Research & Articles by Lt. Col. Peter Winstanley OAM RFD (Retired), JP
Research, Interviews and Articles about the Prisoners Of War of the Japanese who built the Burma to Thailand railway during world war two. Focusing on the doctors and medical staff among the prisoners. Also organised trips to Thailand twice a year.
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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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Lin Barber
Location Chobham
Email: linbarber29@yahoo.com
Comments: Re the above I’m sure my father went to Thailand
   
   
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
   
   
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?
   
   
Name: Wayne Nunn
Location Australia
Email: wanunn@bigpond.com
Comments: Apologies, I forgot to add my email to my previous post.
   
   
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!
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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)
   
   
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".
   
   
Name:
Location 20.02.2023
Comments: Martin Squires email sent 18/02
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 14.1.2023
Comments: Chloe Dawn ..............check email for more information.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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 :)
   
   
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.
   
   
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!
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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!
   
   
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.?
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.  
   
   
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)
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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 
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: David Anthony
Location Grafham cambridgeshire
Comments: Looking. For information Sgt Richard ford, royal Norfolkdied in POW camp
   
   
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 :) 
   
   
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
   
   
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,
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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. 
   
   
Name: Fiona Marsh
Location France
Comments: Thank you so much Mike, that information is all very helpful, I am so grateful.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Debbie
Location Dorset
Email: gooner49@ntlworld.com
Comments: Hi Mike I would love more information thank you 
   
   
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.
   
   
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 
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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".
   
   
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 )
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 30.09.22
Comments: Leanne, see email.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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 
   
   
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..
   
   
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. 
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 30.06.2022
Comments: Hi John. Re William Leaver. Replied by email.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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 
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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/
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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)
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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  
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Michael richardson
Location Uk/ county durham
Email: leighannecook@icloud.com
Comments: I’m looking for any info on my grandad please .. James richardson
   
   
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! 
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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 
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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..
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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?
   
   
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 
   
   
Name: Helen Corvan
Location Skelmersdale, England
Email: helencorvan@hotmail.co.uk
Comments: 2578158 Hugh King service number. Thank you. 
   
   
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 
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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 
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.  
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 21.04.2021
Comments: Danielle (Brighton) , I am happy to email you the documents I have about your Grandad.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 17.04.2021
Comments: 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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Steve
Location Somerset
Email: stevehales229@gmail.com
Comments: Looking for any relatives of Lt James W Hugo QM RA
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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. 
   
   
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.
   
   
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. 
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: michael crossfield
Location uk
Comments: thank you very much, had been struggling to find a papertrail for that period myself.
   
   
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 
   
   
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…..
   
   
Name: Mike
Comments: Michael I will post again as I forgot this page does not like Quotation Marks or Apostrophe.
   
   
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”
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: nathan cassidy
Location Derby
Email: nathan_cassidy4@hotmail.com
Comments: Thank you mike if you could send me any documentation you have?
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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?
   
   
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.
   
   
Name:
Location UK 14.02.2021
Comments: David Pratt, to clarify Molly is listed as "Destination for Reports", and she is Molly Isabel Pratt.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Malcolm Macdonald
Location East Hanover, NJ USA
Email: markmacd@optimum.net
Comments: Anne. Thank you so much. Do you have any other details?
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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. 
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name:
Location 14.11.2020
Comments: Alex, re Gunner Cecil Kearney. Email sent
   
   
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
   
   
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?
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Daniel Evans
Location Manchester
Email: dannyevs74@gmail.com
Comments: Hello, Im trying to gather some information on two of my great uncles who were lost in Singapore. According to the records that we have they were both lost on the same day 14th Feb 1942. Their names were Sgt. Leslie Noble 1st battalion 3526838 and his brother James Robert Noble 616255 RAF Any information whatsoever would be most welcome. Many thanks in advance Daniel
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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 Linkedin or email (H.Lumsden@btinternet.com)?
   
   
Name: john fletcher
Location umina
Email: johncaz1@bigpond.com
Comments: seeking info. on robert d. daniel nx25130
   
   
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 partys carried out various duties from road repair to bomb crater repair to dock work. In the last year of the war it probably became a tunnelling party. These were meant to be air raid shelters, but many of the men believed them to be where they would be herded to die if the allies landed. James ended the war at Adam Park Camp on Singapore.
   
   
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.
   
   
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 February 1943. Any further information that you can let me have would be very helpful. Regards Alan Jolly.
   
   
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).
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Jerry Collins
Location Welwyn Herts
Email: Collins49@icloud.com
Comments: Good afternoon I am in the procces of researching my late Fathers Movements during the 2nd World war His name was Maurice Collins Dob5/6/1916 service no 60285788 he served with the Cambridgeshire Reg and was taken prisoner on 15/2/1942 At Singapore and was transferred. To Thailand to work on the railway He was reported as being imprisoned in Mailie 2 in Singapore but I cannot find what camp or camps he was in while working on the Railway he was transferred to Hiroshima camp 7 b During August 44 he returned to the UK via Vancouver Island but I don't know any other details any imfo on thi would be greatly appreciated
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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"
   
   
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 cant find out what happened between Singapore and Omine. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Anne
Location Uk
Comments: Looking for any information on my dad Henry Charles Riches who was in the Royal Medical Core and was a staff Sargent. I know he was awarded the BEM for his services in the Japanese pow camps but not much else. He never spoke about his time in the camps. Any information would be lovely.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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 On the jungle march to the camp his friend fell and while he tried to help him they were both bayoneted . My uncle when showing me the bayonet said look I was lucky the bayonet hit my spine and saved my kidneys We only spoke of it once but the memories and the torture stole his health , youth and a promising career He was my inspiration as a businessman and I finally got to Buckingham place to collect the Queens award his spirit is as with me Lest we forget
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Tracy Bradbury
Location Cambs UK
Email: bradbury_tracy@hotmail.com
Comments: Following on from my last post, I may have another uncle who was a prisoner of the Japanese. He was a Leslie Carman 5827202 a private in the Suffolk Regiment. Many thanks once more. Any information would be much appreciated. This uncle I remember stormed out of the house after shouting at me never to do it again after I cracked my fingers. I was a small child at the time. I remember he always ate every crumb off his plate too. Its all just come back to me know while Im typing this. Thanks once more
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Lisa
Location Norfolk England
Email: skyesanqel@gmail.com
Comments: Hi Mike Thank you very much for that information i appreciate it I cant thank this site enough for the help i have been given and also on email messages I have answers to things I thought would be left as unknown to fill in the pieces means so much, George will never be forgotten or the sacrifices he and so many others made or the suffering. He can rest in peace So far away but so close to the heart Thank you again Lisa
   
   
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 Empress of Scotland. Called at Sierra Leone, Cape Town, Bombay and arrived Singapore March 1941. One of the few regiments able to acclimatise to jungle training. Imprisoned at Changi upon capitulation on 15.02.1942. Transported overseas on 16.08.1942 in the hellship Fukkai Maru, initially to Takao in Formosa, where they carried out dock work for two weeks. Resailed for Pusan in Korea, and Jinsen Chesan Camp. (I believe they arrived on 25.09.1942 as recorded on the rear of his Index card .. showing as Japanese dating 17-9-25.) His death in Jinsen is confirmed/witnessed post war by two of his regiment, Gnr. Thompson and Capt. Pattison. His ashes were transported to Japan in urn and eventually reburied in British Cemetery Yokohama.
   
   
Name: Lisa
Location Norfolk England
Email: skyesanqel@gmail.com
Comments: Hi, Im desperately trying to find out about my Cousin George Albert Poll of Wymondham Norfolk U.K. he was captured in 1942 and died on October 25th 1942 I believe from diphtheria paralysis he was 28. Service number 975295 in the 122 Field Regiment of Royal Artillery Ive got possible POW Camps of Malai, Changi Or Jinsen hes buried in Yokohama War Cemetery Any information on what his movements would have been before capture Or the name of camp he was sent to in fact any information no matter how small would be so much appreciated Id love a photo but know thats probably unlikely, thank you
   
   
Name: Geoff
Location Canada
Comments: John Mellor most of them didnt talk about it. They just suffered in silence
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Steve
Location Uk
Comments: Hi Karen, I dont think that there are any surviving lists for the Ile de France. My grandad was on that ship. This chap came home on the ile de france and talks about his experiences here https://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/80032113
   
   
Name: John Mellor
Location Australia
Email: jmellor46@yahoo.co.uk
Comments: Gary Mellor My uncle Cpl John (Gary) Garrett Mellor QX19254 was a POW captured in Singapore by the Japanese in 1942 and was on the Thailand Death March and Hellfire Pass on the Burma Railway. On top of suffering dysentery, beriberi, malaria, tropical ulcers, severe malnutrition and cholera, he was regularly severely beaten often with chisels. He was also tortured both physically and emotionally enduring at least one mock beheading. At one stage he weighed around 25kg and was on the brink of death more than once. He survived the war to testify at the Japanese War Crimes Trials. He rarely talked about his wartime experiences but he was interviewed by the Gold Coast Bulletin in 1983 a couple of years before he passed away. He was a life insurance agent on the Gold Coast. I found it interesting that I never heard him say one bad word against the Japanese but just got on with his life.
   
