even after he retired from the Army to spend many long, good years reading books, playing bridge and leading a quiet life with his family in Colorado Springs, Col. Nicoll "Nick" Galbraith maintained the dignified demeanor of an officer. He wore a coat and tie every day and was a man of few spoken words - unless you knew the right questions to ask.
Whitney Galbraith now knows what those questions would be. But it"s too late; his father died in 1986, at age 89.
Luckily, the Army officer who played a key role, 80 years ago this week, in the evacuation of Manila prior to the Fall of the Philippines during World War II, including the safe evacuation of nurses, the Angels of Bataan, to Corregidor - was a prolific writer.
He left behind his words, for history and his children, to discover.
"So much of what I knew about my father, when he was alive, was through osmosis," said Whitney Galbraith, who is 83. "I knew the rough outline of his experience, but I was a young child during World War II and was only aware of the surface" that he was gone, that he spent the war in prison camps, and that we got him back in 1945."
Whitney Galbraith knew his father had been a rigorous recorder and keeper of diaries, documents and artifacts during his time in the Philippines and throughout the 3 1⁄2 years he"d spent as a prisoner of war, in Luzon and camps in Taiwan and China, where he was when Japanese forces surrendered in 1945.
He didn"t realize just how comprehensive the collection was until he and his older brother, Nicoll Jr., set about selecting items for a 2010 Pioneers Museum exhibit about American POWs during World War II.
"That"s when I just stumbled on this, on a dark, dusty shelf," said Whitney, sitting at his kitchen table next to a box filled with reams of sepia-toned pages stored in plastic.
More than 1,000 "flimsies," some typed, many handwritten in loose lines of slanted script. A memoir, in third person.
"His cursive tells me that it"s rapid forethought, that he"d had this whole thing in mind all the while during his POW years,"Whitney said. "He knew exactly what he wanted to write. Just stacks of it. Just amazing."
And so he started reading.
Col. Nick Galbraith was a slender man in his early 40s, maybe 5 foot, 9 inches tall, with a wisp of a mustache and Clark Gable good looks.
Born in Williamsport, Pa., in 1896, he began his professional military career at age 20, expecting to be sent overseas to serve in what would come to be known as World War I. To his disappointment, he was ordered to the U.S.-Mexican border, to serve as a horse cavalry soldier.
He hadn"t seen his last wartime service, though. Not by a long shot.
Twenty-three years later, the world was again on the brink of war. Duty called the commissioned Army officer and married father of three to Fort Stotsenburg, now Clark Air Base, on Luzon Island in the Philippines, the stronghold of Allied operations in the South Pacific. The Army sent his wife and three young children along, too, only to evacuate them back to the States in the summer of 1941.
Leila Galbraith was "an Army wife and had no idea where to go, "but she had an aunt who lived in Colorado Springs, and an open invitation, Whitney Galbraith said.
The family settled temporarily to wait out the war with Leila Galbraith"s aunt, Sally Whitney Robinson, and her husband, the well-known artist and illustrator Boardman Robinson.
Meantime, half a world away, Col. Nick Galbraith"s saga was just beginning.
The island nation where he and thousands of American and Filipino troops and support staff were stationed had been a U.S. territory since 1898. Operations in the Southwest Pacific, under Gen. Douglas MacArthur, were headquartered there until defeat by the Imperial Japanese Army became imminent. The general and his family were evacuated by submarine to Australia in March 1942.
On April 9, after months of intense fighting, bombing and bloodshed, the Bataan Peninsula fell to the Japanese. The infamous "Bataan Death March," the forced transfer of as many as 80,000 U.S. and Filipino troops more than 60 miles to a prison camp in the north, began. Thousands wouldn"t survive the journey, and the episode would lead to international charges against Japanese commander Lt. Gen. Masaharu Homma and two of his officers, for allowing their men to commit war crimes.
The day before, on the afternoon of April 8, 1942, Logistics Officer Galbraith had been ordered to leave Bataan for Corregidor by Gen. Johnathan Wainwright, who was in command of Philippine forces after MacArthur"s departure to Australia. The tiny island off the southern coast of Bataan was the last bastion of Allied operations in the South Pacific, and Galbraith was to report the "impending collapse" to the command there.
He took a number of staff officers, and the Angels of Bataan, with him, to sit out another month of siege. As a result, no nurses were captured on Bataan.
"That"s one of my dad"s proudest moments, was his ability to do that," Whitney Galbraith said.
What remained of the Battling Bastards of Bataan would continue their doomed campaign for another month on Corregidor, as Japanese forces closed in and aimed flame-throwing tanks at the entrance to the Allies" ad hoc base in the Malinta Tunnel. Gen. Wainwright"s men were trapped and being massacred.
Surrendering would turn out to be a battle all its own. In an attempt to stop the carnage, Wainwright sent an officer out with a white flag. The Japanese officer he met wasn"t authorized to accept a surrender. After several more days trying and failing to broker a surrender, Wainwright ended up in Manila, at a meeting he hoped would bring an end to fighting.
"There"s a photo of my dad sitting with Wainwright preparing the surrender speech, which I"m sure was an interesting, and difficult, moment for my dad,"Whitney Galbraith said.
Homma was afraid of a potential guerrilla war, and steadfastly refused to accept surrender until every American in the field surrendered, too.
"He wanted more than Corregidor. He wanted the entire Philippine Islands cleaned of American forces," Whitney Galbraith said.
Wainwright tried to find a way forward: If somehow he was able to round up the remaining forces in the field, then could a formal surrender happen? With a formal surrender, the American captives in the Philippines would become prisoners of war, protected by international conventions and laws. Lives would be saved. Wainwright"s Hail Mary worked. The Japanese allowed him to send emissaries to different parts of the archipelago where it was thought Allied field commanders were still operating.
Col. Nick Galbraith was one of those emissaries.
Galbraith set out for the "boondocks" of Northern Luzon, on a "Heart of Darkness" style quest over mountains and through jungles to find a U.S. commander thought to be in charge of units there. He was accompanied on the trek by a Japanese escort, and he carried three dime-store flags given to him by the Imperial Japanese Army.
One was an American flag. One was Japanese. And one was the white flag of surrender.
"So depending on what line he thought he might be crossing, he"d wave the right flag. I don"t know how often he had to use them, and somehow it worked," Whitney Galbraith said. After six weeks, the Japanese finally said, OK, you"ve tried enough."
Formal surrender of the Philippines to the Japanese occurred on May 6, 1942. Col. Galbraith rejoined his men at a prison camp in Central Luzon.
From there, Galbraith and the other men were moved around the island and then packed onto various vessels, Japanese Hell Ships, including the Oryoku Maru”bound for prison camps, first in Taiwan and then China. As the Allies gained ground and the perimeter of the war continued to move west, Col. Galbraith found himself and other officers at a prison camp in Mukden, Manchuria, in August 1945.
That"s where he was when the war ended, at least for those in the field who had access to a radio.
A six-man rescue/release team from the Office of Strategic Services was dispatched to the Hoten Camp, to secure the safe release of prisoners.
Sgt. Hal Leith, of Golden, was one of those OSS officers. In his diary, Leith wrote about parachuting from a B-24 and landing near an American POW camp run by a Japanese commander who was unaware of the surrender.
Col. Nick Galbraith"s diary entry for that day records what he saw on the ground. Six Americans floating to the earth, to save them.
"And all these years later, Hal Leith is in Golden and Dad"s in Colorado Springs. I would have loved to get those two together, but it wasn"t possible," said Whitney Galbraith. ""We lost dad in 1986, and I only learned about a dozen years ago that Hal Leith was so close. I wish I would have known earlier."
But along with regrets and missed moments is gratefulness for what he does know now, and for a memoir that answers so many questions he didn"t get to ask about his father and the lesser-known, but just as dramatic, chapter of World War II in which he played such a critical role.
Whitney Galbraith turned those pages his father furiously churned out, then stashed away in the years after his service overseas, into a book "Valley of the Shadow: An Account of the American POWs of the Japanese." He self-published the almost 500-page account, including photos and archival documents from Galbraith"s collection, in 2018.
He hopes that sharing his father"s words, and the 80th anniversary of the Fall of the Philippines, will help bring attention to an important story that"s far more than a personal journey.
"Getting to know your father that you didn"t know in earlier times is, for anybody, thrilling," he said.
Getting to know a father who was a war hero, and being able to share his story with the world? Thrilling doesn"t even come close.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
06.06.2023 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Naomi, re William Henry Othick. I had difficulty tracking much information on him but hopefully these few facts might help to investigate further. His service number is 7637629 and he was a private in the R.A.O.C. , Royal Army Ordnance Corps. His service number belongs to the RAOC so he must have enlisted with them and you then take your number with you wherever you go, so I cannot see any connection to the Yorkshire Regiment. There may be a possibility he was RAOC attached to Yorkshire Rgt. at one time. However, at the time of being captured on 19.02.1942 he was RAOC attached to the 137th Field Regiment. He appears in records as belonging to 137LAD, which is 137 Field Regiment Light Aid Detachment. He was captured at Banka Island, South Sumatra, and although I have no documented proof, this suggests he was probably on an escape ship from Singapore as the 137th never were in action in Sumatra. William was held at four camps , Mulo School, Chunghwa School Sungei Ron and No.2 camp Palembang. There are documents to show him at camps, and eventually liberated from Sumatra. It is clear he was never in Japan but certainly a prisoner of Japan. Singapore and Sumatra were known as Malaya during the war. I can email a few wartime documents showing his name if required. |
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| Name: |
Sacha Bedford |
| Location: |
Hertfordshire, UK |
| Email: |
sacha@groovekitten.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I have been researching my Grandfather in law’s history as a FEPOW. His name was William Percival Bridge, ‘Taffy’. 1427185 Gnr. 11th Bty. 3rd HAA Regt.
The following is what I have managed to uncover, but I would be extremely grateful if anyone has anything else to add. Either about him specifically, or about his movements within what has been documented about his group party, etc.
Captured 15th February 1942 in Singapore. He left Singapore for Thailand on 28th October 1942 as part of U Party under the command of Lt. Col. J.O. Mackellar, FMSVR (who died of cancer March 1945).
Sent to work on the railway (Work Group 4), presumed to work at or around Thailand Camp 4 (is this the same as Moji POW Camp #4?).
Survivor of the hell ship Kachidoki Maru as part of Japan Party 3 and sent to Fukuoka #25-B, Omuta Electro Chemical Branch Camp as POW #14093, working as a slave labourer at the carbide manufacturing plant. He was mentioned in Captain Wilkie’s War Diary as being gaoled for having a fight with a Japanese sailor.
Liberated 16th September 1945. Evacuated from Nagasaki Harbour.
I do not know his movements after this at all. Nor do I have a copy of his liberation questionnaire. But I do know that he returned home to Pontypridd on 21st October 1946, to the delight of his family. I remember him saying that he weighed less than 6 stone. |
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| Name: |
Naomi |
| Location: |
Leeds |
| Email: |
abc123easytoremember@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
I"m struggling to put together my grandads story. Pow in Japan. Yorkshire regiment. William Henry Othick. I found a "pow camp card" possible that he was kept in Malaya. His daughter says he arrived home to Yorkshire in an ambulance |
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| Name: |
Colleen Mason |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
cublulu@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Hello Mike,
Thank you for your reply with regards to Private John Edward Parkins 4977431.
I have read accounts of Heito and Kinkaseki Copper Mine, some of which are accounts by former POWS there. I don’t know how anyone survived the experience but somehow they did. As for Hellships, I had picked up that he was taken on the Taiko Maru to Japan and now you have clarified that he reached Taiwan on the Dainichi Maru (another gap filled in).
Fukuoka 24B, I know was a coal mine, he was a miner before joining up and returned to it after coming home.
As I mentioned I have found records with John being in Nagasaki on the 14th to 16th September 1945, before sailing on the Implacable to Canada. As for how he travelled home I guess I will never know, but think I would go with the Ile de France to complete his journey home.
Thank you for your help, and it is thanks to you and all the others who are making sure that these people are never forgotten and the experiences they went through. I can only say that I am extremely proud of John and like others showed great strength of character to survive.
Having done this research I think he and his father did talk, but not of their different experiences (his father served in the First World War). This is a forgotten part of our history,and needs to be talked about. As for the years after who knows what memories he carried with him. He will never be forgotten and will make sure my own family remember him in the years to come.
Thank you for your help
Best wishes
Colleen |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
11.05.2023 |
| Comments: |
Hi Colleen. re Private John Parkins. The two Taiwan camps you mentioned are spelt as Heito which is in the hot south of the island and nowadays named Pingtung, the second camp was the cruel Kinkaseki Copper Mine near Keelung in the north. John arrived at the southern port of Takao on 14/11/1942. He had sailed from Singapore on 28/10/1942 and had been locked down in the holds of the hellship Dainichi Maru for over two weeks. At Heito they were enslaved into removing boulders from a dried up river bed to plant sugar cane. Kinkaseki was the notoriously vicious copper mine where they were treated so badly that replacement men were continuously required. When the copper mine closed down, John was shipped to Japan on 27/02/1945 in the Taiko Maru, and ended up in Fukuoka 24B, Senryu Emukae. His liberation was on 14/09/1945 when in the safe hands of Colonel Griffin at Nagasaki Port. I lose his paperwork trail thereafter, but most were taken to Okinawa, and then onward to Manila.. As you know he then boarded HMS Implacable for Vancouver on 25/09/1945 and arrived 11/10/1945. No paperwork exists for the next part of the journey, but most diaries state they took a five day train journey across Canada. Most from Implacable caught the Ile de France from Halifax to Southampton although some got delayed and ended up on the Queen Mary from New York. |
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| Name: |
Lin Barber |
| Location: |
Chobham |
| Email: |
linbarber29@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
Re the above I’m sure my father went to Thailand |
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| Name: |
Lin Barber |
| Location: |
Chobham |
| Email: |
linbarber29@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find information about my father
James Albert Miller who was an acting sergeant
In 1942 on the casualty list in Malaya.regt.
Royal Artillery service no. 889927 and a P.O.W
He had a bayonet wound down his chest and stomach.
1944 when released he joined the RAOC in 1945.
His childhood was spent in India. I have waited almost a year for his records
from the war office and still nothing. I would be so grateful for any information
Lin Barber |
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| Name: |
Colleen Mason |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
cublulu@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
I have been tracing the journey of a family member, who was very little spoken of. In fact I have never been able to track down any photographs of him.
The gentleman’s name is John Edward Parkins Private 4977341, and was in the ⅕ Battalion of Sherwood Foresters.
He was captured at the Fall of Singapore and like others spent time in Pow camps. I have traced him (through his Liberation Questionnaire )to the camps of Changi ; 19th February 1942 - 10th April 1942
River Valley ; 10th April - 20th August 1942, Tanhong (Tanjong) Rhu ; 20th August - 30th October 1942 Haiko ; 30th November 1942 - May 2nd 1943, Kinkaksi ; May 2nd 1943 - 21st February 1945 and Fukuoka 24B March 1945 - August 1945. Obviously he had to travel on the Hell Ships to get to Taiwan and Japan, I haven’t been able to clarify which one/s. After liberation I have tracked him to Nagasaki on the 14th and 16th September 1945.
After this long ramble my question/sis that I have found him in Manila, how would he have got there, then find him down as a passenger on the Implacable.Researching recently how he got back home is proving a mystery, as I have read the Implacable stopped off Esquimalt in Canada. Did the Implacable travel on to Britain or did he travel by another ship?
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| Name: |
Wayne Nunn |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
wanunn@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
Apologies, I forgot to add my email to my previous post. |
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| Name: |
Andrea Wiseman |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
andreajwiseman@aol.com |
| Comments: |
I"m looking for information on my great granda, James McNab. He was a POW that worked on the Thai-Burma railway. I"m currently reading the book he wrote so any more information would be gratefully received! |
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| Name: |
Wayne Nunn |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Comments: |
I recently obtained one of the Thai-Burma Rail Link Commemorative Medallions which were presented to officials at the opening of the rail link on 17/10/1943. I have found very little info on the net other than an example held in the IWM and would very much appreciate any info/links/contacts that could assist me to determine its history. My uncle"s brother was a POW on the railway and his date of death is recorded as 17/10/1943, consequently I have a particular interest in this item. Appreciate any help with my quest. |
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| Name: |
Susan Barrett |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
susiebs2018@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you for your reply Mike, I cant imagine what it must
have been like to be put in that situation, I am doing this for
my mum so anything I am able to collate will be appreciated.
I would very much like to take you up on your offer of copies of any
info on Herbert that you might be able to send to me
it will help me piece together his journey,
the family never spoke about Herbert according to my mum,
but his story is important and should be
documented for my family and future
generations.
Many thanks
Susan
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
22.04.2023 |
| Comments: |
Hi Susan, re Private Herbert Simmons. According to his Liberation Questionnaire courtesy of Cofepow, he was a regular soldier who had enlisted in 1936 and not 1941 as you believed. Also, the camp of Kiangwan is in Shanghai, China and is where the survivors of the Lisbon Maru were taken to for recovery. This camp had many Americans who had become prisoners on Guam. Most of the men remained in this camp from October 1942 to May 1945. An entry written in Japanese on his Index Card, translates to something like "Nov.14th 1944, charged with stealing alcohol. Slept in Heavy Pipe Warehouse overnight" A short period in Peking then saw them sent to Hakodate 2B Akahira., where slaves for the coal mines were needed. His liberation in September 1945 saw him bought to Manila in the Philippines and he sailed homeward as passenger 338 onboard USS General Brewster. She sailed on 18.10.1945 for San Francisco via Hawaii, and arrived on 03.11.1945. No further paperwork trails have been found after this, but it is known that most took a train up to Vancouver, and then had a further 5 day journey across Canada and down to New York. Queen Mary would have been a likely target for the final journey. I have various files if you want copies. |
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| Name: |
Susan Barrett |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
susiebs2018@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Private Herbert Edward Simmons was my
Mothers Cousin, he was born in 1918.
Herbert joined the Middlesex Regiment
as his Father Joseph had done in WW1,
when he joined 1941 Herbert was was
located to Hong Kong, he was captured
in 1942 as far as I can make out and sent to
Sham Shuipo Camp He was 23 years old,
I know from the information I have that
he was on the unmarked ship The Lisbon
Maru which was torpedoed and sunk by a
US Sub, he was thought to be missing but
was found to have been recaptured by the
Japanese and taken to Kiangwan Hakodate
Camp. He was liberated in 1945.
He is on a hospital list with other soldiers
but I don’t have the name of the hospital he
was taken to.
This is all I have been able to find out so
far. He died in Huntingdon in 1981.
I don’t have any other information or photos.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
11.04.2023 |
| Comments: |
Hi Linda, ref. your Grandfather, Gunner William Williams. He was a regular soldier having joined up 7 years earlier in 1934. There was very little paperwork to follow a trail which was mainly due to the fact that as a POW he never seemed to leave Singapore. His Liberation Questionnaire which he completed himself, lists his camps as Changi, Havelock Rd, Chinese High School, Selarang and then back to Changi., and confirms he was taken prisoner at Singapore on 15/02/1942, the date of capitulation. His main regiment seems to have been the 7th Coast Regiment, but he was seconded to work in the HQ of Penang Fire Command. I am unclear whether this was in Penang or Singapore, but he was definitely back in Singapore at the date of surrender.. He is listed as being liberated from Changi in September 1945. There is nothing to show him as ever being in Rangoon unless he stopped there on his journey home, but he was certainly not a POW there, as he would have included it on his Liberation Questionnaire. |
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| Name: |
Linda |
| Location: |
Wales |
| Email: |
Lindarees@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, I"m looking for information on my grandfather William Howard Williams who was in the Royal Artillery and a POW in Rangoon. His service number is 840604. |
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| Name: |
John Smith |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Email: |
smithjohn111rough@googlemail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Lynn regarding your comments with regard to Edwin Alexander Marmaduke Hay and Leslie Harrison i can tell you that the best place to look is the Forces War Records Web Site. I hav ehad a look and there e are records for these two gentlemen. This is a subscription site and i am a member, if you would like to send me your email i may be able to send the information to you. |
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| Name: |
John Smith |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Email: |
smithjohn111rough@googlemail.com |
| Comments: |
Mike just to thank you for the information with regard to my wifes uncle Charles Frederick George Greenway. You mentioned that his final camp was blurred but i have found out that it was Prachuab Kirikhan. This was a camp to which lots of men ex Thai Burma Railway from Nakom Paton were moved. They were working on the Mergui Road. Many who had managed to survive on the railway died there. |
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| Name: |
Lynn |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Has anyone got any information about Edwin Alexander Marmaduke Hay, service number 4447244.
I am also looking for any information about Leslie Harrison, service number 11051992.
I would be extremely grateful for any information or advice on where to find out about them.
Thanking you in advance |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
30.03.2023 |
| Comments: |
Hi John. Gunner Charles Greenway, 1107750, 80th Anti Tank Regiment, Royal Artillery. (272 Battery)
The newly formed regiment were sent up to Gourock, north of Glasgow, and embarked on the troopship RMS SCYTHIA, bound for a destination unknown at this time. RMS SCYTHIA sailed on 31st August 1941, as part of a convoy of 19 ships, and was known as the WS11 Convoy, sailing via Sierra Leone, and Durban. At Durban the regiment was transferred to 2 smaller ships, with the 215 and the 2 Minden battery embarking on the HMT New Zeeland, and the 272 and 273 battery on the SS Johan de Witt which sailed on 7th October, and arrived in Bombay on 22nd October. A depleted convoy of 6 ships left Bombay on 27th October, calling into Colombo, Sri Lanka on 31st October, and sailed onto Singapore, arriving 6th November 1941). Upon arrival the regiment was split up with each of the 4 batteries being sent to different locations in Malaya. The next time the men met up was as prisoners in Changi on 15/02/1942. Charles completed a Liberation Questionnaire which enables us to see all his camps. Our thanks to Cofepow. Changi to June 42, Non Pladuk to Sept.42,
Tamarkan (Kwai Bridge) to July 43, Kanyu to Nov 43, Tarsoa to April 44, Nakom Paton to Aug 45. .His final camp he lists as (blurred) "Palm beach" Kirikah which I have never heard of. |
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| Name: |
John Smith |
| Location: |
29/03/2023 |
| Email: |
smithjohn111rough@googlemail.com |
| Comments: |
My Wifes uncle Charles Frederick George Greenway was a POW at Maial 1 .He was captured on 15/02/1942 and liberated on 30/08/1945. His Service Number was 1107750 and he was in the Royal Artillery. We have no other information so any help would be greatly appreciated |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
29.03.2023 |
| Comments: |
Hi Chris, Your uncle completed a Liberation Questionnaire in feint pencil, but someone has enhanced and created a very readable copy. Thanks to the volunteers at Cofepow this can now be viewed. His camps were: Changi to 14.5.42, Havelock Rd to 9.10.42, Kinsaiock (Thai) to 3.4.43, Chunkai to 21.11.43, Non Pladuk 1 to 22.12.43, Non Pladuk 2 to 24.3.44, Nakon Paton Hospital to 20.3.45 and Kanchanaburi to 2.9.45. Most from this location would then have been liberated to Bangkok, flown to Rangoon and ship home via Colombo and Suez. Camp 4 was actually meaning he worked with men within Group 4 and it covered many camps. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
28/03/2023 |
| Comments: |
Hi Coreen,
I can add a few answers for you. Sgt. Leslie Stephens, Dockyard Police 0027, was in the third transportation to Japan, so this was probably on the hellship Tatsuta Maru, arriving Moji on 22/01/1943. I believe he was originally in Sakurajima Camp, Osaka 4D, which later changed number to Osaka 8D. The main job here was shipfitting. On 17/05/1945 the camp was destroyed in an air raid and all the men were transferred to Akenobe, Osaka 6B, which was a copper mine.
His Liberation date is shown as 09/09/1945 and he started his journey home from Wadayama railway station. in city of Asago (NOT Wakayama). Others from his camp state they went by train to Yokohama, then by ship to Okinawa, then another ship to Manila, Philippines. I cannot see proof of this part of the journey for Leslie, but the probability is high. The next stage where evidence of him re-emerges, is he is listed on the passenger list of the Hospital Ship Tjitjalengka heading for Wellington, New Zealand. In his notes he is recorded as "Obs. T.B." (Observation ?) and "Next of kin in Australia". The Tjitjalengka sailed onwards to Australia the next day with those wishing to disembark there as long as they were not going to be a burden on Australian medical services. Leslie had recorded Mrs W M Stephens as living in Brisbane. I have no information thereafter. |
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| Name: |
Chris Parker |
| Location: |
Kent, England |
| Email: |
christopher@parker.name |
| Comments: |
My uncle William Keith Hargreaves was captured on
15 Feb 1942. His POW card shows he was a Lt with
Recce Corps of 18 Division. Service no 160567. Do
we know where he was imprisoned. I"ve always under-
stood he was at Camp 4 on the railway. I"d be grateful
for any information and/or guidance as where to
search further. Thanks
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| Name: |
Coreen McMeeken |
| Location: |
Dorset |
| Email: |
coreen@gsnet.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I"ve taken possession of my grandad"s long service medal as part of the Royal Naval Dockyard Hong Kong Police and understand that he was captured in Hong Kong and taken to a POW camp in Osaka.
Unfortunately the history has been lost as he never spoke about his experiences but I have found a photo of the dutch ship Tjitjalengka in some old paperwork so I"m presuming that might have been how he came back to Hong Kong after the war.
Any information you can supply would be so appreciated as I"m trying to fill the gaps.
His name was Leslie George Stephens. Many many thanks. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
21/03/2023 |
| Comments: |
Hi Kimberly. Charles George Blease, 3528232, was a regular soldier having joined up in 1935.
He had already seen action in Palestine during the Arab Uprising before 1st Battalion Manchester Regiment was sent to Singapore in 1938. The regiment was stationed at Tanglin Barracks and they took charge of all East Coast Protection duties. The regiments Commanding Officer was Colonel Holmes, who was to take command of all UK and Australian Forces, a few years later, in Changi, after Lt.Gen. Percival and all high command were sent to Taiwan for imprisonment.
Charles records his camps as Changi Feb 1942, Non Pladuk (Thai) Oct 42, Arrow Hill (110Km north) July 43, Non Pladuk Nov 44, and finally Ubon April 45. Ubon is 450 miles from the Railroad in N.E.Thailand and the men were enslaved in airfield construction. Upon liberation, it is believed most of the men were flown to Rangoon, Burma, and then a sea voyage home via Colombo and Suez. |
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| Name: |
Kimberly Blease |
| Location: |
Manchester, UK |
| Email: |
kimberly.blease01@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi to whomever is reading this, I hope you are well?
I am looking for any information regarding my ancestor, I have gathered as much info as possible via searches but am now at dead end. His name is lance corporal Charles George Blease, Manchester Regiment of the 1st Batallion. Service number 3528232 I believe he may have been capture in the Fall of Singapore in 1942, as a pow camp card I found via ancestry and the national archives states his place of capture as Singapore in 1942. I do not know which camp or camps he went to inbetween this period, only that in 1945 he was sent to the ubon camp in thailand and then liberated some time after. He unfortunately passed 8th May 1946 in an unfortunate train accident. I am looking for any information at all regarding where he was inbetween this, any info at all on him would be greatly appreciated. thank you for the great effort you put into the website, it is incredible |
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| Name: |
Myrna Carlson |
| Email: |
mcarlsyn@ gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My grandfather, Raymond Johnson, was a of War who died while captive by the Japanese. I’m looking for any information. I don’t have his service number. Wife’s name was Helen Helmouth. They were both Philippine
Citizens. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
13.03.2023 |
| Comments: |
Hi Howard.. BSM Kenneth Street actual name was Ralph Kenwyn Street and that is the name he is buried under. He was in the 241 Battery of the 77 Heavy Anti Aircraft Regiment , Royal Artillery.
This regiment was formed , and consisted of many sportsmen from Cardiff and Newport areas. The regiment arrived in Batavia (now Jakarta) in early Feb 1942, and the men joined a road convoy to Sourabaya, but with more men than lorries many troops were to make the journey by train.
At 3:00am the next morning the train was in a head on collision with a goods train carrying bombs and 3 trucks of gasoline. Around 30 men died and 100 were injured. Although never proved it was rumoured to be sabotage by a Japanese loyal signalman. All these men had died within 24 hours of arrival in Java. The date was Feb 5th/6th 1942 and Java capitulated on March 8th so none of the men who died were ever prisoners of war. |
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| Name: |
Howard Evans |
| Location: |
Cardiff, Wales |
| Email: |
evanshoward1@aol.com |
| Comments: |
I am trying to trace the death of Cardiff rugby
player BSM Kenneth I Street who I think was killed
in "a terrible train crash" on Java in 1942.
More than that I do not know. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
05/03/2023 |
| Comments: |
Karen, I have just read a report on the Ying Ping which includes the details of Cpl Robert Seddon of the Royal Marines. I believe others would wish to read it also, and this is the address (copy"n"paste). This report includes Roberts affidavit for the War Crimes Trial. https://www.malayanvolunteersgroup.org.uk/uploads/1/0/7/3/107387685/passenger_list_hms_yin_ping_november_2020.pdf
As you can see from the pdf address you will also benefit and possibly find relatives of survivors at the Malayan Volunteers Group as they have a detailed section of Singapore Evacuation Ships.
https://www.malayanvolunteersgroup.org.uk/ (copy"n"paste) |
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| Name: |
Garabédian Karen |
| Location: |
France |
| Email: |
karengarabedian@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My uncle sent on here a message below. He unfortunately didn"t have any answers
Did anyone knew or shared stories about Robert Henry Seddon?
"My father, Robert Henry Seddon cpl RM. on Repulse and Yin Ping. POW muntok camp. Witnessed Australian nurses murdered on the beach Banka Island. If anyone has a relative who may have shared this part of his life, i would like to share the information i have".
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| Name: |
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| Location: |
20.02.2023 |
| Comments: |
Martin Squires email sent 18/02 |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
20.02.2023 |
| Comments: |
Roel, The Japanese on Java decided to send 3.700 Pow"s to construct 3 airfields on neighbouring "islands".
1,700 to Haruku for Palao Airfield, 1,000 to Ceram for Amahei Airfield and 1,000 to Ambon for Liang Airfield.
His Index Card seems to state he had entered a hospital on 15.08.42 for a skin disease, which I assume was clear enough to release him. Then on 30.08.43 he suffered "onset of disease", and died on 09.09.43 with it recorded as Bacillary Dysentery. He was indeed buried at Batoedora Cemetery at Liang , at Low level Base , Ambon District.
I cannot see anything connecting him to Haruku Camp. |
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| Name: |
Roel Struyve |
| Location: |
Belgium |
| Comments: |
Dear Sir
Trying to find information on 1196580 AC2 Norman Griffith JONES, RAF. FEPOW index card has him captured March 8th 1942 and in a camp in Java, in CWGC his record shows him buried in Ambon War Cemetery, having died September 9th 1943. Any and all further information welcome.
Furthermore I noticed the lad was originally buried in Batoe Doea (Liang) Cemetery. Would it be correct to assume that he was in a POW-camp nearby? Most references mention Haruku POW-camp but Haruku seems to be the next island in the row, while Batoe Doea and Liang seem to be places on Ambon island?
Thank you very much and best regards from Belgium |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
17.02.2023 UK |
| Comments: |
Andrea. .. William Wood (Billie), VX 22572, 2/2nd Pioneer Btl, AIF. Taken prisoner on Java, 08.03.1942. Transported to Singapore as part of "Java Party 5A" on the Singapore Maru. Arriving Changi on 17.10.42. I believe he remained in Singapore until 07.01.1943 when he was sent by train to Penang, Malaya. He was then herded onto the "Moji Maru" and sailed to Moulmein, Burma. This hellship was sailing along with "Nichimei Maru" and both were attacked by B24s. The Nichimei was sunk with 935 Dutch Pow"s. Upon arrival at Moulmein were sent to various camps in small groups of 20 men. William died at 80 KILO Camp of dysentery and ulcers. Reburied after the war. |
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| Name: |
Martin Squires |
| Location: |
Luton, Bedfordshire |
| Email: |
martinsquires@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
My Great Uncle, Ronald Flint DOB 9th May 1921 was in Singapore when it fell to the Japanese and was taken prisoner. I have been unable to find any record of where he was held etc. Any information would be much appreciated. He was living in Luton when he enlisted and I believe he was in the RAF. |
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| Name: |
Andrea Willis |
| Location: |
North Yorkshire, UK |
| Email: |
andi.willis241@googlemail.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for any information on: William Alfred Wood, AIF, Service No: 22572 Died 29/08/1943 buried at Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery. Thank you |
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| Name: |
Gary Trickett |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
healthyroute@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Information on
Owen Frank Smart, Cpl RAF 534719
Died Changi POW camp 31/03/1943
Thanks |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
23.01.2023 |
| Comments: |
Hi Julia. Reference your Grandfather, Owen Thomas, of HMS Exeter. Unfortunately I have only found three mentions of his name, and certainly not enough information to put his story together.
He did complete a Liberation Questionnaire upon his release, which gives us his service number
D/JX 177484. This form gives us the details that he was taken prisoner on March 2nd 1942 when HMS Exeter was sunk during the second battle of the Java Sea. He records that he was taken to the prison camp on Makassar, and then actually stayed there for the whole of the war. His Liberation Q also shows that he was indeed only 17yrs 5 mth upon capture and that he enlisted in Jan. 1940 when he was only 15 yr 4 mth. Wow!!. His rank in the navy was "BOY", the rank for everyone until their 18th birthday. His Japanese Index card is incomplete on the front so offers no information, the rear has an entry stating "September 1st 1945 incarcerated at Makassar Detention Camp." A second entry states "September 27th 1945 (date unclear) handed to allied forces". Let me know if you want copies of file emailed showing his name. |
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| Name: |
Patsy |
| Location: |
New South Wales |
| Email: |
patsylee1@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for information on my Grandfather Frederick Jones NX44774.
Investigation on my own, there has been confusion between 2 POWs with the same name.
My grandfather was in 2/19th Btn and the other 2/18th Btn .
Tracking he"s where abouts as a POW the only things I can confirm is he was captured in Singapore, D Force and spent time in Changi and camp 4
Can you help with his ware abouts while he was a POW.
Thanks, in advance for any information you can provide. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
21.01.2023 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Stewart. Reference A/C 1 Graham Lait, service number 1068929. a very difficult one to search with a lot of contradicting information. Hopefully some facts will be of use to you. His Japanese Index Card shows him as a member of 605 Squadron, and his Liberation Questionnaire show him as originally based at RAF Sho-Kuantan in Malaya. It would appear that he was only there for a matter of weeks or even days, before relocating to Singapore. Soon after the squadron was used for the evacuation of Sumatra to Java. As an A/C1 there is a strong possibility these facts may not apply, in the utter confusion of the area leading up to capitulation. What is known as a fact is that he was taken prisoner at Garoet , Java, on 20th March 1942. He then spent the war in 7 different camps.
Boei Glodok, Batavia Mar 42-Feb 43.. Tandjong Priok, Batavia Feb-May 43. .. Then sent to Liang, Ambon May 43-May 44, recognised as one of the most brutal of all camps, run by Japanese Marines... Mater Dolorosa St.Vincentius Hospital Camp, Batavia Jun 44- Sept 44 ... Cycle Camp, Batavia Sep 44-May 45... Bandung May-Aug 45 ... Cycle Camp Aug-Sep 45. His Index Card, written in Japanese, states "27th October 1945, second extradition by the United Nations Army" This may have been a delayed liberation due to the Indonesian Uprising, or merely poor record keeping. |
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| Name: |
Julia Revell |
| Location: |
South Wales uk |
| Email: |
juliarevell@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
hi i was wondering if you have any information on my Grandfather Owen Meredith Thoma who was taken as a pow when HMS Exeter was hit,he was 17 at the time.Isaw his name on a list once but have been unable to find it again,many thanks |
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| Name: |
Stewart Lait |
| Location: |
Monks Risborough, Bucks |
| Email: |
stewart@stewartlait.com |
| Comments: |
Hello,
I am looking for info about my father Graham Lait, Aircraftman First Class who died in 1960 when I was 9 so I didn"t get to talk to him about his PoW experience. I understand he was one of the 1200 men of Liang, of whom only 200 returned from building an airfield to the east of the Indonesian archipelago. FEPoW have not been able to help. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
14.1.2023 |
| Comments: |
Chloe Dawn ..............check email for more information. |
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| Name: |
Boo |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
boopowe@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Does anyone have information please on my grandparents, Bill and Maud Miller, who were captured by the Japanese whilst he was the manager of a rubber plantation in Java? Many thanks. |
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| Name: |
Chloe dawn |
| Location: |
Liverpool |
| Email: |
chloe.d.2006@googlemail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello - I"m not sure if I can gain anything from this but my grandad was named William James Dawn & he was a POW in Japan & released after so long. I have very little to go off but have some photographs of gentlemen in his camp |
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| Name: |
Joanna Ballingall |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
balsy117@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi there I am searching for any photos or information regarding James Davidson Ballingall QX18527
Any information would be appreciated. Kindest regards :) |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
05.01.2022 |
| Comments: |
HI Amanda, reference Joseph Towner. I am sure I am not able to provide any additional information to that within the bunch of paperwork you have been supplied with. Service number of 38012227 , and serving with the 200th Coast Artillery Regiment. He enlisted into the army on March 22nd 1941, at Santa Fe, New Mexico, declaring his occupation as Farm Hand. It appears he was missing in action/killed in action on the recorded date of April 9th 1942 which I believe is only day 1 of the Bataan Death March. This suggests he was killed in the Battle of Bataan rather than the March. There are 4 files in the Philippines National Archives for 200th Coast, but I cannot see his name recorded. |
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| Name: |
Marie- Anne ten Brinke |
| Location: |
Almelo Netherlands |
| Email: |
matenbrinke@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I"m looking for grandchildren of Jan Berg (John Berg) born 1916 in The Hague. Thanks for sharing his story! |
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| Name: |
Lorna |
| Location: |
Perthshire, Scotland |
| Comments: |
Mike, thank you so much for your help in our search for further information on Andrew Clark Walker. We are really grateful for the time you took to answer our query. You are providing a really wonderful service. The information you provide is so useful. Thank you again. Lorna |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
1/1/2023 |
| Comments: |
Paul, re Gunner Arthur Cooling, 12 Coast Regiment, 24 Battery. As Arthur was a Hong Kong POW my knowledge is very limited, and can I suggest to contact the expert who is Tony Banham. His website is http://www.hongkongwardiary.com/hkwdhome.html. He welcomes enquiries and his email is listed on his homepage. Some brief details are that he was imprisoned in Shamshuipo on HK until sent to Japan probably on the Maru Shi on 3/9/42, arriving 11/9/42. Sent into Tokyo 1 camp, shipyard, which seems to have had several names depending on which building you were in. Shinacawa and Omori as listed on his liberation questionnaire maybe the same place. On 31/5/45 he was transferred to Sendai 10B, where he remained until liberation. His Japanese Index Card states he was liberated from Shiogama Port on 14/9/45 to the safekeeping of US Major Price. Although I have not located the paperwork giving names, most of the Sendai POWs were taken onto the Hospital Ship USS Rescue. They were then taken to Yokohama. A second ship then took them to Okinawa, and a third ship or flight took them to Manila. I then find his name again as he boards the HMS Implacable on 25/9/45 as passenger 99, and sailed to Vancouver, arriving 11/10/45. Many from the Implacable are known to have then crossed Canada on a 5 day train journey to Halifax, and boarded the Ile de France for Southampton. |
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| Name: |
Amanda Towner |
| Location: |
Seattle, WA |
| Email: |
amandatowner94@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My father (George Towner) was just recently contacted by the military regarding his uncle Joseph Towner, they sent a bunch of paperwork and in that paperwork it said he died during the death march of Bataan April 9, 1942. His body was never recovered. This might be a long shot but I just thought id see if there was anymore info on him since my dad and his side of the family is shrouded in mystery bc we don"t have much info on them. Thanks in advance! |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Andy.Ward. We cant start without a name. Please repost. first/middle/surname. If you know any of the following it might help- date of birth/where born/where lived/. Army/navy/airforce.?
