Remembrance and the Legacy of the OW’s in World War II

At the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, the guns fell silent on the Western Front, signalling the start of a ceasefire that brought The Great War to an end. This date has since become synonymous with Remembrance, honouring those who served in both World Wars and subsequent conflicts, in which British military personnel and their Commonwealth allies took part.

Honouring Sacrifice: Recent Research and Updates

Earlier this year, on the anniversary of D-Day, the details of OW’s who paid the ultimate sacrifice in both World Wars were published on Wrekin Connect under the Pro Patria banner. Over the past six months, I have conducted further research, focusing specifically on the one hundred and three OW’s lost in the Second World War. With new archival material now available in national collections and contributions from family members and others, a wealth of fresh details and background has enriched the existing stories. One notable discovery is that many of these OW’s shared a passion for motor cars – and speed!

Most of the original biographies have now been updated on the website, integrating new information and additional imagery. However, there remain a few individuals whose stories are incomplete, and efforts to uncover the circumstances of their demise will continue into next year.

Noteworthy Updated Stories

F/Lt Ronald Wight, DFC – Windsor 1930-31 [1915-40]

Firsthand accounts written by Ronald describe his experiences of aerial combat over the English Channel and the Dunkirk beaches. Additionally, details have emerged about his beloved 1935 Aston Martin Ulster, which remains in remarkably good condition after ninety years.

Sgt Michael Glenton-Wright, RAAF – York 1933-35 [1920-42]

Michael's escapades attracted the attention of local law enforcement across three continents, often due to incidents involving either a motor car or a ship.

Lt William Kirkpatrick – York 1936-40 [1922-43]

William was taken prisoner and endured brutal treatment at the hands of his captors.

Lt-Col Wilfred Newey, DSO, TD. – Norman 1917-24 [1906-45]

Correspondence discovered in a box of old papers marked “Sir John Bayley” in the school archives revealed letters from Wilfred’s father to Sir John in 1945, discussing his late son.

I hope that you will take the time to look behind the names and read their updated stories. Simply click on the “Pro Patria” button on the main menu bar of the ‘Wrekin Connect’ web site and follow the links.
 

Jeremy Elsworth
(Windsor 1970-75)

e-mail: propatria@wrekincollege.com

Note from Wrekin College/OWA: By emailing propatria@wrekincollege.com you agree to sharing your personal information (e.g. email address) and entering
into communication with Jeremy Elsworth, who is an OW volunteer.