   
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.
   
   
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. I understand that this camp was evacuated through Yokohama or Wakayama, but grandfather said he saw the destruction of either Hiroshima or Nagasaki en-route. This does not seem logical on a map. He then went on an (unnamed) American destroyer to Manila and then on HMS Implacable to Vancouver before crossing Canada and repatriation to the UK on a French liner [assumed to be the SS le de France]. Does anyone know the route British other ranks took from Ikuno to an embarkation point or the name of the ship they travelled to Manila on? Im also interested in the journey across Canada and whether there are surviving passenger lists for both HMS Implacable and SS le de France if anyone can point me in the right direction much appreciated. Thanks
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Susan Robinson
Location England
Email: susanrbnsn1s@aol.com
Comments: Mike, thats amazing. Where do you get your information from? I did have the Marine Shark down as a possibility but didnt know where or how to look. I am so grateful. Im writing his war journey but as like so many other men Joe didnt talk about his experience. I sent for his war record but it was very brief and I got hold of his Japanese Index Card from wwwfindmypast.co.uk and deciphered the clues. What a journey. Im in awe of these POWs and what they went through. I cant thank you enough.
   
   
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 . . , .
   
   
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".
   
   
Name: Susan Robinson
Location England
Email: susanrbnsn1s@aol.com
Comments: Hi, Im tracing my husbands father Joseph Robinson, Gunner 148 Field Regiment RA 935841. Ive found him on a roster transferred from Changi overland to Thailand on 26. June 1942. I find him again on lists transferring men to Japan from Thailand before November 1944. It shows him as being in camp II Thailand which is indicated as Chungkai. His index card shows the next camp as Fu/II from 28 August 1944, and then Hi/7B which I find is the same camp with under a different jurisdiction. Hes there on the rescue roster and also on the USS Consolation leaving Wagayama on 16 September 1945 for Okinawa. After that Ive lost him apart from the fact he arrives in U.K. on 18 November 1945. Can anyone throw any light on that part of his journey. Im assuming he got back via USA/Canada and probably on the Queen Mary because it arrived UK ON 18 November 1945. Any help would be really appreciated.
   
   
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 Thnh pow camp to Lienkang pow camp, when it was bombed by an American B-24 Liberator Bomber, Are you able to give me some information on Lienkang as to its background and whereabouts, as cannot find any information about this camp. Many thanks. Liam
   
   
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 1/5 Sherwood forester army. We know he was a WO 345 Japanese index cards of allied POWs 1942-1947.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Alan coles
Location Tasmania
Comments: Mike, my thanks for your research, my father was going by the name charles Hargreaves after the war. He had severe wounds to his back inflicted he said by being stabbed with a sharpened bamboo stick. Also numerous wounds to his legs. I only have a document from the king and queen welcoming him home. He was presented with a Ghurka knife and candlestick inscribed. Presented to Mr CW Coles. 9th Ghurka division. Chandra This took place at the British legion. With his knowledge I always thought he served in the RAF . My mother died when I was 15 years old and my father was a very difficult to get on with at any level. I am now 72yrs old and finding his service record would answer a lot of questions. My best wishes to you Mike. Alan
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 12.06.2020
Comments: Alan. I dont think I can help you, but hope someone else may have some information. This is what I have/have not found. There is no Charles William Coles listed in the master pow index. There is no Japanese Index Card for him. There is a Charles Peter Coles, but town and service number do not match. His service number 484670 belongs to someone in the Dragoons. The 25th Dragoons were in Burma in 1944 in Arakan so there is a possibility he was a later pow. If you have posted an incorrect service number, or you know his regiment, please post again.
   
   
Name: Alan coles
Location Tasmania
Comments: Hi Mike? Would you have any information on Charles William Coles service number 484670 born Tunstall 1922 I am his son now living in Tasmania. Best wishes Alan
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 08.06.2020
Comments: David, you cant post files on this page, only for those who leave an email.
   
   
Name: David
Location UK
Comments: Hello Mike, I would like the files please? Regards David
   
   
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
   
   
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 W Party on 20.10.1942. He did complete a Liberation Questionnaire post war, where he listed his camps, but unfortunately it is in pencil and so faded that nothing can be read of it. He shows up on his Index Card and also a roll, that he was with the men of Group 4, which was the area between Wampo at 114Km and Hintock at 156Km. Another file records that he underwent an amputation on 19.11.1943 of the left leg above the knee due to tropical ulcers and debility. This operation was carried out at Tarsao Camp. Listed as liberated on 04.09.1945 into the safety of Lt. Col. McEachern , who was the senior officer in Thailand at the time. (Australian 4th Anti Tank Regiment). I have many files , if required.
   
   
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
   
   
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?
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Hannah
Location Kent
Comments: Mike - thanks - realised my email was not on there Hannahdneve@gmail.com
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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 Id be very grateful. Again, many thanks x
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Pauline Cooper
Location Spain
Email: pauline.cooper2010@gmail.com
Comments: Hello, Im looking for information on my great uncle, Reginald Charles Kitchener Jobber. From family stories, he escaped from a POW camp in Singapore with another man, swam down a river, got back to UK under an alias (Cooper, Cook or Brook are all family suggestions). As far as I can tell, he was in the 18th Division Light Aircraft Regiment. Apparently, the escape appeared in the newspapers in UK. Any help would be much appreciated! Thank you in advance.
   
   
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 and the letter was addressed to POW FUKUOKA CAMP in 1944. If you knew anything about him and his service it would be hugely appreciated.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 17.05.2020
Comments: Hi Helen .. Re your Grandad Cpl. Arthur Ralph Chesters, service number 2334480, from Shirehampton, Bristol, Royal Corps of Signals 18 Division. Imprisoned Changi at the capitulation of Singapore on 15.02.42, and remained there until entrained with F Force on 24.04.43 for the Burma/Siam Railroad. F Force were to suffer more deaths than any other party under horrendous treatment and starvation. He was able to survive and he returned to Changi. He was listed on the Changi Roll of Liberation on 05.09.1945. On this roll his rank now shows as Sergeant, so its either an error or he has gained wartime promotion. I have many files showing his name if you would like them.
   
   
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
   
   
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?
   
   
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 Gloria dEarie in the concerts. https://digitalcommons.macalester.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?referer=https://www.google.com/&httpsredir=1&article=1002&context=thdabooks
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Dawn Wragg
Location West Midlands, uk
Comments: Regarding Joe Guest, he was Joseph W Guest if anyone can help. He was army I believe
   
   
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 . He was returned home alive but suffered for many years from malaria and ptsd. Are there any records of him and where can I source them for my father please
   
   
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 U Party on 28.10.1942. His Liberation Questionnaire is not clear, he states his first camp as Kanu but it could be a distorted Kanburi or Kanchanaburi. He states he was there from 09.10.42 but it clear he left Changi on 28.10.42, so it is probably 09.11.42. His next camp he states as Chunki which will be Chungkai on 08.09.43. He then states Tammerwan in 06.03.44 which is possibly Tamarkan, more often known as Bridge on the River Kwai. His final camp he names as Nakamni but names the Camp Leader as Stimson so I can tell this is actually Nakom Nai, in Thailand, and it is where his war ended in August 1945.
   
   
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 didnt speak much about his time in the war as most POWs didnt but would love to hear from anyone with any info. I dont know much apart from a story about a Japanese soldiers dog the prisoners killed and ate and some Australian prisoners that were caught escaping and shot in front of the others as a lesson.
   