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| Name: |
Paul Cooling |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
paul@pandolfo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Good Afternoon and would be grateful for any
information held for my Great Uncle Arthur
COOLING who was POW in Sendai camp. Gunner in
Royal Artillery Service Number 875704 |
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| Name: |
Andy |
| Location: |
Willoughton Lincolnshire |
| Email: |
andy.ward1962@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi
My Grandad was a prisoner of war and was made to work on the “ railway of death “
I was hoping to find some information about him
I have his medals but not his service number
Can you help at all
Thank You in advance
Andy Ward
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
29.12.2022 |
| Comments: |
Lorna, I don"t have much information on Andrew, but hope it may lead you to searching in the right direction for further detail. Driver for Royal Corps of Signals is correct and service number 140357. He was attached to the 77 Heavy Anti Aircraft Regiment (77HAA) on Java and was taken captive on 08/03/1942. (Not 1943). On his Liberation Questionnaire (Gratitude to Cofepow) he lists he was taken captive at Garot but I believe it was actually Garoet, where 77HAA had been sent to protect the airfield. His prisons are listed as Garoet, Tangong Priok and then about 20/4/43 he sailed for Ambon. This was known to be a treacherous place as it was under the jurisdiction of the Japanese Marines and their brutality,starvation, and inhumane actions were extreme, as they sought revenge for the sinking of their minesweeper. On 1/5/44 he returned to mainland Java and to the capital Batavia where he remained until his liberation on 20/8/45. However, on the rear of his Japanese Index Card (prisoner card) it states "27/10/45 Extradition carried out". His delayed release may have been the result of the uprising immediately post war against the Dutch. |
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| Name: |
Lorna |
| Location: |
Perthshire |
| Email: |
lornajanedunbar@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, I am looking for further information on Andrew Clark Walker. He was a driver in the Royal Signals. We think he was captured in 1943 but we have very little information. We would appreciate any help you can offer. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 27.12.2022 |
| Comments: |
Hi Michael, It is always difficult when someone says they want to learn more without telling us what they already know. I think it is best to view this page already created by Ronnie Taylor, and then post again with some particular questions. This may save a lot of research time. You will probably need to cut"n"paste this link: https://www.roll-of-honour.org.uk/Java_Index/D/html/do_database_26.htm |
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| Name: |
Michael |
| Location: |
Farnborough |
| Email: |
Mickeydoe@virginmedia.com |
| Comments: |
I"m hoping to learn more about the story of my great Uncle James Henry Doe who was captured as a Japanese POW in 1942.
I believe he was an aircraftman in the RAF. |
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| Name: |
Kacey Noy |
| Location: |
QLD |
| Comments: |
My husbands Grandfather was a member of the 2/26 Battalion coming from Qld. His name was Alan Campbell and service number was QX12107. He was a Uniting Church minister. We know that he was held as a prisoner of war in Japan for several years and we are now trying to piece together his journey and create something for the family to document his story. Interested in anything you may recall. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
18.12.2022 |
| Comments: |
Hi Becky, Your Grandfather Cpl. William White, service number T/179792. On his Liberation Questionnaire, sourced by Cofepow volunteers, he lists he was in 6 different Singapore Camps between February 42 and April 43. These were Changi, River Valley, Havelock Rd, Tanjon Rhu, Serangoon and Great World. On 27/04/1943 he was crammed into the steel wagons of train 10, for the 5 day journey of hell to the Siam Railroad. He was part of the 7,000 men of "F Force" who suffered extreme hardships from starvation and disease including cholera. Reading the detail of "F Force" is a separate saga. He was enslaved at Songkurai (Sun Korai) where they built the Bridge of 600. Named due to over 600 dying. He is next recorded as being bought back to Singapore, and in Kranji Camp, on 31/03/1945. By this time Kranji was being used as a major hospital, but whether he was a patient or had volunteered as a medical orderly, I cant trace. His Liberation Q. does not show an accurate liberation date, merely 02/11/1945 which was the general date for all camp closures. Many men had already arrived home by then if fit to travel. Travel information is "lost" for the men of Singapore. |
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| Name: |
Becky White |
| Location: |
Sheffield |
| Email: |
beckylstroud@gmail.coming |
| Comments: |
My grandfather, William White, was a Japanese prisoner of war.
He was a driver, Lance Corporal Royal Army Service Corps
and in Singapore when it surrendered
to the Japanese.
I’d like to know his movements etc.
My dad was born in 1940 and
his first memory of his dad
was standing on Stranraer Harbour Railway
meeting this ‘stranger’ -
my uncle remembers
not recognising him because he was so thin.
My dad’s parents divorced because they couldn’t
make their marriage work post POW
I have vague memories of visiting him
in the 1970’s in London
He died in 1979. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
10/12/2022 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Yvonne. I am sure only you will be able to digest whether the information is suitable for your mum to learn after 80 years. Your Grandad, Gunner Samuel Witts was a member of the 35th Light Anti Aircraft Regiment (35 LAA). He was with 89 battery which was attached to 6 HAA Regiment and detailed for airfield securement on Java. Taken prisoner on 08/03/1942 at the surrender of Java by the Dutch, and imprisoned at Tangjong Priok Camp. On 29/10/42 he embarked on a hellship at Batavia docks. I believe this was Moji Maru and only took him to Singapore. On 30/10/42 I believe he was on the Singapore Maru and this sailed for Moji in Japan. arriving 25/11/42. A very long journey in atrocious and barbaric conditions and 60 men died on the journey. The POW Camp they were taken to was Hiroshima 7B Okinoyama, and they were enslaved into coal mining. Samuel died at this camp on 03/12/42 and it was recorded as colonitis. 10 members of his regiment also died in December. The hellship conditions probably enhanced this death rate. There are a lot of Japanese entries on the rear of his Index Card (Prisoner Card). I believe the translation reads: November 27 1942 transfer to mainland camp Fukuoka 7B. (note, Hiroshima 7B and Fukuoka 7B are the same camp just with a name change) 3 December 1942 Acute large intestine. Died 22:50 fire (cremation?). 14 April 1945 urn transfer to Hiroshima confinement camp. 21 October 1942 prepare for transfer. 30 November 1942 taken of oath. (?) 16 November 1942 onset of disease.
Remains of body held at Ube City Miyama Common Cemetery (JA298) 29 October 1945 Josenji Temple, Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Recovery Team 17 1st Lt. Robert F Andrews Jnr.
(assume recovery of urn for transfer to Yokohama Cemetery) |
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| Name: |
yvonne |
| Location: |
Nottingham |
| Email: |
vonney1971@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Is there anyone who could help with information on my grandad Gunner Samuel Witts 1700019 Royal Artillery who died in a POW camp in Japan 3/12/42
Would love any information for my 80 year old mam who never met him. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
08/12/2022 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Paul,
You already seem to have a good knowledge of your Grandfather, but hopefully I can add a few more details. After initial imprisonment at Changi from 15/02/1942, he was later sent to Bukit Tima on 22/03/1942. This was probably to work on the shrine built for the Japanese to honour their dead. The regimental file from Changi of the 4th Suffolk Rgt. states he was sent to the Siam Railroad on 17/10/1942 and this would have been with Group 1 to build the base camp for others to follow.
On 17/11/1942 he is at Chunkai, which was the HQ of Group 2. By 09/06/1943 he has travelled 220 Km up the railway to Takanun and this maybe as Lt. Col Johnson of the 4th Suffolks is listed as his camp leader. By 14/09/1944 he is 263 Km north at Konkoita which is where the two ends of the railroad construction was joined. His last camp was Langsuan which was 530 Km south of Bangkok. I believe there was a bridge here under continuous bombing by the allies, and POWs were sent here to carry out continuous repairs. His Japanese Index Card has a few lines of entry written in Japanese which state merely "Transfer to Thai Prisoner Shelter (camp)" and " Thai prisoner Number 1 Branch Transfer". The final line I believe reads "30/08/1945 Bangkok extradition to United Nations Army". This would suggest he travelled home via shipping from Rangoon.
I am confused by your statement concerning the medals. He was not officially entitled to the Burma Star but should have received the Pacific Star. I imagine he should also have The 1939-1945 Star. All 3 stars have their title on the front, so there should not be any confusion. The 39-45 Star should have a 3 colour ribbon, dark blue/red/light blue. The Pacific Star has a 5 colour, red/dark blue/green/light blue/and yellow as a centre stripe. |
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| Name: |
Jenna walsh |
| Location: |
Macclesfield |
| Email: |
Jennayorkewalsh@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you so so much Mike! I really look forward to your email. My grandad thought he was going to Australia to learn to fly, would this have been the plan or was he always going to be learning in Singapore? Would you know when he arrived there? Thank you again |
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| Name: |
Paul |
| Location: |
Darwin , Australia |
| Email: |
paulchaplin75@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi,
I would be most grateful if you could help me find out about my Grandfather who was a Far East POW. His name is Victor Allenby Chaplin and he was from Tollesbury Essex England and lived at 6 Concrete Cottages Mell Road, Tollesbury, Essex England . He was a Private No 5829868, Suffolk Regiment, 4th Battalion, 12 Platoon , B Company. He was captured in the fall of Singapore I believe on the 15th February 1942 and went to Malai 1. and then onto camps within Thailand. I have his date of liberation as 30th August 1945. He received three medals one the general service medal and two I belive called the Burma Star they are both in the shape of stars. I also have three cards with Imperial Japanese Army on plus (service des prisonniers de guerre) on the other side. They all state he"s in No 2 POW Camp Thailand and one is dated June 1944. If you have any further information as to what happened to him during his time as a POW and the camps he went to i would be most appreciative . Thank you Paul |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
03/12/2022 |
| Comments: |
Jenna, I will reply by email, Easier as I can send photos of files etc. Might not be today. |
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| Name: |
jenna |
| Location: |
macclesfield |
| Email: |
jennayorkewalsh@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, thank you SO much for all your information, we are so grateful to you for your hard work and dedication to helping families gather information about their loved ones! Please could I ask where you find the information and whether there is anywhere I can look for further info or whether you have anymore details regarding my grandad or the ship/camps he was in?
On a database I have come across (since your message today) it says that the ship arrived in Sumatra 10th Nov 43 and left in May 43 as opposed to leaving 7th Nov? My Grandads liberation record doesn"t account for the ship at all, it just states that he left the cycle camp oct 43 and began his time in Palembang also oct 43. Would this indicate that it was a really short journey? do you think the sail could have just been for 3 days eg 7-10Nov 43 as opposed to 6m as indicated here https://www.britain-at-war.org.uk/WW2/Hell_Ships/html/names_database_37.htm
I am also really interested to know how the POWs knew their own whereabouts and the dates etc? Does the database you use come from official records which are different to the handwritten liberation records? Sorry for all the questions, I am just fascinated to find out more.
Also, my father (his son in law) had thought that Grandad was on a ship which was refuelling in Singapore on the way to Australia (where he was going to learn to fly) when Singapore fell to the Japanese so this is very interesting and new information also. Thankyou so very much for this!
Looking forward to hearing more,
Best,
Jenna |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 02/12/2022 |
| Comments: |
Hi Jenna. Re your Grandad, LAC Denis Ainsworth, service number 1066225. It seems he was with 36 Squadron in Malaya and they were flying very old Vilderbeests. These were a slow obsolete biplane and would have been totally outclassed by the Japanese Zero fighters. The majority of Vilderbeests were lost in the early days of the Japanese invasion, but by January 21st 1942, any surviving craft were ordered to escape to Java to regroup. There were very few aircraft remaining and RAF crew now became infantrymen. Denis became a POW on the 20/03/1942. His prison camps were Batavia Mar-Dec 42, Priok Dec 42-Mar 43, Cycle Camp Mar-Nov 43. Then on 07/11/1943 he was herded onto the Japanese hellship named "France Maru" with 2,100 POWs and sent to Palembang in Sumatra, to assist with airfields construction. After 18 months of this brutality they boarded a ship for Singapore, arriving 30/05/1945, and is still listed in Changi Nominal Roll on 05/09/1945 just prior to the first liberation sailings. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
uk 29.11.2022 |
| Comments: |
Hi Chris Ford. re Trooper George Moore. Unfortunately I have very little information for you as George remained imprisoned on Java for the whole of the war and therefore there is very little paperwork trail to follow. He was captured on 8th March 42 according to his Japanese Index Card but he states 29th March 42 on his Liberation Questionnaire post war. (Your date of 3rd Aug 42 is wrong, you need to read it right to left as 8/3/42) . He was imprisoned at Glodok from 29/03/42, then (I think) Lembang from 4/5/43, Cycle Camp from 11/1/45 and finally Vincentious Hospital until war end. His Index Card also states "27/10/1945 handed over to Allied Forces". This date appears rather late and maybe it is merely Japanese Admin "catching up" on missed paperwork. Details of journey home are unknown from this part of Asia. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 28.11.2022 |
| Comments: |
Hi Amy. Re your Grandfather, Gunner Frederick Charles Bailey, of Hull, Yorkshire. Service number: 4344644. Regiment: 79th Battery , 21 LAA (Light Anti-Aircraft). Unfortunately I have many gaps in his story due to lack of information of Timor and transportation to Java. Fred sailed from Gourock, near Glasgow in December 1941 for Algeria, but his ship was rerouted to Java when Japan entered the war on December 7th. Just the 79th Battery was then further rerouted to Timor, so only one third of the regiment was in Timor, and the rest in Java. By the time they arrived the Japs had already landed and they were instantly in battle, but unfortunately the Australian Air Force decided to save the aircraft and return to Australia. The 79th became known as The Timor Gunners or The Timor Regiment, and fighting alongside the Australians they were named "Sparrow Force". They surrendered on 23/02/1942, a week after they arrived. 183 men were POWs and just one had died in battle. They were imprisoned in Oesapa Besar Prison Camp. Although I cannot trace exact details, I believe he returned to Java around 21/10/42, and then onto Singapore before finally shipping to Japan arriving 27/11/42. He entered Fukuoka 11 Camp and later went to Fukuoka 3B camp on 03/12/44. On 17/09/45 he was liberated at Nagasaki Port 17 when handed safely over to Colonel Griffin. He was taken to Yokohama, then Iwo Jima, and then Manila in the Philippines. He sailed on HMS Implacable for Vancouver on 25/09/45 and arrived 11/10/45. Upon arrival in Canada , there are no clear records but many have stated they had a very comfortable and scenic 5 day journey across Canada to the east coast. He probably then arrived Halifax and sailed on the Ile de France, arriving Southampton on 31/10/1945. |
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| Name: |
Laura |
| Location: |
Essex |
| Email: |
Laura_w_2k2@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, I would like to know information regarding my great-grandmothers brother. Here is some Information I have.
LEONARD CHRIS SMITH (senior commisioned torpedo gunner) POW.
grp-Williams-lib
Journey TBR-B4
Many thanks
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| Name: |
David Anthony |
| Location: |
Grafham cambridgeshire |
| Comments: |
Looking. For information Sgt Richard ford, royal Norfolkdied in POW camp |
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| Name: |
Jenna |
| Location: |
Macclesfield |
| Email: |
Jennayorkewalsh@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi all, I am after any information on my Grandad and would be so grateful if anyone could point us in the right direction.
We have obtained his liberation document and have realised that he was at 5 different camps through the war. We had thought he spent the entire time in Changi.
They are listed as follows:
Bativa - Java
Priok - Java
Bycicle camp - Java
Palembang - Sumatra
Changi - Singapore
Name: Denis Alfred Ainsworth
DOB: 1/9/20
Rank: LAC
Number: 1066225
36 squad ATT
Date of capture: 8/3/42
From: Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire
Thank you in advance :) |
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| Name: |
Chris ford |
| Location: |
Manchester uk |
| Email: |
Chrisfordmcfc96@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Looking for information on trooper George leslie moore 3rd hussars royal armoured corp 7905272 captured 03/08/1942 Java thank you chris |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
24.11.2022 |
| Comments: |
Sharon, You will need to add some more information to try and identify him, Do you have any of the following ? Rank, Regiment, nationality, Home address, What medals did he recieve, |
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| Name: |
Sharon hurrell |
| Location: |
Heacham |
| Comments: |
I’m trying to find out about my uncle
his name was Herbert Hawkins he fought at
Burma and was a prisoner of war |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
22/11/2022 |
| Comments: |
Hi Kathryn.. Private Cecil Brown was a regular army soldier since 1937, service number 2878395. Originating from Cove bay Village, south of Aberdeen. Taken prisoner at the fall of Singapore on 15/02/1942, and imprisoned at Adam Park. Transported in the cattle trucks to the Burma/Siam Railroad on 24/10/1942. Listed as being with Work Group 1, means he would have worked at the camps between Non Pladuk and Tamarkan (Bridge on the River Kwai). His liberation Questionnaire shows his camps as Tamarkan, Kinsiok, Non Pladuk and Ubon. Ubon is 450 miles from the Railroad in N.E.Thailand, and 3,000 POWs were enslaved to build an airstrip. His Index Card shows his camp was liberated on 30/08/1945 but he probably did not start his journey home from this remote area until several weeks later. He probably was liberated by air to Rangoon, and then by sea homeward. |
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| Name: |
Amy |
| Location: |
Ennis, Tx |
| Email: |
amymcadams1974@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
I"ve learnt that my late Grandfather , Fred Bailey, was a POW on Timor, Japanese POW camp, I have a picture of his telegram to say he was liberated.
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| Name: |
Kathryn Barnes |
| Location: |
Liverpool |
| Email: |
Kathrynbarnes200983gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi. Do you have any information on Private Cecil Brown, he was in the Gordon Highlanders regiment and was captured in Singapore. |
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| Name: |
Fiona Marsh |
| Location: |
France |
| Comments: |
Thank you so much Mike, that information is all very helpful, I am so grateful. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
13.11.22 |
| Comments: |
Hi Fiona, I have nil information on your grandfather except that he joined the S.S.V.F. and had a service number of 6013. His Japanese Index Card shows him to be in Workgroup 4 on the Siam Railway. I believe you will get far more accurate information from the following two experts.
Jonathan Moffatt at the Malayan Volunteer Group will help regarding the S.S.V.F. at the website https://www.malayanvolunteersgroup.org.uk/contacts—membership.html. The experts for the Railroad are https://www.tbrconline.com/index.htm . (I dont think hyperlink will work so copy"n"paste). Both sites do a wonderful job at research for families. |
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| Name: |
Fiona Marsh |
| Location: |
France |
| Email: |
fiona.marsh.fam@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I would love to find out more regarding my grandfather Leonard Walter Marsh, he lived in Singapore as a civilian,
but I believe joined up only days before Singapore was taken, he was captured and spent the whole war as a POW,
I believe working on the Burma railroad, but know little else, I would love any further information of where he was
during those years, I know my grandmother and father escaped to Australia on one of the last boats, not knowing
if my Grandfather was alive for many years.
He did survive, but injuries sustained from those years took a toll on his health and he died in his late fifties. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
08.11.22 |
| Comments: |
Bill, as there were many William Murray taken POW, you will need to add more information to identify him. Unfortunately marriage details are not on pow files. Some of the following would help: middle name, when born, where born, parents christian names, regiment, etc |
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| Name: |
Bill Foster |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Trying to find out about my uncle, William Murray.
I think he was a Japanese pow.
I know he was married in India to a Queen Alexandra"s nurse.
I think she was a Major. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
05.11.2022 |
| Comments: |
Hi William, your Grandfather was Staff Sergeant Curry, service number 1861266, of the 40th Fortress Company, Royal Engineers. As a staff sergeant, he had a responsible role to play, and held in regard by the men as well as the officers. He was never in Thailand as he was actually taken prisoner on Christmas Day 1941 in Hong Kong. On the 01.10.1942 he was involved in one of the notorious events of war in the east when he was in a Japanese hell-ship that was attacked by an American submarine and sunk. The hell-ship was the Lisbon Maru being torpedoed by USS Grouper. 820 prisoners died that day, but obviously William was rescued. He was sent to Osaka 1B camp and there he died. He would have been probably cremated there as it is stated his urn was in the mausoleum at Yokohama after the war. The records show the family were at Oberon Street, COOGEE, in Australia. To connect the water damaged prayer book to the Lisbon Maru would be a wonderful family story. |
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| Name: |
William Curry |
| Location: |
Nouakchott |
| Email: |
curry.william@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My grandfather, William Curry, is buried in Japan. His family were evacuated to Australia during the war years. They were taken to England and believed he was still alive in captivity. Someone who witnessed his death said he died of beriberi some years earlier. There are only snippets of info like a water damaged prayer book - was he interred in Thailand and shipped to Japan? My grandfather was in REME I am told and was an NCO. I wish I knew more |
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| Name: |
Claire |
| Location: |
Northumberland |
| Email: |
clairemc0@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Can anyone tell me if the return to Maghull was just to Liverpool or did they stay at the psychiatric hospital there now known as Ashworth?.
My Grandfather came home via India and we have a card saying May your brief stay with us be happy…and trying to establish of her continued to be refed there or assessed for what would be PTSD now?
Any information would be helpful
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
30.10.2022 |
| Comments: |
Refence my post below dated 29.10.22, I have now found to have made a couple of errors. Firstly, Harolds journey of 4.4.42 was OVS (by sea) NOT to the Railroad, but to Saigon, in the hellship Nissyo Maru. Secondly, it would not be until 22nd June 1943 that they were then transferred to the Railroad. |
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| Name: |
Debbie |
| Location: |
Dorset |
| Email: |
gooner49@ntlworld.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike I would love more information thank you |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 29.10.2022 |
| Comments: |
Hi Debbie, It was quite a challenge to find anything about your uncle. However, it eventually became clear that he spelt his name as Loder and not Loader. So gunner H J Loder, service number 5726185 (sometimes listed as 1726185) was listed in the 5th S/L files as residing in Wareham Rd, Holton Heath, Poole. He was one of the first to be sent to the Siam Railroad on 04.04.1942, and was with the Group 4 workforce. This means that after initial work around Ban Pong, he would then have slaved around the camps at Wampo, Tonchan, and Konyu. His Japanese Index card states that he first became ill on July 31st 1943 and was in the 2nd Hospital POW camp, Kanchanaburi District. As you know he died on November 8th 1943 of dysentery and malnutrition, and is now buried in Chungkai. Harold would never have been in Burma, he was only at the Siam end of the Railroad. Contact me if you wish to have any copies of his files. |
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| Name: |
Debbie |
| Location: |
Dorset |
| Email: |
gooner49@ntlworld.com |
| Comments: |
Looking to find out a little more about my uncle
Harold thomas loader died age 21 POW Burma
Railway 1943. He was in the 5th searchlight regiment
Wonder where they was sent and were from to
Burma |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 21.10.2022 |
| Comments: |
Hi Gail. Unfortunately there are no details available for the service folk bought back from Singapore, Rangoon, Java etc. Some of the ships have a list of fare paying passengers, but the POWs were listed seperately and the forms went to the war transport dept. It is believed these forms were probably destroyed. Those POWs who were held captive in Japan, Taiwan and Philippines have been identified on passenger lists as details were held by the American Archives NARA. |
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| Name: |
Gail Bowler |
| Location: |
West Yorkshire |
| Comments: |
Hi, you kindly found out information about My G. Uncle Charles Archibald Cope, He was a POW in Thailand. I was wondering if you could tell us how to find out which ship he was repatriated on, or maybe where to start looking. His service number was T/181073
Regards
Gail |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
07.10.22 |
| Comments: |
Hi Charlie. I am assuming that W. Harris is Wilfred Harris from West Hartlepool, as he was a crew member of HMS Exeter. Wilfred seems to have avoided leaving a papertrail anywhere, with his Japanese Index Card appearing to be a substitute created in 1945, and on various documents he is marked as "no details". The only form that gives us any information is his Liberation Questionnaire which gives his service number (unclear) as probably D/JX237684, and he states that after capture he spent the entire war as a POW at Makassar. (South Sulawesi). The POW Camp had a brutal Commander named Yoesheda who was known as "The Mad Monk". |
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| Name: |
Charlie |
| Location: |
Swinney |
| Email: |
Charlie.swinney@tiscali.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Looking for any information on my grandmothers brother W Harris who served on the HMS exeter and who survived the POW camp. He returned on the HMS Maidstone but I cannot find any other information.
Only information I have is from An old diary which my grandfather kept where he mentions “ Lena’s brother missing from the exeter 28 March 1942” and later writes “ Lena got word her brother safe off Exeter, Prisoner 3years 7 months
Hope someone can shed some light. Grandmothers maiden name was Helena Harris ( Lena ) |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
30.09.22 |
| Comments: |
Leanne, see email. |
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| Name: |
Martin Squires |
| Location: |
Luton, Bedfordshire |
| Email: |
martinsquires@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
My Great Uncle, Ronald Flint DOB 9th May 1921 was in Singapore when it fell to the Japanese and was taken prisoner,
He escaped from a Japanese POW camp by clinging on to the underside of a train and eventually made his way back to his company.
I have been unable to find any information about him. Any information would be much appreciated.
He was living in Luton when he enlisted and I believe he was a Private in the army |
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| Name: |
Leanne Bowler |
| Location: |
Norfolk |
| Email: |
leannebowler12@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Oh my gosh, thank you Mike so much, this is amazing.
Are there any websites you recommend to help dig further into this,
I"m finding it really fascinating. I am also looking at Edgar James Cope (Charles")
brother. I believe he may have gone to Burma. Believe he was a Corpral and
number 5677055. Again, any info would be amazing, Thank you |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
29.09.22 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Leanne. Charles Cope, service number T/181073, held rank Driver in the RASC. However, he listed himself as 196 Field Ambulance RASC so he had been attached to this group probably on a permanent posting. He lists his address as Rectory Cottage, Howe, Nr. Brooke, Norwich.
He became prisoner on 15.02.1942 at the capitulation of Singapore. He was sent to the Burma Siam Railroad on 18.06.1942 so this was one of the very first train loads who were sent. His POW Camps were Non Pladuk, Ban Pong, Tarsao, Non Pladuk (again) and finally Pratchi. You can view his Liberation Questionnaire courtesy of the volunteers at Cofepow :https://lq-cofepow.org/products/cope-charles-archibald?_pos=3&_sid=f0b218559&_ss=r
He is listed as being finally liberated on 30.08.1945 and probably sailed home from Rangoon. |
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| Name: |
LEANNE BOWLER |
| Location: |
Norfolk |
| Email: |
leannebowler12@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I am searching my ancestry and a relative was a Japanese POW in 1942. His name was Charles Archibald Cope, from Kent.
I believe he may have lived in Norfolk with his wife while he was serving. Any help would be amazing, thank you |
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| Name: |
David Thacker |
| Location: |
Northampton UK |
| Email: |
uptodat@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I have just found this excellent site while researching the death of a man mentioned in WW2 newsletters from Northampton Post Office, and found useful info here.His storyFrederick Donald Hughes "Don" Robinson was born on 29/12/1915, son of George and Nellie nee Moore. The birth was registered in the Lutterworth Area in 1916.
In March 1932 Don was appointed as a postman at Leicester.
By mid 1939 Don was employed as a Sorting Clerk and Telegraphist for the Post Office and lived with his parents at 60 Harrow Road, Leicester but he transferred in the same role to Northampton GPO in October 1939.
He enlisted in the Army and (to use his experience as a GPO Telegraphist) became Signalman 2591866 in the Royal Corps of Signals and was posted to the Far East, Malaya, as part of 18th Divisional Signals.
He was captured by the Japanese Forces at the Fall of Singapore, on 15/2/1942 (or 17/2/15 in the Japanese system - 17th year of Showa era.) and is believed to have worked on the Burma Siam railway construction, under what are now known to have been brutal and inhumane conditions.
On 12/9/1944, Don was amongst some 900 British P.O.W.s aboard the Kachidoki Maru, being transported from Malaya to Japan. The ship was part of a convoy, HI 72, sighted by United States Navy Submarines and late in the evening USS Pampanito, unaware that Allied P.O.W.s were aboard ships in the convoy, attacked launching three torpedoes, two of which struck the Kachidoki Maru one astern and one amidships. She sank near Hainan Island.
The Kachidoki Maru was built by New York Shipping Company in Camden, New Jersey and originally named ‘President Harrison’, then, having been captured, the Kakku Maru before Kachidoki Maru. The ship was 524 feet overall length with a displacement of 10,500 tons and was painted battle grey, flying the merchant marine flag, which was a red ball in the centre of a white field. It had no red cross markings.
There were 515 survivors, those who abandoned ship at the earliest opportunity, were picked up by other vessels in the convoy but Don was amongst those 415 lost. Some survivors were picked up by U.S. Submarines and were amongst the first to tell of the horrors of the Railway.
The Rakuyo Maru carrying Australian and British P.O.W.s in the same convoy was torpedoed and sunk by U.S.Submarine Sealion with even more fatalities.. At least 1500 P.O.W.s died in total.
The ships conveying P.O.W.s to Japan have been called "Hell Ships", but of course the prisoners had already endured hell working on the railway, and some who reached Japan would endure it in a different form.
Don Robinson is Commemorated on Column 45 of The Singapore Memorial.. |
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| Name: |
Suzanne matcham |
| Location: |
Hampshire |
| Email: |
smpage9@msn.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I have recently received copies of my great uncles war records.
He was a pow in Borneo. I would like to find out what camp he was in.
He was one of the British who survived and went home eventually but died not long after.
I would be grateful if any information. His name was Alfred Honeysett. And was a zapper in the royal engineers.
Many thanks. |
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| Name: |
John Gibson |
| Location: |
Brisbane |
| Email: |
j.gibson3@optusnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
I trekked many sections of the subject line with a group from Brisbane some years ago. My brother-in-law Rick Nelson and I were the only sons of Australian soldiers who were
prisoners of the Japanese on that trip.All were amazed at the sites and POW camps and how the prisoners survived such harsh conditions.
Of course, our fathers never spoke of their experiences, and we were just as awestruck as the rest of the group.My dad took many years to adjust to normal life after returning to
Australia, but carried on supporting his family and never complaining.
His health of course finally let him down, due to the injuries and diseases he endured during the war.
I would have loved to have taken him back to visit the rail sites, but he died at the age of 73, on Australia day in 1988.
I am now 75 and wish he had been around to see my grandchildren. |
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| Name: |
Caroline Kennedy |
| Location: |
Italy |
| Email: |
cazzauk4@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am keen to find more information about my great
uncle Harold Beech from Manchester.
He was in the 9th Coast regiment artillery and was a gunner.
He died 0n 30th May 1943 in Tonchan Main as a POW. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 30.06.2022 |
| Comments: |
Hi John. Re William Leaver. Replied by email. |
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| Name: |
John Leaver |
| Location: |
Devon England |
| Email: |
johnleaver833@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike In 2020 my niece and I completed my Dad"s (William Frederick Leaver) life story including the period covering his service during WW2 where he served in BSquadron of the Kings Own Irish Hussars. When Japan entered the war in December 1941 he was sent to the Far East where he was captured and incarcerated by the Japanese, initially in Java and then via Changi Prison on a Hell Ship named the Maccasur Maru to Japan where he was held in Wakayama and finally in Ikuno camps for a total of 1333 days. We have been able to piece together a substantial amount of his journey but one missing piece of information that we have been unable to find is how he got from ikuno after he was liberated on the 9th September 1945 to Manilla in the Philipines before his passage home on the HMS Implacable. Dad mentioned to my niece that he recalled seeing the devastation caused by one of the twp atomic bombs but that would have meant that he travelled westward from Ikuno Camp to get to a port (unknown) before he was shipped (on what he said was an American destroyer) to Manilla. We have trawled records extensively but cannot work out the route he took from Ikuno to Manilla. Can yo the l pieces of this complex family jigsaw please? With grateful thanks John Leaver |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 03.04.2022 |
| Comments: |
Chris, . William Ulph in his own handwriting lists his rank as Driver 1st Class, and it also appears as such on his Changi Roll, but as Gunner on his Japanese Index Card. I believe he was probably put to the River Valley Camp at Changi, based on a report by another of his regiment. He was sent to the Burma Siam Railroad on 29/10/42 as part of ‘T’ Party. The trainload was 650 men of which 6 officers and 140 Other Ranks were from his 85th Anti Tank Regiment. Initially with the men of Group 2, but in 1944 merged with those in Group 4. He unfortunately did not list any camps on his Liberation Questionnaire, merely writing ‘None’.
His route homeward at war end would probably have been via Rangoon.
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| Name: |
Chris Brown |
| Location: |
Norwich, Norfolk, UK |
| Email: |
cbrown@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I would would love to find information about my great uncle, William James Ulph (1100639) Gunner of the 85th Anti-Tank Regiment, Royal Artillery. William was from East Dereham in Norfolk. I do know he was captured by the Japanese at Singapore on 15th of February 1942. I suspect, but would like confirmation as to whether his next stop was Changi Prison.
In 1943 I believe he was moved from wherever he was to a prison camp in Thailand, possibly Tamarkan, Chunkai or Tha Kanun. I am keen to know if he worked on the death railroad.
5th September 1945 he was "given" to a Lt Col. C. A. M Eachern, who I believe to be Cranston McEachern (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cranston_McEachern)
He did survive the war, but never talked about his experiences.
Would be very grateful for any information at all about his story. |
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| Name: |
Kathy Halliday |
| Location: |
Oakville, Canada |
| Email: |
khalliday376@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am searching for records of my grandfather"s incarceration in Changi Prison, 1942 to "43 or "44. He was a Danish citizen working for Guthrie & Co as a rubber planter outside Muar in Malaya. He saw his wife and 5 daughters off to Australia on the Narkunda from Singapore on Jan. 16/42, then returned to his unit of the Johor Volunteer Engineers before being captured after the fall of Singapore. He and other neutral nationals may have been released into the Cameron Highlands before the war"s end. His name was Ingemand "Andy" Andersen. |
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| Name: |
Joy hamlet |
| Location: |
Hinckley england |
| Email: |
Joyhamlet51@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for information on PTE Douglas Pratt not sure if Douglas spelling great uncle served with 1st battalion Leicester regiment he was liberated in Thailand we think any other information would be a bonus for us thanks in advance |
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| Name: |
Robyn |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Comments: |
Hi I would like to find out some history of my late grandfather’s incarceration in Changi prison., after the Japanese invaded Singapore. His name was Frank Hill..I think he spent 4 years in prison. He never spoke about his time in that prison but he suffered poor health until his death. He lived in Singapore at the time of the invasion. |
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| Name: |
Simon |
| Location: |
Lincoln |
| Email: |
neatnsitomlinson04@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am after any information on George Dean RAF AC2 from Reepham, near Lincoln
His service number was 1053621. Any help gratefully received |
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| Name: |
Andrew |
| Location: |
Lancashire |
| Email: |
Rozieflo@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
Please can you provide any information about a family friend Jack Stansfield who worked on the railways we understand towards the end of the war. Jack spent time in Burma. We know he was awarded a British Empire medal years later . He was from. Rochdale.
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| Name: |
JJ KARWACKI |
| Location: |
Kanchanaburi TH |
| Email: |
jjkarwacki@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
I have recently constructed a website that recounts the story of the US POWs captured on Java.
Many of them went on to work the TBR.
I am also expanding the site to place the TBR in the context of the larger war and political situation and to tell the almost forgotten saga of the Asian forced laborer (romusha).
https://www.uspowtbr.com/ |
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| Name: |
Kathie |
| Location: |
Western Australia |
| Comments: |
Hello
I am looking for information on my grandfather Robert Thomas Lindrea (Private R T Lindrea / Bob Lindrea). AIF VX61213 enlisted Royal Park Melbourne Victoria Australia. I know he was a pow in Java, Thailand, and Niihama Japan. I don"t know his camp movement details or movement dates etc. I do know he was listed in the 2/2nd Pioneer Battalion. Any information or photographs to help me build some kind of timeline would be appreciated.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 01.02.2022 |
| Comments: |
Hi Glenys,
Re your father, Gunner Victor Owen, service number 941138. 88th Field Regiment, Royal Artillery. As you may be aware he spent the entire war in Singapore, and when this happens there is very little ‘paper trail’ to follow. He did however, spend time in 5 different camps on Singapore. Changi, Towner Road, Serangoon, back to Changi, and finally Adam Road. His prisoner number initially was 1488, but later became 8275. At one point he is shown as being in Work Party X-4-A, under the command of Major J P May. There were 7 officers and 356 other ranks working to repair or recover damaged military and civilian vehicles. What could not be repaired was moved to the docks for transporting to Japan for ‘recycling’. I believe X-4-A may also have been tunnel digging troops in the last 6 months. These tunnels were for air raid shelters, but also potentially for accommodating POWs for extermination at the end, by gas, bullet, fire, or explosives.
There are a couple of forms showing his name if required by email. |
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| Name: |
Claire Barham |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
clc_girly@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, I would love some information regarding two of my relatives Howard Crosby and his cousin Norman Crosby. Norman died in July 44 and was a member of RAF 242 squadron. Howard survived and made it home. He was in RAF 211 squadron, number 1041041. Many thanks for your help. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 29.01.2022 |
| Comments: |
Hi Rachel. Sapper Walter McGregor was taken prisoner at the fall of Singapore on 15.02.1942 (not 1943). His service number was 1871697.The CWGC list his regiment as 35th Fortress Royal Engineers, various other documents from Changi list him as 36th Fortress, and his Japanese Index Card states he was attached to 7th Coast Regiment, Royal Artillery. He was sent to the Burma Siam Railroad as part of the ill-fated ‘F Force’ on 28.04.1943 in train 11. I believe he was made to do the forced march of 295Km from Bang Pong up to Tambaya. He died of tropical ulcers and colitis on 20.10.1943 and was cremated before being given a grave in Tambaya cemetery number 9. In 1946 he was reburied in Thanbyuzayat Cemetery in grave B6.Q.14 |
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| Name: |
Glenys Price (formerly Owen) |
| Location: |
Australia(formerly UK) |
| Email: |
natzprice@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I would love to find out some information about my father Victor Owen from Warrington. He became a prisoner of war in Changi missing presumed dad for a long time until the end of the war 1945.
Any information I would be very grateful for. He passed away in 1999 in Frankston a suburb of Melbourne Australia. My mothers name was Dorothy Owen formerly Stringer or Taylor now deceased also. |
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| Name: |
Rachel Boon |
| Location: |
Devon, England |
| Email: |
rocket.rach@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
My relative WALTER MCGREGOR
Service Number: 1871697 was I believe captured in February 1943 and died October 1943. As a Sapper and due to the location I suspect he was a POW. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Kind regards
Rachel
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| Name: |
Christina Padbury |
| Location: |
Cambridge |
| Comments: |
Captain E J Peel-Yates, EastSurreys was a POW and had dealings with Boon Pong. I have a copy of his Liberation Questionnaire and would like more information about Col Williamson at Chungkai and Col Johnson at Ban Khao, Arrow Hill Tha Knanun Sough and camp 226K. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 05.01.2022 |
| Comments: |
Dale, I do not have any files on AIF that will help you, but there is one solitary file in Australian records that show he was already in Osaka Japan by 21.06.43. Also when liberated from Fukuoka 26 Keisen Camp, there were 2 group photos taken of Australians. Go to this website and view one and click one on left of page. http://www.mansell.com/pow_resources/camplists/fukuoka/fuk_26_keisen/fuku_26_main.html |
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| Name: |
Dale Hunter |
| Location: |
Mooroopna |
| Email: |
Dale.hunter994@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi. We"ve been putting together information of my grandfather, Robert Lewis Hunter. His service number was VX54115. Would you have any photos he was included in? Also information on the places he was at and how he got between them. We know he was in 6th division signals and doesnt tinge in Changi after the fall of Singapore. Thanks in advance for anything you can find.
Dale Hunter |
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| Name: |
Hayley |
| Location: |
Warwickshire |
| Email: |
hayley.tonks@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi I"m lookong for any information on Cyril Charles Rutter. He was in tje fourteenth army in burma and recieved the Burma Star. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 18.12.2021 |
| Comments: |
Hi Melissa. Your Grandfather, on MV Hauraki, departed Wellington and sailed to Sydney and then Fremantle. On 4th July 1942 she sailed for Colombo, Ceylon with urgent supplies for the Middle East.
Eight days later on 12th July 1942, in the Indian Ocean, she was ‘captured’ by the Japanese armed Merchant ships, Hokoku Maru and Aikoku Maru. She was made to sail to Singapore where unnecessary crew were taken into Changi, and then essential crew (including Richard as cook) were made to sail her to Yokohama in Japan. (I will refer to him as Richard as you called him, but his Japanese Index Card refers to him as Robert). Richard was imprisoned in Tokyo-1D Camp, known as “The Yokohama Mitsubishi Shipyards”. On 12/05/1945 he left Tok-1D and on 14/05/1945 has arrived at Sendai 5B which was an iron and steel works. Over 50 POWs were killed here by ‘friendly fire’ from US battleships and later by planes from aircraft carriers. Liberation came on 15th September 1945 when he departed from Kamaishi Port. After this point there is diary entries from other prisoners, so the probability is that it also applies to Richard. He sailed to Okinawa, and then changed ship to sail to Manila. On 04/10/1945 he boarded the HMS Formidable as passenger number 370 and sailed for Sydney. He then travelled by rail to Melbourne, where he boarded the SS Andes and sailed for New Zealand. There is a group photo of your Grandfather at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/P02087.001 (front row, first on right)
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| Name: |
Melissa |
| Location: |
Canberra |
| Email: |
melissabell_71@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, I am looking for information on my grandfather Richard Bell. He was in the Merchant Navy and was captured by the Japanese forces on the 12th of July 1942 whilst serving in USSco Hauraki as an Assistant Cook. I understand he was eventually transferred to Japan and remained there until the end of the war. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 20.11.2021 |
| Comments: |
Hi Stephanie, re grandfather Bombardier Patrick O’Shea. The 5th Field Regiment was a Regular Army regiment, which in 1939 was based in India. Oct 8th 1941, the regiment was mobilised and sent to Bombay to board the troopship Orion. Upon landing at Singapore they were sent to Ipoh where they remained there for appx. 2 months, before being sent to Kota Bharu.
The formation tasked with the protection of the airfields in and near Kota Bharu was the 8th Indian Infantry Brigade Group. When the Japanese landed on the beach the regiment had to direct their shells over the aerodrome and onto the beaches and shorelines.