   
Name: Jayne Smith
Location Uk
Email: jadire@gmail.com
Comments: Thank you so much, Mike. This was information I was not aware of so its very much appreciated. Take care, Jayne
   
   
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 Missing at Singapore 15.02.1942. Handwritten at a later date it states Now returned from Java 09/42 So he had obviously escaped from the advancing Japanese and got as far as Java before the surrender of Java on 8-9.03.42. He was returned to Singapore in Java Party 1 on 14.09.42 in the Nishi Maru. Just 3 weeks later on 09.10.42 he was herded onto the Hiteru Maru and sent to Kuching, Borneo. Unfortunately I dont have details of his time in Borneo. His death was through Malaria and Beri beri. I do not know why he is remembered on the memorial rather than having a grave, but upon checking random names who died with him, they are all the same.
   
   
Name: Lynda Davies nee GRANDON
Location Dorset
Email: lyndajuliedavies@hotmail.com
Comments: Im looking for anyone who knew my father Robert Anthony Grandon, his brothers Joe and Aubrey and sister Kate. The boys were known as Oxford, suicide and muscles. They were in Weishien. Robert rang the bell when they heard victory over Europe.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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'
   
   
Name: Alex
Location UK
Comments: I am trying to find about Charles Graham Burke, who my familys believes was a Japanese POW. He served in the Worcs. Reg., and had at least the rank of Captain. I cannot find any reference to him after 1941/2. If anyone is kind enough to help, that would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks, Alex
   
   
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.
   
   
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 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.
   
   
Name: Mike
Comments: Stacey, last sentence in below post should say "He was later moved to Group 2 workers near Kanchanaburi.
   
   
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 Wow). He sailed on 29th October 1941 from Liverpool in RMT Andes. Arrived Halifax, Nova Scotia, and transferred to USS Wakefield. (although USA was not in the war!). Sailed to Trinidad, Cape Town (Pearl Harbour attacked, so USA now in war) and then onto Bombay. (3 week camp at Ahmednagar). Arrived Singapore 29th January 1942 during heavy bombing raids. They immediately moved to defend the north east coast, and later moved to the outskirts of the city at Bukit Timar where they saw most of their action. Singapore surrendered a few days later on 15.02.1942. Initially sent to Changi Camp, but a few weeks later sent to Sime Road Camp. On 21.10.1942 sent to the Burma/Siam Railroad. My information is rather vague of actual camps. When he completed a Liberation Questionnaire, he merely put down Thailand, rather than his camps. Placed with Group 4 workers this would have been in the area of Wampo Kinsayok. He was later moved to Group 4 workers near Kanchanaburi. Several documents showing his name if you want them for family history.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Maggie draycott
Location Surrey uk
Email: maggiedraycott@hotmail.com
Website: None
Comments: Im trying to find out more about my father Robert charles Webb Dob 29.9.1921 who was a Pow in the Andaman Islands and was a civilian captured in Rangoon Whilst working for the Burmah Oil company, thank you for any information anyone has.
   
   
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!
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Stacey Oakes
Location Norfolk
Email: Staceyoakes81@gmail.com
Comments: Hi Im wondering if anyone has information about my grandad Sidney Arthur Oakes from Kings Lynn Norfolk. He was with the Norfolk regiment . Thank you
   
   
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?.
   
   
Name: Emily
Location Lincolnshire
Email: Emilycooks@hotmail.com
Comments: Hi, Im looking for any information about my grandmas brother who died as a POW and has a grave stone at chungkai cemetery Thailand and we think he died working on the Burma-Siam railway. His name was Reginald Sidney Sinfield and he was a gunner for the RA144 Bty., 35 Lt. A.A.Regt regimental number: 1548813. It seems most of his battalion went to Hanoi, Papua New Guinea or the Solomon Islands but was he sent to work on the railway?
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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!
   
   
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 dont know if this could be the person you are looking for, but a Staff Sergeant John Best of the Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry was awarded the Military Medal for actions in Burma. This was detailed in the London Gazette on 27th July 1944.
   
   
Name: Zara best
Location Kent
Email: zbest008@gmail.com
Comments: Hi I'm looking for help with John Frederick best royal artillery
   
   
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 OConnell) Your father was a member of the 88th Field Regiment, service number 1115802, and sailed from Gourock on 29th September 1941 onboard the Empress of Canada. This was known as Convoy WS 12. It called into Freetown, Sierra Leone, on 14.10.41 and departed on 19.10.41, arriving Capetown 29.10.41. The convoy split and his became WS12J sailing for Colombo, arriving 23.11.41. The convoy split again and his became WS12V sailing on 24.11.41 for Singapore, arriving 28.11.41. A quick search on the internet for 88th Field will show the positioning in Malaya and the battles encountered, including Ipoh, as they retreated to Singapore. The file from Changi shows that he was sent to the Burma/Siam Railroad on 30.10.42 under the command of Lt. Col. C. E. MacKeller of the 118 Field Regiment. This was known as the S Party. Also handwritten on his file it states Reported Dead !! You will need his Liberation Questionnaire from The National Archives at Kew, to establish which camps he then went to. I will email some file photos for you.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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 dont have better detail.
   
   
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 Cannon? He is my husbands Great Uncle. Thanks for your help.
   
   
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 years ago on your website, I came into contact with the family of former British POW Ronald Sydney-Smith. He and my father, Jan van der Tempel of the Dutch Colonial Army, became friends while being POW's on the Birma railroad. It is very special to be in touch with his family almost 75 years after the war. Thank you very much, Klaas van der Tempel
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Glenda
Location Uk
Comments: Sorry Fred. George Leslie Williams LQ.https://lq-cofepow.org/products/williams-george-leslie?_pos=119&_sid=528b2597a&_ss=r
   
   
Name: Glenda
Location UK
Comments: Fred. George Leslie Wilsons liberation questionnaire is online athttps://lq-cofepow.org/products/williams-george-leslie?_pos=119&_sid=528b2597a&_ss=r.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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 :)
   
   
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?
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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 F Force on 29.04.43, but appears to be back in Changi by December 1943 as listed on nominal rolls and re-entry in Regimental file. I think you need a copy of his Liberation Questionnaire from Kew National Archives to definitely establish his camps, hoping he completed it in full.
   
   
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
   
   
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 ?
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Kerry Hurley
Location Ireland
Email: kerryjanehurley@gmail.com
Comments: Sorry, I pressed send before I finished. I would appreciate any information. Best wishes.
   
   
Name: Kerry
Location Ireland
Email: kerryjanehurley@gmail.com
Comments: Hello,I am looking for information on my great uncle Isaac Daniels, who was an aircraft man. His registration no. is 1134211. I have a copy of a document stating RAF Java Party No.5a arrived Changi 17th Oct 1942 and his name is listed on that.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Laura Hughes
Location Barnsley
Email: kingkenny0202@icloud.com
Comments: Mike, yes please. we didnt know much about what he went through, all I know was that he had mentioned a railway and escape to a family member before. so we we pieced them together what we could. Thankyou
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 03.02.2020
Comments: Hi Laura. Private Ralph Simpson, service number 7613873, Z Force of the R.A.O.C. Home address Broomgrove Road, Sheffield, Yorkshire. It appears (but without documented proof) that he escaped Singapore on 13th February 1945, 2 days before the capitulation. He was probably onboard the Poelau Soegi , a small coaster, and with many other RAOC hoping to get to Java, he sailed at 9pm. His ship was sunk by aircraft gunfire near Banka Island on 16th February, and it is estimated only 25 survived out of appx 70. There is strong belief that a bayonet massacre also occurred on the beach of many survivors from the sinking. According to his Liberation Questionnaire he avoided capture until 26/03/1942, when Ralph became a prisoner and was interred in Mulo School Camp, at Palembang on Sumatra and in September 1942 was moved to Chung Wa School Camp which is generally known as Chinese School. In April 1944 we went into Sungei Geron Hospital Camp. Everything I have been able to find, confirms he was never in Burma or Thailand with the Burma Railroad, and although there was a less well known but equally horrific Sumatra Railroad, his Liberation Q , completed by himself, does not mention he was ever there either. I do have a few documents if you want them.
   
   
Name: Glenda Godfrey
Location UK
Email: Grmcfrey1@aol.com
Comments: 2.2.20 Laura Hughes. Have been trying to contact you but emails are not deliverable to the address you gave.
   
   
Name: Laura Hughes
Location UK
Email: kingkenny0202@icloud.co
Comments: Hi, I am looking for any information on the best way to find out of a relative, I know he was a POW on the Japanese Burma Bridge, his name was Ralph Simpson, I do not know much else as it is a closed subject with the family but I really want to know what happened to him, I do know he did escape with five others before returning home. Thankyou in advance. Laura
   
   
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.
   
   
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 F Force. He slaved with Group 2, and then moved to Kanchanaburi. Returned to Changi in May 1944 and remained there until liberation in September 1945.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: David
Location UK
Comments: GLENDA GODFREY.. Hello , Thank you Glenda that is very kind of you and very much appreciated. Regards David
   
   
Name: Glenda Godfrey
Location Glos.
Comments: David. His liberation questionnaire is herehttps://lq-cofepow.org/products/butters-william-john?_pos=4&_sid=824804ca9&_ss=r
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Glenda Godfrey
Location Gloucestershire
Comments: Im searching for additional information on my father Signalman James McCormick 2593466 Malaya Command Signals. I have located his LQ and index card and know he was imprisoned in Changi and Kranji. I think he was in a work party that maintained British hospitals. He was at Selerang at Xmas 1942 as I have a photocopied menu which he signed. I know he came home on the SS Corfu. It has been hard to piece this much together and I wondered if anything else was known. Id be so grateful, thank you.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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 Edge, or Google Chrome etc,etc, you may have 3 dots top right which if you hover your cursor on then will show settings or customise or control. Click on this, and look for an option Find or Find on page, or similar. Type any word/name in here, and it will tell you how many times it appears on the page, and using the up/down arrows will take you to the word. Hope this explains it, I am no techie.
   
   
Name: Kate
Location Uk
Comments: Please is it possible to search your wonderful guestbook for questions about a specific POW rather than asking similar questions again?
   
   
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 dont know how long Michael stayed at this camp, but at some point he was returned to mainland Japan and by July 1945 was at Sendai II Camp Kamikita, enslaved by the Nippon Mining Company. He was liberated from Sendai Camp.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: steve shaw
Location england
Comments: Mike very much appreciate the work you have done, re: Sgt Felix Shaw. Thank you.
   
   
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..
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 01.01.2020
Comments: John Knights, there was no Malai 4 camp. There was a Group 4 of men who came under the Malay Administration, but it would include many camps. Predominantly , Group 4 worked all the camps over a 50 Km length from 114 172km camps, so Wampo, Kanu, Hintok, Kinsayok etc. If you post again with his name we may be lucky to find a Liberation Q. listing all his camps. Forces War Records in particular lists thousands as Malai 4 camp incorrectly instead of Group 4,
   
   
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 U Party for the railroad. Amongst his camps were Kinsayok, Ban Pong, Hindato, Non Pladuk and eventually he went to the camp 600Km northeast at Ubon where he would have been enslaved in the aerodrome construction. It was at Ubon he was liberated.
   
   
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. E-mail. Kpoticny@gmail.com
   
   
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.
   
   
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?
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Adam Mason
Location London
Email: a.mason261@btinternet.com
Comments: Hi Im After information on Claude Avery he survived Kuching camp Borneo His Rsm was T s Sunderland. I believe he may have been known as Robert . Does anyone have information on his time as a POW?
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Mike
Comments: Alan, sorry, in post below each time I put Barnvard it should read Barneveld
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Alan
Email: Barneveld@btinternet.com
Comments: Hi Mike, 5th January 1910 Lambeth London. George Harris Barneveld.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 07.12.2019
Comments: Alan, do you know his middle name, and date of birth?
   
   
Name: Alan
Location Hampshire
Email: barneveld@btinternet.com
Comments: Hi, Looking for information on my grandfather George Barneveld, a sergeant in the royal artillery He is listed as a POW in Changi prison. Any information would be grateful.
   
   
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 F Force to the Burma Siam Railroad. 7,500 men were sent over a 7 day period and 60% of them were to perish. Most of the men were already sick and weak before boarding the trains.After 5 days on the train they reached Banpong and were then made to march with brutal guards appx. 300Km. The men of F Force were at the camps from 282 301Km so were Nikki, Songkurai, Changaraya and all camps in between. Cholera killed many at these camps and conditions were horrific, barbaric, and inhumane. Daniel did survive and was eventually entrained back to Singapore, and is listed on the Changi files as being liberated from that camp.
   
   
Name: Kelly
Location Brighton England
Email: kelducks@yahoo.co.uk
Comments: Hi Im trying to find information on my husbands grandfather Arthur William dyer all I know is he was a pow and was for nearly 4 years I believe he was at some point I the ubon camp he was in the royal artillery 80th anti tank regiment other than this we have no information
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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 William John Henry Blencowe Gunner 848495 85 Anti-Tank Regiment RA(TA) Captured in Singapore and interned in Thailand is all I currently know of his experience in the war. Any pointers to similar 85 ATr men would be most welcome.. William came fromfrom a large family of military service. Father Henry T served in WW1 with the Royal Garrison Artillery. Grandfather John served in Oxon and Bucks in WW1. Brother John served in the Royal Navy . He survived captivity and lived until 1999 in Banbury Oxfordshire. The Blencowe Families Association remembers and honours him at the website Blencowesww2.wordpress.com
   
   
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 Tagri, Prachaub Kirikan which is the Thailand end of the horrific Mergui Road. (todays spelling is Prachuap Khiri Khan) This road was built by sick POWs from Nakum Paton who had been promised light duties. His Japanese Index Card shows an address of Shoeburyness, Essex, but has not been red-lined to show death. Also it shows a repatriation date on the rear of 30.08.1945. I cannot imagine that this adds a confusing element to the CWGC information, but merely lack of care of detail by the Japanese. If you want any photos of the files, let me know.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Alan Barneveld
Location Hampshire
Comments: Hi, I am trying to research my grandfather George Harris Barneveld who appears on a POW listing at Changi Prison, Singapore. This came as a great surprise to my Father as he knew he was based in Burma and returned back to the Uk in 1947, never knew he was a POW. One other piece of information The ship he returned on was bizarrely called SS Barneveld. Kind Regards Alan Barneveld
   
   
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 dont have much more information unfortunately other than he survived the war and returned to the UK. He never spoke of his experiences during the war at all and passed away in 1999. Many thanks for any insight you can provide!
   
   
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. I am so sad reading What he had to go thru. I will look forward to Receiving the info on the book. Do you know If there is an English version? On my bucket list Is to visit his grave in Sai Wan and put a photo So people can see what this hero looked like.
   
   
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 N Party. His Japanese Index Card shows he came under the administration of Group 2, so this would have positioned him around the camps near Tamarkan (Bridge on the River Kwai). At some point after the completion of the railroad he was returned to Singapore. On 04.07.1944 he was herded onboard the Hofuku Maru hellship for sailing in a convoy to Borneo and Japan. However the Hofuku Maru developed engine problems and sailed on to Manila, Philippines for repairs. The POWs had to remain onboard locked down in the holds, for over a month (2 months?) whilst repairs were done. On 20.09.1944 it resailed in a new convoy for Japan. On 21.09.1944 it was attacked by torpedo bombers and sunk within minutes. Over 1,000 POWs drowned and about 250 survived. On his Japanese Index Card, Frederick is marked as having died on this date. However, this is not the case. Just 12 men made it to shore and were rescued by American and Filipino Guerrillas before Japanese troops appeared to recapture many others. Frederick was one of the 12. Unfortunately Frederick died 2 months after his rescue on 21.11.1944 (cause not yet known). One of the other rescued men was a Dutchman named Cpl. Hendrik Kooi of the Dutch Royal Marines, who survived the war and wrote a book (in Dutch), which I am led to believe will contain information about Frederick. The cost is about $37 U.S. inc. postage from Holland. I will email further details. Post war Fredericks body was relocated from Philippines to Sai Wan, Hong Kong. Every grave has a story to tell, this one would have been a bestseller. May Frederick R.I.P.
   
   
Name: Gary
Location Canada
Email: Garyjs1779@gmail.com
Comments: Hello Im looking for information about my great uncle. His name was Sam shaw. He was a Japanese POW. I recently found out he was listed as Laurence. I have an address for him where he lived when he enlisted. Myself and my cousin are both looking for info but are having a very hard time finding any. ANY help would be appreciated
   
   
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 October 42. Moved to Boei Glodok, Batavia October 42 January 43. Transported on the hellship Roko Maru 09.02.1943, and arrived Singapore 13.02.1943. Remained in Changi Camp, and probably involved in outside work party X-4-A, until liberated in September 1945.
   