They then had to fight a rear guard action all the way back to Singapore, and the capitulation on 15/02/1942. Patrick was then incarcerated in Changi until 25/10/42 when he was locked down in the hold of the hellship England Maru and sailed to Keelung in northern Formosa (Taiwan). After this 3 week journey of hell, the 1100 men were disembarked onto the quayside and split into 2 groups mainly by regiments. 523 men of the 80th Anti Tank and 155th Lanarkshire Yeomanry (amongst others) were sent to the Kinkaseki Copper Mine, whilst the 5th Field Rgt. were sent to Taihoku Camp #6. Patrick remained in #T6 from Nov.1942 until June 1945, when he was sent to help construct OKA Camp high in the mountains. This camp was to be where all the POWs were to be eliminated if the allies landed on Taiwan. Your Grandfather died at this camp, five days after the end of the war and just one day before the camp was abandoned and the men went back to #T6. The brutal treatment of OKA resulted in 19 deaths in 2 months. Patrick was buried in Yuboku cemetery until 1948, and then relocated in Sai Wan, Hong Kong.
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| Name: |
Stephanie O’Shea |
| Location: |
Lancashire |
| Email: |
happyhenhouse@live.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, I’m looking for information & a photo of my grandad Patrick William O’Shea. He was in 5th field regiment & was in a Japanese pow camp on Formosa & died there. Service no 842703
I’d welcome any information & have never seen a photo of him |
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| Name: |
Dalton Howe |
| Location: |
Oldham |
| Email: |
Daltonhowe@outlook.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, looking for information on my great great uncle Ronald Howe, Oldham, Manchester 1st battalion, killed in action in Singapore on 15th feb 1942. Aged 21. I understand that his battalion were made POW by Japanese after that day and likely have no pictures. It is a stab in the dark but it would be nice to get an account of experiences either with him or of the battalion in Singapore. If there are any writings or second hand experiences ( since most have likely passed now) that would be great to hear. Thanks in advance |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
26.10.2021 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Michael, Assuming your Granddad was born in West Pelton, Co. Durham, then he was Private James Richardson of 2nd Cambridgeshire Rgt., service number 6029020.
Taken prisoner at Singapore on 15/2/1942 and then sent to work on the Burma/Siam Railroad on 21/3/1943 on Train 7. Amongst his camps were Kinsaiyok, Tamarkan (River Kwai), Chunkai and finally Pratchai. He was liberated through Bangkok on 30/8/1945. Although he lists his home as County Durham, he actually enlisted into the Essex Rgt in September 1940. He must then have transferred into the Cambridge Rgt. Maybe this was due to his work which he lists as being a map maker/surveyor. His service records will probably tell a lot more of his story prior to Feb 1942.
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| Name: |
Michael richardson |
| Location: |
Uk/ county durham |
| Email: |
leighannecook@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
I’m looking for any info on my grandad please .. James richardson |
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| Name: |
Alastair Addison |
| Location: |
St Andrews |
| Comments: |
Hi, I"d like to find out more about my great-great uncle, Jack Colman, who was a POW of the Japanese during the War. All I know about him is that he was born most likely in Elgin around 1905, that he graduated from Edinburgh University and subsequently Cambridge, and that, after the War, he spent the rest of his days in Borneo, where he started a family and probably later died of alcoholism. My grandmother believes he may have worked for the Foreign Office. Contact me through ally.addison@hotmail.co.uk if you find anything. Thanks! |
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| Name: |
James Hunt |
| Location: |
Felixstowe |
| Email: |
pennyswood@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am looking for info on my Grandfather, Arthur Hunt.
He was in Fukuoka POW camp, I believe he was transported on the Singapore Maru in 1943. He was a Royal Artillery Gunner. |
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| Name: |
Martyn |
| Location: |
Perth WA |
| Comments: |
830999 L/Cpl W Carr, Ovl to Thailand F Force. Admitted to Tanbaya hospital 27/08/1943, Beri Beri and dysentery, died 27/09/1943 |
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| Name: |
Ryan cordiner |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Comments: |
Hi there
Looking for some help to find more information on William fowlie simpson carr , he died in tambaya hospital , Burma whilst a pow - 27-9-42
He was serving as a Gordon highlander |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 11.09.2021 |
| Comments: |
Romayne, re Pte. Edwin Cooper. Sent to Formosa on the hellship ‘England Maru’ on 25.10.1942. This was known as ‘Z Party’. Three week journey locked down in the hold, arriving at Keelung in the far north of the island near Taipei. Only 16 Leicesters were ever sent to Formosa, and only 2 on this hellship.
The 1100 men were split into 2 camps, 523 into Kinkaseki Copper Mine, and the others into Taihoku Camp 6. Edwin went into T6 and surprisingly remained there for the duration, and was never called upon to replace the sick and injured from Kinkaseki. He was liberated on 06.09.1945 when he was taken onboard the USS Block Island and sailed for Manila. After only 9 days in Manila he was able to embark on the ‘Empress of Australia’ and sailed for Liverpool via Bombay and Suez, arriving 27.10.1945.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
10.09.2021 |
| Comments: |
Louiselle, re Capt. Campbell Downie. Imprisoned Changi Singapore on 15th Feb. 1942. Sent to the Siam Railroad on 4th November 1942 as part of ‘N Party’. Initially I believe he was with Group 1 who were at all camps between Non Pladuk and Tamarkan.
He was later transferred to Group 4 POWs and the camps then stretched all the way from Wampo (114 Km marker) to Kinsayok (172 Km marker). A small contingent of men also carried on upline to Krian Krai (244 Km). He was liberated into the safeguarding of Lt. Col. Eachern on 4th September 1945.
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| Name: |
Romayne Parker |
| Location: |
Uk 9/9/21 |
| Comments: |
I am looking for information on Edwin Edward Cooper, Sometimes also swaps names to Edward Edwin Cooper. Leicester regiment No. 4860114.
He was captured in Singapore and was a prisoner of war, This is all the information i know as this is a very new search if anyone has any information it will be highly appreciated.
Thanks In Advance.. |
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| Name: |
Louiselle Fortier |
| Location: |
Canada |
| Email: |
Louisellefortier499@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am looking for information about my husband father Captain Campbell Downie or C.F. Downie. He was POW in Burma north of Singapore. He was in the 2/17 Dogra Reginent. Any information or pictures would be greatly appreciated. You can forward them to me at louisellefortier499@gmail.com. |
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| Name: |
Jack, Long |
| Location: |
Florida, USA |
| Comments: |
fantastic information. interesting and at times depressing. but that is the nature of what the Japanese did. if it is not documented the information is lost. Grand job. |
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| Name: |
Jennifer Stephan |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
tacticalsynergy@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Desperate to finding any information on my aunt Evie Shand born 1923 Batavia. Evacuated from various POW camps in Java. Taken by Red Cross at time of repatriation to AUSTRALIA when Britain officials refused entry to England due to British subject passport. Evie suffered from severe mental and health issues at the time. Other 7 family members arrived in Fremantle on the S.S. Circassia which was a Red Cross converted vessel.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
22.07.2021 |
| Comments: |
Rachel, to identify which John McGowan, do you know what his home town was, and do you know his date of birth? Was he army/navy/airforce? Any other details? |
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| Name: |
Rachel McGowan |
| Location: |
Preston UK |
| Email: |
racmcg@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for any information about my grandad John McGowan. He was awarded the Burma star medal and I believe helped build the rail way. He was a POW and worked as a cook on the camp . Hope you can help |
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| Name: |
Helen Corvan |
| Location: |
Skelmersdale, England |
| Email: |
helencorvan@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
2578158 Hugh King service number.
Thank you. |
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| Name: |
Helen corvan |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
helencorvan@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, looking for any information you have regarding my grandfather.
He was a POW in Malaya, Kuala Lumpur and Thailand.
Hugh King date of birth 03/03/1920.
Thank you |
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| Name: |
Mary Craig |
| Location: |
Clydebank Scotland |
| Comments: |
I am looking on information on my grandad Patrick Hughes who was captured during Second World War. His home address was 50 Whin Street , Clydebank , Scotland hoping someone can help thank you |
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| Name: |
Danielle |
| Location: |
Brighton |
| Comments: |
Also, do you have anything relating to is deployment to the Far East, all his records show me is that he was deployed to the Far East somewhen in December of 41 along with some writing I can"t understand. It says Dft (I think) in the Dep Form box and then 3569 in the Unit From box of his service records (I"m hoping that means more to you than it does too me). Forces of War records state Singapore as the territory but I was wondering if you are able to dig up anything further? Again, thank you so much for your time and help. Kind regards Danielle |
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| Name: |
Danielle |
| Location: |
Brighton |
| Email: |
dlcressey@live.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, yes please, that would be incredible! Thank you so much! My email is Dlcressey@live.co.uk |
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| Name: |
James |
| Location: |
Brighton |
| Comments: |
I believe my grandad was a Japanese pow in Burma, his name was alfred(Alf) Fowler. Any information would be fantastic |
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| Name: |
Jonathan Moffatt |
| Location: |
UK |
| Website: |
Malayan Volunteers Group |
| Comments: |
Linda, I guess this is your William Trafford - he was in the Federated Malay States Volunteer Force:
TRAFFORD W. [William] MBE 1948 born 1913 Maltby, Yorkshire. Engineer. To Malaya 1939. Assistant Controller of Telecommunications, Post & Telegraphs, Malaya. Wife Vera May & daughter Marilyn Joan [born 1940] evacuated on Aorangi, arriving Fremantle WA 23.1.42. CSM to Lt 14045 FMSVF Signals Battalion attached to Royal Corps of Signals POW Singapore to Thailand 4.11.42. Returned to Malaya 1948: Assistant Controller of Telecommunications FOM.
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| Name: |
Selima Gurtler |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Comments: |
Hello!
I am trying to find more information about my grandfather"s best friend, Colonel Harold Simpson born around 1902.I know he was a POW of the Japanese and the Germans. I believe he was educated with my grandfather at Bedford School, Bedford and we used to visit him years later at his home in Ugley, Essex.He was unmarried and was tragically knocked down and killed by a car after walking home from the pub near his home. I believe that must have been before 1971 because I remember my mother taking the call. I would be delighted if you could find anything in your records. Kind regards, Selima Gurtler |
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| Name: |
Linda Thursby |
| Location: |
Norwich |
| Comments: |
My grand father William Trafford was taken prisoner to Changi along with some telecom engineers who were attempting to disconnected the telecoms in Singapore. He then joined prisoners on the railway. I have not dates of when.
He survived and moved to Ireland.
I would welcome any information you have.
one of my film broadcast team filmed a documentary there 2 years ago and said that he had something to do with the engineering of the actual bridge.
I wait to here back from you. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 04.05.2021 |
| Comments: |
Sapper Matthew Kerr, Royal Engineers, 2001931, from Saltcoats, Scotland. 287 Field park Company, R.E. Sent to Burma/Siam Railroad on 25.04.1943 as part of the ill fated F Force. Died on 17.08.1943 of Beri Beri at Nieke Camp. Now reburied at Kanchanaburi. |
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| Name: |
Ian Kerr |
| Location: |
Cambridge |
| Email: |
ian.kerr60@ntlworld.com |
| Comments: |
I"d appreciate any information about Matthew Kerr who was in Changi POW camp in 1942 - Ronald Searle made several sketches of him |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 21.04.2021 |
| Comments: |
Danielle (Brighton) , I am happy to email you the documents I have about your Grandad. |
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| Name: |
Hazel Mantle |
| Location: |
Evesham |
| Email: |
hazel_mantle@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Thanks so much for the information you have provided.
I now have plenty of information to look up due to the time you have taken to look into my beloved Uncle.
I am extremely grateful as I knew nothing of where he had been during the war.
Many Thanks
Hazel |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
17.04.2021 |
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Hazel, re Percy Arthur Coates. Unfortunately I have found very little about your Uncle. Listed as living at Grafton, Beckford, Nr Tewkesbury. 28/76 Battery of the 9th Field Regiment, Royal Artillery, service number 974712. This regiment was in Madagascar in 1942 (when the Japanese declared war in Asia), and they then moved to Ahmednagar, Hazaribagh and Ranchi in India during 1943. In November 1943 as part of the Chindit forces they were at Tamu in Burma and in the Kabaw Valley. I cannot find any trace to show him as a POW, he does not seem to have been released from Rangoon Jail when other POWs were liberated. He would have earned his Burma Star, to wear with honour. |
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| Name: |
Hazel Mantle |
| Location: |
Evesham |
| Email: |
hazel_mantle@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi,
I would be really grateful for any information on my Uncle, Percy Arthur Coates who lived near Tewkesbury dob 03 10 1918.
I know that he was a POW and that he was a member of the Burma Star. I spend hours scouring POW photos in the hope that I can find a picture of him to find out where he may have been stationed.
It would be great if there was any information on where he was located and anything that could help me understand some of what he went through during the war.
Any information at all will be very gratefully received.
Many Thanks |
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| Name: |
Steve |
| Location: |
Somerset |
| Email: |
stevehales229@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for any relatives of Lt James W Hugo QM RA |
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| Name: |
Danielle |
| Location: |
Brighton |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike,
Thank you so much for all the information you managed to find, I am truly amazed and so grateful to you! You mentioned using paper trails, is this something I am allowed access too or screen shots of as I would love to incorporate them to the scrap book I"m making?
Kind regards
Danielle |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
28.03.2021 |
| Comments: |
Danielle, ref. LAC Edgar Cressey. He sailed from Java on 26.09.1943 as part of Java Party 17A, onboard the hellship Makassar Maru. This arrived in Singapore on 01.10.1943 and he went into Changi Camp. He remained in this camp for 3 weeks and then sailed on 21.10.1943 onboard the Matsue Maru. This docked at Saigon, Vietnam on 21.10.1943 and then Takao, Formosa on 06.11.1943, before finally arriving at Moji, Japan on 15.11.1943. As you already know, he then went to Wakayama and later to Ikuno which was numbered initially as Osaka 19B, and later renumbered as Osaka 4B, where he worked down a copper mine. Upon liberation he was shipped to Okinawa and then onto Manila, Philippines. On 25.09.1945 he became passenger 178 on the aircraft carrier HMS Implacable and sailed for Vancouver, Canada via Hawaii. The paperwork trail stops there, but others from the same ship are known to have journeyed across Canada by train for 5 days to either Halifax or New York. His final ship would have been either Ile de France, Queen Elizabeth or Queen Mary.
The most likely would be Ile de France from Halifax, arriving Southampton on 31.10.1945.
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| Name: |
Danielle Cressey |
| Location: |
Brighton |
| Comments: |
Hi, I was wondering if you have any articles or information relating to my Grandad Edgar Willis Cressey. He was an RAF LAC and was captured on the 9.3.1942 in Java. I believe he was then transfered to Wakayama Camp and then Ikuno Camp. His service number was 975027. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you |
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| Name: |
Sarah Nokes |
| Location: |
Wigan |
| Email: |
debsandsarah@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you so much for the information. I have also had someone email me who obviously reads this site. They have told me the information below
Victor was a Driver in 2nd Cambridgeshire regiment and was captured when Singapore fell. Throughout his incarceration he was part of the staff of the British POW hospital which was first in Roberts Barracks, then Selerang Barracks and finally moved to Kranji in May 1944.
There is a page from a warrant officer’s records that shows Victor as working in the gardens at Kranji hospital but he would probably have done all manner of jobs, including burying the dead.
I can’t thank everyone enough for helpin* me understand what happened to him. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 23.03.2021 |
| Comments: |
Hi Sarah. Ref. Private Victor Littlewood, 2nd Battalian Cambridgeshire Regiment. Address shown as Providence House, Augusta Street, Sheringham, Norfolk. He sailed from Gourock on 31st October 1941 on the Polish ship M V Sobieski, to Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. From here they transferred to the USS Mount Vernon, and travelled via Capetown and Mombasa. Whilst docked at Capetown, the Japanese entered the war by attacking Pearl Harbour in Hawaii, and landing troops in Malaya. The ship was diverted to assist the protection of Singapore, and USS Mount Vernon docked there on January 13th 1942. The men were immediately sent north to Batu Pahat in north Johore, where they encountered fierce fighting. Eventually the regiment became very fragmented and the men were virtually made to make their own retreat in small groups back to Singapore. Although they only had one month of fighting before the surrender on February 15th, they experienced some fierce action.
It would appear that your Granddad spent the rest of the war in Singapore, first at Roberts Hospital and later at Kranji Hospital. I have not been able to establish whether this was as a patient or whether he became a medical orderly. Whichever the scenario, this probably explains why he was never sent to the Burma Railroad or to the mines of Japan or Taiwan etc.
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| Name: |
Sarah Nokes |
| Location: |
Wigan |
| Email: |
debsandsarah@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi I had an e-mail to say that something had be posted about my granddad. Victor William Littlewood but I can’t find anything here. |
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| Name: |
Sarah |
| Location: |
Wigan |
| Email: |
debsandsarah@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for information on my Grand-father Victor William Littlewood - 5823841. I know he was a prisoner of war in Singapore in 1942 and made it home after the war but that is all I know. He died without us meeting and I ould like to understand what he went through. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 17.03.2021 |
| Comments: |
Hi Lesley. I dont actually have Ancestry but can see all the files you relate to. Numbers 1 and 2 are confirming the death. No. 3 is causing the confusion. The survivors of the Rakuyo Maru are being interrogated and in the same file is a complete list of all the men who are still recorded as Missing. They are obviously hoping a survivor may be able to identify the whereabouts of a Missing man. I can also see the entry for P Rocan. If you enlarge the page you can see this should be P Regan, so it refers to the same person and has merely been transcribed wrongly. Have you also seen the death detail on the Commonwealth War Graves website for Patrick Regan dated 05.02.1942. . .https://www.cwgc.org/find-records/find-war-dead/casualty-details/2142621/PATRICK%20REGAN/ r |
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| Name: |
Lesley Murphy |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
slmurphy28@blueyonder.co.uk |
| Comments: |
P Regan service number 1630745 appears 3 times
in the military section of Ancestry. Each time the description is different
1 Appears in the Far East death index
2 Appears as a POW 2181 Pilot roll 5.2 42
3 Appears as on the list from Malay and Netherlands East Indies as
" from interrogation of survivors f rom
Rakuyo Maru" sank 12/09/44
There is also an entry for a P Rocan same service number
number believed killed in the attack on the Empress of Asia. I can understand the confusion over the PRegan name but not the service number |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 16.03.2021 |
| Comments: |
Hi Lesley. This seems confusing. 1630745 seems to belong to Patrick Regan, and he was Missing/ Presumed killed on the Empress of Asia as it was bombed approaching Singapore on 05.02.1942. I cannot see any Peter Regan in files, or where it could be connected to the Rakuyo Maru sinking in 1944. Always glad to be corrected if you have more information though. |
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| Name: |
Lesley Murphy |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
slmurphy28@blueyonder.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I am looking for any information on Peter Regan
born 1920 in Newcastle
service number 1630745 RAOC 18th division
possibly on board Rakuyo Maru when it sank |
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| Name: |
Derek |
| Location: |
Holcroft |
| Email: |
Dholcroft73@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for information about my uncle Thomas Stamp
A Chindit and prisoner of war. He was born in Southwick Sunderland.
Hi wife was Irene born Holcroft. |
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| Name: |
David (Norman harold alan wade ) |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
SHIRLEY BARNES
I"m sorry for the late response but it was only today I have seen your reply, if you still want me to get in touch please let me know? My apologies once again David |
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| Name: |
michael crossfield |
| Location: |
uk |
| Comments: |
thank you very much, had been struggling to find a papertrail for that period myself. |
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| Name: |
Jennie |
| Location: |
Liverpool |
| Comments: |
I’m trying to locate any information on William scott gray he’s the man who brought the duck back home it’s him , I’ve room to believe he is my mums father we would live for someone to help us in our search |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 06.03.2021 |
| Comments: |
Hi Michael, re Signalman Morris Crossfield. A difficult one to track as there is virtually no paperwork trail as I dont think he was never classified as a Prisoner of War. He appears to have escaped capture (or been left for dead) on the day of surrender, so he has no Japanese Index Card and is not listed in the POW Master File.
However, I can see 2 entries for him. In the Royal Corps of Signals Pilot Roll he is listed as Missing.
In the Regimental File created at Changi he is once again marked as Missing but there are additional remarks of Last seen 15.02.42 at junction of Serangoon Road… 17.02.42 still missing… Later message (could be post war) ….. Reported safe in UK by Cpl. Mitchell, 11th Division…..
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Michael I will post again as I forgot this page does not like Quotation Marks or Apostrophe. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 06.03.2021 |
| Comments: |
Hi Michael, re Signalman Morris Crossfield. A difficult one to track as there is virtually no paperwork trail as I don’t think he was never classified as a Prisoner of War. He appears to have ‘escaped’ capture (or been left for dead) on the day of surrender, so he has no Japanese Index Card and is not listed in the POW Master File.
However, I can see 2 entries for him. In the Royal Corps of Signals Pilot Roll he is listed as ‘Missing’.
In the Regimental File created at Changi he is once again marked as ‘Missing’ but there are additional remarks. “last seen 15.02.42 at junction of Serangoon Road” “17.02.42 still missing” Later message (could be post war) “Reported safe in UK by Cpl. Mitchell, 11th Division”
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| Name: |
John Westwood |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
stockarth@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you for your reply. It gives me a little more to go with for further research.
Thanks again.
John |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
Uk 06.03.2021 |
| Comments: |
Hi John, re Westwoods. I believe the 2 probable candidates, being the only 2 who seem to be buried in Thailand are John James Westwood who was Cambridge Rgt. and came from Felixstowe. Second one was Samuel Westwood, Royal Corps of Signals, who came from Wishaw in Lanarkshire, Scotland. Both are buried in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. Whether they are on a memorial at the bridge I do not know. |
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| Name: |
John Westwood |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
stockarth@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, I wonder if anyone can help me. I know its a long shot but here goes.
I"m doing some family history research and a cousin of mine has said that her father, Maurice Westwood, had told her of two service men, named Westwood, who died while engaged in building the Bridge over the river Kwai.
I unfortunately don"t have anymore information except that my cousins son visited the area around 12 years ago and saw the names on a memorial plaque by the bridge.
He didn"t get any more information (not even initials) but took a photo. Typically this digital photo has been lost.
I would be very grateful if anyone could provide me with any information that might shed a bit of light on the mystery.
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| Name: |
michael crossfield |
| Location: |
uk |
| Email: |
mik985@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, could any help with info on my grandfather. Morris Douglas Crossfield
(2582500).. As far as i know he was captured singapore1942 /escaped /recaptured 3mnths later ,strung up for bayonet practice and left for dead.
thanks |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 03.03.2021 |
| Comments: |
Hi Donna-Marie. Corporal Cyril Dibble, RAF H.Q. Kluang, Malaya. Regrouped in Java, and taken prisoner there on 08.03.1942. From his Liberation Questionnaire he states he was in 5 different camps between March 42 and December 43 in the Surabaya region. He was then bought to the Bicycle Camp at Batavia and then to Makasura Camp in April 44. On 08.01.45 he boarded an unnamed hellship, referred to as Maru 16 or OSK Ferry, and was sent to Singapore in Java Party 25. Documents state he was sent to River Valley Camp, but he himself states it was Tanjong Pagar. (similar area). The slave tasks here would have been in the dockside unloading Japanese ships, or digging tunnels for air raid shelters. A Sgt. Who travelled with him in Java party 25 and was then with him at Tanjong Pagar has documented that he was liberated on 05.09.45 and sailed home on the HMT Almanzora. Although there is no guarantee that this was also Cyrils journey home, I imagine there would be a high probability. |
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| Name: |
Donna-Marie scullion |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Comments: |
Good afternoon
I am wondering if you have any information on my Grampy Cyril Albert Dibble
(626545) who was a ja japenese POW who i believe worked on Burma?
My email is donja999@gmail.com
Many Thanks |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 26.02.2021 |
| Comments: |
Hi David. Welcome back, 6 years on. Re Gunner Leonard Harrison. I will not be able to help much with this as he was not a POW from beginning of Far East war. I believe the 69th Field were with the Chindits fighting the Japanese in Burma, and you will probably do better to go to a Chindits website. However, he was originally buried at Sahmaw in Burma in grave 5.C.5 along with many on the same day. Perhaps searching the date + Burma may bring up a particular battle. Sahmaw is close to the Irrawaddy River which saw heavy fighting. |
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| Name: |
David Cleverley |
| Location: |
Liverpool |
| Email: |
clever_d55@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Could you please tell me if you have any information on a Leonard Harrison, a gunner in the Royal Artlilery, his number was 5193402 |
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| Name: |
nathan cassidy |
| Location: |
Derby |
| Email: |
nathan_cassidy4@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you mike if you could send me any documentation you have? |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 22.02.2021 |
| Comments: |
Hi Nathan. Reference your Great Grandad, Reginald Hardy. 1094715, Gunner R Hardy, 125th Anti-Tank Regiment, Royal Artillery. He embarked at Avonmouth onto SS Oransay on 28.10.1941. They arrived at Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada and transferred to USS Joseph Dickman, and sailed to Trinidad to refuel. They then sailed for Capetown arriving 09.12.1941. Resailed 13.12.1941 and arrived Bombay 27.12.1941. They then entrained for camp at Ahmednagar, and remained there until 23.01.1942. Entrained back to Bombay they boarded the Empress of Asia, along with the 9th Royal Northumberland Fusiliers. On the 5th February on the approach to Singapore she was attacked by a formation of 27 Japanese dive bombers, and the ship was hit and ablaze. The ship ran aground on a sandbank and all men abandoned ship. Most were saved and landed in Singapore, but most men now became infantry as their weaponry was not recovered. The men became active in the war on February 8th 1942. They took positions on Singapore around Serangoon in N.E.Singapore and Bukit Timor. The capitulation occurred on February 15th, so they only had a week since landing. Reginalds regimental file shows the entry of CHA..Hosp…F. against his name. I believe this means he remained in Changi and was a Hospital worker carrying out general fatigues for the benefit of those who were suffering injury or disease. The Liberation Questionnaire that he completed himself after the war, states he was in Changi 15.02.42 – 15.08.45. In the section asking whether he was able to escape or make an attempt to escape, he replied ‘No’. To have a family story that has become ‘enhanced’ over the years, is not unusual. I you want some documents showing his name, let me know. |
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| Name: |
Phyl |
| Location: |
Western Australia |
| Email: |
phyllybabe@yahoo.com.au |
| Comments: |
Further to my previous request i have reason to believe it was John Joseph Reilly b 1917 Ireland who was a Japanese POW. He was in the Royal Marines and lived in Hampshire England. I"m hoping this will help with his search. regards Phyl. |
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| Name: |
Ryan Heath |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Jonathan, thank you for the reply and information. It appears that there must be two people named Reginald Frank Heath. Whilst my grandfather definitely served in the S.S.R.N.V.R. He returned to the UK before 1948 and died in 1956 in England. |
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| Name: |
David Martin Pratt |
| Location: |
Sidcup |
| Email: |
davidmpratt@ntlworld.com |
| Comments: |
Thanks for your help. Further research has revealed Herbert married twice - firstly to Molly Isabel Britter, then to Elsie G Baynham (the wife of his I knew).I assume Molly was disvorced, as it seems she remarried and did not die until 1996. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
15.02.2021 |
| Comments: |
David, I can only give you the facts. A paid researcher might be able to establish more for you. This Herbert that I am detailing was born on 21st September 1906, in Garforth, Leeds, Yorkshire, England. |
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| Name: |
David Martin Pratt |
| Location: |
Sidcup |
| Email: |
davidmpratt@ntlworld.com |
| Comments: |
Herbert"s wife/partner was Elsie G, so I do not understand why Molly Isabel is listed. Is there another Herbert Pratt born 1906 in Garforth listed as a POW? |
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| Name: |
Phyl |
| Location: |
Western Australia |
| Comments: |
Hello, I"ve just found out that one of my Uncles" (either John or Martin) O"Reilly/ Reilly was a Japanese POW. I know nothing regarding this. John and Martin were both born in Ireland but lived in Bristol UK growing up. Hope you have some info for me.
regards Phyl. |
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| Name: |
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| Location: |
UK 14.02.2021 |
| Comments: |
David Pratt, to clarify Molly is listed as "Destination for Reports", and she is Molly Isabel Pratt. |
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| Name: |
Jonathan Moffatt |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
JonathanMoffatt@aol.com |
| Website: |
Malayan Volunteers Group |
| Comments: |
Is this your grandfather, Ryan? if so, not a Sumatra POW but a very interesting wartime career relating to Special Operations, Far East. HEATH R.F.[Reginald Frank] Assistant, Nestle&Anglo-Swiss Milk Products Ltd, Cantonment Rd, Singapore as early as 1935.Sub Lt SS RNVR 3.40; 2nd Lt, 238265 9.41General List then Major then Honorary Colonel i/c Inter Services Liason Dept [ISLD], Calcutta. To Kenya post war. Died Lausenne, Switzerland 19.11.1965.
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| Name: |
nathan cassidy |
| Location: |
Derby |
| Email: |
nathan_cassidy4@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi I"m researching my great grandad Reginald Hardy who escaped from changi jail and didn"t arrive back in the UK until 1948/49 presumed dead I was lost somewhere in the jungle.
All I know is he was from Derby and was one of the oldest soldiers being in his 40s |
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| Name: |
Ryan Heath |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Hello. I"m currently researching my grandfather"s navy records. Reginald Frank Heath.
He was a sub-lieutenant aboard HMS PAHLAWAN in the S.S.R.N.V.R 1939-1945
From the records I"ve pieced together, he was stationed in Singapore up until 1942 before PAHLAWAN was captured by the Japanese on the 15th February 1942 near Muntok.
I"m wondering if anybody has any information to confirm this and if there are any records of him being taken prisoner at this time.
Thanks for your help
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| Name: |
David Martin Pratt |
| Location: |
Sidcup |
| Email: |
davidmpratt@ntlworld.com |
| Comments: |
I am surprised that a Molly is named as NOK. Herbert"s wife/partner was called Elsie. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
11.02.2021 |
| Comments: |
David, Lieutenant Herbert Pratt, service number 188300, was with the 135th Field Regiment, Royal Artillery.
He was quartermaster for the regiment. Herbert shows NOK, Molly, living in Bexley Heath, Kent, but he was originally from Leeds. Captured on 15.02.1942 at the capitulation of Singapore. Imprisoned Changi until 29.10.42, when he left by train in Overland Party ‘T’ for the Burma Railroad. He was with the Group 2 men who slaved on the first part of the railroad at the Thai end and would have included the bridge on the river Kwai. His liberation document shows he remained in Thailand and was liberated on 04.09.45. The TBRC at Kanchanaburi would probably have his individual camps and what he did after the railroad opened.
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| Name: |
David Martin Pratt |
| Location: |
Sidcup |
| Email: |
davidmpratt@ntlworld.com |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find details of my uncle (Herbert Pratt) who was a POW of the Japanese |
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| Name: |
Peter Lambert |
| Location: |
Cumbria |
| Comments: |
Mike, thank you for clearing up the faulty memory of a geriatric nephew. I stumbled on this website when reading about Laurens van der Post , who I remember one of my uncles saying he was imprisoned with. That must have been John Lambert.
One for the family archive. Very many thanks for this. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
07.02.2021 |
| Comments: |
Peter, you have the story of your two uncles the wrong way round. 2nd Lt. John Lambert, 189930, 21st Light Anti Aircraft, Royal Artillery, was on Java and became a prisoner on 08.03.1942. He remained in Java for the whole duration of the war, and is shown as being liberated on 25.09.1945 from Batavia District.
Lt. Esmond Sowerby, 89183, HQ RA 11th Division, was taken prisoner on Singapore on 15.02.1942, and would have been in Changi. He sailed on the hellship England Maru on 24.10.42 and arrived in Formosa on 14.11.42. He was enslaved in Taihoku Camp 6 and remained there for the duration of the war. He was liberated from Keelung Harbour on 06.09.1945 by an American destroyer and taken out to sea to board the aircraft carrier USS Block Island, and then taken to Manila, Philippines. He remained there for just 5 days before sailing for Vancouver on 14.09.45, and arrived 03.10.45, on USS General Langfitt.
The paperwork trail stops there, but others from the same ship are known to have journeyed across Canada by train for 5 days to either Halifax or New York. His final ship would have been either Ile de France, Queen Elizabeth or Queen Mary.
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| Name: |
Peter Lambert |
| Location: |
Cumbria |
| Comments: |
My 2 uncles were both Japanese POWs but I don’t know how long for.
John Lambert was from Preston and I think ended up in Changi? Esmond Sowerby, also fro Preston, was a gunner who survived Dunkirk and then finished up as a POW in Java.
He gave evidence at the War Crimes Trials. Both survived into old age and I saw a lot of them but neither of them mentioned the war. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
07.02.2021 |
| Comments: |
Stephen. Sorry, but very limited information. Major Frederick Bradshaw, 148th Field Regiment. (Bedfordshire Yeomanry). Sailed on October 31st 1941 from Liverpool on SS Andes, to Halifax, Nova Scotia. Transferred to USS Wakefield, . (note: USS not in war), sailed to Trinidad and then Capetown.
Arrived 8.12.1941, the day after Pearl Harbour attack, so USA now in war. Sailed to Bombay, stay for 2 weeks. Sailed for Singapore and arrived 29.01.1942. (so just 2 weeks before capitulation). Taken prisoner on 15.02.1942 and remained in Singapore for the duration of the war. Although initially in Changi, I believe he was probably in one of the other Singapore camps at the end of the war as he does not appear on the Changi list. I believe he remained as a TA Officer after the war as the Gazette lists him retiring and holding the rank of Captain.
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| Name: |
Stephen Greif |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
stephengreif@stephengreif.com |
| Website: |
stephengreif.com |
| Comments: |
Please would anyone who has any information on Frederick (Freddie) Bradshaw who was a POW at Changi and later became Secretary of The Stage Golfing Society , get in touch with me. Thankyou Stephen Greif
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| Name: |
Nick |
| Location: |
Brisbane |
| Email: |
N.j.Wood14@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thanks for putting this site together, I"m doing family history research and the Articles and Books you"ve listed will be an amazing help. NX71470 DJ Law 2/10 Field Ambulance was my great great uncle and a member of Roy M. Mills Detachment alongside Ponds Force during the building of the railway. |
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| Name: |
Alpin McGregor |
| Location: |
Stirling |
| Comments: |
My father was a prisoner of war and worked on the death railway he was captured during the fall of Singapore |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 30.01.2021 |
| Comments: |
Ed, your Grandfather Corporal Kenneth John Taylor was with the No.1 Motor Transport Pool on Singapore. As with all RAF they were instructed to escape to Java to reform an attacking force to strike back at the Japanese. There are very few documents of who or how they got to Java. His Liberation Questionnaire shows him to be taken prisoner at the capitulation of Java on 08.03.1942. It shows him at 4 camps on Java until 08.01.1945 when he sailed in an unnamed ship, referred to as Maru 16 or O.S.K. Ferry, for Singapore. This was named Java Party 25. On arriving at Singapore he was taken to the River Valley Camp, where he remained until the end of the war. His liberation from camp would have been around 02.09.1945, although his Japanese Index card states 02.11.1945 which is actually the date when the Singapore camps were closed as fully empty. |
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| Name: |
Ed Wright |
| Location: |
Hampshire |
| Email: |
ed.wright@baxterhall.com |
| Comments: |
I am contacting you as I am doing some research into my Grandfather – Corporal Kenneth John Taylor (service number 952792), who was captured by the Japanese and held in captivity for 3.5 years in camps in Java.
The information I have is sketchy, but he was either captured at the fall of Singapore, or was on one of the ships which evacuated people from there.
Could you help me to find out more information please? If I could track his movements, that would be brilliant.
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| Name: |
gemma SEARLE |
| Location: |
uk |
| Email: |
gemaidie@aol.com |
| Comments: |
i also have two members of my family that are on the Singapore monument
at Kranji, we have visited
they where in the Norfolk monument
PRIVATE
LEONARD CHARLES PERCIVAL
Service Number: 5774334
Regiment & Unit/Ship
Royal Norfolk Regiment
4th Bn. and
LEONARD MAXWELL MOULTON
Service Number: 5775558
Regiment & Unit/Ship
Royal Norfolk Regiment
5th Bn.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 17.01.2021 |
| Comments: |
Gemma. Lance Bdr Eric Searle. 148 Field Regiment, Royal Artillery. Address shown as Ayers Rd, Old Trafford, Manchester and a second address of wife in Altringham. Taken prisoner Singapore,
15.02.1942, Changi camp until March 1943 when entrained for the Burma Siam Railroad. Enslaved there until June 1944 when he returned to Singapore, and went into River Valley Camp. September 1944 taken to Keppel Harbour and boarded a Japanese Hellship, probably Kachidoki Maru and sailed for Japan. Ship attacked by US submarines and sunk alongside another hellship. On Eric’s ship, 515 survived and 435 were lost. On the second hellship, Rakuyo Maru, only 55 survived and 543 were lost. Taken by rescue craft to Moji in Japan. Sent to Fukuoka 25 Camp at Omuta which is north east of Nagasaki. Enslaved working in carbide plant. They learnt that war was over on 17th August, but only entrained for the start of their journey home on 16th September.
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| Name: |
Gemma |
| Location: |
uk |
| Email: |
gemaidie@aol.com |
| Comments: |
we are looking for information on my husbands grandfather
Eric SearleL/Bombardier
MILITARY DATE: 1939-1945
SERVICE BRANCH: Army
SERVICE NUMBER: 872123
DESCRIPTION: 1254: Far East: Japan; Fukuoka POW Camp; Name List, as of 15 August 1945
He was liberated on 02/09//1945 from camp fu.
He came home but never spoke about what happened. does anyone know the location of this camp or anywhere we can find more information |
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| Name: |
Andrew McCully |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
andrew.mccully83@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I"m looking for any information on my Grandfather George Thompson McCully who served in the Royal Airforce and was captured by the Japanese on the 08/03/1942 in Java. |
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| Name: |
Julie Corbett |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
dewleigh@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
My grand William Selbie Black was a POW starting at Adam Road Camp and ending up at Ubon before he was liberated in 1945. Any info on him and the camps gratefully appreciated. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
uk 05.01.2021 |
| Comments: |
Stephen, re AC Gordon Holland. Sorry, cant be of much help. However, I think some information has become confused with LAC G L Holland. This was the person who was sent to Thailand. I cant find any evidence that G H Holland was sent to Changi or Thailand. He is not listed in the Java Parties to Singapore (none of 1 to 26) and his Japanese Index Card does not have any of the purple stamps for Thailand. Every stamp is just for Java. I think the Railroad information has sent you on a wrong track of searching. |
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| Name: |
Stephen Davies |
| Location: |
Newton le Willows |
| Email: |
steved3811@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I"m hoping someone can help with my research of RAF Aircraftman 1038562, Gordon H. Holland, who was posted to RAF Seletar in 1941, was evacuated to Java where he was made a POW.
According to Burma/SEAC research database he was shipped to Changi and then sent to work on the Thai-Burma Railway (initially at Nong Pladuc and then to "various railway camps"
He was then transported to Haruku (Haroekoe) so presumably this was with the (mainly) RAF work party sent there in April 1943. If this is the case it means his time on the Death Railway must have been very short...
Unfortunately there doesn"t appear to be a Liberation Questionnaire and the information on his POW Index card is pretty limited.
Gordon survived the war but like so many, didn"t really talk about his experiences as a FEPOW.
If anyone has any thoughts or can offer any guidance it would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Steve |
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| Name: |
Keith Brewis |
| Location: |
Nottingham |
| Email: |
keithbrewis@aol.com |
| Comments: |
Hi I am trying to find all I can about my father J R Brewis Gunner Royal Artillery and his life in the camp’s on the railway, he was in changi 1942 Chungkai April 43 Nakhon-Pathon May 44 Takanum May 45. He never spoke about it when he came back, his eldest son never recognised him when he got of the train at Newcastle central station he died in Dunstill Hill War Hospital 1960 from the complications of being a prisoner. Any information on the camps he was in would be appreciated |
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| Name: |
Jim Cameron |
| Location: |
Edinburgh |
| Comments: |
Many many thanks Mike. I really appreciate all of your information. I only found out about my grandfather’s history a few months ago- kept as a family secret.
Piecing together the story has been fascinating. Many thanks again.
Jim |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 28.12.2020 |
| Comments: |
Jim, it appears you know the main detail of your Granfathers story, so probably also his imprisonment at Glodock, St.Vincentes Hospital, Makassar and Fukuoka-14, Japan. It is amazing the men survived the dropping of the bomb when they were only 1.1 miles from ground zero. It appears they were liberated initially on the aircraft carrier USS Chenango which took them to Okinawa with disembarking on 18.09.1945. I believe he probably then flew to Manila as he next shows up as boarding HMS Implacable on 25.09.1945 and sailing via Hawaii for Vancouver where he docked on 11.10.1945. Although there is no documentation available, he would then have entrained across Canada for 5 days to Halifax or New York. His final ship would have been either Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth or Ile de France. |
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| Name: |
Jim Cameron |
| Location: |
Edinburgh |
| Email: |
J.h.cameron@hw.ac.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am trying to find out all I can about my grandfather, George Irving. He was a LAC in the RAF captured in Java in March 1942.