   
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.
   
   
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. Royal Corp of Signals died between the 1st and 30th November 1944 and is buried In Sai Wan Cemetery. I was told by a relative That he died on the railway but it was something My grandfather could not accept. Is there any Way of finding out what happened to him. Thank You.
   
   
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 ?
   
   
Name: Andrew Mulley
Location Leamington Spa
Comments: Looking for information on Mulley , William Arthur No. 1099789 Changi, Nong Pladuk, River Valley Road, Saigon.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 07.11.2019
Comments: Hector. What nationality? Was he a Gordon Highlander? What service was he in ?
   
   
Name: Hector Smith boyle
Location Ontario Canada
Email: Hectorsboyle@gmail.co
Comments: Looking for my uncle Hector Smith Sgt,died 1942 pow Japan
   
   
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 42, duty location Malaya, Malai camp ( river valley rd)also Thailand camp,died5/3/43 enteritis, also Robert Edward Daddy born26/7 1922 mother Fanny Daddy , home address st Helens rd rd hull withersea yorks , he was kings own Yorkshire light infantry, duty location Burma, captured 23/2 /42 pow camp rangoon, pow camp Malay,died 8/8/44 dysentry and beri beri, I think they are the POWs you'd ( Daz ) are enquiring about the army numbers match yours, I hope Mike gives you more details , Incidently the film starring Colin Firth based on the book the Railway man about Eric Lomax who was in the Yorkshire's same as Charles Edward you may find a source of interest regards Deanna
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Rose
Location UK
Comments: Sorry, he loved life, not live.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Daz
Location Uk
Email: Dazscuba@gmail.com
Comments: Hi looking for information on Signalman 2356663 Charles Birkitt, Royal Signal Corps who died 5/3/43. Was reburied from a common grave into Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, Thailand. I am looking at putting a display on fro VJ Day and would like as much info as possible. Also Pte. 4690581 Robert Edward Datt, KOYLI, died 08/06/44, buried Rangoon War Cemetery. Thanks for any help given
   
   
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
   
   
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 Java Mystery Party. Of the 2,000 British on this Party only the few who were offloaded in Singapore and went into Robert Hospital have their names recorded. The men arrived Singapore on 26.10.1942 from Batavia, on the Yashida Maru. Those who did not go into hospital then resailed the next day for Japan on the Singapore Maru. John Westrip has a clear date of 27.10.42 showing on the rear of his Japanese Index Card. The journey of the Singapore Maru is a separate story in itself with horrific conditions and outcomes. She sailed via Formosa and arrived Moji on 27.11.1942 and were taken to the coal mining camp of Onoda Ohama. This camp changed it name and number several times over the next 3 years, but John remained in the same camp. It was known as CampUbe, Fukuoka Ube, Fukuoka 9B, Fukuoka 4D, Hiroshima 7D and finally Hiroshima 9B. He appears to have been repatriated on 02.09.1945.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Hayley
Location London
Email: Hayleycooper419@yahoo.com
Comments: Mike, thank you so much for your prompt response. You are quite right, my grandad always said his leg was saved by a Dr in the camp. It was caused I think from shrapnel from a bomb that exploded close to the camp. My Nan had no knowledge of my grandads whereabouts for 5 years! Any information is gratefully received! My Grandad didnt talk in great detail about his experiences.
   
   
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 First Mainland Party. I dont have any details of his respective camps and you would need to get hold of his Liberation Questionnaire to find out these. He remained on the railroad even after it was completed and eventually in February 1945 was sent 600 miles east of Bangkok to build the airfield at Ubon Ratchathani. Whilst there, he suffered two attacks of malaria. In July 1945 he suffered Broadies Abscess to his right leg and possibly underwent surgery. (He probably suffered with this leg for the rest of his life?). He was liberated at the airfield, and repatriated via Bangkok.
   
   
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 Chindits) who fought to drive the Japanese out of Burma. I would suggest you seek more knowledge about this time as I know they had Lancashire Fusiliers, Inniskilling Fusiliers and Welch Fusiliers and probably others.
   
   
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 S Party. This party was almost all Royal Artillery from 88,118, and 148 Regiments. There was just I RAMC officer, and 2 RAMC other ranks. Died 28/11/43 at Tarsao and buried in grave 89. Reburied postwar at Kanchanaburi.
   
   
Name: Hayley
Location London
Email: Hayleycooper419@yahoo.com
Comments: My Grandad Jack Cooper, not Grandma!
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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?
   
   
Name: mike
Location London
Email: noondaypublishing@gmail.com
Comments: Someone was looking for Ronald Sydney Smith? Where? Whom? Why?
   
   
Name: Jess
Location Yorkshire
Comments: Hi, Looking for a family relative who was a POW in Japan. The only details we have are the name Frank Wilson, from Yorkshire and we believe he was a fusilier. He did make it back after the war hope this narrows it down! Thank you!
   
   
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?
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: David
Location UK
Comments: Hello, Looking for information on Norman Harold Alan Wade Royal artillery Japanese pow WW2 please.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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 of match upt
   
   
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 05.05.43, he then went to Thailand with H Force 09.05.43 20.10.43, returned to Singapore in Sime Road camp 23.10.43 06.05.44. Returned to Changi 06.05.44 war end. I am not aware who 51529 would be.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 23.09.2019
Comments: Hi Marilyn. Re Private Walter Matthews (note the double t), service number 5573421, member of the 4th Battalion Royal Norfolk Regiment. Originally of Compton Bassett, Wiltshire and then lived at 37, Yatesbury, Nr. Calne, Wiltshire. Imprisoned at Changi at the capitulation of Singapore on 15.02.1942. Sent by train in steel trucks to the Burma Railroad on 31.10.1942 as part of R Party. Died on 03.08.1943 at Kinsayok of avitaminosis. Grave relocated to Chungkai after the war.
   
   
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 Group 4. This group mainly slaved at the markers 114 Km 172 Km although some did go further north. The main camps were therefore Wampo, Wanyai, Tonomang, Kanu, Hintok and Kinsayok.
   
   
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 Wiltshire I hope you can help
   
   
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. I have been trying for years to find some Information but didnt have any luck Hope you can help me.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Val Wright
Location UK 12.09.19
Comments: Didnt put my Dads name, Francis Patrick ONeill! Sorry
   
   
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. He would never talk about his experiences to us but just found out he had confided in my brother-in-law, also a Navy man. Hope you can help. Many thanks
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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 proof of his onward journey, but do know that others from his squadron off the same ship then journeyed on Canadian Railways across to Dilbert, and then onward to Halifax. There, they boarded the Ile de France on 26.10.1945 and arrived Southampton on 31.10.1945.
   
   
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 another railway not just the Burma /Thai one ? He was also courtmartialled Jan 44 ?and sent a radio broad cast in sep 44 to his wife In Peckham Would you have any info about the location of Malai camp 5 hospitals where he could have sent t a message from? Incidently Paul has a document stating not to be questioned for what reason it does not say many thanks Deanna
   
   
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
   
   
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..
   
   
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.
   
   
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. Best wishes Matt
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Tina (nee Higgins)
Location Rickmansworth
Comments: So proud of my brave grandad. Joseph Frederick Higgins Private S/250346 Royal Army Corps Awarded British Empire Medal Whilst Japanese POW Ref. London Gazette 38535 ♥️ ♥️
   
   
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. I remember seeing Burma Star calendars on the wall of his cottage when I was little but he never talked about his time in Burma and would not have anything Japanese in his house up until the day he died. Many Thanks
   
   
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.
   
   
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 Im keen to take a look at my family history myself
   
   
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.
   
   
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 ,
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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,
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Steve
Location Uk
Comments: Sorry Mike that should say brilliant, not bringing Predictive text grrr.....
   
   
Name: Steve
Location UK
Comments: Thanks Mike, thats bringing, your help is greatly appreciated.
   
   
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. ,
   
   
Name: Steve
Location Uk
Comments: Mike, im trying to help someone out thats out of my area. Can you tell me anything about what a JavaParty was. In particular Java party 17a
   
   
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 were not sure where he ended up. He survived the war and we know he come back to Liverpool and eventually settled In London. His number is 6142618, he was in the 2nd battalion east Surrey Regiment. Thank you
   
   
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. Ive found that that he was transported as part of Java party 13 in February 1943, destination Changi, Singapore. He was then transported as part of force H to work on the construction of the railway 5.5.1943. He died in October 1943 before the completion of the railway. I wonder if its possible to find out which camps he may have been in along the railway and possibly where he died? Any information would be gratefully received.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Toby Norways
Location London
Email: tobynorways@onetel.com
Comments: Im the son of William Bill Norways (1918-1987) of the 2nd Cambridgeshire regiment. From 1942-45 my father spent time in Singapore and on the Thai-Burma Railway. I'd be interested to hear from anyone with a connection to the 2nd Cambridgeshire regiment, or who may have come across my father's name in their research.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Margaret Farmer
Location UK
Comments: I am looking for information on my Father Thomas Ford I understand he was taken prisoner in 1942 in Java he served in95th Battery, 48th Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery
   
   
Name: Ellen Lankford
Location Southeastern US
Comments: May these poor souls never be forgotten. Neither should the war crimes which were visited upon then.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: David Keeton
Location Northumberland
Email:
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Gordon
Location Warwickshire, UK
Comments: Thanks Mike. Great information
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 29.05.2019
Comments: Hi Gordon. Re Sapper William Nicol, 2130415 Royal Engineers. 560 Field Company, 18th Division. Trade Carpenter. Address shown as 8, Talbolth Lane, Wick, Caithness. Sent from River Valley Camp, Singapore on 23.03.1943 to the Burma Siam Railroad, as part of Group 4 workforce. Returned to Singapore and then sent by ship on the 04.09.1944 for Japan. This was KA15, the Kachidoki Maru. She was attacked by the American submarine USS Pampanito on 12.09.1944 near Hainan Island. 476 PoWs lost their lives, and 521 were rescued by the Japanese. A further 159 PoWs were later picked up by American submarines and became the first to relate the horrors of the Burma railroad to the allies. William lost his life at sea, and is therefore commemorated on the Singapore Memorial.
   
   
Name: Martin Kelly
Location Bunbury Western Australia
Comments: Thanks mike
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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 France Maru 2. This shipment was known as Java Party 19. He remained on Sumatra for appx. 18 months and was then shipped to Changi, Singapore on 26.05.1945 in ship Sibolga, arriving 30.05.1945. This shipment was known as Party PP2. He was actually liberated from Changi 2 months earlier than you thought, on 02.09.1945. Many men from Changi have the date of 20/11/2 (1945/Nov/2nd) on their Liberation cards, but this is merely a catch-up of documentation. I have copies of files IF you want them emailed.
   
   
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 X Party. He is listed as being part of No 2 Group but I do not know his individual camps. I dont know if you just made a typing error, but his Liberation date was 2nd September 1945 not 2nd February 1945. Singapore was classified as Malai, so this was his Malayan POW Camp. Cec Lowry has written books about the East Surreys, his fathers regiment, and can be found on Facebook, and I am sure will have a lot more accurate information.
   
   
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.
   
   
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 Barracks" Feb-Apr 1942, then "Chung Wa" school, Apr 42- Aug 1943, "Airport" Aug 43-Feb 44. Sungi Ron Feb 44-Sep 45. Do you have any Knowledge of the camps in Muntok??
   
   
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 5ft tall (short). Does anyone have knowledge of these camps in Banka Island??
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Melanie
Location Australia
Comments: Hi, Im looking for information on my great uncle, Private Dudley Regent, NX27592. He disembarked in the East Indies before being taken prisoner and endIng up in Nike, Thailand. He was with the 2/12 Field Ambulance and Ive been told he was attached to Gull Force but can find no record of it. Id appreciate any information. Thank you
   
   
Name: Ann
Location Exeter
Email: R.hoskins22@btinternet.com
Comments: I added a request this week but did not enter my fathers name. It was Charles Gregory, he was called Greg and managed a rubber plantation before internment. Did anyone know him?
   
   
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.
   
   
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?
   
   
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
   
   
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?
   
   
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 my Grandad. He was a seaman, originally from Liverpool. He was at Dunkirk and then sunk on the Prince of Wales. I recall him perhaps telling me of being sunk a couple of times more, having sailed a vessel out of Singapore and then perhaps being picked up by an Australian submarine. He was captured and held in a cinema in Singapore where he his tattoo was spat on and he was beaten up. I think this is in a book but can't find it. He was a pow at Kuching and worked on the airport. He survived the war but didn't talk much about it.
   
   
Name: Ann
Location Exeter
Email: R.hoskins22@btinternet.com
Comments: I added a request this week but did not enter my fathers name. It was Charles Gregory, he was called Greg and managed a rubber plantation before internment. Did anyone know him?
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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 L on 06.11.42. Moved north to Kinsayok camp (this was near to Trestle Bridge, known as Deck of Cards Bridge). Returned to Singapore July 1944, into River Valley camp. On 29.12.1944 shipped overseas to Saigon, Indo China. Believed liberated from there.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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 - staff sargeant - Albert Harry Piper.
   
   
Name: Kerry Warren
Location England
Comments: Im looking for information on Percy Charles Richard cook Service Number1080745 137 field artilary he was a prisoner of war in japan
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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 ?
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Gary Lewis
Location Beckenham
Email: Gary.Lewis@a1plc.co.uk
Comments: My uncle dapper Henry ( Harry ) Lewis royal engineers Was in changi , and kanchurburi and finally help building air landing field does any one remember him
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Ava hamilton
Location Scotland
Email: avamauree04@icloud.com
Comments: Could I please have the information on Ernest Victor Pearson for Harwich
   
   
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?
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Eva Hamilton
Location Scotland
Comments: Im looking to find information on a man called Ernest Pearson who survived being a POW. He worked on the Burma railway during the 1940s.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Joseph Mcfadyen
Location Glasgow Scotland
Email: Joethreestar@yahoo.co.uk
Comments: James Mcfadyen Regiment: 18th DIVISION R.A.O.C. ARMY Uk allied prisoners of war 1942 to 1965 Singapore Dose anyone have any pictures
   
   
Name: Martyn
Location Perth WA
Comments: Mike, thanks for picking up the date error! he was indeed Letter Party L, 06/11/1942, on my records also, brain fade while typing across! My book is available in the UK, please email me for details justmartyn@westnet.com.au Joanne, will email you some documents relating to your granddad.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Dorothy Key
Location Cyprus
Comments: Looking for information about Ernest Bedworth service no 7648311 RAOC Singapore Malai1 15.2.42 Transferred to Thailand in group 4D between 14-18.3.43. What was group 4D? he was later sent to Saigon. Any further information would be gratefully received, He did survive thankfully, he was my grandad' cousin.
   
   
Name: Mike
Comments: Sandy, British, Australian, American, other ??
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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/
   
   
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!
   
   
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)
   
   
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!
   
   
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.
   
   
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!
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 23.12.2018
Comments: Hi Andrew, After departing Manila, he arrived in San Francisco on 03.11.1945.
   
   
Name: Andrew Whelam
Location Sunderland
Email: andrewwhelam@hotmail.com
Comments: Hi my grandad Edward Whelam was a POW in Japan We have been told that he could have been interviewed when he got sent to the USA for reabilitation before he got repatriation dose any one have any copys of the interviews ??? Dose any one know where in the USA they got sent to ??
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Robyn Pearson
Location Adelaide
Email: loosey44@hotmail.com
Comments: 2/10 Field Ambulance POWs please
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Peter
Location Coulsdon, Surrey
Comments: Trying to find information about Frederick Arthur Hamilton prison officer at Changi Jail and then POW
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Nicky
Email: nickycordery2012@hotmail.com
Comments: Thank you so much for the information about Albert Heap.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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. We dont have any further information and the only thing I have seen is a sketch if the vessel after the USS Grouper torpedoed her at the museum at Edinburgh castle. Thank you for your time helping me and my family.
   