He was eventually taken to Japan and was on the Tomahoko Maru which was torpedoed by a US sub in 1944. He then spent the rest of the war in Nagasaki, including the bombing, working in the Mitsubishi shipyards.
I would be grateful for any other details folk might know. |
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| Name: |
steven cape |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Comments: |
Glenda, many thanks for that. I"m starting to think the same way, killed in action maybe. Its good to know that he does not appear upon the list of POW"s. Many thanks, Steven
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| Name: |
Glenda |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Steven Wallace Franklin doesn’t appear on the list of Far East POWs. Was he killed on active service? Seems more likely given his squadron were in Burma in 1945 |
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| Name: |
steven cape |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Comments: |
Hi, I wonder if anyone could help me with information regarding Flight lieutenant Wallace Montague Franklin DFC who died at the hands of the Japanese on 21.5.45 and is commemorated upon the singapore memorial. he was with 27 squadron I believe.His service no. was 115936. Many thanks |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
12.12.2020 |
| Comments: |
Judith, a name would have made it easier to look, but using the number it doesnt seem to locate anyone in the POW Master File. Do you want to do a new posting with name. |
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| Name: |
Judith Curry |
| Location: |
Stockport |
| Email: |
jcurry161@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
My husband"s step father was in Changi from 1942- 1945.He was a gunner in the Royal Artillery and his ship was diverted. His number was 1098223. Any information appreciated.s |
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| Name: |
Malcolm Macdonald |
| Location: |
East Hanover, NJ USA |
| Email: |
markmacd@optimum.net |
| Comments: |
Anne. Thank you so much. Do you have any other details? |
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| Name: |
Sean Neville |
| Location: |
HODDESDON UK |
| Email: |
smurf8721@yahoo.co.uk |
| Website: |
smurf8721@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Any information regarding izaak neville who was prisoner of war in japan
Information told to me was he was last placed in japan but no records of where
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| Name: |
Malcolm Macdonald |
| Location: |
East Hanover, NJ USA |
| Email: |
markmacd@optimum.net |
| Website: |
malcolm macdonald |
| Comments: |
I am writing about my father, Dr Ian Macdonald RAMC, and would like any information about him |
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| Name: |
Alexander Black |
| Location: |
Retford, Nottinghamshire. |
| Email: |
karenand alex@talktalk.net |
| Comments: |
Hello I am trying to find some more information about a family relative who was a POW of the Japanese during WW2. Hector Mcdonald Hart DOB April 1916, apparently he wrote 2 accounts of his time in the camps but an uncle of mine found them so upsetting that he burned them and so we now know nothing! Any help please would be great. Thank you.
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| Name: |
David Seddon |
| Location: |
Highlands |
| Email: |
Dcseddon@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
My father, Robert Henry Seddon cpl RM. on Repulse and Yin Ping.
POW muntok camp. Witnessed Australian nurses murdered on the beach Banka Island. If anyone has a relative who may have shared this part of his life, i would like to share the information i have.
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| Name: |
Geoff Bridge |
| Location: |
Ripon |
| Email: |
geoffreybridge@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
I am researching family history and find Albert Dickin of the 148 field regiment was captured in Singapore when it fell in Feb 42. He was part of the Japan party shipped out of Singapore in Sep 1944 aboard the Rakuyo Maru and was lost when the ship was sunk by USS Sealion. All this time I never knew that one of my relations was a prisoner of war. I found lots of info regarding the ship and it’s sinking but what happened in the three years prior to this is much of a mystery. I assume he must have been employed on the Burma railroad . His number was 1098216 and I think he would have been in 512 battery as it recruited in Rochdale Lancashire. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 19.11.2020 |
| Comments: |
Jemma, re your Grandad Sgt. William Weston of Lower Thrift Street, Northampton. Only very limited information. He was RAF, and based at RAF Kluang in Malaya. As he did not travel to Java for regrouping as most RAF did, I wonder if he was RAF Regiment left to protect airfields. Kluang was holding a large supply of aviation fuel which needed to be transported back to Singapore and remainder destroyed. His Japanese Index Card shows a date of capture as 15.02.1942 which is the date Singapore surrendered, so he must have travelled back to Singapore. He was imprisoned until 26.10.42 when he was sent to work on the Burma/Siam Railroad. He was with the men of Group 4, so would have been in the camps between Wampo and Kinsayok initially. He was liberated from Thailand on 02.09.1945. I would imagine your family whisper of him escaping refers to him leaving Kluang before the Japanese arrived, or possibly escaping on a ship from Singapore before they arrived that was then captured. A few documents available if you want them emailed. |
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| Name: |
Tracey Morrissey |
| Location: |
Rochdale |
| Email: |
tracey_mo@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, on reseaching my family tree I have discovered a relative called Francis William Dunhill, born 1907 in Oldham. I know he was a POW from 15th Feb 1942 to 2nd Sept 1945, He was a private in the Straits Settlements Volunteer Forces and was captured in Singapore. The camp code is HI , I am wondering if you can give any more detail as to which camp this is please? Regards, Tracey. |
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| Name: |
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| Location: |
14.11.2020 |
| Comments: |
Alex, re Gunner Cecil Kearney. Email sent |
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| Name: |
Jemma |
| Location: |
Northamptonshire |
| Email: |
jemmaoconnor1991@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, im trying to find out information on my grandad, he was a POW in Thailand I think? but managed to escape, his name was William frank weston, his number was 535768 and was from northampton, any info much appreciate, my email is jemmaoconnor1991@hotmail.com |
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| Name: |
Alex Kearney |
| Location: |
Bath |
| Email: |
Alex.kearney1991@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My grandads was a POW. His name was Cecil James Kearney and was always told he was picked up in burma. WO 345/29 is an archive reference but have no information beyond that
I know there are some records online, but unsure what details there are and it states a camp in Hiroshima.
He was a gunner. Can anyone help shed some light on this? |
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| Name: |
Mark |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
Mark.dunn88@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi my grandads name was Eric Roberts from Sunderland he was a POW in Burma I believe he told a story that I wondered if anyone was aware of , it went like this , while he was a prisoner and how badly the Japanese treatment of prisoners was there was one Japanese guard who was a Buddhist and was forced into duty but would often sneak food to my grandad to distribute around the others then somehow managed to sneak him a simple Japanese fan , my grandad said this guard saved so many of their lives with a simple fan and sneaking them food , my grandad managed to bring this fan home but sadly it was misplaced when he passed |
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| Name: |
Katie Massarella |
| Location: |
Dorset |
| Email: |
kitty.kat.84@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike thank you so much for the information, i will get investigating asap
Katie |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 27.10.2020 |
| Comments: |
Katie, my information is very limited. AC1 Douglas Austin Powell, of Devizes, later Trowbridge, was RAF Maintenance Unit. Service number 1405990. He was stationed at a RAF Transit Camp at Buitenzorg, Bogor, Java initially but was taken prisoner at Tasikmalaja on the capitulation of Java on 8th March 1942. His Liberation Questionnaire is extremely difficult to read, written in pencil and very faded, but it appears he spent time in 7 different camps on Java until 8th January 1945 when he was shipped to Singapore. He was then imprisoned at River Valley camp until 17th June 1945 when he was put into the Changi Hospital. He was listed as being liberated from Changi on 5th September 1945. |
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| Name: |
Katie Massarella |
| Location: |
Dorset |
| Email: |
kitty.kat.84@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi ive just found out a great uncle was a prisoner of war in Burma
id love too know more but have very little information just his name Douglass Powell
and that he survived, if anyone can point me in the right direction of any research about him and
What they must of gone through a book maybe? Ive bery little understanding of it all
Thanks in advance |
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| Name: |
Kim Pedersen |
| Location: |
Sydney |
| Email: |
sonnynkim06@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Looking to discuss R.H. Seddon with Davsed or anyone else.
My grandfather had R.H. Seddon as a contact in his address book from 1946. I believe they must have met in hospital after the war, while they were recuperating. My grandfather, Gordon Meredith Evans, was also a Japanese PoW and was Royal Marine on the ill-fated HMS Exeter.
I have no more info as yet about R.H. Seddon but I have made some contacts who are helping me discover more about the convalescent hospitals after the war for returned PoWs.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 21-10-2020 |
| Comments: |
Herb, I don’t have the files to give you 100% evidence, but can give you some facts which seems to give a high degree of probability. Sgt. Herbert R Gordon, 15017517, 60th D. 6 October 1942: Pier Seven, Port of Manila, Philippines. 31 American officer prisoners-of-war (POWs) and 1,930 enlisted POWs from POW camps at Cabanatuan, Luzon and Malabalay, Mindanao are embarked on TOTTORI MARU. 8 October 1942: Departs Manila for Takao, Formosa, arriving 12 October 42.
15 October 1942: Departs Takao. 16 October 1942: Returns to Takao for an unknown reason.
18 October 1942: Departs Takao for Mako, Pescadores. 19 October 1942: Arrives at Mako.
26 October 1942: Departs Mako. 28 October 1942: Returns to Takao. The POWs are disembarked. TOTTORI MARU is fumigated by Korean laborers. Afterwards, the POWs are re-embarked.
30 October 1942: Departs Takao for Pusan, Korea. Later, joins an unidentified north bound convoy.
31 October 1942: Arrives at Mako and departs later that day..
7 November 1942: Arrives at Fusan (Pusan), Korea. The POWS are disembarked. 9 November 1942:
14 officer and 1,288 enlisted POWs are issued winter clothes and sent by train to Mukden, Manchukuo (Manchuria). 580 men are re-embarked aboard TOTTORI MARU which departs for Moji.
10 November 1942: Arrives at Moji and departs. 11 November 1942: Arrives at Osaka and disembarks the POWs. During the 32 day voyage from Manila, 30 sick POWs die of the deplorable conditions aboard TOTTORI MARU. …………………………… The facts that seem to confirm this are that your father is listed as leaving Manila on 8th October and also the website of Roger Mansell, Tokyo #2B POW Camp, states that “13 Nov 1942 - 312 Americans arrive from Philippines”. Your father is also listed on the same website as being liberated. Amongst the names of others liberated with him, are some who can be found online as having sailed also on the Tottori Maru.
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| Name: |
Herb Gordon |
| Location: |
Reynoldsburg,Ohio |
| Email: |
Hmgordn1@aol.com |
| Comments: |
My father Herbert R (Bob) Gordon was captured on Corregidor and transported to Japan to work at the Mitsui Madhouse in Kawasaki. I am hoping to find the name of the Hellship he was on |
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| Name: |
Aaron Kao |
| Location: |
Singapore |
| Email: |
aaron_kao@iseas.edu.sg |
| Comments: |
I am a Singapore archaeologist looking for new information on the 14 and 15 February 1942 massacre at Alexandra Military Hospital, Singapore. As there is a possibility of an unaccounted mass grave, any information from surviving veterans or their next of kin will be very helpful to our investigation. |
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| Name: |
Pat Cooke |
| Location: |
Somerset UK |
| Email: |
pcooke1948@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I have two members of my family, Gnr Eric Croucher, RA, sent to Nong Pladuk and Ubon and also his first cousin Signalman Henry T Croucher sent to Tokyo 13B Omi |
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| Name: |
Shirley Barnes |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
shirleyb60@virginmedia.com |
| Comments: |
I am compiling a data base of men and women from Leicester and Leicestershire who were involved in the war in the Far East. Most interested in those that were involved in the Malaya Campaign and were FEPOWs or civilian internees. If anyone had relatives that were there can you please let me have their details as I know that there will be many that I have 'missed'.l |
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| Name: |
Shirley Barnes |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
shirleyb60@virginmedia.com |
| Comments: |
Can the David that was asking for information about Norman Harold Alan Wade 118th Field Regiment RA, please contact me as he was my Dad's best friend. Dad was in the camp with him when he died |
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| Name: |
Daniel Evans |
| Location: |
Manchester |
| Email: |
dannyevs74@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, I |
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| Name: |
Philip Higginbottom |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
reghiggi@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Trying to find information of the team making up the No 1 Malaya Field Ambulance in 1941, my father was Staff Sergeant Christopher Higginbottom R.A.M.C. and was attached to this Field Ambulance. |
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| Name: |
steven cape |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
stevencape@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, seeking information on the circumstances into the death of 1468015 sgt. Eric Bettinson, 48 Lt. A.A. Royal Artillery (49 battery), who the CWGC state died on 21st Feb 1942 in Java. Many thanks |
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| Name: |
Heather Lumsden |
| Location: |
Oxford |
| Comments: |
My mother now 100 knew Reginald Wills (and other ex-POWs) also his wife in Singapore in 1950s; and I knew Vicky and Gina his daughters; would Major Jess Beck be interested to contact me on |
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| Name: |
john fletcher |
| Location: |
umina |
| Email: |
johncaz1@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
seeking info. on robert d. daniel nx25130 |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 28.08.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Alan. Re Gunner James Jolly, 1611746. 48 Light Anti Aircraft Regiment R A (48 LAA). Taken prisoner on Java on 08.03.1942. (not 1943 as you thought). Imprisoned at Bandoeng until Oct 1942, then sent to Gloduk, Batavia until Jan 1943. He was then put on the hellship Roko Maru on 09.02.1943, as part of Java Party 13, and sailed to Singapore arriving 13.02.1943. Taken to Changi and put into work party X-4-A. These work party |
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| Name: |
Victoria Sturgess |
| Location: |
Dorset UK |
| Email: |
blackpugbooks@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I'm trying to trace any info about my uncle Walter Douglas Ford, Private 4978082, Sherwood Foresters 1/5 Battalion. I know he died on 9 October 1943 and is buried in Chungkai Cemetery having worked on the Siam-Burma Railway. |
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| Name: |
Alan Jolly |
| Location: |
Suffolk UK |
| Email: |
alan.jolly06@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello
Could you give me any information about my dad James Ernest Jolly who passed away in 1981, his Army number 1611746. I have his pay book and his certificate of service that says he was a gunner in the Royal Artillery and captured by the Japanese in |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
25.08.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Rick. Re Gunner Mark Thompson, 122 Field Regiment, Royal Artillery. Imprisoned Changi on 15.02.1942 and then sent to Chosen (Korea) in the Japan B Party on 16.08.1942. His hellship was the Fukkai Maru, and called at Cap St Jacques (Vietnam) on 22.08.1942, then Takao (Formosa) on 29.08.1942, and eventually arrived Fusan (Chosen) on 22.09.1942. The Japanese marched the POWs around the area in front of the local population demonstrating their superiority over the imperial forces. From Fusan the Party was moved to Seoul and split into two camps (Keijo and Jinsen). Then in November 1942, 50 POWs were taken from each of these camps. A 3 day train journey followed to Mukden in Manchuria.
During the first winter 200 of the POWs died, mostly Americans from Philippines, but the ground was frozen and impossible to dig so the deceased were stored in barracks until Spring. The prisoners were finally liberated by Americans around 16 August 1945 followed by the Russians 4 or 5 days later.
Marks journey home began in party TFR2-52 by train to the port of Dairen on September 11th 1945. He boarded the Hospital Ship USS Relief and sailed to Okinawa. From here he would have flown or sailed to Manila. (no documented evidence though).
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| Name: |
Christine McDerment |
| Location: |
Edinburgh |
| Email: |
christinemcderment@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Looking for any info on my great-uncle William Robertson, a banker in Honk Hong at the fall, a warrant officer in the HKRNVDF, and a POW. His wife Marion escaped to Australia for the duration.
Any info at all would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
Christine |
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| Name: |
Jerry Collins |
| Location: |
Welwyn Herts |
| Email: |
Collins49@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
Good afternoon |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 24.08.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Sam. Re Sapper Leonard S Glaves, service number 1872272. Royal Engineers 3rd Corps, 36 Fortress Company. I cannot see anything relating him to Penang, and in his own handwriting he states he was taken prisoner on Singapore on 15.02.1942, which was the date of capitulation. Imprisoned Changi, then sent to Chosen (Korea) in the Japan B Party on 16.08.1942. His hellship was the Fukkai Maru, and called at Cap St Jacques (Vietnam) on 22.08.1942, then Takao (Formosa) on 29.08.1942, and eventually arrived Fusan (Chosen) on 22.09.1942. The reason this shipload was sent was a propaganda exercise. The Korean government wanted them displayed to create humiliation in the eyes of the public, to show the mighty British and Americans were no longer to be admired. The men were made to parade around Fusan for over 3 hours to jeering crowds. Many were in a poor state of health and dropped by the wayside. I Believe his prisoner Index Card then states he was shipped from Korea on 25.09.1944 and entered prison camp Fukuoka 8D, Omine, on 10.10.1944.
On 15.08.1945 this same camp was renamed as Omine 5B. He would have only been 100 miles from Nagasaki when the bomb was dropped. Several documents available by email if required.
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| Name: |
Rick Thompson |
| Location: |
Sydney Australia |
| Email: |
rick@thompsonlink.net |
| Comments: |
Sorry - I misled you. I've just found out that my father was in the Royal Artillery No. 968189. |
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| Name: |
Rick Thompson |
| Location: |
Sydney Australia |
| Email: |
rick@thompsonlink.net |
| Comments: |
Hi, I'm looking to find information of my father m Mark Thompson (d.o.b. 24/9/17) He was in the Royal Engineers, captured in Singapore, spent some time in Changi and was sent to Mukden. I believe he was on the Fukai Maru, as it was mentioned in a book by one of his friends who was also there, L/Bdr. A.V. Toze. He gave my father a copy of his book "In defence of Singapore", inscribed Mark, To remind you of an adventure we once had" |
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| Name: |
Sam Livesey |
| Location: |
Derbyshire |
| Email: |
samantha.livesey@googlemail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi. My grandfather Leonard S Glaves was a REME and was a POW in Omine. I think he was in camp 5-B. But was originally in Penang when captured. I can |
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| Name: |
Wendy Conway |
| Location: |
Cumbria |
| Email: |
Theconways82@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
RAF Cpl John Maguire squadron 258
En route to Singapore when it fell so diverted to Sumatra in defence of palembang airstrip. Captured Batavia (Jakarta, Java) March 1942. Sent to Changi then onto mainland Japan where he was forced to work for Mitsubishi mining Corporation in Ikuno. Liberated via Manilla, his journey included HMS Implacable and then probably the Ile de France into Southampton. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 19.08.2020 |
| Comments: |
Eric, your father, Joseph Shufflebottom, was in the 18th Division Reconnaissance Regiment. (18 Recce). This had previously been the 5th Loyal Regiment from Bolton/Preston area. They only arrived in Singapore on 5th February 1942 so only had 10 days before the capitulation. His service number was 3859297 and his rank was corporal. He was imprisoned in Changi, Singapore until 27.10.1942 when he was forced to the hellship Dainichi Maru in Kepple Harbour and sailed for Formosa (Taiwan). He arrived at Takao harbour on 14.11.1942 and they would have encountered atrocious conditions locked down in the holds during this journey. He was taken to Heito Camp in the south of Formosa. The main work was clearing a dried up riverbed of heavy rocks so it could be planted with sugar beet. At a later time (unknown) he was sent to Taihoku #6 Camp (Taipei). At the time of liberation he was in Taihoku Hospital suffering from beri-beri. He left Keelung Harbour on 09.09.1945 in the NZ Hospital Ship Maunganui and sailed to Manila, Philippines and then on to Wellington in New Zealand. I do not know his eventual journey home, but it is possibly the RMS Aquitania arriving January 1946. |
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| Name: |
rebecca jones |
| Location: |
leicester |
| Email: |
rebecca@chasingelva.com |
| Website: |
chasingelva.com |
| Comments: |
hello. my grampa and 3 great uncles where POWs in Changi and on the railway.
i would love to hear from anyone at all who may have heard of them through family stories/lettters etc.
Kenneth Anthony (Tony) Blacker
Maurice Hal Blacker
Alex Cullen
William Robert (Robin) Band
Alex sadly died but all three others survived. |
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| Name: |
Darren |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
alfieboy.de@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My Grandfather was a POW for a number of years and amazingly survived. Sadly, my mum doesn't know his regiment or where he was capturwd/held. His name was George Thomas Broadhead and he was from Dronfield/Chesterfield. He was born in 1914. Any information would mean a great deal to my family. |
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| Name: |
Alan Grieves |
| Location: |
Washington, UK |
| Email: |
alangrieves1948@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you Mike for this valuable information which means a lot to our family. If you are able to send over the documents that would be much appreciated.
You are giving a fantastic service, thank you again.
Many thanks,
Alan |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 17.08.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Alan, re BSM Andrew Grieves. This was a difficult one to check based on what you posted. I have found 4 documents that list your uncle, but they all seem to confirm that he never left Singapore. He was engaged in Work Parties around the city with the final one being X-4-A, which was 363 men probably on tunnel digging initially as air raid shelters but eventually as gas chambers if necessary. If you would like to see the files, let me know and I will email them. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 17.08.2020 |
| Comments: |
Jane, re Private Felix Oswald Sidney MASON (5775495). I cannot help regarding your request for survivors information, but can add to his story that he actually died at Timonta (Teimonta) . This camp was at 271Km marker and between the better known camps of Konquita and Nike. |
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| Name: |
Anne |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Comments: |
Looking for any information on my dad Henry Charles Riches who was in the |
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| Name: |
Lindsey Hawkes |
| Location: |
Northamptonshire |
| Comments: |
Hi I am trying to find out about my grandfather Frederick George Hicks 4865706.
He was a POW in Japan and returned home but he never talked about being a POW so we know nothing about how long he was how he got captured, how long he was a pow and how he got home.
We believe he was a POW in Thailand camp 4b working of the railway but this is only by searching what little we can find.
Many thanks
Lindsey |
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| Name: |
Eric shufflebottom |
| Location: |
Bolton Lancashire. |
| Email: |
eric18tonge@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
My dad Joe was a Japanese POW. But he never spoke about it like so many others. I would like to know how l can research more of what he was assigned to and which camp he was held at. Etc. |
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| Name: |
Gary Lewis |
| Location: |
Dartmouth |
| Email: |
Gary.Lewis@a1plc.co.uku |
| Website: |
www.a1plc.co.uk |
| Comments: |
My uncle Henry george lewis was wrapped in barbed wire and pumped with full of water until mid abdomen was near bursting point his crime |
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| Name: |
Alan Grieves |
| Location: |
Washington, UK |
| Email: |
alangrieves1948@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Please help, looking for my uncle Andrew Grieves, Royal Artillery - 786606.
We know he was intuned in Japan after the battle of Singapore. May have been at Changi before being sent to Japan as POW for 3 years 244 days.
Appreciate any help or info you can offer regarding internment of my uncle and his compatriots. |
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| Name: |
Jane Harrington |
| Location: |
Ely, Cambridgeshire |
| Email: |
janey.h@live.co.uk |
| Comments: |
My uncle, Private Felix Oswald Sidney MASON (5775495) of the 2nd Battalion Cambridgeshire Regiment has a plaque commemorating his death on the 15th May 1945 in Kanchanaburi War Cemetery in Thailand. I have obtained a photograph of this plaque during research via ancestry searches. I know there were over 700 casualties from the Cambridgeshire Regiment, but I recall my grandmother remarking on the return of other battalions and not hearing of her son's death until September 1945. I would like to know more about the survivors (if any) of the Cambridgeshire Regiment that worked on the Burma Railway and their return to England. Any information of F.O.S. Mason of the Cambridgeshire Regiment would be greatly appreciated. He was born in Burwell, Cambridgeshire. |
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| Name: |
Peter Field |
| Location: |
Stockport |
| Email: |
peter.field@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Remembering a collegue and friend. Bill Hanson.
Informed me as a 17-23 year old. 1967-1973
Of his experiences as a prisoner of war and how he (they) were treated.
Still suffered both mentally and physically during the years I worked with him.
I'll never forget his bravery an inspiration. |
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| Name: |
Garry kerr |
| Location: |
Suffolk |
| Email: |
Garrykerr.gk@gmail.con |
| Comments: |
Looking for info on my late granfather private Henry Kerr prisoner of war in Burma. I think he was with royal anglicans reg
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| Name: |
Anna |
| Location: |
England |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am looking into my father in law's military history. His name was Leonard Robert Kent, a signalman 2325939,
Captured in Singapore 1942, held in Changi. What happened after this I am not sure and would like to know more. I know how had to have a toe amputated and this was done by an Australian doctor in the camp.
Is there any further information that can be found out?
Thank you. |
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| Name: |
Richard Reeve |
| Location: |
Essex |
| Email: |
reeve@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
My Uncle Bill - William Robert Humphreys was a POW and I'm struggling to find info as my late aunt got rid of everything apart from one photo of him in uniform.
She blamed his premature death aged 46 on the treatment he received whilst prisoner.
He was born in Takely Essex in 1911, he died 16.6.1957
He married in 1936 to Dorothy (Queen)
I would love to find any details on him and his service. |
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| Name: |
Tracy Bradbury |
| Location: |
Cambs UK |
| Email: |
bradbury_tracy@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Following on from my last post, |
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| Name: |
Tracy Bradbury |
| Location: |
Cambs UK |
| Email: |
bradbury_tracy@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
You helped me greatly once before but now I am led to believe another of my great uncles were POW of the Japanese too.
His name was Donald Frederick Murfit. Service number 14577079 And a Private in the Suffolk Regiment.
Many thanks for any information.
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| Name: |
Lisa |
| Location: |
Norfolk England |
| Email: |
skyesanqel@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike
Thank you very much for that information i appreciate it I can |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 31.07.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Lisa, re Gunner George Poll. You seem to have a lot of the information already, but I hope there may be a couple of facts here that were missing. The regiment (and therefore I assume George) sailed from Glasgow in January 1941 in the |
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| Name: |
Lisa |
| Location: |
Norfolk England |
| Email: |
skyesanqel@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I |
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| Name: |
Geoff |
| Location: |
Canada |
| Comments: |
John Mellor most of them didn |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 26.07.2020 |
| Comments: |
Karen. re William Frederick Leaver. I can supply a copy of the page showing him on the passenger list of HMS Implacable and also details of the journey across Canada. I will email. |
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| Name: |
Steve |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Comments: |
Hi Karen, |
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| Name: |
John Mellor |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
jmellor46@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Gary Mellor |
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| Name: |
Karen Rothery |
| Comments: |
Thanks for your speedy response.
William Frederick Leaver (Fred)
L/Cpl 3rd Kings Own Hussars
552665
Captured Java March 1942
Transfered to Japan via Singapore [Macassar Naru & Matsue Maru ] Sept-Npv 1943 Java Party 17
Held at Wakayama Nov 1943 to March 1945
Ikuno March to Sept 1945
Hope that helps.
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| Name: |
Karen Rothery |
| Location: |
Hertfordshire |
| Email: |
k.rothery2@herts.ac.uk |
| Comments: |
25-07-2020
I am researching the repatriation of my grandfather from Ikuno (Osaka 4B) camp in Japan. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 25.07.2020 |
| Comments: |
Paul, They did not necessarily all go on the same journey. There will be more chance of success if you post his FULL name, and then add any extra details you have such as regiment or service number. |
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| Name: |
Paul cunningham |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
cunninghamhorwich@ntlworld.com |
| Comments: |
My Grandfather was at Fukuoka 5 (Omine Mine).
Can anyone tell me how and where the prisoners were
repatriated to.
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| Name: |
Timothy Rodgers |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
Timothy1965@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I am looking for where my grandfather Earnest Porter was held by the Japanese which camp he was in he was Royal Navy and was sunk on HMS EXETER sadly he is no longer with us but I never had the sense to ask him these questions when he was here now I want to know can you help please |
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| Name: |
Terence Dear |
| Location: |
Blandford Forum, Dorset, United Kingdom |
| Email: |
65tpdear@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My father Sapper 1889056 Cecil Ernest "Harry" Dear, 18th Div. HQ RE, was imprisoned Changi, Tarsao , Tamarkan and finally Phetburi. He was repatriated on the Corfu. I would like to know when Phetburi was liberated and by whom. Please help.
Also, my godfather was Sapper 2086736 Norman Gibson Parker. He and my Dad met in the army at the start of the War and Norman was my Dad's best man in January 1941. I would like to know whether they were in captivity together. Unfortunately, I cannot find any records of Norman's army service. |
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| Name: |
Susan Robinson |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
susanrbnsn1s@aol.com |
| Comments: |
Mike, that |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 04.07.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Susan. re Joseph Robinson, Gunner 148 Field Regiment . I dont know his journey from Okinawa to Manila. On 9.10.1945 he boarded USS Marine Shark as passenger number 1,651 in Manila, and sailed via Hawaii to San Francisco. I have seen this ship as described as having 2 speeds, slow and very slow. This arrived under the Golden Gate Bridge on 01.11.1945. Accommodation for the night was Fort McRowan on an island in The Bay. The next day a train up the west coast to Tacoma, and accommodation in Fort Lewis (3rd Nov). On 07th Nov Canadian Railway for New York, passing through Jasper, Edmonton,Saskatoon, Redditt, Armstrong, Ottowa, arriving 12th Nov. Sailed 13th Nov, arriving Southampton 18th November. (Note: the journey on Marine Shark has documentary evidence, the journey thereafter is based on the story of another who was on the same ship) arrived . . , . |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 04.07.2020 |
| Comments: |
Liam, re Gunner Harry Brown and Lienkang pow camp. Can I suggest you scroll down the page to an entry of Feb 2020, where John Sandles has posted about his Grandpa in the same camp. John has also left his email and quote "Happy to exchange emails with anyone searching for information on these topics or who has information which could help me build a wider picture on my grandpa's story". |
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| Name: |
Susan Robinson |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
susanrbnsn1s@aol.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I |
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| Name: |
Liam Cornes |
| Location: |
Hitchin |
| Email: |
Liam.robert.cornes@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi.
My uncle Gunner Harry Brown 923527 135th Herts Yeomanry (Royal Artillery) was killed on 9th April 1945, in transit on a train travelling from Long Th |
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| Name: |
Keeley |
| Location: |
Derbyshire |
| Email: |
keeley6996@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, I was wondering if you had a photo and more information on my Nans uncle George?
His nans was George Russell born 24th October 1912. He was in the |
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| Name: |
Carla |
| Location: |
USA |
| Website: |
www.carlagerardulow.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I was wondering if you have the name list for Java Party 19. I know one exists, but haven't been able to find the complete list. I think my grandfather was on that boat. His name is Johan Hubert Theodoor Gerardu. Any help would be greatly appreciated. |
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| Name: |
Kathleen Crosby,nee Bennett |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
kathandtony@talktalk.net |
| Comments: |
I wonder if you can find any information about my father, Martin A Howard . He was born in Dublin in around 1917 and served in the RAF, taken prisoner by the Japanese after the fall of Singapore in 1942. I understand he was liberated in 1945 but have no idea of his whereabouts thereafter. |
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| Name: |
Karen Hogg |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
Flamehair_13@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I have been told my Great Uncle was a POW I believe in Burma and he lost an eye as a POW. All I have is his full name Duncan Cecil Griffiths and he came from Kirkcaldy in Fife. Can anyone help as we have been told he was involved with three chindits. I also know those who came back from the war with Japan were the forgotten army. |
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| Name: |
Ray Withnall |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
ubonresearch@btinternet.com |
| Website: |
www.ubonprisonersofwar.wordpress.com |
| Comments: |
May I bring your attention to my recently published book about the Japanese POW camp at Ubon in north-east Thailand. I have researched this camp for the last five years, including extensive visits to the camp and the airstrip built by the men.
My book is available on Amazon (search Google or Amazon for Ubon the last camp before freedom)
I also have a simple website at www.ubonprisonersofwar.wordpress.com where I started to add blogs about the many stories of research coincidences, lucky breaks and opportunities.
Please contact me if you have any questions. |
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| Name: |
Angela Green |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
I wonder if you can help? After trawling through the Australian Rosters I found my father. At the Head of the page over each column is Name. Ser his is A Rank L/Cpl Card No Ne & Old with a number under each. Former Camp. Regtl No. Remarks. If anyone can help me understand what the headings mean I would be most grateful |
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| Name: |
Rena McKenzie |
| Location: |
Midlands |
| Email: |
PennyPenPen5@aol.com |
| Comments: |
My father Private George Clark was taken prisoner at Singapore 15th February 1943. He was born Edinburgh 1901. he was in the Royal Army Medical Corps.no. 7356915. 18th Division. He sailed on the USS Mount Vernon. His liberation Questionnaire staes he was in 2 camps/hospitals. I cannot make them out. Also how do I find out more information about him Also how did he get home? all information appreciated. Thank you. |
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| Name: |
Alan coles |
| Location: |
Tasmania |
| Comments: |
Mike, my thanks for your research, my father |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
12.06.2020 |
| Comments: |
Alan. I don |
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| Name: |
Alan coles |
| Location: |
Tasmania |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike?
Would you have any information on
Charles William Coles service number
484670 born Tunstall 1922 |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Mike,
No problem thank you anyway, don't like leaving email address in an open as you just end up with spammers,appreciate your reply.
Regards David |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
08.06.2020 |
| Comments: |
David, you cant post files on this page, only for those who leave an email. |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Hello Mike,
I would like the files please?
Regards David |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Mike,
Cannot thank you enough for the information, my apologies the service Number was my mistake sorry.
I would be grateful for all the information please, thank you again Mike.
Regards David |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
05.06.2020 |
| Comments: |
David, the reasons for the confusion is that firstly all the records show his service number as 1871093, not 1071023. Also, his Japanese Index Card shows a first name of Frederick, but it is definitely him as the service number and Southampton address match up. He was in the Fortress & Field Park Section of the Royal Engineers, rank of Sapper. He was sent to the Burma/Siam Railroad in |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Mike,
My sincere thanks for your reply, he was from Southampton and indeed the chap did suffer being a amputee. His red book clearly shows him being a POW during the dates stated and he was also in receipt of the letter from the King for returning pow,s my apologies for any confusion caused and my thanks for service you supply God speed.
Regards David |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 05.06.2020 |
| Comments: |
David .. re Walter James Charles Sheffield. There appears to be some confusion with military records. Can you confirm, to establish I have the right person, did he originate from Southampton, and did he suffer an amputation of left leg? |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Hello,
I'm looking for information on 1071023 Walter James Charles Sheffield Royal Engineers a prisoner from 15/02/42 till 16/19/45 unfortunately I know nothing else any help would be appreciated thank you.
Regards David |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 30.05.2020 |
| Comments: |
Shirley, re AC1 John Powell. Taken prisoner on Java, shipped to Singapore in Java Party 2 on 22.09.42. Then sent on the Hiteru Maru on 09.10.42 from Singapore to Borneo. Made to suffer the horrors of Sandakan, and died on 26.11.44. Buried in Sandakan Cemetery in grave BA1. He died before the 'crime' of the Sandakan Death March so at least has a grave. Moved to Labuan post war. |
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| Name: |
Hannah |
| Location: |
Kent |
| Comments: |
Mike - thanks - realised my email was not on there
Hannahdneve@gmail.com |
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| Name: |
shirley thomas |
| Location: |
pembrokeshire west wales |
| Email: |
toffee_apple_sweet@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi i am looking for any information about :-
Name: John Foster Powell
Rank: A.C.1/c
Military Date: 8 Mar 1942
Service Branch: AF
Service Number: 654215
Source Description: 25: British Prisoners of War Held in Japan or Japanese-Occupied
Territory: K - Q |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 26.05.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hannah . re Ernie Beeby. Due to some close connections I hope to contact you by email. Please watch for email from Michael Hurst |
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| Name: |
Rachael Smith |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
aquapanda437@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am doing some research into my family history and wondered if anyone had any information on the following:
-Emily Elizabeth Smith who died in 1944 in Muntok
her son William Thomas 'Tom' Smith born around 1898 in Singapore, and who was working as a contractor in the 1950s
His wife 'Flossie' who was born in Labuan, Borneo 1906 and who died during the sinking of the SS Kuala in 1942
Their son Peter William Smith (born 19th August 1920, Singapore)
Their son John Patrick Smith (born 25th Dec 1918)
The youngest brother of John and Peter (subsequently son of Tom and Flossie, and grandson of Emily) was my paternal grandfather Colin Clive Smith born in 1933.
He was aboard the SS Kuala and SS Tandjong Pinang when they both sunk, and was interned in Palembang Women's camp with his sister, Gwen. If anyone has any further information about their internment, or the ships that would also help me greatly in my research. Thankyou |
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| Name: |
Pauline Cooper |
| Location: |
Spain |
| Email: |
pauline.cooper2010@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, that is great, so much more than I had! I will pursue it further and post back if I find anything more. Yes, any files if you could email them to me I |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 25.05.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Pauline. Re R C Jobber. Very little found. Cpl R C Jobber, Royal Corps of Signals, 18 Division. Service number 2591640. Address shown as Roseberry Avenue, Tottenham, London. In the Regimental file produced at Changi, he is marked as 'M' (missing). Later marked as 'Missing 15.02.1942, believed to have left Singapore AFTER capitulation' . That is all the evidence I can come up with, hopefully someone will have a subscription to search Newspapers. If you want copies of files, let me know. |
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| Name: |
Pauline Cooper |
| Location: |
Spain |
| Email: |
pauline.cooper2010@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, I |
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| Name: |
Rick Steele |
| Location: |
U.K. Devon |
| Email: |
rick@rsfencingltd.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, looking to find some information about my grandfather who served in WW2, I know nothing about his service except after finding a letter with his name and where it was going to. His name was MAJOR ALAN STEELE |
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| Name: |
Barbara Matthews |
| Location: |
Cessnock NSW |
| Email: |
jbo72046@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
Seeking any information on Lindsay Norman Matthews NX47206 2/10th Field Ambulance. I have his service record but no detail of his imprisonment except 'Malaya' and all leads have gone nowhere. Just trying to piece together where he served his POW days. He returned to Australia. His nickname was "Meggs" after Ginger Meggs - as Lindsay was red haired and fair skinned. Any information would be most appreciated.He was from Pokolbin/Cessnock NSW |
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| Name: |
John Hay Kerr |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
i_h_kerr@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hello - I am looking for information about my relative, Tom Hay, believed to be a planter in Malaysia. He was imprisoned by the japanese in Chengi Prison during the 2nd WW, survived , and returned to Scotland where he died in the late 1940's/early 1950's. |
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| Name: |
Hannah |
| Location: |
Kent, UK |
| Comments: |
Hiya
Am starting to research my late grandfathers path around the far east whilst he was a POW. Have done a bit just after he died but feel ready to start again
Ernest Arthur BEEBY 21/02/1920 from the Royal Artillary.
Best Regards |
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| Name: |
Helen |
| Location: |
Bristol UK |
| Email: |
Hmorr1@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, thank you so much for this information! I am so grateful for this. Anything further you have would be brilliant. I was lucky to have my grandad for 33 years of my life and he was very closed about the war (obviously) but started to say a bit more just before he died |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
17.05.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Helen |
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| Name: |
Clive Ireson |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
clive.ireson@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I would be grateful for any info about my Uncles.
1, Percival Spencer Smith RASC att Aus 8th Div. Part of F force
2. William Thomas Ireson. Pte. 4th Norfolks Malai 4 and
Malai1# 10919 |
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| Name: |
Margaret |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Does anyone have specific information about the movements of the 1/5 Sherwood Foresters from 1942 before they left England and after their capture in Singapore? |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
17.05.2020 |
| Comments: |
Chris Brown ....... There is a 35 page PDF file at this link, which includes details about Lance Bombardier Arthur Butler who you mentioned, as he played |
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| Name: |
Chris Brown |
| Location: |
BRADFORD |
| Email: |
lindacbb@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike I cannot thank you and Glenda enough I only wish I had started my search years earlier
All this news along with today would have been Dads 101 Birthday. Please if anyone has information about the camp concerts.
I met Arthur Butler after the war. but would still like some info on camp concerts.
Thank you all once again, Keep safe
Chris Brown |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
17.05.2020 |
| Comments: |
Chris, re your Dad, Gunner John Brown, 914249., Shipley Yorks. Imprisoned Changi when Singapore capitulated on 15.02.42. Six months later taken to Keppel Harbour and herded on the hellship Fukkai Maru (pronounced slightly different by those onboard), and sailed for Keijo. Korea. Remained in Korea until 10.07.43. Then sailed for Moji, Japan. Taken to Maruyama, Osaka #5, Kobe camp where the men were enslaved into ship building and stevedores. On 11.05.1945 taken to Motoyami, Hiroshima 8B camp, where enslaved into coalmining. It was from this camp he was liberated by the Americans on Aug 27th 1945. |
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| Name: |
Dawn Wragg |
| Location: |
West Midlands, uk |
| Comments: |
Regarding Joe Guest, he was Joseph W Guest if anyone can help. |
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| Name: |
Dawn Wragg |
| Location: |
West Midlands |
| Comments: |
I am seeking information about my great uncle Joe Guest from Gornal, West Midlands who served on this line . |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
16.05.2020 |
| Comments: |
Julie,......... re Grandfather Private William Henry Elliott, service number S/261346. R.A.S.C. Fortress Command, Singapore. Sorry, but not clear answers for you. He was sent to the Burma/Siam Railroad in |
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| Name: |
Helen Morrison |
| Location: |
Bristol UK |
| Email: |
Hmorr1@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, does anyone have any information about my Grandad Arthur Ralph Chesters? Born and lived in Bristol UK. He was in Changi jail and worked on the death railway. Passed away 7 years ago but he didn |
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| Name: |
Jayne Smith |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Email: |
jadire@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you so much, Mike.