   
Name: Nicky
Location Northampton
Email: Nickycordery2012@hotmail.com
Comments: My great uncle Albert (heap) was killed in friendly fire in 1944 by the Americans. He had been A POW in Japan and was on his way home. I understand from an American relative who has passsd there is a memorial in USA. Cant seem to find where the memorial is? Any ideas? Thanks Nicky
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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?
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 09.11.2018
Comments: Nicola, you forgot to give us a name.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 09.11.2018
Comments: Camille, can you give us a regiment or service number?
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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, must have had. So sad that so many young men never came home.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Danielle
Location Gloucestershire
Comments: Having done a little internet research today Im wondering whether Henry W Robinson was actually nota submariner, but maybe being transportedon one of the torpedoed hell ships. He returned to his family in New Cross/ Bermondsey area of London and eventually became a policeman.
   
   
Name: Danielle
Location Gloucestershire
Comments: Hi. My mum has told me a fascinating story about an uncle of hers, Henry (Harry) Robinson who was a submariner in WW2. His sub was sunk and he was one of few survivors. He was held in a Japanese POW camp and was one of the first to be released. Any info gratefully received.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 01.11.2018
Comments: Wendy, email sent
   
   
Name: Wendy
Location Western Australia
Comments: The numbers on the reverse show 20.8.30 Wendy
   
   
Name: Mike
Comments: Martyn, sorry , postings crossed at same time
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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)
   
   
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?
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Steve
Location Uk
Comments: Dear Ron Wilkins, I cant find any listings for a John McVey served in Hong Kong and a Royal Scot. The nearest match is a L/Cpl. John Gordon McVean 3063713 Royal Scots son of John and Mary. Survived the Lisbon Maru sinking, held P.o.W. In Kobe House. He gives a place of origin of Midcalder in Scotland and a contact address for a Miss M. Bennet, 28 Pitt Street Edingburgh.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Karen dunn
Location Durham uk
Comments: Hi Im looking for some information on my husbands grandfather James Henry Livingston born in Barnard Castle so Im sure was part of the DLI hr was captured in Burma and worked on the railway I know he tried to escape and had his toe nails pulled off but no other details can you help
   
   
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.
   
   
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....
   
   
Name: J Clifford
Location England
Comments: Mike, many thanks for your fantastic information. It is really helpful.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Roslyn Devine
Location Melbourne
Email: rdevine@fastmail.com.au
Comments: Thank you for the extensive story of Major John Chalmers and his courageous work as an army Medical Corps officer and of his death in the torpedoing of his POW ship enroute to Japan. I heard stories as a child of his history, he was married to my Aunty Mary. Glad to see the story was initiated by my distant cousin, John Lenehan
   
   
Name: Caroline
Location Singapore
Email: carolinececilea@gmail.com
Comments: Hi Mike, he wasnt in the military from what I know. But he was captured.
   
   
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?
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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 ?
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Robert
Location Cheshire
Email: morrisr1959@gmail.com
Comments: Im trying to find any information on my late father, he was wounded in Burma and taken POW . His name was James Morris ,. 3607959 private James Morris , the border regiment. Any details would be appreciated.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Jackie Howell
Location Bedfordshire
Email: jax_johnson@ hotmail.co.uk
Comments: Looking for information about my great Uncle William Robertson who I believe spent time as a Japanese pow.
   
   
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 England Maru. Enslaved in the Kinkaseki Copper Mine in northern Taiwan until no longer fit to work towards the end of 1944. After a few months of illness and starvation he passed away at Kinkaseki on 13.01.1945 and was buried in the hillside there. After the war all the bodied were raised and taken for burial to Sai Wan Cemetery on Hong Kong. I have been to his original grave and also his new grave, as has one of your relatives who is a friend of mine, who will be able to give much more detailed information. Please watch for email.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: EMMA
Location Scotland
Comments: Ie John Muir Apologies my e-mail is EmmaKinnaird1980@outlook.com
   
   
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.
   
   
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/
   
   
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
   
   
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?
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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. The letter is from a lady called Dolly, with Cuddington written in the corner and a date 20/44 They would love to find the family of this Solider so they could return it to them.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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 .
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
Name:
Comments:
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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 Q Party to the Siam Railroad. Unfortunately I have no information on his camps, or when he was returned to Changi. He completed a Liberation Questionnaire which should have listed all his camps, but he chose to leave it blank. Who can tell what frame of mind these men were in when faced with forms upon release. He sailed with 690 men on 04.07.1944 in the Hakushika Maru to Borneo, then Manila and then onward to Takao and Keelung in Formosa before arriving at Moji in Japan, on 13.08.1944. The convoy was attacked by the submarine USS Barbel, and some escort ships were sunk, but the Hakushika Maru was undamaged. Upon arrival in Japan the men were split into 3 camps, with Robert ending up in Sendai 1B, Yumoto. This was a coal mining camp where the men were enslaved for the Joban Coal Company. It was from this camp he was repatriated.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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 .
   
   
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/
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 01.07.2018
Comments: Chris. Email sent
   
   
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!
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Martyn
Location Perth
Comments: You could contact the Thailand to Burma Railway Centre at Kanchanaburi, they have extensive records on the Australian POWs
   
   
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. Does anyone know where I can find out which camps he was in? He didn't make it home, his body was exhumed in Tarsau and buried again in Kanchanaburi. Any help would be appreciated! Thanks!
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Woodcarver
Location uk
Comments: thanks Jonathan, its greatly appreciated
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Woodcarver
Location UK
Comments: Thanks Jonathan, it could well a son, i'll get searching. Was that on an electoral roll?
   
   
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?
   
   
Name: Woodcarver
Location Uk
Comments: Woodcarver9 Member Hi, im looking to get in touch with the relatives of Bombadier John William Bowen 836361 of the Royal Artillery, served in Hong Kong, survived the sinkining of the Lisbon Maru and P.o.W of the Japanese. I believe he was from the Midlands area (U.K) Can anyone help? Thanks
   
   
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.
   
   
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?
   
   
Name: Anne Williamson
Location Australia
Email: annew2@icloud.com
Comments: I am seeking information on my uncle Robert Charles Blackadder, Able Seaman a captured 15/2/42. Service number DJX190471. I have some information re his time as a POW e.g camps noted as Bangka and Malai 2, duty location Muntok and HMS Pahlawan. Is there any additional information that can be found regarding his time in captivity. Thanks
   
   
Name:
Comments:
   
   
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. While he was alive, he wasnt able to talk about the war.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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?
   
   
Name: Charlotte
Location London, UK
Email: charlotte-coates@hotmail.co.uk
Comments: Very many thanks Mike
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Shirley
Location Brighton
Email: srdobby@aol.com
Comments: I am looking for information about my father Vincent Edgar Taplin, Service Number 7257295, Rank Corporal of The Royal Army Medical Corps. He was captured in Java in March 1942 and was placed in a POW camp in Malaya. and liberated 02/11/45. I never knew my father as he was estranged from my mother soon after I was born and died 4 years later. I am desperate to find a photo of him.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: James Finn
Location Suffolk, UK
Comments: Im looking for information about my Great grand father Edward Taylor whose service number was 627490 and was unfortunately sank by the USS Tang on the Tamahoko Maru in 1944. I am looking for any information anyone can find.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 05.03.2018
Comments: Hi Jo, for follow up watch for email.
   
   
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 Thankuou
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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 Originally from London and born May 9 th 1917
   
   
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
   
   
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 5. Reply if you want details.
   
   
Name: Helen
Location Hull U.K.
Email: helen_smell@hotmail.com
Comments: Hi Mike, thank you so much for the information, Its really appreciated I really cant believe that I will be going to where he was. Its amazing.
   
   
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.
   
   
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?
   
   
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 Im getting conflicting information,as far as Im aware and lead to believe he was on the Burma Railway. The sad thing Im going to Kanchanaburi Thailand and to the river Kwai in a couple of weeks and I will shed a few tears for him and all those brave men. Thankfully he survived . If anyone has any information it would be greatly appreciated, Kind Regards Helen.
   
   
Name: Patrick Curran
Location Uk
Email: Currans3@btinternet.com
Comments: Donald Curran 9 coastal RA 1426862 I have his repatriation card but cannot find any reference to him anywhere. I know he was on H force
   
   
Name: Dave
Location Kent
Email: iron@blueyonder.co.uk
Comments: Thank you very much Mike.
   
   
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.
   