This was information I was not aware of so it |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
14.05.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Jayne, re Driver Harold Murray, service number 5826901, 4th Suffolks. In the Regimental Roll created after the capitulation of Singapore, it has an entry against his name of |
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| Name: |
Lynda Davies nee GRANDON |
| Location: |
Dorset |
| Email: |
lyndajuliedavies@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I |
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| Name: |
Chris Brown |
| Location: |
BRADFORD |
| Email: |
lindacbb@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I am searching for any information on John (Jack) Christopher Brown
His army No.914249. He was in 280 Battery 122 Field
Reg R.A. My Dad was taken prisoner Singapore 1942.
I believe he put on camp concerts with Arthur Butler.
I was told he played bugle call in the camp by a guy called Ted
Lund. He was shipped to main land Japan and worked down the mines
he was also a friend of a Mr. Ackroyd Bradford, typewriter co.
Any snippet would be very welcome . Thank you
My name is John Christopher Brown.
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| Name: |
Sharon Wilkinson |
| Location: |
Taranaki, New Zealand |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am trying to find some information about my Grandfather, Norman George Noel Davis RAF (45765). I believe that he was involved in the evacuation of Changi Prison in 1945. I think the operation was called 'The bag'. I am doing this research for my mother who wants to know more about her Father's work. Any information or help that you can give would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks. Sharon Wilkinson |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 12.05.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Angie. re James Alexander Michie. The only detail I can add for you is that he was liberated from Japan on the Hospital Ship TJITJALENGKA, which transported him all the way to New Zealand. On board his diagnosis was recorded as 'fracture R. humerus' |
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| Name: |
Alex |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find about Charles Graham Burke, who my family |
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| Name: |
Stacey Dyer |
| Location: |
Norfolk |
| Email: |
Staceyoakes81@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Oh wow thank
You so much. I would love to see those documents you mention if possible.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 10.05.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Jade. Signalman William Coates, Royal Corps of Signals attached to the 155 Field Regiment, service number 2345796. Captured at the surrender of Singapore, 15.02.1942. Imprisoned at Changi for 6 months. On 25.10.1942 a large contingent of the RCoS were amongst the 1100 men who were herded to the docks to board the Japanese hellship |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Stacey, last sentence in below post should say "He was later moved to Group 2 workers near Kanchanaburi. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 10.05.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Stacey, Re your Grandad, Private Sidney Oakes, service number 5780299. 4th Norfolks. Address shown as Sidney Street Kings Lynn (named after his street |
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| Name: |
Julie Worledge |
| Location: |
Cornwall |
| Email: |
jewels_1965@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
My Grandfather William Henry Charles Elliott, was a private in the Royal Army Service Corps, No; s/261346, We know he was in Changi, and he survived, he struggled with , what we now call, PTSD. Any info would be gratefully accepted,my sister and I never got to meet |
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| Name: |
Jayne Smith |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
jadire@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I would like to find more information about my
Uncle Harold Joseph MURRAY of the 4th Battalion
Suffolk Regiment.
He was taken prisoner 9th March, 1942 and died
19 November, 1944.
His name is on the Singapore Memorial section 56.
Thank you.
Jayne |
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| Name: |
Maggie draycott |
| Location: |
Surrey uk |
| Email: |
maggiedraycott@hotmail.com |
| Website: |
None |
| Comments: |
I |
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| Name: |
Angie |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
apct@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi! I have recently began a bit of research into my Grandad's war experience. His name was James Alexander Michie, service no 1123498. He was an LAC in RAF. So far I have found that he was captured 8th March 1942, was transported on Macassar Maru as part of Java 17a to Changi then onto Japan on Matsue Maru, arriving 15th Nov 1943. As far as I can work out he was at the wakayama osaka camp then until March 1945 then in the Ikuno #4 camp until liberation 2nd Sept 1945. I have found a record dated 30th August 1945 listing him as an invalid with impacted fracture and surgical neck injury. I know from family that he was sent to New Zealand to recuperate for about a year but I haven't found any detail of his recovery from Japan. Is there anywhere I can find out where and how he was captured? Was he held in Java for the first year and a half and would he have been used for labour there? I would really appreciate any info to fill in the gaps. Thank you! |
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| Name: |
Jade |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
bonnie_jade@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am trying to find any information on my grandad william H Coates. He was a POW in Singapore. Does anyone have any info on? Thanks |
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| Name: |
Stacey Oakes |
| Location: |
Norfolk |
| Email: |
Staceyoakes81@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi I |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 07.05.2020 |
| Comments: |
Kimberley, I cannot see any POW named Frederick Prime, but there is an Alfred Prime. Did he live in Luton, Bedfordshire ? Can you give any more information?. |
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| Name: |
Emily |
| Location: |
Lincolnshire |
| Email: |
Emilycooks@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I |
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| Name: |
Kimberley |
| Location: |
Staines upon thames |
| Email: |
kim_prime@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, I'm looking for my grandad. His dad was a Japanese prisoner Fredrick prime |
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| Name: |
Kathryn McInerney |
| Location: |
SA |
| Email: |
kathymac58.km@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Peter
Im thought Id post something here to mark my spot. Thank you for placing Dad's book here on your Website. It has enabled many to read his story and I have now been contacted by another author (Tony Wege) and was able to share some information with him for his latest book.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
26.04.2020 |
| Comments: |
Jason, if Arthur had died in Changi he would be buried in Kranji, but there is no one there by that name. However, there is an Arthur John Berry buried at Kanchanaburi in Thailand. He was in the Australian 2/30 Bn , service number NX2727, and came from Lidcombe, Sydney. |
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| Name: |
JASON Woods |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
J.woods72@optusnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
Hi I'm wondering if you could please help me look for a name of a man named Arthur Berry he died in Changi please email me back in what you find thank you
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| Name: |
John Sandles |
| Comments: |
I'd like to thank all who have sent me additional information since I posted about my grandpa. You are most kind!
I would also like to share that I did receive an email which looked like a phishing email and used the term Walden. I would caution other users to be aware of this. The email came from someone claiming to be 'Mark Turner' and from this email address 'deanscourtchambersqc@yahoo.co.uk' and claimed to be working on behalf of the public sector and that he owed 'Walden' a legal obligation. I would urge all uses to be cautious if they receive an email similar to this (or of other nature) out of the blue. 'Mark' will likely ask you for your bank details to 'transfer the money', but don't send them anything.
Don't mean to cause undue concern, but thought I'd make people aware! |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Zara, there is no John Best listed on the POW Master List. I have also checked the Japanese Index Cards, and there is not one for him. He does not appear to have been a POW and there is no entry in the Royal Artillery Nominal Roll. I don |
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| Name: |
Zara best |
| Location: |
Kent |
| Email: |
zbest008@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi I'm looking for help with John Frederick best royal artillery |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 20.04.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hello Patrick. You asked for the same details in November 2013. I am therefore posting a copy of the reply made at that time. .. .. ..23.11.2013
Comments: Hi Patrick (re Thomas Joseph O |
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| Name: |
patrick oconnell |
| Location: |
suffolk |
| Email: |
oconnellp110153@gmail.com |
| Website: |
oconnellp110153@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello I am trying to gain more information about my father.Gunner Thomas Joseph Oconnell service number 1115802 of 88th field regt,royal artillery was captured on 15/2/42 at Singapore he survived the war but never talked about it.THE ONLY OTHER INFORMATION I HAVE IS INDEX FILECARD WO345/38 KEPT AT KEW RECORDS.WHICH I HAVE NOT SEEN. I WOULD BE MOST GRATEFULL IF YOU COULD HELP. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 16.04.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Liz. Lt. Charles Carpenter, service number 153515, 85th Anti Tank Regiment, Royal Artillery. Imprisoned Changi after the fall of Singapore on 15.02.1942. Remained Changi until 13.05.1943 when entrained with 'H Force' to the Burma/Siam Railroad. Forced to march over 170Km to the camps in the Hellfire Pass region. Documents show he was returned to Changi by 01.11.1944 when he shows up on a roll call. Liberated from Changi in September 1945. |
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| Name: |
Liz |
| Location: |
Kent UK |
| Email: |
lil1964lil@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hello, i have just found out cousin of mine was a Japanese POW, his name was Lt Charles Gerald Carpenter born 13July 1915 in Eastbourne Sussex. Iwas wondering if you had or could find out any imformation about him and his time as a POW. Thank you |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 05.04.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Karen. I can give you a summary but not a lot of detail. Sgt. William Cannon of Lochend Cottages, Newbridge, Midlothian, service number 809244. Royal Artillery, 137th Field Regiment. Taken prisoner at Titi, Malaya on 03.02.1942 during the advance of the Japanese and imprisoned at Kuala Lumpur. He appears to have never been sent to Changi, where most useful research documents are found. Sent to the Burma Siam Railroad on 19.10.1942 directly from Kuala Lumpur. I cannot trace his camps on the railroad. It seems he was with men of Group 1, and his prisoner number was 4091, having previously been 12754. (Common practice for the Japs to issue new numbers as administration was changed.) He appears to have been liberated from Thailand on 30.08.1945. Sorry I don |
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| Name: |
Karen Hazel |
| Location: |
Catterick Garrison |
| Email: |
Karenhazel@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Could you please let me know if you have any information about Sergeant William |
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| Name: |
Klaas van der Tempel |
| Location: |
The Netherlands |
| Website: |
see LinkedIn |
| Comments: |
Dear Lt Colonel Winstanly,
I want to express my sincere appreciation for your website. Through an inquiry of a couple of |
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| Name: |
Robert Duncan |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
rd4326@ou.ac.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi
I am looking for some information if possible. My Grandfather John Alison Duncan was taken prisoner of war in Burma.
He previously had served in the royal navy and was a stocker on the landing barges at omaha beach we think he then went
on to serve in the seaforth highlanders or something like that he came from the town of Stranraer and when he first signed up he lied about his age.
He may have escaped from the camp a couple of times though we cannot be sure.
I was wondering if anyone might be able to help me find out firstly his service number secondly where he would have been taken and thirdly what was the
conditions like at that camp and what would they have done their.
Can anyone help me find out some information? I would appreciate it thanks. |
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| Name: |
Glenda |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Comments: |
Sorry Fred. George Leslie William |
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| Name: |
Glenda |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Fred. George Leslie Wilson |
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| Name: |
Fred |
| Location: |
Beach |
| Comments: |
I started doing a family tree for a mate and knew his dad had been a Japanese prisoner of war Gunner George Leslie Williams born 1914, Les to everyone in his home town before his death I tried to use FOLD3 via Ancestry but gave up after 10 minutes, as far as I could make out you can't search by name. Les was in the Royal Artillary 1939-45 service number 1582478 the only detail on Ancestry pointing you towards FOLD3 is "Japanese Index cards of allied prisoners of war and internees and a name Wilburn-Wilson" When I searched my grandfathers military service I got pages of his 12 years in India and a spell in the Lancashire reserves during the 1st WW, all for free, surely researching military service records should be our right, a fee is OK within reason but why have Americans hold the information, isn't there a UK means to access archives. |
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| Name: |
Ronan Tierney |
| Location: |
Kilkenny Ireland |
| Email: |
marmahon@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I would appreciate any info re my father Fl/Lt William F Tierney 81604 captured on Java 17-3-42 with other elements of 84 Sqn RAF |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Hi Sandie, I have been closely following your search for information on other sites, and therefore not duplicated it on here. It is great you have found so much truth about his short life and been able to put to rest family Chinese Whispers. For the sake of others who follow this website can I post that his story has evidence that he died of vitamin deficiency and was not beheaded. It is great that after more than 75 years you will be able to pass on his story with many true facts. |
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| Name: |
SAndie Sanderson |
| Location: |
County Durham UK |
| Email: |
Millennia99@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hiya Mike, The certificates I found are on Ancestry and they are in English.
Someone has sent me a lot of info, regarding Jacob Hull. so thank you so much for what you are doing :) This has helped me a lot. Thank you :)
God Bless, stay safe n well :) |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
17.03.2020 |
| Comments: |
Sandie, you refer to 'the certificate'. What is this certificate? Is it an official death certificate, or a transcribed version? Is it in English or Japanese? |
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| Name: |
Sandie Sanderson |
| Location: |
County Durham UK |
| Email: |
Millennia99@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hiya, firstly I want to thank you for what you are doing . I am looking for information on why my uncle was begeaded by the Japs in WW11. His name was Jacob Elliot Hull, 1106365 Gnr. 118 Field Regiment R.A. He was born in Bishop Auckland County Durham 13/7/1911. He was beheaded at Tarsoa ( this is how it is spelled on the certificate ) Which I have found out was Ban Wang Yai, was that a camp for P.O.W. ? Also on the certificate it says my Uncle died on 23/ 10/ 1943 was buried on 1/12/43 at Tarsoa then re-buried on 1/3/46 at Kanchanaburi. I would like to know where I can find out WHY he was beheaded. Also beside Taros on the certificate it has No 2, I don't know what that refers to. Maybe you could help me, and why would they not bury him for so many weeks???? Kind regards S. Sanderson |
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| Name: |
Chris Bailey |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
chris.w.bailey6294@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My Great Grandad was called Arthur John Bailey and was in Suffolk Reg 5th Bat 18th Div when captured in Singapore.
I would love to find out as much as I can about his life as POW. All I know at the moment is that he was at a camp called Adam road camp (Malai 4) and a camp in Thailand reference as 4D?
Any information would be great. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
26.02.2020 |
| Comments: |
John, re Signalman Eric Walden. I have some documents that may be beneficial to you when writing up his story. Email sent to you. |
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| Name: |
ian WHEELER |
| Location: |
New Forest UK |
| Email: |
iwheeler@tiscali.co.uk |
| Comments: |
My father in law ROY WALTER HOUSDEN beds and Herts regiment was a POW and in camps at Changi , Kanchanburi, Wonpo, Banpong , Non Pluduck and Ubon.
He still lives with us in the New Forest , Hampshire and celebrates his 100th Birthday in a few weeks time |
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| Name: |
John Sandles |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
johnjsandles@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello Everyone. My grandpa, Signalman Eric Walden (Royal Signal Corps, 2335225), was captured at the fall of Singapore and survived to the end of the war.
We have recently discovered he kept a diary of events and he was in No 1 PoW camp (Burma), but was moved to Vietnam during 1945, were he worked at Lien Kang camp before moving to Saigon dock camp in August 1945, just before the war ended..
He was part of the 'Kurra Kurra Klub' whilst in Nong Pladuk camp; the club formed to help the sick survive. He recorded himself as having dysentery on three occasions. I am currently writing up his diary and letters to print this in a book (for the wider family to view).
If anyone has any wider information on the Nong Pladuck camp, Lien Kang camp (can't find much on this) or Kurra Kurra Klub that would be much appreciated. He also recorded his friend, Joseph C. King (of Bakewell Road, Matlock, UK) as escaped on 19th June 1945 from Lien Kang Camp.
Happy to exchange emails with anyone searching for information on these topics or who has information which could help me build a wider picture on my grandpa's story. |
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| Name: |
Andrew Ashley |
| Location: |
UK Wales |
| Email: |
dolhaiddmansion@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Dear Mike,
Many thanks for this info. He had in fact underlined 'F-Force' in his copy of Bamboo and Bushido, so that ties in.
I'll follow up with Kew.
Thanks for your help. Rgds Andrew |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 21.02.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Andrew. Re Percy David Ashley, sorry but not very detailed information which is what you need. Sent to Thailand as part of the ill fated |
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| Name: |
SAM MCKEE |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
samjmckee@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for details about my grandpa who was a civilian POW in Changi and I believe 'involved' in the Double Tenth incident. His name was Lionel Earl and I think he worked for the Government in Malaysia before and again after the war.
My Granny and Mum got out on the last boat in 1941 and ended up in Australia for most of the war |
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| Name: |
Jayden |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Comments: |
my great grandfather was a POW in Thailand, the only information I can find as in what camp he was at was "Honbu camp" which is "headquarters" in Japanese. Any idea what this means or what camp ? |
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| Name: |
Andrew Ashley |
| Location: |
UK - Wales |
| Email: |
dolhaiddmansion@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi there,
I am trying to find detailed information as to where my father Percy David Ashley was held and worked after his capture in Singapore. His medical record shows cholera, malaria (x 20), beri-beri and dysentry. His was in the RAOC, no 7649734
He returned home much recovered but suffered a great deal later with ulcers, which I believe have been linked to his poor diet, conditions and infections during his time on the railway. Any information you can help with would be much appreciated.
Rgds
Andrew Ashley
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 19.02.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Kerry, As you have already established, he was taken prisoner on Java on 20/03/1942. His records show his name to be Idris or Idrais and not Isaac. His sailing in Java party 5A was in the Singapore Maru from Batavia. 4 hellships then sailed on 30/10/1942 but he was almost certainly on the Dainichi Maru for Japan. This arrived Moji on 24/11/1942. He was sent to the prisoner of war camp at Bibai-Machi, Hakodate on Hokkaido Island in northern Japan. Without being able to view his Liberation Questionnaire, there is some doubt about his exact camps. However, I believe he was in the main camp doing dockyard work initially, and when the main camp was relocated he moved with it and was involved in mining. There is a group photo available of him in the camp.(let me know if you want it) When repatriated he was taken to Manila in the Philippines, and then on 10th October 1945 sailed on the USS Marine Shark which reached Hawaii on 23/10/1945 before refuelling and sailing onto San Francisco arriving 01/11/1945.
Thereafter I do not have any documented proof, but assuming he remained with the others off the ship, on 02/11/1945 he entrained for Tacoma, Seattle where he remained for a few days. On 07/11/1945 he boarded a train to cross the Canadian Rockies and after 5 days travel arrived in New York. On 13/11/1945 he sailed on the Queen Mary for Southampton, arriving 18/11/1945.
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| Name: |
Kerry Hurley |
| Location: |
Ireland |
| Email: |
kerryjanehurley@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Sorry, I pressed send before I finished. I would appreciate any information. Best wishes. |
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| Name: |
Kerry |
| Location: |
Ireland |
| Email: |
kerryjanehurley@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 04.02.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Kim, You requested the same details in October 2018, but after searching for you , you obviously never returned for the answer. If you scroll down this page to 28.10.2018 I hope this will answer most of your questions. |
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| Name: |
Kim Hayman |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
kim_hayman@btopenworld.com |
| Comments: |
Hi,
We are looking for information on my husbands uncle Charles R Clark WO 2nd class 5612669. We know he was a POW but would love any information you might be able to find on him. Many thanks
Kim |
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| Name: |
Laura Hughes |
| Location: |
Barnsley |
| Email: |
kingkenny0202@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
Mike, yes please. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 03.02.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Laura. Private Ralph Simpson, service number 7613873, |
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| Name: |
Glenda Godfrey |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
Grmcfrey1@aol.com |
| Comments: |
2.2.20 Laura Hughes.
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| Name: |
Laura Hughes |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
kingkenny0202@icloud.co |
| Comments: |
Hi, |
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| Name: |
Rebecca |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
25.03.2019
Comments: Rebecca. Can you confirm I have the correct John Simm. Did he die in Kuching in April 1944 ?
Yes. That's right. He died in the camp. I managed to piece some information together from postcards of his communications to his mother that never made it home but are on stamp & memorabilia auction sites. Heartbreaking to read. Any information you have would be great to know so that we can keep his memory alive for my children. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
23.01.2020 |
| Comments: |
Re Private John Dean, address shown as Colne, Lancashire. Imprisoned Changi but involved outside in Work Parties. One year later sent to the Burma Railroad on 20.03.1943 in the dreaded |
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| Name: |
I C DEAN |
| Location: |
Guildford |
| Email: |
93dean@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for any information on John Dean No. 5826379. Captured Singapore 15 Feb 1942. Was with 4th Suffolks in 18th Division.
Very grateful for any suggestions. |
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| Name: |
Glenda Godfrey |
| Location: |
Glos |
| Email: |
Grmcfrey1@aol.com |
| Comments: |
David
This web site will give you so much Information.
http://www.powtaiwan.org/index.php |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
GLENDA GODFREY..
Hello ,
Thank you Glenda that is very kind of you and very much appreciated.
Regards David |
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| Name: |
Glenda Godfrey |
| Location: |
Glos. |
| Comments: |
David. His liberation questionnaire is here |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Hello Mike,
Looking for help with 5778056 William john Butters Norfolk regiment I believe captured late 1942,any help would be most appreciated.
Regards David |
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| Name: |
Rhoma Kelly |
| Location: |
Coffs Harbour Australia |
| Email: |
Rhoma.Kelly@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I'm looking for information on my uncle Gordon Villiers Cole. He was originally listed as missing on 9/3/1942 casualty list #766 but he was captured on 15/2/1942. He was in the R.A.M.C. and part of the No. 17 Combined General Hospital. His record says he was a POW in Malai and also Thailand but that's all I have apart from his service number 7261083. He was liberated on 30/08/1945 so I'd appreciate any tips on where to look next. Thank you
Rhoma |
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| Name: |
Glenda Godfrey |
| Location: |
Gloucestershire |
| Comments: |
I |
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| Name: |
margaret |
| Location: |
warrington |
| Comments: |
My grandfather was a Japanese POW on the railway.
Does anyone know anything about the M.T. or motor transport unit at Tar sao
and Kanchanaburi?
what would he have done if he was in motor transport?
Drive lorries, fix trucks? Ferry supplies up country?
Many thanks - trying to figure out what he did. |
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| Name: |
Stephen Lennie |
| Location: |
Huddersfield |
| Comments: |
I am trying to research my uncle John Brennand 641337 RAF 153 MU.
Escaped Singapore to Java where he was captured. Held a Tasikmalaja 8.3.42. then Malang Java 02.04.42 to 14.04.42 then Haruku / Harokoe 18.05.43 to 22-06.43.
John survived the war but we would like to know more - especially why he appears to have been removed from Haruku 22.06.43 which seems strange. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Kate, although this website does not have a search option, you will probably find your web browser does have one you can use. Whether you are using Microsoft |
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| Name: |
Kate |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Comments: |
Please is it possible to search your wonderful |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 06.01.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Kathleen. Re Michael Yarina. Your request is way outside my area of knowledge, when I saw it was Wake Island, and became even more so when I realised he was a civilian and not a military man who would have a service number to follow. However, his name crops up with searches, and just in case you have not been able to do similar searching, I will detail what I found. Listed as coming from Cleveland, Ohio, date of birth 15th May 1921, and taken prisoner at the fall of Wake Island on 23rd December 1941. Sent on Japanese Hellship Nitta Maru on 12th January 1942 to Yokohama , and then onward on 20th January to Woosung Camp, Shanghai in China. In December 1942 all the men at this camp were moved to Kiangwan Camp, Shanghai. I don |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 05.01.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi John. Re Sgt Paul Whiteland. Unfortunately I have not been able to access his Liberation Questionnaire, which would have listed his camps in his own handwriting. However, I have found him in a few files which gives the following information. Home address shown as Webster Street, Bungay , Suffolk. Sergeant in the 4th Btl. Royal Norfolk Regiment. Imprisoned Changi 15.02.1942 until 21.10.1942, when he was sent to the railroad. Listed as Group 4 which was the camps between Wampo and Kinsayok, but another file shows he was later transferred to Group 2 which means he was at the camps between Chungkai at 57km and Arrow Hill at 108km. His Liberation Q may be at the National Archives at Kew if he completed one. |
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| Name: |
john knights |
| Location: |
Norwich England |
| Email: |
johnknights729@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
When kindly replying to my query regarding Malai 4 POW camp, Mike invited me to submit the name of the soldier concerned. This was 5775665 Sergeant Paul Whiteland. |
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| Name: |
steve shaw |
| Location: |
england |
| Comments: |
Mike very much appreciate the work you have done, re:
Sgt Felix Shaw. Thank you. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 01.01.2020 |
| Comments: |
Hi Cefyn. Gwyn requested the same information nearly 3 years ago. I will just copy & paste what I found on 05.02.2017. . Hi Gwyn. Gunner William Burgess of the 49th Battery, 48 Light Anti Aircraft Regiment Royal Artillery. Address shown as Braich Tregarth, Bangor, North Wales. His Japanese Index Card shows a capture date of 20.03.1942 (which seems unlikely), whereas his own handwritten Liberation Questionnaire shows the date of 08.03.1942. His own date seems much more likely as this was the date of the surrender of Java. He lists his POW camps as Glodok, then Saint Vincentius Hospital,(1942) then Mater Dolorosa Hospital (1944) before ending up at Cycle Camp in 1945. He therefore spent all his imprisonment on Java, and probably about 2 years in hospital, but I have been unable to find what he was suffering from.. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 01.01.2020 |
| Comments: |
John Knights, there was no Malai 4 camp. There was a |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 01.01.2020 |
| Comments: |
Steven, re Sgt. Felix Shaw. Line of Command Provost Company, service number 3527591. He did complete a Liberation Questionnaire listing his numerous camps, but his handwriting makes it very difficult to read. What I can establish is that he was imprisoned Changi until 28/11/1942 when he entrained with |
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| Name: |
Kathleen Poticny |
| Location: |
Cleveland Ohio |
| Comments: |
Would like information on Michael Yarina who was a POW. Captured on Wake Island and in Japanese prison camp for 4 years. |
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| Name: |
cefyn burgess |
| Location: |
wales |
| Comments: |
looking for onformation on my fatheres experience and locations. Willam Royden Burgess 1796042. prisoner at jave. belive he was captured in Burma.
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| Name: |
john knights |
| Location: |
Norwich England |
| Email: |
johnknights729@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Might you be able to please tell me the location of camp Malai 4 where my relative was held? |
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| Name: |
Steven Shaw |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
sshawmufc@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi looking for details of my father Sgt Felix Shaw Military Police
Captured in Singapore 1942 came home 1945, Died 1995. Interested in his camps and such like, would greatly appreciate a photo. |
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| Name: |
Adam Mason |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
a.mason261@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Hi |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 14.12.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Kelly. Gunner Arthur Dyer, Service No. 1078109, 215 Battery, 80th Anti Tank Regiment. Address given as Boundary Cottage, Rustington, Sussex and father living at North Lane, Rustington.
His battery was at Alloa on 29th August 1941, when then entrained for Gourock on the Clyde. Here they met up with the other 3 batteries of 80th A/T and also the Signals Section and the L.A.D. Section (Light Aid Detachment RAOC). At 2pm they embarked on RMT Scythia, but did not sail until 31st August 1941, as part of a convoy of 19 ships, and was known as the WS11 Convoy. The convoy sailed north west towards Nova Scotia, for more than 1,000 miles, before turning south, and then finally turning east, to avoid German U-Boats.
The convoy initially arrived at Freetown, Sierra Leone on 13th September 1941.
The convoy then departed on 18th September and arrived in Durban on 3rd October.
At Durban the regiment was transferred to 2 smaller ships, with the 215 and the 2 Minden battery embarking on the HMT New Zeeland, and the 272 and 273 battery on the Ss Johan de Witt which sailed on 7th October, and arrived in Bombay on 22nd October. A depleted convoy of 6 ships left Bombay on 27th October, calling into Colombo, Sri Lanka on 31st October, and sailed onto Singapore, arriving 6th November 1941). Upon arrival the regiment was split up with each of the 4 batteries being sent to different locations in Malaya. The next time the men met up was as prisoners in Changi on 15/02/1942. Arthur was sent to the Siam Railroad on 20/06/1942 in one of the first parties to construct the camp for those who followed. In September 42 he was sent to Tamarkan to work on the bridges on the Kwai. This was followed by camps at Konkoita and Hindato before finally being sent 600Km northeast to Ubon to work on the airfield construction. He was liberated from this camp.
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| Name: |
Karl Spencer |
| Location: |
Essex |
| Email: |
spence@netvigator.com |
| Comments: |
Sgt Wiliam Arthur Nicoll was serving in the
Shanghai Municipal Police from 1934 to 1945
when he was repatriated to UK on the SS Tamaroa.
Is it possible to find out in which camp he was
interned in Shanghai ?
I believe Wiliam was spelt with one l.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Alan, sorry, in post below each time I put Barnvard it should read Barneveld |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
Uk 07.12.2019 |
| Comments: |
Alan, I checked the UK pow listing , then the Royal Artillery listings, and there is no George Barneveld. I did however find a Sgt. G H Barneveld who was listed in Java and then sent to Changi in Java Party 24 on the Kinta Maru. The problem is that this Sgt G H Barnevard is a Dutchman born in 1902 and his name is Sgt. Gerrit Hendrik Barnevard. If you would like his documents sent , to eliminate him from your searches, just let me know and I will email them. |
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| Name: |
Alan |
| Email: |
Barneveld@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, 5th January 1910 Lambeth London.
George Harris Barneveld.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 07.12.2019 |
| Comments: |
Alan, do you know his middle name, and date of birth? |
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| Name: |
Alan |
| Location: |
Hampshire |
| Email: |
barneveld@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Hi,
Looking for information on my grandfather George Barneveld, a sergeant in the royal artillery |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 06.12.2019 |
| Comments: |
Catherine. Gunner Daniel McCaskill, service number 879104, NOK address shown as 27, Ladykirk Drive, Cardonald, Glasgow. Imprisoned Changi, Singapore until 29.04.1943 when he entrained on Train 12 of |
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| Name: |
Kelly |
| Location: |
Brighton England |
| Email: |
kelducks@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi I |
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| Name: |
Catherine |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Comments: |
Researching my family history and have discovered a Daniel David McCaskill who was born in1920 in Govan and was taken prisoner of war on 15th February 1942. Is there any way of finding out what POW camps he would have been in? He as a gunner in the 80 Anti Tank Regiment Royal Artillery. His unit number is 879104 and he was captured at Singapore. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 02.12.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Nicola. Private Ernest Buck was in the 5th Battalion Norfolk Regiment, service number 6204756. Address shown as Foxley Close, North Earlham, Norwich. Taken prisoner on 15.02.1945 at the capitulation of Singapore. Imprisoned Changi until 24.06.1942 when he was sent to the Siam Railroad. This was one of the first parties to be sent and he would have been involved in the construction of a camp for all those who followed. He died at Chungkai (Thailand)(not Singapore) of avitaminosis on 08.10.1943 and was buried there in original grave number N/623. He would have been moved to his new grave post war, when the cemetery was laid out by the Commonwealth War Graves. |
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| Name: |
Nicola Pollard |
| Location: |
Gloucestershire |
| Email: |
tottnal@uwclub.net |
| Comments: |
I'm researching my grandfather, Ernest Edward Buck, sometimes known as Edward Ernest Buck. He was with The Royal Norfolk Regiment & he died in Singapore, in 1943. He is buried at Chungkai War Cemetary |
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| Name: |
Roger Blinko |
| Location: |
Australia and Canada |
| Email: |
roger.blinko@gmail.com |
| Website: |
blencowesww2.wordpress.com |
| Comments: |
I have just begun researching a member of my family |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 22.11.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Rosetta. . L/Sgt James Croll, I can only find him in the 1942 Changi files of the 1st Heavy Anti Aircraft Regiment HKSRA. I cant see any reference to 3 HAA or 2 AA/HKSRA, but perhaps you have records prior to the capitulation on 15.02.1942. The 1HKSRA shows his fathers address of Ballater, Aberdeen. It also gives the information that he was sent to the Burma Railroad on 15.10.1942. The CWGC shows his original grave and place of death as |
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| Name: |
Rosetta Chard |
| Location: |
Thornton Cleveleys |
| Email: |
rosettachard@outlook.com |
| Comments: |
Request for A Pal , L/Sgt James Cargill Croll 1063870
3rd H A A Reg (2nd) HKSRA
We have been trying to piece together
his service details got on really well until it came to
his FEPOW history
Captured 15/02/42 Date of Death 11/8/45
CWGC Details and saturation but to be honest its double dutc
could you advise where we could find where he
was captured and any camps Regards
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 19.11.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Kelly, re Samuel Podmore. The Black Watch were part of the Chindit Force fighting to push the Japanese out of Burma later in the war. Can I suggest you Google 'Chindits' to find websites that I hope will be more able to help. |
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| Name: |
Alan Barneveld |
| Location: |
Hampshire |
| Comments: |
Hi,
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| Name: |
Kelly Dawson |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
kellydaw@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi there, I am looking for information on my great grandfather Samuel Podmore who was in the Black Watch in Burma during the war and was a Japanese POW. I don |
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| Name: |
Jean |
| Location: |
USA |
| Comments: |
Mike I thank you from th bottom of my heart
For all the info you have supplied regarding
My Uncle Fred Monk. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 14.11.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Jean. Re Frederick Monk. This was an interesting search. It was apparent from the offset that he was extremely unlikely to have died on the railroad as he would not have been buried in Hong Kong (Sai Wan). It is also very unusual to see a war grave stating such a broad range of death date possibilities. This is what I have found so far. Signalman Frederick Monk taken prisoner at the capitulation of Singapore on 15.02.1942. Imprisoned Changi until 04.11.1942 when he was sent to the Burma/Siam Railroad as part of |
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| Name: |
Gary |
| Location: |
Canada |
| Email: |
Garyjs1779@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello I |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 12.11.2019 |
| Comments: |
Yvonne, re Bombadier Donald Lawson. 6th Heavy Anti Aircraft Regiment (6 HAA). Service number 890355. Captured at the capitulation of Java on 08.03.1942. Imprisoned at Bandung March 42 |
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| Name: |
Kayleigh |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
kayleigh.richards@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
We can't find records for my Grandad with a service number? As my Step-Nan threw his details away after he passed away.
His name was Hubert Dixon, born in 1927. He passed away in 2004 but we would love to find more details about him.
I believe he was a POW in Belsen?
If there aren't details here could you point me in the right direction to find them, want to give my mum a bit of her father back. |
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| Name: |
Jean |
| Location: |
USA |
| Email: |
Jepal1@tampabay.rr.com |
| Comments: |
I recently found info that my uncle Frederick Monk
No. 2350496 of th 28th Ind. Inf. Bde, Sig. Sec. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 10.11.2019 |
| Comments: |
Tina, re Jack Smith. There are 12 x J or Jack Smiths as POWs so more information is needed. However, one looks more obvious. Did he live at Station Road, Melbourne, Near Derby ? Did he have a date of birth of 27.02.1920 ? |
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| Name: |
Andrew Mulley |
| Location: |
Leamington Spa |
| Comments: |
Looking for information on Mulley , William Arthur No. 1099789
Changi, Nong Pladuk, River Valley Road, Saigon. |
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| Name: |
Yvonne Taylor |
| Location: |
Edinburgh Scotland |
| Email: |
yvonnethediver@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Searching for any information on my uncle, Donald Lawson who was a POW. He did survive and returned home but never spoke about what happened during the war. He died in 2005. |
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| Name: |
tina levy |
| Location: |
widnes |
| Email: |
jimmy.rawlinson1954@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
my uncle jack smith from derby escaped the burma railroad an hid in the jungle with a couple of pows he always told us that he was hidden by local natives in the jungle .but didnt like talking about the terrible things that happend .would he be on somekind of a list of rememberence list
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 07.11.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hector. What nationality? |
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| Name: |
Hector Smith boyle |
| Location: |
Ontario Canada |
| Email: |
Hectorsboyle@gmail.co |
| Comments: |
Looking for my uncle Hector Smith Sgt,died 1942 pow Japan |
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| Name: |
Deanna wicks |
| Location: |
reading england |
| Email: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Website: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Daz and Mike looking at forces war records Charles Burkett born 20/ 11/1906 signaller job labourer wife Gwendoline 9 kings gardens Goddard avenue Hull Yorks, captured15/2 |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 01.11.2019 |
| Comments: |
DAZ. Your spelling of the names you are requesting help with, differs from your spelling of the names on other internet sites where you are asking for the same information. Which spelling do you want time taken investigating. |
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| Name: |
mary |
| Location: |
surrey |
| Email: |
basilbushell@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
After reading 100 yearold Harold Pleasance article, I wondered if he knew my uncle Major JK Brodie. He would have been older as he served in the first world war too. |
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| Name: |
Rose |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Sorry, he loved life, not live. |
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| Name: |
Rose |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Mike, thank you so much for looking up my Uncle Ted's records. You have no idea how much I appreciate it. I never knew him as a young man, because he was in his 50s when I was born. But I remember him as someone with a young spirit who loved live. Whether this is because of his experiences as a POW or in spite of them, I'll never know. |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Mike
Re Norman Harold Alan Wade
Cannot thank you enough for the information very much appreciated, reading his bible brings tears for this young man so young to have lost his life in way he did God bless him.
Regards David |
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| Name: |
Daz |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Email: |
Dazscuba@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi looking for information on Signalman |
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| Name: |
Deanna wicks |
| Location: |
reading england |
| Email: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Website: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike I am looking for information on Gunner R N Longmoor of I think 35LAA battery captured dutch east indies POW at Hiroshama 6b camp is it possible that he was at Changi Sep 44 and made the Japanese approved broadcast with Gunner HT Reeves on the 27th of september 44 presumably it would before he was sent to Japan many thanks Deanna |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 20.10.2019 |
| Comments: |
Martyn. To follow up on Deanna useful reply, his service number was 870810, and to clarify he was 240 battery of 77 HAA (Heavy Anti Aircraft) , His paper-trail is unfortunately rather vague. Out of all the 26 Java Parties, just one was not fully documented and this was |
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| Name: |
Deanna wicks |
| Location: |
reading |
| Email: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Website: |
deannawicks73@gmailcom |
| Comments: |
Hi Martin you are probably waiting for Mikes answer I have looked on forces war records.There is aJohn V Westrip( Johns are often called Jack)He was a staff sergeant with Royal artillery 240/77 battery captured Java 8 march 1942 later at Hiroshama 06 or is on POW camp hr was released 2/9/45 His date of birth is 30/11/1904 and he was married his home address 27 dogs field st Cardiff wales not sure if he is the right Jack We strip( his name does not appear on Java personal index which I find surprising any Mike will probably give you more and the correct info best wishes Deanna |
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| Name: |
Martyn Fisher |
| Location: |
Cardiff |
| Email: |
martynfisher123@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
Trying to find anything on Jack Westrip,
From Cardiff. Was in Japanese pow camp during 2nd world war |
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| Name: |
Hayley |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
Hayleycooper419@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
Mike, thank you so much for your prompt response. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 09.10.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hayley, re Sapper Alban Cooper. This initially caused some confusion as his actual name on his Japanes Index card is John Alban Cooper. It shows his father as Joseph and mother as Jane. Born Darlington. Address shown as 45, Melbourne Rd, Learbridge Rd, London. Service number 2001836.
Royal Engineers, 288 Field Company. Taken prisoner at Singapore 15.02.1942, and was then one of the first to be sent to commence work on the Siam Railroad on 18.06.1942, in what became known as |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 08.10.2019 |
| Comments: |
Jess, re Frank Wilson. He appears not to have been a POW who was taken by the advancement of the Japanese between December 1941 and April 1942. He is not listed in any files or documents. I believe the only Fusiliers at this time were the 9th Northumberland Fusiliers, and as a double check he is not listed in their Regimental Roll. This therefore suggests he was in the forces (usually referred generally as |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 08.10.2019 |
| Comments: |
David, re Gunner Norman Wade. Thanks for additional information, it does help to be able to go straight to a regimental file, and also knowing he died, saves looking for Liberation Questionnaires and homeward ships. Unfortunately, not a lot of information. Born Leytonstone, London, and family at Maidstone, Kent. Arrived Singapore on 29/01/1942 on USS Mount Vernon. Taken prisoner on 15/02/1942 and imprisoned Changi. Sent to the Burma/Siam Railroad on 30/10/42 as part of |
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| Name: |
Hayley |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
Hayleycooper419@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
My Grandad Jack Cooper, not Grandma! |
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| Name: |
Hayley |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
Hayleycooper419@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am looking for information on my grandma, Alban (Jack) Cooper. He was a Sapper in the Royal Engineers and captured an placed in a Japanese POW camp. He survived the war and returned to London. |
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| Name: |
Terry |
| Location: |
North Devon |
| Email: |
terrywho35@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Any help in finding any info re my father's sister's husband - Ernest Henry Scott (father Albert - farmer) reputedly from Montreal, Canada who was a Japanese POW. He lived in Hull for a while after the war. |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Mike,
Member of the 118th Regiment RA who died as prisoner of war during construction of the Burma-Siam Railway,I'm looking for any further information on this man please. I'm a regular visitor here, and if and where I can I'd always help. |
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| Name: |
mike |
| Email: |
noondaypublishing@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Mr Klaas van der Tempel of the USA
You asked a question but left no contact. I have the answer.
e-mail me.
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| Name: |
mike |
| Email: |
noondaypublishing@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Is there a search facility? You can't copy & paste onto word to use their search facility. How does one find one post in this huge site? |
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| Name: |
mike |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
noondaypublishing@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Someone was looking for Ronald Sydney Smith? Where? Whom? Why? |
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| Name: |
Jess |
| Location: |
Yorkshire |
| Comments: |
Hi, |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 02.10.2019 |
| Comments: |
Byron, There were 7 FEPOWS named Woodley, but none were either William or Bill. Albert, Alfred, Archie, E L, Frederick, Victor and Walter. Maybe he was a civilian internee rather than a military POW ? I can check the home town and parents names of the 7 (repost details) if you think there may be a chance he used an assumed Christian name which many did in that era. I assume he came home and did not die during the war? |
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| Name: |
ByronEvans |
| Location: |
Cardiff S.Wales |
| Email: |
byronevans45@gmail.com |
| Website: |
no site |
| Comments: |
Does any one have any info on William Woodley.I'm trying to discover this and where he was F.E.P.O.W for a friend.William or [Bill was her Uncle.No info regarding his Regiment ,rank or dates for him. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
01.10.2019 |
| Comments: |
David, Can you elaborate your posting, to tell us what you already know, to save unnecessary time searching. This will also confirm it was not just a one visit posting. |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Hello,
Looking for information on Norman Harold Alan Wade Royal artillery Japanese pow WW2 please. |
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| Name: |
Melanie Arnott |
| Location: |
Mattoon illinois |
| Email: |
mjarnott1@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
My father Robert Arnott british Army, RAMC taken prisoner at Singapore and ended up in Mukden camp |
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| Name: |
Stephen Bayne |
| Location: |
Orcutt, california |
| Email: |
stephencb16@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Also my great grandfather maurice L Harvey was on the batan death March, and he was an officer if that helps narrowing the search down.
Thank you
Sincerly stephen Christopher Bayne. |
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| Name: |
Stephen Bayne |
| Location: |
Orcutt, california |
| Email: |
stephencb16@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi my great grandfather maurice l. Harvey was a British citizen and he was a Japanese prisoner of war for 5 years, he was given an MBE from the queen for the most excellent order of the British empire. I am very proud of him my grandmother and mother told me he was never the same upon return understandably so. I was hoping to get or receive any further information on my great grandfather and war hero.
Thank you
Sincerly. Stephen Christopher Bayne. |
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| Name: |
Deanna wicks |
| Location: |
reading england |
| Email: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Website: |
deannawicks73@gmailcom |
| Comments: |
Thanks Mike for the info can I assume that Gunner Reeves was at Sime road with Major Gaskell the dates on his paper that Major Gaskell signed sort |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 24.09.2019 |
| Comments: |
Deanna. The person you are seeking is Major George Frederick Gaskell (not Haskell)., service number 70235. It is 240 Battery / 77 HAA. (not 640/77 6 HAA). Maj. Gaskell sailed alongside Gnr. Reeves in Java Party 13. Maj. Gaskell camps were Changi 14.03.43 |
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| Name: |
Deanna wicks |
| Location: |
reading england |
| Email: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Website: |
deannawicks73@gmailcom |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike do you have any info on Major GH Haskell commanding officer of I believe 640/77 battery 6 HAA far east POWs his name appears on Gunner HT Reeves medical and court martial records this is in Reeves pay book records from march 43 to see 44 their is a serial number 51529 was Major Haskell in the same POW camp/s as Gunner Reeves? I have looked for Major Haskell with the special parties but have not found him thank you for your help and time Deanna |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 23.09.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Marilyn. Re Private Walter Matthews (note the double |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 22.09.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Rose, re Pte Edward Buckingham. Although he completed a Liberation Questionnaire, he chose to merely write his name and address, and left blank the details and dates for his POW camps. This would have been the evidence to link him to a doctor. He was sent by train to the Burma Railroad on 10.10.1942 and is listed as being with |
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| Name: |
Marilyn |
| Location: |
Calne wiltshire |
| Email: |
Marylingodwin8@icloud .com |
| Comments: |
Hi I'm trying to find info on an uncle of mine Walter John Keith Mathews all I know is he died on the railway he was from yatesbury |
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| Name: |
Alexandra Warley |
| Location: |
South Australia |
| Email: |
alexandrawarley@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am looking for information as to where
The camps that my father may have been in
When he was a prisoner of war working on
The Burma railway.
His name was Neil Barnes SX10372 date
Of death 18/10/1943 . He was Australian. |
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| Name: |
Rose |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
PS I realise my question about my great uncle (Ted Buckingham) was a bit specific. Basically I'd be grateful for any information you have about him. I loved him very much and it's hard knowing that there was a whole section of his life he couldn't talk about and I couldn't help him. |
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| Name: |
Rose |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Hi, I wonder if you could help me find some information about my great uncle, Pte Edward George Buckingham, 6020822, 1st.Cambridgeshire Regiment 18th Division. He didn't talk much about his experiences, but I know he was forced to work on the Burma Railway. One thing he did tell us was that he got an infection in his toe. The Japanese were going to cut his foot off, which would have killed him (he would have bled out). But a 'foreign doctor' pleaded with the Japanese to be allowed to treat my uncle. He saved my uncle's toe, his foot and his life. I will be forever grateful to him. I wondered if the doctor concerned was Dr Henri Hekking. Is there any chance that they crossed paths, or did anyone on here serve with my uncle? Thanks. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 15.09.2019 |
| Comments: |
Val, re Francis Patrick O'Neill. Are you able to get any more information from your B-in-Law ? He is NOT listed anywhere in the POW Master List. He does NOT have a Japanese Index Card. He does NOT have a Liberation Questionnaire. I have not been able to find any trace of him in Far East files. |
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| Name: |
Jacinta Marr |
| Location: |
Tasmania |
| Email: |
jacintamarr@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My Grandfather Harold Davenport TX4736 was a POW at Surabaya and Java. He was taken prisoner 22Feb 1942. Pop was a barber and in damand to keep hygine etc. This saved him from being sent to The Line a number of times. In 1995 my mum intervied him about his experiences and is transcribed into a document if you are interested. |
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| Name: |
Val Wright |
| Location: |
UK 12.09.19 |
| Comments: |
Didn |
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| Name: |
Val Wright |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
My father was on HMS Exeter when it sank, I think he may have been a POW in Japan. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 09.09.2019 |
| Comments: |
Ian, re Gunner Richard Leslie. Departed from Changi on 4th April 1943 in 'F Force'. Died 26th August 1943 at Songkurai No.2 Camp. His mother and father put a memorial in the 'Courier-Mail' of Brisbane, on 21st September 1945, stating he had died of malaria. Sorry, but this is the only information I have. |
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| Name: |
Ian Leslie |
| Location: |
Bristol UK |
| Comments: |
My Uncle, Richard Sinclair LESLIE QX 9869 2nd/ 10th Australian Field Regiment died at Malai Camp 26AUG43. Does anyone know where Malai Camp was situated, they all seem to have numbers attached so there may have been many camps with such a name.. he is buried at Thanbyuzayat War Cemetry, Burma. Any information is welcome. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 24.08.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Gareth. Cpl. George Williams, 623940, RAF 84 Squadron. Arrived Oosthaven, Sumatra on 13.02.1942, on board HMT Yoma. Evacuated on 15.02.1942 on board SS Silverlarch for Batavia in Java. Taken prisoner at Tlilajap on 08.03.1942. Imprisoned in Batavia until September 1943. Sent on the hellship Makassar Maru to Changi, Singapore, arriving 01.10.1943, for a mere 3 weeks stay. Sent from Singapore on the hellship Matsue Maru 2 on 21.10.1943, and arrived Takao, Formosa on 06.11.1943. Resailed for Moji, Japan and arrived 15.11.1943. This was a 26 day journey of hell. On arrival in Japan taken to Wakayama, Osaka 14B Camp, where he remained until March 1944 when taken to Ikuno, Osaka 4 Camp. It was from this camp he was liberated at war end. Taken to Manila, Philippines (details unknown). Boarded HMS Implacable in Manila, 25.09.1945, sailed via Hawaii, to Vancouver, Canada, arriving 11.10.1945. I do not have |
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| Name: |
Deanna wicks |
| Location: |
reading england |
| Email: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike thank you for your prompt reply I forgot to mention Gnr Reeves was in Malai camp number 5 I know this because his grandson Paul has some original Red x postcards he had various illnesses malaria,dynsentry,eye ward in 43 but not when Java party 13 (H party) was being transported so were wondering how he avoided being transported I understand that there was |
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| Name: |
Gareth williams |
| Location: |
Enniskilken |
| Email: |
Gareth190@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi mike thankyou for responding and yes he did live at waterstreet enniskillen
My email is gareth190@hotmail.com
Thank you |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 22.08.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Gareth. Can you confirm that he lived at 10, Water Street , Enniskillen ? Can you add email on reply for documents, and to show it was not a one-off visit to this site.. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 22.08.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Deanna. Re Gunner Henry Reeves, 2051224. He was transported from Java to Singapore on 9/2/43, arriving 12/2/43 and taken onto Changi strength. The hellship he travelled on was the Roko Maru. He is then listed as Changi X-4-A which means he was sent out of camp on Work Party duties. Unfortunately I am unaware what this Work Party did, but could have been any task from working at the docks to road repairs in the city. By being out of camp he probably avoided being listed for the Burma Railroad as many from his ship were. It appears that he continued this role until the end of the war, and was probably not sleeping at Changi Camp at liberation. It would probably be worthwhile obtaining his Liberation Questionnaire to see if he listed an alternative camp in Singapore. I have copies of a few documents showing his name if you would like them. |
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| Name: |
Matt cresswell |
| Location: |
Somerset |
| Email: |
Matcresswell7@aol.com |
| Comments: |
Hi I am trying to find some information on my grandad, his name is Leonard Cresswell 2079237 287 field coy R.E he was captured in Singapore. |
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| Name: |
Gareth williams |
| Location: |
N ireland |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find info on my grand father his name was george williams
He was from county fermanagh northern ireland i know very little other than
He served with the raf and i think captured in java i would be very grateful for any
Help or info thanks |
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| Name: |
Deanna wicks |
| Location: |
reading england |
| Email: |
deannawicks73@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for information on Henry Thomas Reeves 240/77 battery captured Java March 1942 there is red x post card he sent to his wife in 1945 Malai camp number can not locate this camp he supposed have stayed at Changi but is that not Malai camp number 1 any info of his movements camps transports etc would be appreciated thankyou Deanna |
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| Name: |
Tina (nee Higgins) |
| Location: |
Rickmansworth |
| Comments: |
So proud of my brave grandad. |
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| Name: |
Hazel Mantle |
| Location: |
Evesham |
| Email: |
hazel_mantle@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi,
I would be really grateful if I could have any information on Percy Arthur Coates who I believe may have been an Army Cook. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 09.08.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Julie. Aircraftsman Robert Albert Clarke, 950180, RAF 153 Maintenance Unit. Address: 84, Oak Lane, Bolton. Taken prisoner on 08/03/1942 at Tasilmalaja Airfield on Java. Moved to Soerabaja in June 42. Shipped to Haroekoe Island camp in May 43. Moved to Ambon in July 44. In October 44 he was at Dolorosa Hospital before ending the war at Batavia. Liberated 02/09/1945. |
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| Name: |
Julie clarke |
| Location: |
Manchester |
| Email: |
Missjec@live.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hello. I would be very grateful for any information relating to my grandad Robert clarke
He lived in the Bolton are of England. He survived and came home to have a family with my grandma.
Sorry for the limited information, he had two older sons other than my dad who took all of his war belongings when he passed away and I |
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| Name: |
Ben Lewis |
| Location: |
USA |
| Email: |
benbaconlewis@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I would be very grateful for any information on Robert Henry Lewis (my grandfather). I believe he was with the Chindits in Burma. Many thanks in advance. |
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| Name: |
Denise stewart |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
Stewartdenise321@gmail.com |
| Website: |
Stewartdenise321@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thankyou , so much for your fast reply mike ,I have researched my great uncle, and only had a hunch as to which of f force camps he was in so I'm delighted to have it confirmed, my heart goes out to these poor unfortunate soldiers, who suffered unimaginable cruelty and starvation and illness , prior to his enlisting in 1934 he was a fantastic all round sportsmen , I caught his last living sighting on the television marching new recruits from singapore harbour in Nov 1941, I caught him on video 75 years after the 2nd Gordon's marched from the docks in the series the fall of Singapore 1941 , thankyou again , |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 08.08.2019 |
| Comments: |
Denise, your Great Uncle, Cpl. William Spence, is recorded as having died at Changaraya, which is just 1 Km from the Burma border. Cholera broke out in this camp on 26th May, and 159 of the British died. |
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| Name: |
Denise stewart |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
Stewartdenise321@gmail.com |
| Website: |
Stewartdenise321@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, wondering if you know the camp my great uncle was transferred too in April 1943, he was part of I'll fated f force, his name was corporal william alexander spence, of the 2nd Gordon highlanders, I know he died on 22 June 1943 aged 29 , of cholera and starvation , and his ashes interred in amongst 299 others at kanchanburi, thanks |
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| Name: |
Mikey |
| Location: |
Cardiff. Uk |
| Email: |
mikesarl@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Re Arthur Cyril Warren - I received his death certificate and it stated
He was 29 when he died and his rank or profession was listed as an
Army pensioner who died from pulmonary tuberculosis and
Cachaxia which proves the family story about him being crushed
wrong, |
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| Name: |
Mikey |
| Location: |
Cardiff. Uk |
| Comments: |
Thank you Mike for your comments re Arthur Cyril Warren, once
I have any further information I will update the post. Then you |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 25.07.2019 |
| Comments: |
Mikey, re Arthur Cyril Warren, I think you will need to await the arrival of his service file to get better clarifications to search. He does NOT have a Japanese POW Index Card. He did NOT complete a POW Liberation Sheet. There were 4 x Arthur Warren as POW's but none with middle name Cyril. ( Eustace, John, and 2 x George). You dont say which service he was in, army, navy or airforce ? Which service did you apply for service record? Difficult to accept that any POW took 4 years to return home and be killed on his homeward ship. Will you post again when you receive his service records. |
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| Name: |
Mikey |
| Location: |
Cardiff |
| Comments: |
I'm trying to find out any information on my great uncle who was called Arthur
Cyril Warren, he was born in Cardiff in 1919 and died in 1949 and is buried in Cardiff,
The story in the family was that he was a pow who survived the camps and worked on the
Burma railway, he then allegedly got killed by being squashed
Between the Dock wall and the ship carrying him home, as I have said all this has been passed
Down through the family so how true it is I cannot say, my mother
did visit a pow camp while on holiday somewhere and had a picture taken by a
plaque to Commemorate the soldiers kept there.
I have just sent off for his death certificate to see what information can be found
about his death and have searched the military records on a few of the
genealogy websites.
Any info is very much appreciated.
Thank you.
Mike |
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| Name: |
David A |
| Location: |
Beaconsfield |
| Comments: |
Would appreciate any links or info on my cousin William Harvey Cox Horn who was on the Thai Burma Railway, having been a Volunteer in teh Straits Force before he was captured. He was in the Malai PoW camp. Captured on 15/2/1942. British, his Profession was Rubber Planter. |
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| Name: |
Steve |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Comments: |
Sorry Mike that should say brilliant, not bringing |
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| Name: |
Steve |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Thanks Mike, that |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 09.07.2019 |
| Comments: |
Steve, each shipment of men who left Java was referred to as being in a Java Party. Java party 17 departed on 26.09.1943 for Singapore in the Makassar Maru and it had 2,600 men. these men went into Changi camp. On 22.10.1943, 1122 of these men boarded the Matsue Maru 2 for Japan, and this became known as Java Party 17A. These men were sent to 4 camps,Fukuoka 3B, Yawata, Fukuoka 6D, Tanoura, Tokyo 9B1, Ashio, and Tokyo 9D, Kawasaki 4. The camp can be identified for a named person. ,
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| Name: |
Steve |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Comments: |
Mike, i |
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| Name: |
Ian |
| Location: |
Hertfordshire |
| Email: |
hipster123@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, can anyone help with information about my Grandad. His name was John (Jack) H. Evans.
He was captured in Singapore in 1942, he was at Changi but after that we |
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| Name: |
Laura Gibson |
| Location: |
Yorkshire |
| Email: |
Laura.gibson58@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I wonder if anyone on here might be able to provide some information on Joseph Heron. He was captured in 1942. I |
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| Name: |
Niamh Clougherty |
| Location: |
Clydebank |
| Email: |
doreenclougherty@ntlworld.com |
| Comments: |
Hello
My father John (Jack) Tole or (Toule or Towle )
Was a Gunner with The 155th Field Artillery RA. The Lanarkshire Yeomanry
He was Captured 15th Feb.1942. In Malaya. Camp Maili. Then Changi Then Great World Amusement Park to work in the docks. On 9th Nov.1942 transferred to River Valley Road Camp. He was moved to Thailand to work on Thai/ B
urma railway.Mid Nov 1944 He was moved back to River Valley Road Camp He was then sent to Japan Funatsu
Naygoya 3B camp. Liberated 2nd Sept 1945. He was then sent to Austraia.I would like to know which camp in Thai. also the name of the ship he went to Australia before going home to Scotland. Any help would be greatly appreciated. My Dad's No was 322642 |
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| Name: |
Toby Norways |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
tobynorways@onetel.com |
| Comments: |
I |
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| Name: |
Tony Hall |
| Location: |
Norwich Norfok |
| Email: |
hallysfzr@ntlworld.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Im looking for any information on my Grandfather
E W
Jones
5770199
Private
1942
Royal Norfolk Regiment |
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| Name: |
Margaret Farmer |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
I am looking for information on my Father
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| Name: |
Ellen Lankford |
| Location: |
Southeastern US |
| Comments: |
May these poor souls never be forgotten. |
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| Name: |
Michaela King |
| Email: |
Michaelavioletking@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I'm looking for any information about my great grandfather, his names Victor Lewis Green he died as a POW and died on the 1st July 1945 in Burma. His Daughter (my grandma) passed away last month and she absolutely adored him. I'd just like to know more about him and what happened. Thankyou |
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| Name: |
David Keeton |
| Location: |
Northumberland |
| Email: |
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| Comments: |
Sorry for that last post don't know what went wrong . We are petitioning the government to establish an official VJ day . Please consider signing and sharing the petition which can be found at petitions UK Government and parliament and on facebook on the VJ Day page many thanks Dave |
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| Name: |
Christine Alexander |
| Location: |
Leeds |
| Email: |
Chriscarl48@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My father George Thompson was a Japanese pow. Was in the 18 division Northumberland fusiliers.
He was Personal bodyguard to major general beckwith Smith.
He returned to Britain on the ss sobieski.
Spent time in changi jail and worked on the Burma Thai
Railway.
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| Name: |
Gordon |
| Location: |
Warwickshire, UK |
| Comments: |
Thanks Mike. Great information |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 29.05.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Gordon. Re Sapper William Nicol, 2130415 Royal Engineers. 560 Field Company, 18th Division. Trade |
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| Name: |
Martin Kelly |
| Location: |
Bunbury Western Australia |
| Comments: |
Thanks mike |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 28.05.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Marty. Re Lance Corporal James Allen No 3525996. Address shown as 37, Helsby Street, Ardwick, Manchester. He is listed as having been in 6 different camps. Changi Camp and then Macarthur Camp in Singapore. Then on 15.06.1943 he was sent to Sonkurai in Thailand (296 Km upline). Then on 01.09.1943 sent to Thanbaya (365 Km) and then bought back to Kanchanaburi (53 Km). On return to Singapore he was in Keppel Harbour Camp. |
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| Name: |
Will Smith |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
smithbill@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Would any kind researcher be able to provide any details on Benjamin William Smith, 2nd Btn A&SH, Service No. 2979369.
He was captured in Singapore 15-Feb-1942.
His POW card indicates old No. II 3229 and new No. II 14697.
In some documents on Fold3.com his name is recorded as Bernard Smith.
I know he was held in Thailand, but I would like to find out if it's possible to determine where in Thailand? I also know he was back in Greenock in Scotland by early 1946 but is it possible to find out what ship he came home on?
Kind Regards
Will Smith |
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| Name: |
Gordon |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
gordon.cunningham@sky.com |
| Comments: |
I'm trying to find out some more about my 1st cousin 2x removed, William Nicol.
His Service Number was 2130415 Royal Engineers and it appears he was captured and interred at Malaya POW camp.
Any information would be appreciated. |
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| Name: |
marty |
| Location: |
Bunbury Western Australin |
| Email: |
martymate.kelly@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello my Uncle Lance Corp James Allen No 3525996 of Manchester Regiment was in
Malai camp 4 ,4623 from 1942 till 1945 anything you can tell me would be great thanks |
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| Name: |
Angela |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
angecbarton@virginmedia.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you very much Mike for all the information.
My father returned to the UK and lived a long productive life. He had a successful academic career.
He married late in life and had 4 children. My mother is still alive in her 90s. Angus never spoke of his experiences, although in his final illness, he often imagined he was back in a Japanese Camp. Distressing for him and those who were caring for him.
He once told me he learnt to speak Dutch when held as a prisoner. Could this be the case?
An uncle mentioned that the commandant was an Oxford man and understood the British psyche.
Whether this was used to the prisoners' advantage or disadvantage was unclear.
If it is possible and not too much trouble could you email me the records you mention.
Many thanks.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 02.05.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Angela. Re your father Sgmn Angus Hulton. He was attached to the 48 Light Anti-Aircraft regiment and was taken prisoner on Java, not Singapore. He remained in the Java prisoner of war camps until 07.11.1943. On this date he was shipped to Palembang on Sumatra, arriving 10.11.1943 in the hellship |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 01.05.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Denise. Not much to add for you, Pte Stuart Robertson was sent to the Railroad on 15th October 1942, as part of |
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| Name: |
Martyn |
| Location: |
Perth WA |
| Email: |
justmartyn@westnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
Hello Melanie, your great uncles Red Cross Card can be found here, http://gallery.its.unimelb.edu.au/umblumaic/imu.php?request=multimedia&irn=61970 - which may help. |
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| Name: |
Bill King |
| Location: |
Paignton Devon |
| Email: |
bi11.king@btinternet.com |
| Website: |
None |
| Comments: |
I was enquiring about the POW camps on
Banka Island . My Uncle William H D Barron was
captured Feb 1942, and was in "Dutch Police |
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| Name: |
Bill king |
| Location: |
Paignton Devon |
| Email: |
bi11.king@btinternet.com |
| Website: |
None |
| Comments: |
irport" Aug 43 - Feb 44. then "Sungi Ron" Feb 44-
Sep 45. I was amazed he survived as he was only |
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| Name: |
Angela |
| Location: |
West Yorkshire |
| Email: |
angecbarton@virginmedia.com |
| Comments: |
My father Angus Orpe Hulton was captured by the Japanese on 8th March 1942 and liberated on 2nd November 1945.
His service number is 2364815. He was in the Signals and was at the fall of Singapore.
Any information at all would be most welcome. |
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| Name: |
Denise |
| Location: |
West UK |
| Email: |
titch1969@outlook.com |
| Comments: |
I am wondering if anybody could point me in the right direction regarding information about my great uncle. He was captured in Singapore on 15th Feb 1942 and liberated on the 2nd feb 1945. I understand he was at both the Thailand POW camp and Malaya POW camp. His details are as follows: Pte Stuart Sydney Robertson army number:6140457 regiment: East Surrey 2nd battalion.
Any information at all would be greatly appreciated!
titch1969@outlook.com
Thanks in advance. |
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| Name: |
Melanie |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Comments: |
Hi, I |
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| Name: |
Ann |
| Location: |
Exeter |
| Email: |
R.hoskins22@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
I added a request this week but did not enter my father |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 18.04.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Catherine. re William Dawber.The little information I have found does not seem to stack up with the information you have related. I have him crewing the ship HMS Rahman after his rescue from Prince of Wales. HMS Rahman was patrolling the Sunda Straits between Sumatra and Java when he became a prisoner of the Japanese. He was taken to Serang in the far west of Java in March 1942, before moving to 2 other camps on Java. In September 1942 he was sent from Batavia in the hellship Nishi Maru 3, as part of Java Party 1, on 14.09.1942, to Singapore, arriving 18.09.1942. He was then taken to Changi Camp. On 09.10.1942 he departed Singapore for Kuching. I cannot see anything that would involve being in a cinema in Singapore, or how the opportunity would have occurred. Regarding the Australian submarine, I am not aware that Australia had any submarines. I believe the only one they had was a Dutch one named as K9, but I believe she was only used as a training vessel. |
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| Name: |
Jonathan Moffatt |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
JonathanMoffatt@btinternet.com |
| Website: |
malayanvolunteersgroup.com |
| Comments: |
Ann,regarding Charles Gregory. Have you received my e mails regarding 'Greg'? I have quite a detailed report he wrote about his experiences 1941-1942. Do you want this? |
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| Name: |
albert wilkie |
| Location: |
Hammersmith, Middlesex, England, United Ki |
| Email: |
wilkiexx@aol.com |
| Comments: |
I wonder if I could find any reference to my uncle 2750482 Angus Heggie . Born Dundee. Attested for The Black Watch , Perth, 3/1/1925, aged 18 years 31 days . Trade: Millworker. He served until 4/5/1938 . BW Enlistment Book, No 7 2750025-2751029 B WRA uncat re-joined his regiment in 1939 He was captured by the Japenese maybe he enlisted as Angus Wilkie his stepfathers name
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
Uk 17.04.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Ann. re father Charles Gregory. I have very little regarding the civilian internees, but I can reference a file from Changi Gaol showing his enslavement. It shows him in Block 4, floor 4, cell 38. That is all I have, would you like me to email them? |
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| Name: |
Catherine Mosey |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
catherine@mosey.org.uk |
| Comments: |
Hello Mike, I posted a while back and can't see a reply.I can add Kuching to this. Here is what I wrote and thank you so much for your interest and help.... I am keen to know if you had any 'luck' with finding any info on my Grandad.It does help if I add my Grandad's name!!! William Dawber , leading seaman D SSX 19538... Thank you!
Hello, I am looking for information about |
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| Name: |
Ann |
| Location: |
Exeter |
| Email: |
R.hoskins22@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
I added a request this week but did not enter my father |
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| Name: |
MarK Biddle |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
mark@blacklersestates.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Thank you very much for giving me information On my Great Uncle John Devonald
My other Great Uncle Gordon Meredith Evans was on board HMS Exeter which sank in Java Sea
Many thanks
again
Mark |
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| Name: |
Ann Hoskins |
| Location: |
Exeter, England |
| Email: |
R.hoskins22@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for information about my father who was interned in Changhi from Singapore on 6.3.42 and released st the end of the war in about August 1945. He had been managing a rubber plantation at Kerilla, Kelantan and moved in front of the fighting to Singapore when it fell. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 11.04.2019 |
| Comments: |
Mark: Re Private John Henry Stuart Devonald, 5828894. NOK address given as 27, Shacklewell Row, London E8, but born Harwich, Suffolk. 1st Cambridgeshire Regiment. Arrived Singapore on 29.01.1942. Held at Changi from capitulation on 15.02.42 and then entrained for the Siam Railroad in Party |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 11.04.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Kerry. Re Gunner Percy Charles Cook, 1080745. Address: 14, Brittany Street, London, SE11.
27.09.1941 embarked at Liverpool on the Dominion Monarch
The regiment arrived in Singapore on 28 November 1941. It first stopped at Kajang, near Kuala Lumpur and arrived in the 11th Indian Divisional area on 12 December. Engaged in fierce battles at Jitra Crossroads and Slim River. Captured Singapore 15.02.1942, and he was one of the first to be sent to the Siam Railroad on 20.06.1942. This was one of the parties to construct the accommodation at Non Pladuk for the rest of the men to follow. This train party of 600 men was mostly made up of RA men. 286 men of the 137 Regiment, and 199 men of the 80th Anti Tank Regiment, + 58 medics from RAMC. These men ended up in Group 4 workforce and therefore would have been in the area of Wampo, Tonchan, Kanu and Hintock. No more detail at the moment.
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| Name: |
Mark Biddle |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
mark@blacklersestates.co.uk |
| Comments: |
My Great Uncle John Henry Stuart Devonald born 1917
went to Singapore next day capurted and no one knew he was alive or dead he surrived came home married Lily French sister of a friend
Love to hear more about him |
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| Name: |
Fiona Humphries |
| Location: |
Perth |
| Email: |
Fhumphries @bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for information on my great uncle other than that already digitised on national archives |
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| Name: |
Kerry Warren |
| Location: |
England |
| Comments: |
I |
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| Name: |
Chris |
| Location: |
Deal kent. |
| Email: |
w.sarah38@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
I just want to say.. I do not know how you keep up and and you are doing a great service ,been following the many stories for a few years now... Well done mike you are one of a Kind |
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| Name: |
Jeff Crisdale |
| Location: |
Perth, WA |
| Comments: |
FYI,
NX57309 the late Cpl Richard "Dick" John COCHRAN of 2nd/12th Field Company (one of the Changi artists whose work is displayed on this excellent site) went on to establish a Commercial Art business in Sydney after the war, at one stage in the 60's being called "R.J. Cochrane & Associates".
My late father (NX22644 Pte Alec CRISDALE of 2nd/17th Inf Bn) had fine artistic skills & ended up being employed by "Dick" from the early 1950's until well into the 70's as one of his chief Commercial Artists. I personally visited the studios a number of times with my dad when I was growing up & have fond memories of the premises (firstly at 39 Park St, Sydney then later on the 3rd floor of 129/131 Castlereagh St, Sydney). Sadly both premises have since been demolished for more "modern" architecture.
"Dick" Cochrane passed away at Orange, NSW, on 11 Feb 2004, aged 87 years. R.I.P.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
25.03.2019 |
| Comments: |
Rebecca. Can you confirm I have the correct John Simm. Did he die in Kuching in April 1944 ?
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| Name: |
Rebecca |
| Location: |
Nottinghamshire |
| Comments: |
I am looking for information about my Gt Gt Uncle, Gunner John Simm who was a Prisoner of War in Kuching in 1943. |
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| Name: |
Gary Lewis |
| Location: |
Beckenham |
| Email: |
Gary.Lewis@a1plc.co.uk |
| Comments: |
My uncle dapper Henry ( Harry ) Lewis royal engineers |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 18.03.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Ava, I only have some sketchy details. Gunner Ernest Victor Pearson, of Dovercourt, Harwich, Essex. Service number 1493896. 85th Anti-Tank Regiment, Royal Artillary. Arrived in Singapore on USS Mount Vernon on 13.01.1942, with the 18th Division, who had been diverted from the Middle East to act as reinforcements, so only had a month before the surrender on 15.02.1942. Imprisoned at Changi until October 11th 1942, when he was then sent to the Burma Railroad. He was with Group 4 (sometimes incorrectly stated as Camp 4) so he would have been in the area of Wampo, Tonchan, Kanu and Hintock amongst others. I believe he was still in Thailand at the end of the war. He does have a Liberation Questionnaire but unfortunately he just put 'Thailand' on it, without any detail. |
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| Name: |
Ava hamilton |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
avamauree04@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
Could I please have the information on Ernest Victor Pearson for Harwich |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 13.03.2019 |
| Comments: |
Ava / Eva. There are two Ernest Pearsons. 1. Ernest James from Norwich. 2. Ernest Victor from Harwich. Both POWs on Burma Railroad. Which one do you want? |
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| Name: |
Ava Hamilton |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
avamauree04@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
Looking to find information on a man called Ernest Pearson. He was a POW survivor who worked on the Burma railway in Thailand around the 1940s |
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| Name: |
Eva Hamilton |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Comments: |
I |
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| Name: |
Tamara Kotz (Maloney) beard |
| Location: |
Adelaide south australia |
| Email: |
timmytams82@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi there o was wondering if you could please possibly dig up any information about an Alexander beard vx45128 2/29 battalion and his brother I think his name was Gordon beard vx45168 2/11 battalion .. Thank you so verry much |
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| Name: |
Joseph Mcfadyen |
| Location: |
Glasgow Scotland |
| Email: |
Joethreestar@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
James Mcfadyen
Regiment: 18th DIVISION R.A.O.C. ARMY |
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| Name: |
Martyn |
| Location: |
Perth WA |
| Comments: |
Mike, thanks for picking up the date error! he was indeed Letter Party |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 06.02.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Martyn, I know from your previous posts that you are the man for details about Beds & Herts, but my files show 'L Party' on 06.11.42. Also his Japanese Index Card shows 17-11-6 on the rear. Also, whilst posting, where is your book available from? Can only see it listed in Australian libraries. Mike |
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| Name: |
Marty |
| Location: |
Perth WA - 06/02/2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Joanne, 5955696 Pte Thomas Worthy was B Company with the 5th Beds and Herts, Fought in Singapore in reserve of A Company at Hill 125 (Rochester Park) and eventually withdrew to Hock San Brick Works. After Changi, he was sent to Thailand to work on the Thailand to Burma with Letter party 'Q', 01/11/1942. He worked in the area of Tha Sao, was at Tha Muang camp and then worked on the Wang Pho to Tavoy Rd, finished at Nakhom Pathon. Can email you some documents if you wish. Martyn. |
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| Name: |
Joanne burke |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
joanne_burke1@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi. I am looking for information on my grandad Thomas William Worthy
Service number5955696 prisoner of war in the thialand 4Dcamp I believe on 06/11/1942
Any information would be greatly appreciated.thankyou |
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| Name: |
Dorothy Key |
| Location: |
Cyprus |
| Comments: |
Looking for information about Ernest Bedworth |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Sandy, British, Australian, American, other ?? |
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| Name: |
Sandy |
| Location: |
Dayton |
| Email: |
shade4walker@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi I was hoping to get information on grandfather he was s POW. His name is James Woodrow Welsh. I believe it was during 40s thank you |
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| Name: |
francesca owens |
| Location: |
Italy |
| Email: |
bohemiare@gmail.com |
| Website: |
www.bohemiare.org |
| Comments: |
Nicolaas Wouters, survived being a prisoner of war.
Don, Hans, Harry and Pete Wouters, were his sons who served in the war. Harry Wouters was killed. Olga, Eveline, Willy, Loeke and Charles were the younger siblings imprisoned in a Japanese internment camp in Ceylon. I have written and illustrated a baby picture book about their story. I could use any details you could find on any of my family members. Thank you, Francesca |
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| Name: |
James |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Email: |
hutupoxih@reddcoin2.com |
| Website: |
https://www.horizonfostering.co.uk/ |
| Comments: |
I don't know much about where he lived but I do have other records of relatives from Carlisle. I have added my email so look forward to receiving the info.
https://www.horizonfostering.co.uk/ |
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| Name: |
Lou |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike
Thanks so much for this! He did write his memoirs but I have been unable to locate them.
My great aunty remembers him coming home in a very poor condition and said there was a photo taken but I have yet to see that.
Thank you for your help! |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 04.01.2019 |
| Comments: |
Aircraftsman Robert Henry Sowerby. Service number 623134. RAF 151 Maintenance Unit. Home address shown as West Park, Crofton, Thursby, Carlisle. Taken prisoner on JAVA 08.03.1942. Taken to Haroekoe, Moluccas, in the Spice Islands where he was probably enslaved in building an airfield which was intended to be used in the invasion of Australia. Returned to Batavia, Java in October 1944. Shipped to Singapore on 08.01.1945 arriving on 11.01.1945, as part of Java Party 25. Taken to River Valley Camp on Singapore. He was liberated from Changi Camp, Singapore on 05.09.1945. All this documentation shows he never went to the Burma Siam Railroad, so definitely never saw the Bridge over the River Kwai. (will email some documents) |
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| Name: |
Lou |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
xloupy_louiox@msn.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike.
That sounds like it could be him. I don't know much about where he lived but I do have other records of relatives from Carlisle.
I have added my email so look forward to receiving the info - thank you so much!
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 03.01.2019 |
| Comments: |
Hi Lou, I have information on Robert Sowerby of Crofton, Thursby, Carlisle. Can you confirm this is him, and if you add email there will be many original documents that could be sent to you. |
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| Name: |
Lou |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Hi all.
I am interested in finding out more about my great uncle, who was a pow who helped build the bridge over the river Kwai.
His name was Robert Henry Sowerby from Cumbria.
Any information that anyone has would be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks! |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 23.12.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Andrew, After departing Manila, he arrived in San Francisco on 03.11.1945. |
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|
| Name: |
Andrew Whelam |
| Location: |
Sunderland |
| Email: |
andrewwhelam@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi my grandad Edward Whelam was a POW in Japan |
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|
| Name: |
rose b |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
belana1314@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, can anyone help and advise me how to get more
Information
on my grandfather's
Service in WW2. He was in Burma on the Railway.
He is William Thomas Griffiths, DOB 20/05/1901.
and lived in Treharris before the War. |
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| Name: |
Robyn Pearson |
| Location: |
Adelaide |
| Email: |
loosey44@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
2/10 Field Ambulance POWs please |
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| Name: |
Ramon Santos |
| Location: |
Sarasota Florida |
| Email: |
dr_santos2001@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for USA Engineer by the name of Koster imprisoned in University of Santo Tomas in Manila, Philippines during the 2nd world war and was freed by the return of American at the end of 2nd WW went back to USA may be in California |
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| Name: |
Jonathan Moffatt |
| Location: |
uk |
| Website: |
malayanvolunteersgroup.com |
| Comments: |
Hello, Peter. Your enquiry about Frederick Arthur Hamilton 9.2.1895-29.9.1969. A Straits Settlements and Johore prison officer. He was a Pte in the 1st Battalion [Singapore], Straits Settlements Volunteer Corps. I have two versions of his service number: 764 and 6074.He was on the notorious H Force to Thailand 13.5.1943 but survived and post war returned to Singapore in 1946. After a few years to Leederville, Western Australia. His wife Violet Annie was evacuated to South Africa then the UK. A point of interest is his age. Volunteer Force service was supposed to have an age limit of 40. Most Prison Wardens in Malaya came from the military, particularly Army and Royal Marines. Frederick was likely a WW1 veteran. |
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| Name: |
Derick Smith |
| Location: |
Wakefield west yorks |
| Email: |
derick349@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, My great uncle John edgar smith from Bearpark Durham was a prisoner of war in Burma 1940-1945, when he got back home he went back to the mines and was killed by runaway tubs 1947 Langley Park colliery Durham, I have tried to find his war details to no avail could you please help me.Mr D. Smith |
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| Name: |
Peter |
| Location: |
Coulsdon, Surrey |
| Comments: |
Trying to find information about Frederick Arthur Hamilton prison officer at Changi Jail and then POW
|
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| Name: |
Duncan |
| Location: |
Edinburgh |
| Email: |
dcunningham@jmgroup.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Trying to find more information on Thomas Cunningham of the Royal Scots, who we believe was in Changi prison during ww2. His brother, my grandfather was in Kanchanburi camp. |
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| Name: |
Gail Wright |
| Location: |
Western Australia |
| Email: |
gailwright13@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
My mothers firstg husband, Keith Greaves, was a POW in Changi and then on the Burma Railway. He was on the Rokuyu Maru when it was bombed and did not survive. Thank you for such a detailed and informative website. |
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| Name: |
Kevin Khan |
| Location: |
Melbourne |
| Email: |
aussie280@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My Grandfather was Reginald Cyril Leahy and was a Sergeant with the Royal Army Medical Corps. He was caught in the fall of Singapore and was a POW at Changi Prison. Service number 7535127. Thank you for recording this information. Unfortunately Reg has passed and never got to reunite with any of the Australian POW's from Changi. |
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| Name: |
Judy |
| Location: |
Yorkshire |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, Sorry for taking so long to get back to you. just wanted to say thankyou so much for the information regarding my father Maurice Bennett, though just a small snippet of information to myself and my siblings it means an awful lot and helps us to understand his journey through the war. Thankyou once again. |
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| Name: |
Judy |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
judyveen@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for info on Ernest frederick Sharp
Service no NX71552 ambulance convey
Driver held Thailand RTA by Japanese |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 14.11.2018 |
| Comments: |
Judy, I can only add a little information. Service number 1794654, taken prisoner in Java. Imprisoned at Tandjong Priok, Batavia until February 1943. On 09.02.1943 boarded the Roko Maru for Changi, Singapore, as part of Java Party 13. On 06.05.1943 sent from Changi to the Burma/Siam railroad. No further details. |
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| Name: |
Judy |
| Location: |
Yorkshire |
| Comments: |
Hi I am trying to gather some information about my father Maurice Bennett from Wakefield in Yorkshire I know he was a POW in Changi jail during WW2 but very little else as my father very rarely spoke about this time in his life |
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| Name: |
Nicky |
| Email: |
nickycordery2012@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you so much for the information about Albert Heap. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
11.11.2018 |
| Comments: |
Nicky. Re Pte Albert Heap. Service No. 4979934, Sherwood Foresters Regiment. Address shown as 17, Warren Road, Northampton. He was initially sent to the Siam Railroad on 13.10.1942 after being imprisoned at Changi in Feb 1942. Later he returned to Changi. On 04.09.1944 appx. 2000 POW were sent to the docks in Singapore and boarded 2 hellships. The Kachidoki Maru and Rakuyo Maru. These two hellships were torpedoed and sunk by USS Sealion and USS Pampanito in the South China Sea as they headed for Formosa (Taiwan). 1500 POWs lost their lives on 12.09.1944. So he had never been a POW in Japan and was certainly not on his way home. He is commemorated on the Singapore Memorial as one of the 24000 with no known grave. |
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| Name: |
Amy |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am looking for any info about my great grandfather Henry Humfrys of the 135th Herts Yeomanry field rgt royal artillery. I know he was captured in Singapore on 15th Feb 1942 and he died 6th Aug 1945 |
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| Name: |
Martin Chambers |
| Location: |
Gateshead |
| Email: |
martinhchambers@blueyonder.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hello Im trying to find details about my Great Uncle George Boothroyd. He was a radio telegraph operator, captured, then we believe he was lost in the Lisbon Maru incident. |
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| Name: |
Nicky |
| Location: |
Northampton |
| Email: |
Nickycordery2012@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
My great uncle Albert (heap) was killed in friendly fire in 1944 |
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| Name: |
Jacky Paffard |
| Location: |
Wales |
| Email: |
jpaffard@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I was searching for details of my Uncle (my maternal
Grandmother's brother) who died in 1942 as a PoW
of the Japanese. I was not born when he died but it
affected my Grandmother badly and she never forgave
the Japanese for "murdering her little brother.
He was a volunteer (not sure what that is) and I have a
newspaper cutting saying he was in Java. Itraced
his grave to a war cemetry on an Island called Amman.
It was a particularly cruel camp apparently and many
Australian PoWs were beheaded. I am not sure
where to look to find our how my uncle died.
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| Name: |
Kerry |
| Location: |
Coventry UK |
| Email: |
kerryydawn@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
We've got very limited info. He often mentions being captured and escaping on rare flashbacks when his mind comes back..
My mother in law has his service book still which is dated the early 1940's. He may have travelled to Singapore afterwards which would explain the marriage.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
09.11.2018 |
| Comments: |
Kerry, do you mean he was a civilian, an internee, rather than a POW ? DOB 1926 means he was only 15 when Singapore fell. Where did he escape to? |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
09.11.2018 |
| Comments: |
Nicola, you forgot to give us a name. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
09.11.2018 |
| Comments: |
Camille, can you give us a regiment or service number? |
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| Name: |
Kerry |
| Location: |
Coventry UK |
| Email: |
kerryydawn@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am looking for any information regarding my partners grandad..
Name - Sidney William Sly
Born - Edmonton, Middlesex, UK
D-O-B - 08/02/1926
He has strong links to Singapore as married a Singaporean woman after his escape, the only S.Sly I can find that was a POW is registered as dead, he is however alive at 92 years of age. Sadly dementia has taken his mind from us so we're desperate to find out anything we can about his past. Thank you so much in advance |
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| Name: |
Nicola Vernon |
| Location: |
Derbyshire |
| Email: |
Cliveynics@aol.com |
| Comments: |
My Great uncle was a pow after the HMS Exeter sank. He is buried in the Ambon War Cemetery but am trying to find out which prison camp he was in. Any help would be much appreciated. Many thanks |
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| Name: |
Camille mclelland |
| Location: |
Wiltshire |
| Email: |
Camimac42@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
I believe my grandad was a POW in Japan his name was Robert Macdonald from Glasgow many thanks |
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| Name: |
chris |
| Location: |
thetford |
| Email: |
secondhandcentre@hotmail .com |
| Comments: |
sorry Labuan is where my granddad is
buried,, would be interested in
knowing which camp he was sent to |
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| Name: |
chris |
| Location: |
thetford |
| Email: |
secondhandcentre@hotmail .com |
| Comments: |
hi, looking for some more information on my
granddad, Lawrence leonard mansi, from
cranfield Bedford, royal artillery,
gunner 1563176 of 42 bty, 2/1lt A.A regt,
was sent to Labuan pow camp borneo,
died trying to escape apparently 01/01/45
many thx. |
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| Name: |
Danielle |
| Location: |
Gloucestershire |
| Comments: |
Mike. Thank you so much for finding that
information. It is most definitely Harry on the
index card, so everything is now explained!
That article makes it incredibly clear what
a horrific experience he, and his colleagues, |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 06.11.2018 |
| Comments: |
HI Danielle. Henry Robinson was indeed a submariner on HMS Strategem, and sunk on 22.11.1944. I have no information apart from what I can also see on the internet. There is probably all the information you need, which mentions him by name and also shows his POW Index Card at the following website. Dont be put off by the fact that it appears to be about another crew member, read through to the end. https://timdracup.wordpress.com/2017/06/25/derek-george-rendel-dracup-1923-1944/ You cannot click on this link, you need to copy and paste |
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| Name: |
Danielle |
| Location: |
Gloucestershire |
| Comments: |
Having done a little internet research today
I |
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| Name: |
Danielle |
| Location: |
Gloucestershire |
| Comments: |
Hi. My mum has told me a fascinating story
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
01.11.2018 |
| Comments: |
Wendy, email sent |
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| Name: |
Wendy |
| Location: |
Western Australia |
| Comments: |
The numbers on the reverse show 20.8.30
Wendy |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Martyn, sorry , postings crossed at same time |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
31.10.2018 |
| Comments: |
Wendy, I can find very little about his wartime. Signalman with Malaya Command. Wife Phyllis. Address, 27 Lime Street, Grimsby. Probably in River Valley/ Havelock Rd camps on Singapore. Work Party whilst in Singapore. Apparently in Thailand, but no entrained details listed. On the reverse of his POW Card, where all the Japanese writing is, does it show a date ? e.g. something like 18 3 16 at the start of a line? He is listed in the file of Work Group 4, so this identifies the area (of many camps) where he slaved. This is the area around Tarsao (Tarso) at 130 Km. If you repost with email I will make direct contact and send copies. |
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| Name: |
Martyn |
| Location: |
Perth WA |
| Comments: |
HI Wendy,
Walter Frederick Kirman is on the Roll of Malaya Command Signals. He went to Thailand on 15/10/1942 and is listed working in Group 4. Have looked at other Malaya Command Signals on this train and some are listed at Kinsaiyok (Group 6) and others with Lt Col Lilley who was at Wang Pho ( B Battalion.) It is possible he may appear in hospital records which would take considerable time to search through.
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| Name: |
Wendy |
| Location: |
Western Australia |
| Comments: |
Hi I was wondering if you could point me in the right direction to find out
information on my grandfather who was a japanese POW in WW2. His name was
Walter Frederick Kirman born in 1916 in Grimsby Lincolnshire UK. I have his
POW card but it doesn't tell much. He was a signalman, service number
2355772, card number 9871. He was apparently captured on the 15/2/1942. All
I can gather is was that he was placed in a camp in Thailand and it says
camp D but as far as I am aware there isn't a camp D. Any suggestions or
advice would be greatly appreciated. Wendy
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 25.10.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Kim, BSM Charles Richard Clark, of the 9th Coast Regiment RA. Address shown as Montpelier Rd, Erdington, Birmingham. He actually had 11 different camps, several of which are not shown on the most common maps of the railway. In Singapore he was in Changi, Feb-Apr 42, then Adams Park, Apr-Oct 42. On 24.10.42 he entrained with 650 men for the Siam Railroad. Tamarkan (Bridge on the River Kwai) Oct 42-Feb 43, Sacomoto (Sakamoto) (Kanchanaburi Railway Workshop) Sep. 43- Oct 43, Kanchanaburi Airport Oct 43- Feb 44, Tamran (probably Tamuang) Feb 44- Sep 44, Kanchanaburi Airport Sep 44- Oct 44, Tarsao Oct 44- Mar 45, Tromon ?? Mar 45- Jun 45. He was then taken away from the railway to north from Bangkok, to Pratchai Jun 45- Jul 45, and finally to another camp nearby, Takori Jul 45- Sep 45. |
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| Name: |
Kim Hayman |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
Kim_hayman@btopenworld.com |
| Comments: |
Hi,
I am looking for more information with regard to
W/O 2nd class Charles R Clark
5612669 Serial number
POW in Thailand 15/2/42-2/9/44
We wondered what camp he was held in or any other info relating to Charles. When he was returned home to the UK it took weeks to soak his socks off as they had become part of his feet.
Thank you
Kim |
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| Name: |
Alison Kettles |
| Location: |
Dundee |
| Email: |
alikettles@googlemail.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for information about my father who was captured whilst with the Gordon Highlanders, his name was Alexander Smith. Thankyou. |
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| Name: |
Ian |
| Location: |
Gillan |
| Email: |
Sgtianmgillan@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My great uncle Alec Campbell was an Argyl and Sutherland Highlander captured at Singapore. I would really like to locate a picture of him or his unit. He survived the war but passed away young. Thanks for any assistance.
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| Name: |
Fiona Parkinson |
| Location: |
Herts, UK |
| Email: |
fiona.parkinson1@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
My dad William Broomfield Ure, Middlesex Regiment, was a POW in Japan, He was held in Osaka and Hiroshima POW camps. He was an army musician before the war (clarinet). He hardy ever spoke about the terrible time there. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 09.10.2018 |
| Comments: |
Tony, I have found a Edward Peter Watson from Manchester. Is this him? I will wait for you to respond before putting all the information together. (Too many post and then never come back)
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 09.10.2018 |
| Comments: |
Tony, do you know that he was definitely a POW? The only POW I can find named Edward Watson died as a prisoner in 1943. On the army notice you have, does it give a service number, or regiment, and what is it dated? |
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| Name: |
Tony wood |
| Location: |
Darlington |
| Email: |
Akgwood@msn.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for any information on my granddad edward watson. I have a notice from the army which was given to my nana stating he had been killed. He then turned up months later on my nanas door step. |
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| Name: |
Steve |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Comments: |
Dear Ron Wilkins,
I can |
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| Name: |
Robyn |
| Location: |
adelaide |
| Email: |
loosey44@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
hi all just wondering if anyone pictures or information about
PEARSON ARTHUR CHARLES NX4687 2/10 Field Ambulance Private
|
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| Name: |
Ann |
| Location: |
East Mids |
| Comments: |
Looking for any info on Frank Whitemore, POW in Burma. 379/101 heavy anti aircraft RA, India Command.He did return home......my Grandad. |
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| Name: |
Karen dunn |
| Location: |
Durham uk |
| Comments: |
Hi I |
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| Name: |
Brian Clinton |
| Location: |
Derby Ks |
| Comments: |
I would love some info about my Grandfather William Hopkins. He was a POW in the Bataan Death
March. |
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| Name: |
Ron Wilkins |
| Location: |
Falkirk Scotland |
| Email: |
RCG91@live.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi looking for any listing of my Uncle Pte John McVey Royal Scots from Carron Falkirk posted as a POW at the age of 23 he was stationed in Hong Kong. He was imprisoned in Yokahama and wrote of his time there in a Scottish local newspaper - any information would be great.... |
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| Name: |
J Clifford |
| Location: |
England |
| Comments: |
Mike, many thanks for your fantastic information. It is really helpful. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 04.09.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi. Sapper Samuel Henry Dingley was in the Royal Engineers, 251 Company, 18th Division. Service number 1991658. NOK address shown as Mother, 7 Mead Crescent, Bordesley Green, Birmingham.
He was taken prisoner at Singapore on 15.02.1942, and then sent overseas on 27.10.1942, on the Dainichi Maru. Arrived Takao, Formosa (Taiwan), and sent to Taichu camp. Later sent to Taihoku Camp 6 (Taipei). He survived the war and was liberated by American forces on 6th September 1945. Sailed from Keelung, in the USS Santee to Manila, Philippines, arriving 09.09.1945. Sailed from Manila on the USS Gosper on 20.09.1945, and arrived Seattle on 12.10.1945. My records lose track of him thereafter, but assuming he returned to England, he would have made a 5 day train journey across Canada to either Halifax or down to New York. His final ship would then have probably been the Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth, or Ile de France. His service records will show a date of arrival in UK and the ship could then be established.
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| Name: |
J Clifford |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
jclifford2009@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Does anyone have any info about a British Prisoner of War called S. H . (possibly Samuel Henry) Dingley. I think he is an ancestor of mine and I have been told that he was a prisoner of war of the Japanese during WW2 and died somewhere in the Far East (possibly Taiwan). He lived in Leicester, England before the war so may have been in the Royal Leicestershire Regiment but I am not sure. He may have had the nickname Sunny or Sonny but I can't find any record of him. I think he died in 1942 but I am not sure. Many thanks, in advance, for any information you can supply. |
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| Name: |
Rowena Moore |
| Location: |
Melbourne Australia |
| Email: |
randrmoore@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
My father Avery Frederick White of the Middlesex Regiment was captured in Hong Kong. After
a time in camp he left Hong Kong on the 27th September 1942 for Shangai on the Lisbon Maru. He was able to get to tung Fasham Island and was helped by the Chines villages until capture again by the Japanese he spend the rest of the war in a POW camp. I would appreciate any information that you are able to supply. |
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| Name: |
Roslyn Devine |
| Location: |
Melbourne |
| Email: |
rdevine@fastmail.com.au |
| Comments: |
Thank you for the extensive |
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| Name: |
Caroline |
| Location: |
Singapore |
| Email: |
carolinececilea@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, he wasn |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 31.08.2018 |
| Comments: |
Caroline, are you able to confirm whether he was a military POW or a civilian internee ? I cant see him listed at first glance in the military records, but may need to dig deeper. If he was military do you have any resource of knowing his regiment? |
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| Name: |
caroline |
| Location: |
singapore |
| Email: |
carolinececilea@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, i'm looking for any information on my great grand dad who was made a POW in Singapore/Malaya/Malacca during the Japanese Occupation, WW2 (1942-1945).
His name is Wilfred Francis Peters. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 29.08.2018 |
| Comments: |
Paul, I imagine you are already aware of most of the basic detail regarding your grandfather, as it appears to be fairly well documented. I am sure that nothing that I can add will be fresh news to you. Taken prisoner on Java, and then shipped to Singapore in Java Party 1 in the Nishi Maru, on 14.09.42, arriving 18.09.42. Then shipped to Kuching, Borneo on 09.10.42. Tragically involved in the 1st Sandakan Death March, but he with 3 others attempted an escape. Leigh Dawson (Australian 2/30 Btl.), E Fuller (Australian 2/15 Field Rgt), and B.Roberts (UK 21 LAA). Died Telupid, Borneo. |
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| Name: |
Paul Beardshaw |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
paulbeardshaw@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello Peter
I'm trying to piece together what happened to my grandfather in the time between him being captured by the Japanese and his death. I am hoping that you might be able ton contribute some information. I
Leading Aircraftman Herbert Beardshaw - 643141
I will be visiting his memorial on Labuan island, Malaysia, later this year.
Thank you. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
22.08.2018 |
| Comments: |
Elizabeth, the name and service number you gave, was a POW who definitely died as stated. I assume you mean therefore that you found this service number against the name and assumed it was your Grandfather. Do you therefore know for CERTAIN that he was RAOC or did you assume it when you gathered the service number ? There were 7 POWs by the name of William Reid. Can you give a home town or any other useful information that may help to identify him ? |
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| Name: |
Elizabeth |
| Location: |
England |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, I must have some incorrect information as my mother was not conceived until 1948 so he definitely survived. His details show the same mother but this may be a coincidence. |
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| Name: |
Elizabeth |
| Location: |
England |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, I must have some incorrect information as my mother was not conceived until 1948 so he definitely survived. His details show the same mother but this may be a coincidence. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 22.08.2018 |
| Comments: |
Elizabeth, Unfortunately your Grandfather never reached Japan alive. He died onboard the 'Singapore Maru' as it made its hellship voyage to Moji in Japan, on 25.11.1942. 50 men died during the voyage through neglect. |
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| Name: |
Elizabeth |
| Location: |
England |
| Comments: |
Hi I am looking to see if I can find any information on where my Grandfather was kept as a POW in Japan. His name is William Reid, he was a private in Royal Army Ordnance Corps service number 7632372. |
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| Name: |
Robert |
| Location: |
Cheshire |
| Email: |
morrisr1959@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
19.08.2018 |
| Comments: |
Jackie, there were 5 men named William Robertson who were POWs. Can you add any more information. Sometimes a middle name or home town might be enough, but a service number or regiment are useful as well if known. |
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| Name: |
Jackie Howell |
| Location: |
Bedfordshire |
| Email: |
jax_johnson@ hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Looking for information about my great |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 18.08.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Linda, I know the story of Sgt. William G. Anderson quite well. Service number 309928, a member of the 155th Field Regiment, Lanarkshire Yeomanry. (not Signals). Taken prisoner at Singapore in February 1942, and transported to Formosa (Taiwan) in October 1942, on the hellship |
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| Name: |
LINDA SILLIMAN MILLAR |
| Location: |
PERTHSHIRE |
| Email: |
LindaESMillar@gmx.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi all,
I am looking for info on my husbands grandfather who's name was WILLIAM GILFILLAN ANDERSON he was a sergeant in the Royal Signals, we have only just found out about him.
Unfortunately my mother in law died having never told us much about him or where he is remembered/buried.
All we know is he was that he died in a Japanese camp
Many thanks
Linda |
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| Name: |
EMMA |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Comments: |
Ie John Muir
Apologies my e-mail is EmmaKinnaird1980@outlook.com |
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| Name: |
Emma |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
EmmakInnaird1980@outlook.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for any info on my Great Uncle - John Muir, he was a lance corporal in the Cameron Highlanders, went to Burma and was a POW. He was born 1917 from Scotland. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 10.08.2018 |
| Comments: |
Dawn, on the Commonwealth War Graves website, there is no one by the name of Kenneth Jessop listed as having lost his life in WWII. Can you supply any further details ? https://www.cwgc.org/find/find-war-dead/ |
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| Name: |
Dawn Russell |
| Location: |
London, UK |
| Comments: |
Hi, I am trying to find details about my
mother's uncle who served in Burma during
the 2nd world war and was killed.
He had married a Burmese lady.
His name is Kenneth F Jessop born 1916
in Barnsley, Yorkshire.
I would be grateful for any information. Dawn
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| Name: |
Janet Turner |
| Location: |
Reading |
| Comments: |
My uncle Private John Knox was in the 1st Manchesters in Singapore and was taken as a pow. He survived thankfully but I know nothing about him and would be interested to know more. Can anyone help? |
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| Name: |
Mark Biddle |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
biddle826@aol.com |
| Comments: |
I have 2 Great Uncles 1 on dads side 1 on mums
dads uncle was John Henry Stuart Devonald born 1917 Tendering he landed in Sinagpore in 1942 Cambridge regiment
the other was mums uncle Gordon Meredith evans a Marine on HMS Exter which sank in Java sea both captured
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| Name: |
Marie |
| Location: |
Newcastle Upon Tyne |
| Email: |
mariehall@tesco.net |
| Comments: |
Mike, Yes Thanks! I knew some of that but wasn't sure if he worked on the railroad or not. I find the whole thing completely heartbreaking. Thanks for your help with this. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 31.07.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Marie, ref: Fus. Edward Hall, 4278913, Royal Northumberland Fusiliers. Address shown as Sedgemoor Avenue, Scotswood, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Taken prisoner at Bukit Tima Heights Singapore. By his liberation questionnaire it appears that after initially being in Changi, he then was enslaved at Keppel Harbour until 07.11.1942. On this date he was sent to the Siam Railroad, but I cannot trace his camps. In May 1944 he arrived at the Iruka Camp , and it was from here he was liberated. As you are possibly aware, Iruka was quite unique in that the locals post war created memorials to the 16 British who perished there, and have held annual services since. The local copper mine museum also has a POW display. Photos of 1942/45 files showing his name available if you want them. |
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| Name: |
Julia walker |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Email: |
juls_69@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
One of our local shops has found a letter
Sent to a private 5773933 William Frederick Gower .
Who was in the pow camp in Thailand. |
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| Name: |
Marie Hall |
| Location: |
Newcastle upon Tyne |
| Email: |
mariehall@tesco.net |
| Comments: |
Trying to find more info on my grandfather Edward Hall. Its so difficult as there are so many Edward Halls. I know he was in Nagoya 4B - Iruka and his service number is 4278913. We never knew him and have no photos of anything. I wish I could have known him. |
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| Name: |
Steven |
| Location: |
Down Under |
| Comments: |
Anyone remember Samuel Jones a Senior Prison official talen by the Japs in Malaya and in Changi for many years |
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| Name: |
MIchele Stevens |
| Location: |
Kent |
| Email: |
michelestevens@nhs.net |
| Comments: |
I have just found out that my Grandfather William John Stevens who i believe was in the Middlesex Regiment was a Prisoner of war in Japan.
I am wondering how i can find out some more information as he passed away quite a few years ago and there is no one on his side of the family with any information. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 18.07.2018 |
| Comments: |
Nigel. re Harry Douglas Davis, 5950407, 5th Btl.Suffolk Regiment. Taken prisoner Singapore on 15.02.1942, later engaged in Work Parties around Singapore. This could have been anything from working in the docks, road repairs, clearing bomb damage etc. Sent to the Siam Railroad on 27.04.1943 by train as part of Overland F Party. He died at Nieke Camp (alternative spellings Nikki Camp, Nikhe, Niki, Niki-Niki, Nike) which is at the 282 Km point. His death is recorded as due to diarrhoea, a generalisation for the fact he wasted away through illness, cruelty and neglect . |
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| Name: |
Jean Bruley |
| Location: |
Essex |
| Email: |
davebruley@aol.co.uk |
| Comments: |
My father Edward James Preston born in Strattford London 1916 was in Royal Norfolk Regiment .Was on the ship Manhatton captured sent to Burma Death Railway He was lucky he came home.Anyone with any information please let me know ThankyouI |
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| Name: |
Nigel |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
liz.nigel8@btopenworld.com |
| Comments: |
I am researching my fathers ancestry. His mother
had a brother called Harry Douglas Davis. He was a
Private in the Suffolk Regiment - service
number 5950407. He died on 21 August 1943.
He is buried in Kanchanaburi cemetery. I
found this much info from the Commonwealth
War Graves Commission. However, would welcome
and further information sources where
I might find whether he died in action etc.
Many thanks
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| Name: |
Lorraine Macdonald |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
macboys@aol.com |
| Comments: |
My great uncle AbieTaylor was a pow in burma for 5 yrs he never ever spoke of his time there any I information would be fantastic
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| Name: |
Angela |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
wighthaven@talktalk.net |
| Comments: |
I wonder if this part of my father's Liberation Qustionaire may help anyone else. Under the attempts to escape section he wrote Cpl. Anderson & Pte. Mc Gee both of the Gordon Highlanders. It was generally known that these two men went out at night and brought back food and medical gear. Spoke many times that they had offers to escape but until things got better, they would not take the risk. On August 5th 1945, whilst staying at RAH-HENG they escaped and after the Japanese Surrender, were found living in Thai Barracks. Under the section Did you Observe any courages Acts. He wrote CQMS STEELE 4th Royal Norfolks. Ran a wireless set at Bukitima for over 6 months. On one occasion, whilst repairing set, was interrupted by Japanese Cpl who was searching for chunkles and axes. At the time of the Japs entry into the room he was soldering some wires to the set. The Jap asked he had any chunkles etc. Steele replied no and the Jap walked out. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 12.07.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Elizabeth, your Grandfather, Driver Robert Screen was taken POW at the fall of Singapore on 15.02.1942. Imprisoned at Changi until 01.11.1942 when he was entrained in |
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| Name: |
Elizabeth |
| Location: |
Scotland UK |
| Email: |
dldhughes@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Im trying to find some information on my grandfather Robert Screen who was a driver with the RASC.His service number was T/274668.I know when and where he died but im interested to learn where he was when captured.He was Japanese prisoner of war.I would be very grateful if anyone could point me in the right direction on how to go about finding out any information on him. |
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| Name: |
Angela |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Hi, I wonder if you can help. I only know that my Grandfather John Frederick Cowley b.1920 was a POW in Japan - I don't know which force he served with or anything. I don't know if you can offer me any information but Im hoping you can. |
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| Name: |
Geoff |
| Location: |
New Zealand |
| Email: |
millsnz@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I know my father who ran a tin dredge on the Thai peninsula as a civilian was one of three civilians caught by the Siamese police. One was shot and he and the other were interred in what is now Thammaset University in Bangkok for the duration of the War. He was repatriated via Raffles Hotel to NZ after the war. I have visited the University but finding out any details has been difficult . His name was James Frederick Mills b1909 in NZ. He travelled on a British passport as was the norm in those days.
I understand from information at the University the British 136th Force set up comms at the university and maybe they had some involvement with the internees . I have read about the Free Thai movement of that time . Any leads would be most grateful . Where would one for example look for a list of internees . |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 08.07.2018 |
| Comments: |
Robert, your uncle, Stanley Reay, was part of one of the worst atrocities of WWII. He died/murdered on one of the Sandakan death marches in Borneo. If you Google Sandakan or Ranau you will see the full horrors. There is a website to honour your uncle here: http://www.roll-of-honour.org.uk/atrocities/sandakan/R/html/re_database_5.htm and also more information about the 1,400 who died/murdered here: http://www.roll-of-honour.org.uk/atrocities/sandakan/ |
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| Name: |
Robert Avery |
| Location: |
Tasmania |
| Email: |
rawelwood@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find some information re my uncle Stanley Reay he was captured in Singapore & died several weeks before end of WW2 |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
08.07.2018 |
| Comments: |
Frank, Anything to do with Hong Kong I would suggest you contact Tony Benham at his website: http://www.hongkongwardiary.com/. He has all the expertise to give accurate information. You can also email him directly from the website. |
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| Name: |
Frank fairgrieve |
| Location: |
Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Email: |
frankfairgrieve@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, trying to find out more info on two great uncles,
Who were in the sham shui po pow camp, and put on to the Lisbon maru,
Thomas macdermid burns service number 3055018 lance corporal in Royal Scots,
died on Lisbon maru,
James burns service number 3054824 lance corporal Royal Scots
He managed to make it home,
I have Thomas in a war grave in sai Wan momorial.
This is as far as I've got any help would be great.
Thanks in advance
Frank fairgrieve
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
01.07.2018 |
| Comments: |
Chris. Email sent |
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| Name: |
Chris Smith |
| Location: |
Scotland |
| Email: |
chrissy_smith123@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, hope you can help, pretty hard finding information when you don't know where to look. My dad had 3 Uncles who served with the Kings Own Scottish Borderers in Burma, he believes they worked with the Chindits. Their names are Davey or David Jolly, James Jolly and Mark McQuarrie. They're all from Whithorn. We know they were captured by the Japanese in Burma, and all 3 survived the war, but they never talked about it. I know James was a dispatch rider when he was caught, but other than that, information is extremely light. The only person who still has any real knowledge of then is now in her 80's, and she's not sure where their records are. Came accross your page while trying to find out myself, but not easy. Thanks! |
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| Name: |
Philippa Deane |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
Pjdeane05@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My dad Barry Deane was in camp in HK then Japan. He was shipped to Sydney Sept 45. He died at 86 in Brighton. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 24.06.2018 |
| Comments: |
Tracey, are you able to add any more details? Did your Grandad survive the war and came home ? There is only 1 William George Wood listed in the master file of POWs, and he died in March 1944. However, there are 4 x men listed as just George Wood. 2 of these died, and the other 2 show they were captured in Hong Kong and NOT Singapore. If you can add any further information from family members, this will help to identify which man to follow. |
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| Name: |
Tracey |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Comments: |
I wonder if you have information about my Grandad William George Wood. He was in the British Army and was captured in Singapore. The Japanese ship he was on was sunk bt the americans and grandad was recaptured and sent to Kobe as a POW.
Thankyou. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 02.06.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Jerry, Gunner Alec Osborne , 9th Coast Rgt, was on the Rakuyo Maru, torpedoed and sunk on 12/09/1944 by the USS Sealion. 1,160 POWs lost their lives. No grave, listed on Singapore Memorial. |
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| Name: |
Jerry Murland |
| Location: |
Coventry, Warwickshire |
| Email: |
murland@clara.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I am looking fir the PoW camp that gunner alec Osborne was in. He died in captivity on 2 September 1944 and was in 9/Coast Regiment when he was captured. |
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| Name: |
Lyndis Greatrix |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
lyndrix2002@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi there, can anyone help with any info on my Dad please? 1107374 Gunner George William GREATRIX - Royal Artillery.
Served in Burma and received the Burma Star, I know he was a POW but don't know where he was captured or when, for how long etc.
Any thing would be greatly appreciated.
Thamkyou. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 10.05.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Melissah. re Roland George Smith. I have very little information on Australian troops and was waiting to see if anyone else could help. However, as you probably know he was with the 3 Reserve Motor Transport Group. He was part of Java Party 4 who were sent from Java to Singapore in the Kenkon Maru on 08.10.1942. He was then shipped to Rangoon, Burma on 14.10.1942 in the Maebashi Maru. My trail then goes cold until one of my files shows him listed in Hen-Da-Tai Camp with the men of Group 3. However, this camp name is found only a couple of times in Google searches and is virtually unheard of. I believe it is probably known as Hindato or Hindate which is 198km up the railroad. |
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| Name: |
Martyn |
| Location: |
Perth |
| Comments: |
You could contact the Thailand to Burma Railway Centre at Kanchanaburi, they have extensive records on the Australian POWs |
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| Name: |
Jessica |
| Location: |
Western Australia |
| Comments: |
Currently researching my great uncle, Frank Ware, WX10711. 2/3rd mg bn AIF. He was caught by the Japanese in Java and transferred to Thailand via Changi with Java party 6. |
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| Name: |
Melissah Collins |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
melissahrenee1985@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi I am looking for information on my great Uncle, Roland George Smith service number QX15239.
He was captured in Java and and then worked on the Thai Burma railway as far as i know but i dont
know which camp he was at or which group he was in.
I beleive he was a prisoner at Changi at some stage too. If anyone could point me in the right direction
I would be forever grateful. Thanks for your time. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
07.05.2018 |
| Comments: |
Richard, to add a little more detail. He was taken prisoner in Java, and then shipped to Singpaore on 22.09.1942 as part of Java Party 2, arriving on 26.09.1942. Interned Changi until 09.10.1942 when he was shipped to Kuching on an unnamed ship generally referred to as NN Maru 14. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 06.05.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Richard. Go to this site where all the research work has already been carried out for you. http://www.roll-of-honour.org.uk/atrocities/sandakan/K/html/ke_database_2.htm |
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| Name: |
richard smith |
| Location: |
essex |
| Email: |
richard_smith477@msn.com |
| Comments: |
hello i am researching my mums mum brother ,
l.a.c frederick william kearney , royal air force
service no 1195700 ,
named at kranji memorial www.cwgc.org
would like to confirm if he was in sankin and any details
many thanks and we would like to make a trip out there
thank you |
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| Name: |
Woodcarver |
| Location: |
uk |
| Comments: |
thanks Jonathan, its greatly appreciated |
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| Name: |
Jonathan |
| Location: |
United Kingdom |
| Email: |
jonathanmoffatt@aol.com |
| Website: |
malayanvolunteersgroup.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, Woodcarver, he's on a 2008 Electoral Register on Find my Past except I don't have membership to get precise address.Also John G. Bowen more recently on 192.com. |
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| Name: |
Woodcarver |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Thanks Jonathan, it could well a son, i'll get searching. Was that on an electoral roll? |
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| Name: |
Jonathan |
| Location: |
uk |
| Email: |
jonathanmoffatt@aol.com |
| Website: |
malayanvolunteersgroup.com |
| Comments: |
Reply to Woodcarver: he was from Wednesbury - wartime address: 61 Basset Rd, Friar Park Estate, Wednesbury. A John Bowen still lives in Wednesbury - son? |
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| Name: |
Woodcarver |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Comments: |
Woodcarver9
Member
Hi, i |
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| Name: |
Ian Ramsay |
| Location: |
Sydney |
| Email: |
moulmein45@rocketmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am trying to locate any relatives of RAMSAY, Private, SYDNEY, 13659. 1st (Perak) Bn. Federated Malay States Volunteer Force. 22nd August 1943. buried at Thanbyuzayat war cemetery, Burma. I would like to have contact. Many thanks. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 19.04.2018 |
| Comments: |
Anne, the only items i can see for him are his Liberation Questionnaire and his Japanese Index card. Have you already got these? |
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| Name: |
Anne Williamson |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
annew2@icloud.com |
| Comments: |
I am seeking information on my uncle Robert Charles Blackadder, Able Seaman |
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| Name: |
Tona Johnson |
| Location: |
Bullsbrook |
| Email: |
tonajohnson1965@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My Grandfather, Jim Sanderson, was captured 3 times by japs, can anyone tell me anything about him. |
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| Name: |
Caroline Foster |
| Location: |
York, England |
| Email: |
jrhammond196@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
While discussing my family tree at work one of the ladies that I work with mentioned that her uncle was also a prisoner of the Japanese: Thomas Alfred Frank service number 1591001. He was a gunner in the Royal Artillery who ended up in Shimonoseki Quarantine Station after being transported to Japan on the Singapore Maru in October 1942. I was wondering if you knew anything else about him as he never spoke of his experiences. Thank you, Caroline |
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| Name: |
Deb Jennings |
| Location: |
Boonah, Qld, Australia |
| Email: |
debdazzle@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Have you any knowledge of Captain C.O. Jennings (nickname 'Mick'). My Father was in Sungei Ron camp in Sumatra following his attempted escape to Australia in a small boat (he wrote An Ocean Without Shores, published in 1951) He wrote a sequel, but due to concerns by the publisher that some of the material my Dad wrote about in this sequel about his treatment by fellow patients in the hospital in Bencoolen where he was first taken, they didn't want to publish. My sister and I are rewriting the sequel and combining it with his published book, as well as putting in extracts from his first wife - Margery Jennings, who died a couple of months before the end of the war - also in a POW camp in Sumatra. Any further information about the camp, or anyone who might have known my dad, or Margery would be greatly appreciated. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Caroline. Gunner G H Bullough, 77 Heavy Anti Aircraft, 239 Battery. He was actually sent to Changi on 13.02.1943 where he remained for nearly 3 months before being sent to the Burma Siam Railroad on 05.05.1943. His destination was Hintock at 155 Km. In December 1943 he was returned to Sime Road, Singapore and in May 1944 sent into Changi. It was here he was liberated from at war end. |
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| Name: |
Caroline Foster |
| Location: |
York, England |
| Email: |
jrhammond196@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you so much, I really appreciate your help and your time. I can't believe the coincidence. My Great Uncle George Harry Bullough was a gunner in the Royal Artillery, service number 1794665. He was captured at Java Indonesia on 8th March 1942. He was transferred to Changi on 15th August 1942. I don't know when he was released, but I do know he made it home. Thanks again. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 01.04.2018 |
| Comments: |
Caroline. Pte. Jack Patterson, 5th Norfolks, of Wellington Road, Litcham, Kings Lynn, Norfolk. Imprisoned Changi, Singapore 15.02.1942 until 19.03.1943 when sent to the Burma/Siam Railroad on train 5. Died less than 3 months later at Takanoon Camp ( also called Tha Khanum & Takanum) which is 220Km from Nong Pladuk. Cause of death : Cholera. Original grave number 51 at Takanoon, before being reburied in 1946 at the Commonwealth War Graves. |
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| Name: |
Caroline Foster |
| Location: |
York, England |
| Email: |
jrhammond196@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
I have recently started to research my partner's family tree and have just come across a reference to a Jack Patterson service number 5775503. He was a private in the 5th Battalion of the Royal Norfolk Regiment. He died on 14th June 1943 and is buried in Kanchanaburi war cemetery. I believe he is my partner's great uncle. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, very much, Caroline. |
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| Name: |
Alison Hirsch |
| Location: |
Pennsylvania, US |
| Email: |
ahirsch2008@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I'm writing on behalf of my friend Paul Robinson, whose two uncles reportedly died at Changi prison in Singapore. Their last name was Thompson, but he doesn't know their first names. Their sister was his mother, Pamela Mabel Thompson Robinson. How can we learn more about them in order to honor their memories? |
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| Name: |
Charlotte |
| Location: |
London, UK |
| Email: |
charlotte-coates@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Very many thanks Mike |
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| Name: |
Dan Burton |
| Location: |
Nwales.UK |
| Email: |
BURTONDIB.DB@GMAIL.COM |
| Comments: |
Returned P.O.W from 4 camp Tamuang (Tamuan) How worked on the to build the Burma-Thailand railway Retuned- Home 15th Nov 1945 age: 31 when Enlisted the man my Grandad Richard Podmore bless him an all how have been taken
#Rank
G.N.R 13 SEARCHLIGHT REGIMENT 5th ROYAL ARTILLERY (HONOUR)
Was prisoner of war
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
25.03.2018 |
| Comments: |
Charlotte. Full line entry reads: British Death 98. Prisoner 11711. Williams-Wynn Albert Edward. 19.07.1945. Malaria and malnutrition. PALEMBANG. |
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| Name: |
Charlotte |
| Location: |
London, UK |
| Email: |
charlotte-coates@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Mike, do you have any idea which camp my grandfather might have ended up in? Thanks |
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| Name: |
Tom |
| Location: |
Glasgow (UK) |
| Email: |
tomjowett54@gail.com |
| Website: |
hmsexeter.co.uk |
| Comments: |
By way of introduction, my Father served on HMS "Exeter" fighting in the Battles of the Java Sea in February & March 1942 alongside the HMASs "Hobart" & "Perth", he survived the subsequent internment and was one of the 450-odd survivors transported from Macassar via Fremantle back to the UK on HMS "Maidstone".
I am trying to research into the actual numbers of RN PoWs landed at Fremantle, those hospitalised at Hollywood, and those re-embarked on board HMS "Maidstone" when she sailed.
mOf course, HMAS "Leeuwin" became an Army establishment, so presumably the Army adopted the custody of the records.
AAny additional bits of information would be most welcome as the lads always spoke well of their time in Fremantle, together with the hospitality offered by the local people taking them into their homes; we seem to have hit a brick-wall with our efforts to see what happened to our fathers and grandfathers, maybe even to renew friendships made |
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| Name: |
Charlotte |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
charlotte-coates@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Wow, thank you so much, and for the link you emailed. This has filled in a huge gap in the information I had. I am extremely grateful to you. Would love to hear from any other relations of signallers with the 48th LAA. Thanks again |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 24.03.2018 |
| Comments: |
Shirley. I dont have a lot of detail. Your father was also transported to Sumatra as part of Java Party 19 of 05.11.43 on the France Maru to Palembang. He was later sent to Changi, Singapore arriving on 30.05.1945 on the ship 'Sibolea'. He is listed as being liberated from this camp. (Malai camp includes Singapore). Unfortunately I have no further detail. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 24.03.2018 |
| Comments: |
Charlotte,---
The 48 LAA departed from Gourock in Convoy WS14, on The Duchess of Athol, on 07.12.1941.
They arrived Freetown, on 21.12.41 and departed 25.12.41.
They then stopped at Capetown and Durban.
At Durban they transferred to the HMT Dunera and the convoy then was named WS14D.
(Duchess of Athol sailed for NewYork, then Belfast, then Liverpool and joined Convoy WS17)
The convoy (7 ships) sailed to the Addu Atoll (Maldives) for refuelling, before onward sailing to Java. This should normally have given you the answer as to which ship your grandfather was on, but there is a twist. The convoy Commodore onboard Dunera encouraged Lt. Col. Pearson of 48 LAA, to mount his Bofor Guns on the deck of the ship to give additional anti aircraft protection. When this proved successful he asked for all the other Bofor Guns to be installed on all the ships. 150 men of the 48 LAA were then distributed amongst all the ships to operate then on this final stage of the journey. (although I would assume they were all gunners and not signalmen).
On Java the 48 LAA were split up with 242 battery in Batavia, 49 battery at Kalidiati airfield, and 95 battery at Andir airfield. There was also an ad-hoc battalion formed called Black Force which included Australians, Americans and British of 3rd Hussars and RAF ground troops, and the signal section of the 48 LAA, now all armed as infantrymen.
Taken prisoner on Java, he was sent to Sumatra as part of Java Party 19, , 07.11.43 on France Maru 2, arriving Palembang on 10.11.43.
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| Name: |
Charlotte |
| Location: |
London, UK |
| Email: |
charlotte-coates@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Sorry, should have said AE Williams-Wynn, 2366591, left England on a ship in early December 1941. Thanks very much |
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| Name: |
Shirley |
| Location: |
Brighton |
| Email: |
srdobby@aol.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for information about my father Vincent Edgar Taplin, |
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| Name: |
Charlotte |
| Location: |
London, UK |
| Email: |
charlotte-coates@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Have just come across this amazing site, and hope you can help me find out more about my grandfather please. Albert Edward Williams-Wynn, 2366591. He was in the British Royal Corps of Signals, 48th LAA Reg. He trained in Catterick and then went on a ship to the Dutch East Indies, where he was MIA for 2 years before turning up as a POW. PoW no 597. Died in a camp hospital on 19 July 1945, and buried in Sumatra POW Cemetery No 2, Grave No 173. I think he might have been on the France Maru from Sumatra to Palembang. Am trying to find out what ship he left England on and what happened to him in as much detail as possible. I have lots of letters he wrote from Catterick and from the ship out of England, but nothing else. Any help or pointers would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks |
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| Name: |
Donna |
| Location: |
Victoria |
| Email: |
apearce8@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
I read your article with interest re Cpt James Finimore, 32 Dental Unit, thanks for sharing. I would like to inquire where/how does one access the "Liberation Questionaire"? I also would like to inquire if the photo used in this article is available? I seek information on Cpt Thomas Evans QX23850, 32 dental unit. The photo in his army record is black, ie no image. Thank you. |
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| Name: |
Shirley Barnes |
| Location: |
Leicester |
| Email: |
shirleyb60@virginmedia.com |
| Comments: |
There is a post on here from a Dave in Cheshire about Gunner Norman H A Wade 118 Fld Regt RA. He was my Dad's best mate and Dad was with him in then camp when he died. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 18.03.2018 |
| Comments: |
James, I can give you a few facts, but due to lack of full details it may also leave unanswered questions which you will need to pursue further. Cpl E Taylor was originally at RAF Tengah on the western side of Singapore. On 19.05.1944 he sailed from Java to Singapore on the Kiska Maru as part of Java Party 20. On 02.06.44 he then sailed to Manila on an 'unknown' ship (probably Miyo Maru), arriving 11.06.44. On 14.06.44 this ship sailed for Takao in Formosa, and arrived on 18.06.44. On 19.06.44 the men transferred to the Tamahoku Maru and sailed for Japan. On 24.06.44 this ship was sunk. The details that I do not have knowledge of is firstly his date of capture is listed as 20.03.42 so this date suggests he went from Singapore to Sumatra, and then at an unknown date must have been moved to Java. Also on record it mentions Ambon, so he must have been moved there from Java and then later bought back to Java to be on the Java Party 20. |
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| Name: |
James Finn |
| Location: |
Suffolk, UK |
| Comments: |
I |
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| Name: |
Phil |
| Location: |
03-09-18 |
| Email: |
pldls6211@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Trying to find out information on the 59th Coast Artillery in the Philippines. My Uncle was station there for 24 months before be coming a Prisoner of War for 42 months at the Hoten POW Camp (Mukden) Manchuria. Anything on the unit, where it was located before they became Prisoners and how they were release from the POW Camp. Any help would be greatly appreciated. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
07.03.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Stephen. re Lance Sgt Harry Williams. 944566. 137 Field Regiment. Address shown as 36, Avondale Rd, Bolton. One of the first to be sent to Siam on 20.06.1942. These trainloads were used to construct the camps at Non Pladuk for all those who were to follow. I have no information about his camps. To establish whether the 2 men were ever at the same camps you would need to apply for both of their Liberation Questionnaires. Email me if you want details of how to do this. |
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| Name: |
Stephen Blackburn |
| Location: |
Bolton |
| Email: |
blackburn831@aol.com |
| Comments: |
Hy again Mike, just wondering if you were able to find anything out about my friend Andys grandad Harry Williams from Bolton, we are trying to see if the 2 grandads spent time together on the railway, many thanks |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
05.03.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Jo, for follow up watch for email. |
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| Name: |
Jo |
| Location: |
Bournemouth |
| Comments: |
Thank you SOoooooo much for the info on my father George Newbery ... where were I
U able to get it from ? Is there any more info about date he was released/ ship he was on to return to Uk etc etc .....AMAZING |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 03.03.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Jo. re Bombardier George Kitchener Newbery, 964211. Address shown as 114 Red Lion Lane, London SE18. Member of the 118th Field Regiment, Royal Artillery, Far East 18th Division. Arrived Singapore on 13.01.1942, on the USS Mount Vernon. Imprisoned Changi, Singapore. Sent to the Burma/Siam Railroad on 20.03.1943, Train 6. This consisted of 555 men, all from the 18th Division. I do not have any particular camp details, but do know he was in what was known as Group 4. These men predominantly slaved at Wampo, Tonchan, Kanu, Hintok, and Kinsayok. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 03.03.2018 |
| Comments: |
Nick. re Gunner Nelson Hills. Cant supply any photo, but a little information about him. Member of 21 Light Anti Aircraft (21 LAA) Regiment, Royal Artillary, B Battery. This regiment was split up and B battery ended up in Timor prior to capitulation, and joined with 1400 Australians and became known as 'Sparrow Force'. B Battery were sent to defend Penfui Airfield. With the regiment so split up it is difficult to follow his captured journey, but I believe he was sent to Java, then onto Changi, Singapore, and then probably on the Dainichi Maru to Japan where he initially went into Fukuoka Camp #1. I believe he was then sent to Fukuoka Camp #4 on 29.01.1945, but died of acute colitis on 14.03.1945. |
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| Name: |
Jo |
| Location: |
Bournemouth |
| Email: |
collinsjojo@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Trying to find information relating to my father GK Newbery service number : 964211
Who was a POW on the Burma railway |
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| Name: |
Nick |
| Location: |
Leeds |
| Email: |
nickwright711@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi
I was wondering if you could provide me with any information regarding 'Nelson Hills' , died 1944 at fukuoko (not sure of spelling) which I think was a prison camp. He was a gunner with the royal auxiliary. Unfortunately this is all the information I know. Nelson was a friend of a friend. He would very much like to see his photo one last time.
Thanks, Nick |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 24.02.2018 |
| Comments: |
Christine, re Alfred Robbins 5779458. When you say the Lib. Q. are 'missing', do you mean online at Cofepow? This is due to the fact that volunteers have not yet photographed them. The originals will be viewable close to you at Kew. This is assuming he completed a Lib.Q. as many did not. There is a guy who will photo it for you for about |
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| Name: |
Helen |
| Location: |
Hull U.K. |
| Email: |
helen_smell@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, thank you so much for the information, It |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 22.02.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Helen. re Private Frederick Findlay, 1st Manchester Regiment. Assuming you have already seen his Liberation Questionnaire where unfortunately he merely listed he had only been in Normanton Park, Singapore, I assume this is where the confusion comes in. I can see him listed in a file that gives his location as 'Kam' (abbreviation for Kanchanaburi) which is then crossed out and 'Cha' (Changi ) is inserted, showing he was on the railroad and then returned to Changi. Another file confirms he was sent to the railroad as part of 'F Force' on 26.04.1943. |
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| Name: |
Christine McIntyre |
| Location: |
Surrey |
| Email: |
chrissymci@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I'm looking for my father's Liberation Questionnaire. He was captive 1942-45, first on the death railway and then at Kanose 16b camp in Tokyo. The search so far reveals a whole section of surnames beginning with R missing. He was Alfred Robbins 5779458 of the 6th Royal Norfolks. Does anyone know where the missing files might be found? |
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| Name: |
Helen Morris |
| Location: |
Hull East Yorkshire |
| Email: |
helen_smell@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi I am looking for information on my grandfather Frederick Findlay who was captured at the fall of Singapore 15/2/1942
His service number was 3535872 he was in POW Camp Malai 4 I have no idea where this camp was as I |
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| Name: |
Patrick Curran |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Email: |
Currans3@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Donald Curran 9 coastal RA 1426862 |
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| Name: |
Dave |
| Location: |
Kent |
| Email: |
iron@blueyonder.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Thank you very much Mike. |
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| Name: |
Julie Holmes |
| Location: |
Yorkshire |
| Email: |
cjholmesleeds@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, thank you for the information on Ernest Wheelhouse. I have just come across a newspaper article from September 1942 that says he was a Prisoner of War. Many thanks for your info, it's very much appreciated. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 12.02.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Dave. 940722 Bombardier Walter Usher.122 Field Regt RA. Address shown as High Street, Crawle, Scunthorpe. Imprisoned Changi 15.02.1942. Left Changi, Singapore, on 16.08.1942 (sailing 18.08.1942) on the Fukkai Maru and this was a shipment always designed as a propaganda sailing. It was known as |
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| Name: |
Dave Usher |
| Location: |
Kent |
| Email: |
iron@blueyonder.co.uk |
| Comments: |
i am looking for information on my Father 940722 Bombardier Walter Usher.122 West Riding Field Regt RA. He was taken POW in 1942 in Malaya. |
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| Name: |
Andy williams |
| Location: |
Bolton |
| Email: |
Andy.williams@axa-insurance.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Looking for an6 8nformation on my Grandpa, Harry Williams, who was a POW in Singapore and worked on the Burma railway (Bridge over the River Kwai). |
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| Name: |
Stephen Blackburn |
| Location: |
Bolton |
| Email: |
blackburn831@aol.com |
| Comments: |
Thanks Mike that's great info, so do you know what roll if any he would have played in working on the death railway? Going there today to visit the memorials, thanks again for the help. Also have you any details about his units capture in the first instance?? |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 05.02.2018 |
| Comments: |
Hi Stephen. Trooper Walter Blackburn. Service number 3859209. 18th Recce Corps (originally the 5th Loyals, Bolton Territorials). Address shown 16, Scott Street, Bolton. Imprisoned Changi 15.02.1942, sent to the Burma/ Siam Railroad May 1943 to Sun_Krai, which is just south of the Three Pagoda Pass. Later in Sept.43 moved into Burma at Tambaya. Dec 43 returned to Changi and later to Kranji where he finished the war. |
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| Name: |
Stephen Blackburn |
| Location: |
Bolton |
| Email: |
blackburn831@aol.com |
| Comments: |
Sorry, his name was Walter Blackburn |
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| Name: |
Stephen |
| Location: |
Blackburn |
| Email: |
blackburn831@aol.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for any information for my grandad wha was a pow at Changi during the war. All I know is that he was caught early in the war, never firing a shot in anger and his division sent to Changi. He was liberated at the end of the war so was there for some time. He tried to get on an Australian boat to go there after they were released but was caught and sent back to uk! Luckily for me!' That is all the info I have for him other than he was from Bolton, Lancashire in the uk, any info greatly appreciated |
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| Name: |
Dee Newman |
| Location: |
Adelaide, South Australia |
| Comments: |
Attempting to update my Uncles POW records.
Cpl. Lloyd Douglas Markham. AIF. Service Number VX 532914 2/10 Field Park AADC. Taken POW at the Fall of Singapore Feb. 1942 (aged 21 years). Eventually taken to Thailand.
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
30.01.2018 |
| Comments: |
Craig, Tell us everything you know first, and what research you have already carried out, including family stories. How do you know he was a POW? |
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| Name: |
craig |
| Location: |
belfast |
| Comments: |
I'm looking for information on reginald smyth 1943 world war ii |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 21.01.2018 |
| Comments: |
DEE. Sapper Joseph Moores, 20922622, 22 Fortress Company Royal Engineers. Wounded 21.12.1941, taken to War Memorial Hospital, Hong Kong. Imprisoned at surrender of HK on 25.12.1941. Imprisoned Shamshuipo Camp. Shipped to Japan (4th Sept. 1942 ?) . Camps unknown. Liberated from Tokyo Sendai 10B. |
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| Name: |
Jonathan Moffatt |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
jonathanmoffatt@aol.com |
| Website: |
malayanvolunteersgroup.com |
| Comments: |
Mary's enquiry regarding Hilary Rendle: I have the short biographical entry below and, on request, his more detailed 1938 Malayan Civil List entry.
RENDLE H.C.R. [Hilary Cameron Russell] b.1899. Educated Christ |
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| Name: |
Dee |
| Location: |
England |
| Comments: |
Trying to find out information on my Uncle Joe.
MOORES
First Name(s):
Joseph Edward
Rank:
Spr.
Service No:
2092622
Service:
A
Date of Capture:
25/12/1941 |
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| Name: |
Rachel Thomas |
| Location: |
Wales |
| Email: |
thomas0735@yahoo.co.uk |
| Website: |
https://mycrazybrood.com/2017/05/18/88-day |
| Comments: |
My great uncle was a POW of the Japanese on the Andaman Islands. His ship was sunk by Japanese aircraft on the 7th March 1942 and they spent 88 days lost at sea before landing on what was now Japanes territory on the Andaman Islands. He remained there, the only European, until the 7th October 1945 |
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| Name: |
Pat |
| Location: |
Somerset, UK |
| Email: |
pcooke1948@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
853224 Gnr Eric R Croucher RA
1936 2/1 Heavy Battery RA and 17th Heavy Battery
1940 9th Coast Regiment RA
1942 Missing in Malaya
1942 Prisoner of War in Malai camp
Repatriated 9/11/1945 |
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| Name: |
Frances |
| Location: |
Kitchener, ON, Canada |
| Email: |
francesreilly@bell.net |
| Website: |
https://francesrobertsreilly.wordpress.com |
| Comments: |
My uncle, Bert Young was a POW of the Japanese. He survived his imprisonment but died after the war of a brain tumor. We think fro the unthinable cruelty he witnesses. Bert Young was born in Islington, London. HIs mother was Margaret Young (Allen) and his father was George Hayden Young a WWI veteran. Any assistance is truly appreciated. Thank you. |
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| Name: |
Mary |
| Location: |
Kent, England |
| Comments: |
HILARY CAMERON RUSSEL RENDLE, a somewhat distant cousin (4th) died in Outram Road Prison, Singapore on 26th October 1944, age 45. He was an air raid warden who served in the Malayan Civil Service. He died in captiviry of (perhaps) valvular heart disease, but I imagine it was more to do with bad treatment. Any information about him would be much appreciated. |
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| Name: |
Bobby sheil |
| Location: |
Perth,WA |
| Comments: |
Hi mike
Can you please help us locate Patrick Walsh ,my grandfather |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
13.01.2018 |
| Comments: |
Lawrence. Forgot to add. Address confirmed as 61, Markham St, Ardwick, Manchester. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 13.01.2018 |
| Comments: |
Lawrence. Gunner Joseph Conway, 1724795. 21st Light Anti Aircraft, 48 Battery. Captured Java 08.03.1942. Imprisoned Gloduk. Sent to Changi, September 1942. Sent to Kranji June 1944. Sounds like he was either hospitalised or volunteered as a medic. |
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| Name: |
Lawrence Conway |
| Location: |
Manchester |
| Comments: |
Hi, my Grandfather was a Japanese POW. Unfortunately he died in 1961 from the effects of his capture, and local diseases common at that time. I never met him and my father died many years ago so I have no records except a letter from the King welcoming him home. Any info you may have would be great. My grandfathers name was Thomas/Joseph Conway from Manchester possibly Ardwick. |
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| Name: |
Lindsey Nicholas |
| Location: |
Cardiff, Wales |
| Comments: |
My father, Wilfrid Bertram Poley was a POW of the Japs. I am wondering what happened to his friends in the camp. Jess Aubrey and Bernard Weller. Both of whom I'm sure are now dead. As is my dad. My Uncle Bernie was the Musical Director of Billy Smart's Circus for several years which is where he and my father were reunited many years after the war ended. Jess Aubrey was my dad's friend for very many years and he lived near us. He was the proprietor of a garage in Creigiau. A small village (then!) on the outskirts of Cardiff. Any info gratefully received.
Regards
Lindsey Nicholas nee Poley |
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| Name: |
Roslyn |
| Location: |
New Zealand |
| Email: |
roslynrox@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi my husband's uncle Able Seaman Edgar James Roland McLachlan was a Japanese POW in Khonkhan in 1943. He died at the age of 23yrs. Official records say of malaria however we have good reason to believe Edgar was beaten to death. Any information would be greatly appreciated by us. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
29.12.2017 UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Nancy. Ref. your Great Granddad. Private Fred T Holt was a member of the 2nd Battalion East Surrey Regiment. I have him listed in two wartime documents with slightly different service numbers in each. One shows 6147394, another shows 6147294. His address is shown as 22 Miniver Street, Blackfriars, SE1. He was imprisoned Changi on 15.02.1942, and then went out on work parties. This could have been one of many jobs, from road repairs to docks work etc. He remained in Changi until 24.10.1942 when he entrained for the Siam end of the railroad. Unfortunately I cannot trace any camp information. However, it appears he was with the men known as Group 4, and these men worked at Wampo, Tonchan, Kanu, and Hintock amongst others. |
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| Name: |
Julie Kitchener |
| Location: |
Lancs UK |
| Email: |
tuts01@sky.com |
| Comments: |
Just wanted to add my great uncle was a POW
in no1 POW camp Thailand.
I know he was there for a couple of years or more
he suffered so much.
His name was Ernest Cork. (gunner) |
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| Name: |
Nancy |
| Location: |
London |
| Email: |
Nancyfozard@gmIl.com |
| Comments: |
Hi
My great grandad was a p.o.w captured in Singapore and taken to Burma and kept there
For 3 years to work on the Burma railway. His name is Frederick Thomas Holt from Bermondsey in London .
I don |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Ricky, see email. |
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| Name: |
Ricky Attenborrow |
| Location: |
Midlands, UK |
| Email: |
Ricky_attenborrow@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi.
I |
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| Name: |
John Leonard |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
johnleonard01@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Dear Mike,
Thank you so much for the information on my grandfather, Henry Walter Porter Leonard. That |
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| Name: |
m doyle |
| Location: |
uk |
| Email: |
en.exercise@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Mike that,s amazing. Thank you so much. It was Clifford Johnson who was of greatest interest, and it was thought he had been moved about a lot, but the other two were post-war pals assumed to have been imprisoned in the same places at some stage. Where is the next place to look? |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 12.11.2017 |
| Comments: |
Paul, Middlesex Regiment were taken prisoners on 25.12.1941 on Hong Kong. Large loss of life when the Lisbon Maru hellship was torpedoed as it was taking POWs to Japan. Lots more detailed information on Tony Banhams website: http://www.hongkongwardiary.com |
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| Name: |
Paul Brooker |
| Location: |
Smarden, Kent |
| Email: |
brookeratheber@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Hi,
Just found this fascinating site.
i am looking for info on |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 12.11.2017 |
| Comments: |
Michael, to full search details on three people takes a lot of time. However, I can give some details to get you started if that helps. William Clifford Johnson, 1167540, prisoner on 08.03.1942. RAF Seletar. Eric Bradford-Pratt, 1186413, prisoner 08.03.1942. RAF Kallang. Held prisoner in Moluccas, camp Haruku. Assuming all 3 were RAF, there was no airforce Welsh. With nickname of Paddy, not able to search properly , possibly Patrick Walsh, 538040. |
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| Name: |
m.doyle |
| Location: |
uk |
| Email: |
en.exercise@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
This will not be a 'trigger warning', unless it reaches
someone who understands, in which case it may be
a help.
On Remembrance Day, does anyone else
(regarding the Japanese p.o.w's), feel a bit left out,
or have mixed feelings?
I know some wives were not wholehearted in all the
dancing in the street and " rejoice, our boys are
coming home, the war is all finished now".
Because, for them it wasn't.
End of April, start of May was the end in Europe.
But Japanese held out to September, (or in some cases 1970's!)
So it's understandable some relatives would feel embittered
Their men seemed to have been overlooked in all the celebrating.
Also some of the German p.o.w tales of all the jolly
larks and digging tunnels to escape conditions that were
apparently correctly Geneva Convention,
(not routine brutality and disease and starvation)
made one exasperated Jap p.o.w. wife describe it as
"they don't have a clue, expecting to be
considered heroes for trying to get out of Butlins"
The Jap p.o.w's wives, and their children, paid a high price
for things their men couldn't even speak about.
Those wives are mainly now passed on,
but no do-gooding charity even for a moment
gives a thought or mention, let alone a helping hand,
to the wreckage caused and the people left.
Ruined marriages, bewildered family of men who
won't and can't explain. Embittered ex wives
resenting and rejecting the children of those
husbands who seemed to be rejecting them.
Nobody cares to realise the damage to some of those men's
children, sometimes unwanted, rejected,
and without either parent being willing
and/or able to be a parent to them.
War service made them unwanted as small children
or infants, and that knowledge of being unloved
and rejected from the start will have stayed with
them and blighted their lives.
Now, they are getting old themselves.
The multiple ex-forces charities constantly trumpet
their good works to the people they consider to
correctly fit into their rectangular tick-boxes.
But old people whose lives were blighted by a
fathers war service don't fit.
Just as V.E. day ignored their fathers' existence,
their own existence is ignored now.
I'm posting this on Remembrance Day,
in hope that it may help someone out there to know
they are not alone. |
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| Name: |
michael doyle |
| Location: |
u.k |
| Email: |
en.exercise@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Please could anyone help? A japanese p.o.w survived and returned to U.K. Like Alison's question, it relates to an AC2. His name was William Clifford Johnson but he was only called Clifford. His war companions included Paddy Walsh (or Welsh?) who was Irish, plus Eric (Bradford-Pratt?) who was English |
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| Name: |
sarah neale |
| Comments: |
Thank you both for replying to my post it was very helpful i was struggling to find anything. It made my research so much easier.
Thanks again
Sarah Neale |
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| Name: |
Steve |
| Location: |
England |
| Comments: |
I am looking for more information about my cousin, John Charles Graham Coe. I have the following information.
National Archives of Australia COE JOHN CHARLES GRAHAM : Service Number - VX39468 : Date of birth - 06 Jan 1916 : Place of birth - KINGSTON LONDON : Place of enlistment - ROYAL PARK VIC : Next of Kin - COE ELEANOR
He is recorded as a POW in Java in 1942 Java party 5a and in Thailand in 1944. He survived the war and died in London in 1980.
Thanks Steve |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
09.11.2017 |
| Comments: |
John, re Private Henry Leonard. service number 5828641, 5th Suffolk Regiment. Address shown as 23, St Andrews Street, Mildenhall, Suffolk. Imprisoned Changi until 17.10.1942 when he was sent OVL by train to the Siam Railroad. I have no information on which camps. He returned to Singapore on the completion of the railroad, and went into River Valley camp. on 02.02.1945 he left this camp and boarded the Haruyasa Maru destined for Japan. However, the convey was attacked by the submarine USS Pampinito with one freighter being sunk and another badly damaged. The remaining convey headed for safety in Vietnam, and arrived at Cape St. Jacques and entered the Mekong River and headed for Saigon. On 09.02.1945 the men disembarked into the Harbour Camp. Shortly after arrival these POW had been transferred to work-camps for building airfields: on 18-2-1945 to Long Than (1500 men) and on 23-2-1945 to Phy My (1000 men).
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| Name: |
John |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
johnleonard01@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hello. It is fascinating to read these posts. I would like to know how I can find some information on my grandfather, Henry Walter Porter Leonard, who was in the 5th Suffolk Regiment and was captured in Singapore. He survived as a POW and was liberated in 1945. Any guidance or information |
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| Name: |
Jennifer |
| Location: |
Clarkson WA |
| Comments: |
Thank you for directing me to this site today (we met in the book section at Salvos). |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 07.11.2017 |
| Comments: |
James, I can see 4 x Robert Thomson who were POW during WWII, but all were army. Anything to do with Hong Kong I would suggest you contact Tony benham at his website: http://www.hongkongwardiary.com/ However, I have already looked there and he has a large navy POW list, but I cannot see R. Thomson. |
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| Name: |
James Cameron |
| Location: |
Halifax, NS, Canada |
| Email: |
jamescameron119@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for information regarding my great-grandfather Robert James Thomson. He was a British submariner captured by the Japanese in 1942 or 1943 and was held in Hong Kong. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 05.11.2017 |
| Comments: |
Leann. See email. |
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| Name: |
Leann |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
l.cowbs72@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find out anything relating to my Great Grandfather,
he was a Corporal at the time of his capture15/02/1942 and was POW at Changi Prison, Malai Camp 4.
I am hoping to try and piece together as mush as i can about his life.
His name was George Nairn Christie, D.O.B 3/10/1905. he joined the Royal Army Service Corps, Profession, driver. |
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| Name: |
Maxine Allsopp |
| Location: |
Springfield NSW Australia |
| Email: |
maxineallsopp56@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for information on my grandfather Jack Sydney West, 2/30 Battalion AIF, POW in Sandakan. |
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| Name: |
Robyn George |
| Location: |
Sydney |
| Email: |
georgeonglebe@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for information about my Great Uncle
Eric Stewart Bell who was a POW between 1943/ 45 |
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| Name: |
Joseph Hawes |
| Location: |
Memphis, TN USA |
| Email: |
joe.mem1@gmail.com |
| Website: |
n/a |
| Comments: |
Looking for information about My father, Milton D. Hawes
, who was captured on Corregidor in the Philippines in 1942. He spent some time in Cabanatuan and Lipa in the Philippines and at Kawasaki and Niigata in Japan. |
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| Name: |
jonathan moffatt |
| Location: |
uk |
| Email: |
jonathanmoffatt@aol.com |
| Website: |
malayanvolunteersgroup.com |
| Comments: |
Robert, Lt Colonel 'Hooky' Hill [1896-1971], a well known cricketer, played for Worcestershire. Yes, on Burma Railway. He is mentioned in Weary Dunlops diary. Liberation Questionnaire likely at National Archives, Kew. |
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| Name: |
Robert |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Hi..Looking for information on Lt. Col Denys Vivian Hill of the Hong Kong Singapore Royal Artillery, Service Number 14600, believed captured Singapore 1942 |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 22.10.2017 |
| Comments: |
Hi Julie. Gunner Ernest Wheelhouse, 1094985. 80th Anti Tank Regiment R.A. Sent to the Siam Railroad on 20.06.1942, which was one of the first partys and they were to build the transit camps for all who followed. This was known as the MLP or Mainland Party. I have no information on his camps. When he died on 08.05.1945 he was buried at TAGRI which I believe is TAGIRE Camp. This is hundreds of miles from the railroad and confirms he must have been sent to work on the Mergui Road, which the Japanese had planned to use as their route of escape. |
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| Name: |
Julie Holmes |
| Location: |
Yorkshire |
| Email: |
cjholmesleeds@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I am looking for information about Ernest Wheelhouse. Regiment Number 1094985 and a Gunner in the Royal Artillery.
He was captured 1942. In 1945 he was in Camp 4D/Thailand. He died 8th May 1945.
Any information about Ernest would be greatly appreciated, thank you.
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| Name: |
Phil Bradshaw |
| Location: |
Stafford |
| Email: |
Pcorphan@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi, am looking to locate info for Alfred J. Bradshaw
Pte RAMC 7387186, have received his interrogation
questionnaire which indicates he was held at Chungkai
after being captured in Singapore 1942, was held for
3.5 yrs and was aware of the escape of Sgt Kelly RAMC
and his subsequent capture, and execution during 1943.
Thankfully my grandad survived, but any background appreciated |
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| Name: |
Martyn |
| Location: |
Perth WA |
| Comments: |
Hi Sarah, I can add a little more information relating to 3855325 Sgt Mckeon. He was admitted to the Tanbaya camp 2 hospital, ward 7 on Aug 30, suffering malaria and dysentery, passing away on September 2. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 17.10.2017 |
| Comments: |
Hi Sarah, I can give you a little information. Sgt. T P McKeon , 3855325, was imprisoned at Changi at the fall of Singapore on 15.02.1942. He remained at Changi until 27.04.1943 when he was sent with the ill fated 'F Force' to the Siam Railroad. This force was to lose over 50% of its men through disease, starvation and brutality, but a main cause was also that they were made to walk for appx 360Km. Thomas died at Tambaya Camp, which was classified as a hospital camp, but was more a camp to go to die in. I do not know what he died of, but 4 members of the Suffolk Regiment who were with him, all died the previous day of Beri Beri / Diarroah. If you search 'Tambaya' and 'F Force' , you will get the full horrors of his experience. |
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| Name: |
sarah neale |
| Location: |
wales |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, I was hoping you could help me with some more information about one of my relatives, his name is Thomas Peter McKeon (d.o.b- 10/05/1910) and his reg no. 3855385.
I know he was in the Loyal Regiment (North Lancashire) (Recce infantry) and was taken to Malai POW Camp on the 15/02/1942 and he died 02/09/1943. I just wondered if you could find out if he was kept at that camp of if he was moved elsewhere and if possible what he died of.
Many Thanks
Sarah |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
UK 16.10.2017 |
| Comments: |
David. Gunner Norman H A Wade, 836497, 118 Field Regiment, of Hazel Avenue, Maidstone , Kent. Imprisoned Changi, sent to the Burma/ Siam Railroad on 30.10.1942 as part of 'S Party'. 650 men, mostly RA. 118 Field x 226 men, 88 Field x 192 men, 148 Field x 180 men, RE x 49 men and just 3 of RAMC. No further details regarding camps. |
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| Name: |
David |
| Location: |
cheshire |
| Comments: |
Hello,
looing for information on Norman Harold Alan Wade 118 RA |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
25.09.2017 |
| Comments: |
Lance Corporal Norman Clayton, 3859040, home address 104, Jubilee Rd, Haslingden, Rossendale, Lancs. Originally signed up with The Loyals, but transferred to Corps of Military Police Corps. Imprisoned Changi from Feb.42 to Oct. 42 then entrained for the Siam Railroad, on 28/10/42 as part of |
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| Name: |
Michelle Doyle |
| Location: |
Massachusetts USA |
| Email: |
mrbdoyle5@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for my Uncle. His name was Charles J. Manson. Born in Springfield, MA 1919. He joined the Army in 1942ish and was stationed in Osaka Japan. I was told that after the war, he married and had children in Japan and never came back to the USA. |
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| Name: |
Norman Moir |
| Location: |
Uttoxeter, Staffs |
| Email: |
nmoir20@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find any information on Norman Clayton L/Cpl loyal Regiment, number 3859040, who was captured on the 15 Feb 1942 and was in 4D Camp in Thailand |
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| Name: |
Patrick Walker |
| Location: |
Midlands UK |
| Email: |
patwalker37srpen@aol.com |
| Website: |
AOL |
| Comments: |
I have sent an email to Chris Lawton on her/his G-Granddad
Gunner CA Thornton 1071371. I find he was part of HQ Bty of 6th HAA |
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| Name: |
Walker |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
patwalker37srpen@aol.com |
| Website: |
AOL |
| Comments: |
In answer to Tanya in Australia`s query on Gunner William Taylor I have
I have sent an email with a lot more details of his career within 6th HAA Regiment
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| Name: |
Sarah |
| Comments: |
Thank you ever so much. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
09.09.2017 |
| Comments: |
Sarah. Gunner John Arthur Horn, 918247, 148 Field Regiment, Royal Artillery. Died 07.10.1942 at Roberts Hospital, Singapore. Cause of death listed as 'Rheumatic Heart'. Buried originally at Changi. Reburied 1946 at Kranji War Cemetery, Singapore, Plot 10 , Row D, Grave 18. Parents listed as Arthur and Mary Horn of Little Common, Bexhill on Sea, Sussex BUT listed in the Regiments Roll as Ascott Estate, Wing. Alternative address Birkett Lodge, Wing. |
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| Name: |
Sarah Roe |
| Comments: |
Sorry! Wrong number |
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| Name: |
Sarah Roe |
| Location: |
Buckinghamshire |
| Comments: |
Hi. I am trying to locate the details of John Horn from Wing, Leighton Buzzard. He was captured in Singapore in 1942 and I think his number is |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
03.09.2017 |
| Comments: |
Maureen, not much detail Im afraid. Remained in Changi from capture on 15.02.42 until 20.03.43. Then sent with 555 men in train 6 as part of D Force. A fellow soldier of 118 Regiment who was on the same train lists that he remained at Non Pladuk until early 1945 when he returned to Changi. Maybe this is where your father died. He is listed as dying through cerebral malaria. His service number is listed 3 different ways on documents, 1112166 at CWGC and Regiment Roll, 1112122 on Train 6 roll, and 1112116 by yourself. I imagine the first one is the correct one. |
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| Name: |
Maureen Ley |
| Location: |
Kent |
| Email: |
Paigerosiehenry@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My father, Christopher Simpkin (service number 1112116, regiment 118) passed away on 21st December 1943 and now rests in Chungkai Cemetary.
I would love to have more information about the journey he took in the months leading to his final days.
Any help would be appreciated, thank you. |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
30.08.2017 |
| Comments: |
Alison, email sent. |
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| Name: |
Alison Smith |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
alison_smith1970@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike I've received really helpful information from you but would like some further info. I have found my granddads liberation questionnaire saying he was captured in Batavia. He is William Hamilton serving as a AC2 in the RAF. Service Number 1403364. It states he was held in Cycle Camp, Boie Glodok and Pola Rosa Hospital between 9/3/42 to 14/4/43. I have found very basic info about Cycle Camp and Boie Glodok which I believe was a prison. The writing on the questionnaire is very faded and I was hoping you could tell me if the camps are correct and where the hospital was I can find nothing whatsoever about the hospital and may have got the name wrong. Most grateful if you could help |
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| Name: |
Alison |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
Alison_smith1970@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike thank you so much for the information it was really helpful |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Comments: |
Alison, I should have added that this shipment was known as 'Java Party 21' |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
23.08.2017 |
| Comments: |
Alison, re your Granddad, William Hamilton. The only information I can add is that he was shipped from Batavia to Sumatra on the Chuka Maru on 14.05.44 arriving 22.05.44. This shipment consisted of 189 RAF, 109 Army, 2 Navy and 1,615 Dutch. |
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| Name: |
kevin Jones |
| Location: |
Doncaster |
| Email: |
mrkevinjones@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, looking for additional information regarding my great uncle Henry Newton service number 964720, who served with the 137th Field Regiment R.A. as a gunner, the information I have found out so far is that he was held at Changi, Nong Pladuk 1, Konkoita, Nong Pladuk 2, Singapore (River Valley) then taken to Saigon on the hellship the Haruyasa Maru on the 4/2//45 |
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| Name: |
kevin Jones |
| Location: |
Doncaster |
| Email: |
mrkevinjones@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, looking fir additional information regarding my great uncle Henry Newton who served with the 137th Field Regiment R.A. as a gunner, the information I have found out so far is that he was held at Changi, Nong Pladuk 1, Konkoita, Nong Pladuk 2, Singapor (River Valley) then taken to Saigon on the hellship the Haruyasa Maru on the 4/2//45 |
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| Name: |
Alison |
| Location: |
England |
| Email: |
alison_smith1970@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
i am looking for information about the camps my granddad was held in. He was William Hamilton service number 1403364 he was in the Royal Air Force a aircraftsman second class. I have found a liberation questionnaire stating he was in The Bicycle Camp in Java captured in Batavia. other records include the pow camps of Ambon and the Medan railway but records are so different I would really love to know any more information you may have |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
21.08.2017 |
| Comments: |
Laurie, Please shake his hand and say Thanks from all of us. I can see records of him leaving Singapore on 17.10.1942 by cattle truck for the Death Railway. How they survive to such a grand age after what they went through is amazing. |
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| Name: |
Laurie Baker |
| Email: |
bakerlaurie8@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My uncle Roland (Rolly)Baker was in Changi and on the Railway,his no. 582330 5th Batt Suffolk Regt-42-45 .Departed from Liverpool Ren.Del.Pacifico, ss Wakefield to Singapore,via Canada,Trinidad,Capetown,Bombay. Worked on the Railway and Kwai bridge. He left Singapore 1945 on Duchess of Richmond to L/Pool via Ceylon,Red Sea ,Suez,Gibraltar to L/Pool,Released at Northampton. I worked with him at ICI Stowmarket, (Collings & Stevenson Tpt) for over 20 years and he never mentioned a thing of his shameful treatment by the Japs and Koren guards, He is still alive but in not such good health.A Heroe, like all of them.I hope this info is of use to some of your readers.Thank you. |
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| Name: |
Laurie Baker |
| Location: |
Wetherden Sfflk |
| Email: |
bakerlaurie8@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Excellent info, |
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| Name: |
Mike |
| Location: |
09.08.2017 |
| Comments: |
Eleanor, After searching out information I only keep it in a folder for a month if there is no reply. I did also send you an email the same day which was 15 months ago. (27.05.2016). Sorry. |
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| Name: |
Eleanor Mccutcheon |
| Location: |
Glasgow UK |
| Email: |
toelle@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Name: Mike
Contact me if you want any photos from text files.
Hi Mike,
Sorry it's taken me so long to respond, I'd love to have a look at any further information you have for Aircraftman, ANDREW, Kirkland 1303238
Thank you Eleanor |
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| Name: |
Rose |
| Location: |
Vic |
| Email: |
Eron_rose@yahoo.com.au |
| Comments: |
Looking for info on Ronald Ian felsenthal |
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| Name: |
GRAHAM JACKSON |
| Location: |
AUSTRALIA |
| Email: |
militaryservicerecords@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi im a Military History Research Historian and im
looking for any and all information on
Lieutenant RUDWICK, Alfred John while he was a POW
and what camp he would have been located in before
his execution on the 30 Dec 1944 in Malaysia now im not sure
weather it happen in Sabah or in Sandakan.
Any information will be appreciated
thank you
Graham Jackson
Military History Research Historian
Mackay RSL Queensland Australia |
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| Name: |
Beryl Pittman |
| Location: |
Blaxland NSW, Australia |
| Email: |
becopitt@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
I am the family historian of the Davis Family of Gounyan, Yass, NSW. One of of cousins, Eric Ronald Davis - details listed below, died in Yokohama and was buried/cremated. ERIC RONALD DAVIS (1922-1943) born at Gunning, son of Walter Edgar and Emily Gay Davis nee Hills. Eric enlisted at the Goulburn Recruitment Centre on July 17th, 1940, Private A Company 2/19th Australian Infantry Battalion, After training at Ingleburn and Bathurst, he boarded HMAS Queen Mary and sailed from Sydney Harbour on February 4th, 1941, arriving in Singapore on the 18th. The Battalion then travelled by train to Seremban, Malaya. They took part in the Battle of Singapore where he was captured and made a POW. After a short time in Selerang, Changi, Eric went to work on various roads in the area and later was told that he was now a part of the 600 man C force and would be leaving Singapore |
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| Name: |
Julie Sahadeva |
| Location: |
Uk |
| Email: |
Juliesahadeva@outlook.com |
| Comments: |
Hello,
I have an ancestor Joseph Samuel Oridge, b 1915 Leicester. He was a Serjesnt in the Royal Artillary. |
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| Name: |
John O'Shea |
| Location: |
Howlong |
| Comments: |
I knew Tich Freeman, and saw the key with all the names on it. |
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| Name: |
jeff barden |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
crusader300@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am Alfreds Grandson
Alfred Ernest Barden enlisted for the Royal Artillery in 1938 as No.1549483 among the ranks of the Territorial Army, joining 95th Light Anti-Aircraft Battery (known as |
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| Name: |
Steve |
| Location: |
UK |
| Comments: |
Hi Mike, I have returned to the site to see if you have any info for me but i return on a different device to the one i posted the original enquiry |
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| Name: |
Judith |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
Judithannewelsh@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My dad samuel welsh was a pow in changi and on the burma railway he was an amputee losing his right leg above the knee. He passed 5 years ago at aged 92. He has written his story in brief which i would be happy to share if i could work out how to do it as it was type written and not in soft copy. I grew up hearing his stories about the privations and the resiliance of the prisoners. Including how clwver he thought the dutch prisoners of war were and how kind other prisoners were ro him. You see he couldn't ifnore having one lef which gave him some liberation i think.
He was a very gracious and kind man from whom i never heard a word of criticism of the japanese soldiers who were tasked with the camps.
I am his child and hope i carry some of his character. |
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| Name: |
Ross Ward |
| Location: |
Sydney, Australia |
| Email: |
ross@anzlawyers.com |
| Comments: |
I'm looking for information on my late uncle, Harry James Ward, AIF, |
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| Name: |
Tracy Walker |
| Location: |
Koo Wee Rup Victoria |
| Email: |
Tracy_walker600@outlook.com |
| Comments: |
I am searching for more information on my grandfather, Neville STEELE, who was a POW in Changi captured during the fall of Simgapore. |
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| Name: |
Tracy Walker |
| Location: |
Koo Wee Rup Victoria |
| Email: |
Tracy_walker600@outlook.com |
| Comments: |
I am searching for more information on my grandfather, Neville STEELE, who was a POW in Changi captured during the fall of Simgapore. |
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| Name: |
jeff barden |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
crusader300@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Alfred Ernest Barden was my grandfather
I have no pictures what so ever of him does any body have any regimental pics
Also whould be interested if anybody knows of people he would have known |
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| Name: |
jeff barden |
| Location: |
UK |
| Email: |
crusader300@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Alfred Ernest Barden
Alfred Ernest Barden enlisted for the Royal Artillery in 1938 as No.1549483 among the ranks of the Territorial Army, joining 95th Light Anti-Aircraft Battery (known as |
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| Name: |
Tanya |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Email: |
donotfeedthebackpacker@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Looking for info on William Taylor 3649555. |
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| Name: |
Tanya |
| Location: |
Australia |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find information on my great grandfather, he was a gunner and driver in 15 Bty of 6HAA. His records say he was a POW in Java, Singapore and finally Japan.
I know he ended up in Hiroshima 8B (formerly 6D) Motoyama and probably worked in the coalmines as his previous trade was a collier.
I want to find the camps he was held at in Java and Singapore and find out which of the ships he was transported on. I have thought it could be the Singapore Maru, however, I am yet to find a roster for the ships. Not for lack of trying.
If anyone has any information on his unit and possible information of where I can find rosters for the camps/ships it would be greatly appreciated.
His name was William Taylor of St.Helens. Army number 3649555. |
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| Name: |
Lisa |
| Location: |
Inverness |
| Comments: |
Thank you for your help. Your research and quickness in replying is very helpful. Thanks again. |
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| Name: |
chris morris |
| Location: |
ringwould kent |
| Email: |
W.sarah38@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
keep up the good work mike. I remember your help a few years ago now. Just thought I would say it was never forgotten .Thank you |
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| Name: |
Viviane haddrick |
| Location: |
Queensland australia |
| Email: |
Vivsfarm@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Ive been trying to find out if my great unle james harold brant vx45067 worked on the burma railway he was a prisoner at the far east pow camp 1st of november 1944 im assuming |
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| Name: |
Lisa |
| Location: |
Scotland |
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