   
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 Japan party B. The Commander of the Korean Army, General Seishiro Itagaki requested 2,000 white prisoners of war to be sent to Korea. The purpose of this draft of prisoners was to "stamp out respect and admiration by the Korean people for Britain and America", while at the same time "establishing in them a strong faith" in a Japanese victory in the war. The Fukkai Maru sailed for Cap St Jacques (Saigon) and then onward to Takao (Formosa) arriving on 19.08.1942. For two weeks the men were made to work on the docks unloading the cargo of bauxite. On 15.09.1942 she sailed onward for Korea arriving in Pusan (also called Fusan, and today called Busan) on 22.09.1942. The men were then paraded through the streets as part of a Victory Parade for over 3 hours before being split for two camps. Some went to Jinsen and some to Keijo. (Sorry I dont have details of his camp). Conditions in the Korean camps were reasonable (deathrate 3%) compared to many others, and post war when the men learnt what had happened to others, made many feel an extreme guilt, and very few spoke of their experience.
   
   
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.
   
   
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). He was in the Blackpool Regiment. He Lao spent time in Changi jail. Thanks.
   
   
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??
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Stephen Blackburn
Location Bolton
Email: blackburn831@aol.com
Comments: Sorry, his name was Walter Blackburn
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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?
   
   
Name: craig
Location belfast
Comments: I'm looking for information on reginald smyth 1943 world war ii
   
   
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.
   
   
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 Christs College NZ; Canterbury College, University of NZ and New College, Oxford. MCS Cadet FMS 1921.By 1940 attached to the Colonial Secretariat. Wife Valerie evacuated, aged 37, with children Patricia Mary Molly, Michael & Hilary, aged 13,10 & 9, to SA then on the John van Oldenbarnveldt to Liverpool UK, arriving 24.2.42. To Plynouth. He a Changi and Sime Rd internee. Double Tenth victim. Died in captivity 26.10.44[46] Outram Gaol. Valerie lived post-war at Yelverton, Devon. There is a tremendous amount of material on Changi/Sime Rd/ Double Tenth in the digitised Cambridge University collection - see https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/collections/civilianinternment/1. I recommend you start with 'To those who Laughed' by Tony Churchill, also an MCS internee.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Bobby sheil
Location Perth,WA
Comments: Hi mike Can you please help us locate Patrick Walsh ,my grandfather We think captured in Singapore and sent to Changi Can you help us please Jo @brookwoodrealty.com.au
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 13.01.2018
Comments: Lawrence. Forgot to add. Address confirmed as 61, Markham St, Ardwick, Manchester.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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)
   
   
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 dont have much more information than that. I am hoping to get an army number for him. Thanks
   
   
Name: Mike
Comments: Ricky, see email.
   
   
Name: Ricky Attenborrow
Location Midlands, UK
Email: Ricky_attenborrow@hotmail.co.uk
Comments: Hi. Im hoping that you may able to provide some information for me. My grandad fought in Burma during WW2, and we believe he was taken prisoner and spent time in a Japanese POW camp. Unfortunately I do not have many details, but his name was Sidney Harris (he often changed it to Sydney), and he was from Hinckley in Leicestershire. Im crossing my fingers that you can find something out. I never got to know him, and Im very keen to understand what he went through - so that I can honour him better
   
   
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. Thats more information than my father or I ever knew before. Amazing. And regarding the USS Pampinito, by coincide I was in San Francisco in the summer and saw if from afar, as it is on display. I must now go back to visit it as it attacked the Japanese convoy my grandfather was on! Thanks so much and I will continue to try and find out more. Best regards, John
   
   
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?
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Paul Brooker
Location Smarden, Kent
Email: brookeratheber@btinternet.com
Comments: Hi, Just found this fascinating site. i am looking for info onAlfred Thomas Bradford. Died 1/10/42 age 27 Bandsman 6201856 Middlesex Regt Remembered on Sai Wan Memorial. Where did he fight? What were the circumstances of his capture? Where was he held in captivity? What were the circumstances of his death? Family tradition indicates he died on a torpedoed hospital ship? This could be incorrect?
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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).
   
   
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 would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
   
   
Name: Jennifer
Location Clarkson WA
Comments: Thank you for directing me to this site today (we met in the book section at Salvos).
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 05.11.2017
Comments: Leann. See email.
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: David
Location cheshire
Comments: Hello, looing for information on Norman Harold Alan Wade 118 RA
   
   
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 U Party. May 43 moved to Kanchanaburi, then Non Pladuk in Dec 43, and Tamakan in Sept. 44. Nokumway in March 45 and finally Takuai in Aug 45. ( I have never come across these last 2 camps, can anyone else help ?)
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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 Regiment who were mobile 3.7 " guns. This book will give all the details they may want about his career in this Regt from BEF 1939 to release from Japanese camp in Motoyama Covers Singapore, Sumatra and Japanese paratroop attack at P1, Java and the disaster at Kalidjati. Extensive Roll of honour and survivor lists and lots of photos not seen before from private sources. Patrick Walker
   
   
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 It is covered in my book 6th Heavy Anti Aircraft Regiment RA. The only published complete story of this unlucky regiments war time story . Pictures and index lists of casualties and survivors. Patrick Walker
   
   
Name: Sarah
Comments: Thank you ever so much.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Sarah Roe
Comments: Sorry! Wrong number918247!
   
   
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 is1569303. He is the only name on our memorial who has no details of who he was, death or where he is buried. I would really like to fill in the blanks so he can be properly remembered as all the others are. Hope you can help, Sarah
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 30.08.2017
Comments: Alison, email sent.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Alison
Location England
Email: Alison_smith1970@hotmail.co.uk
Comments: Hi Mike thank you so much for the information it was really helpful
   
   
Name: Mike
Comments: Alison, I should have added that this shipment was known as 'Java Party 21'
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Laurie Baker
Location Wetherden Sfflk
Email: bakerlaurie8@gmail.com
Comments: Excellent info,
   
   
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.
   
   
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
   
   
Name: Rose
Location Vic
Email: Eron_rose@yahoo.com.au
Comments: Looking for info on Ronald Ian felsenthal
   
   
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
   
   
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 destination unknown. On November 28th the men were taken on board the Kamakwa Maru and sailed for Japan. He was assigned to work at Kawasaki Dockyard where they were put to work stacking steel rounds and hexagon rounds. Sometimes they worked in a shed, but often outside in freezing temperatures in Australian Army tropical kit. 1943 was the coldest winter that Japan had experienced in 150 years. It was no wonder that with starvation rations, hard work and the intense cold the men soon became walking skeletons and many had to be hospitalised. The only medical attention came from a Dutch Vet. The 2/19th Battalion lost 736 members during the war. Private Davis NX60348 died of illness on April 28th, 1943 at Yokohama, Japan and his remains (ashes) were buried in the Yokohama British Commonwealth War Cemetery, Australian Section BB7 on Honshu Island. His name appears on Panel 42 at the Australian War Memorial, and on the Dalton Roll of Honour.
   
   
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. His number was 840497 and was buried in Kanchanaburi war cemetary. He died on 27 July 1943. I have a picture of his grave but would like to know More if possible where he was held and why he died. Regards Julie
   
   
Name: John O'Shea
Location Howlong
Comments: I knew Tich Freeman, and saw the key with all the names on it. Tich at that time(19550 was working in the Post Office in Whyalla, South Australia
   
   
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 Clactons own). This unit was mobilized for a war role in September 1939 and served in defending the south coast ports. The diary of this unit is included in WO 166/2838 and shows movements as follows:- September 1939 Battery is mobilized in Clacton-on-Sea and begins routine training. December 1939 One Troop of the Battery moves to Bawdsey. From this date onwards the Troops of the Battery are deployed at various locations around the Suffolk area. June 1940 Battery moves from 17th Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment to 48th Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment. 04/03/1941 Battery moves to Wantisden and took over duties at Hornchurch & Rainham. 17/03/1941 Battery moves to Brettenham Park, Suffolk and takes over local gun sites. The Battery diary ceases in April 1941. The Regimental Diary is in WO 166/2721 and goes from July 1940 to October 1941. From May 1941 the Regiment was based in the Essex and Suffolk area and continued in an anti-aircraft role with the Battery and Troop detachments being widely spread at locations of importance. 22/08/1941 Regiment moves to Yeovil and is informed it is due to be mobilized for overseas service (tropical climate). 15/09/1941 Regiment moves to Southend on Sea to complete mobilization. The 48th LAA Regiment, 'Bofors Guns', had three Batteries, 49, 95, 242. We sailed from Gourock on the river Clyde the day Japan declared war, December 7th 1941. We and many other regiments were on the 'Duchess of Athol'. We thought we were going to Basra (where the problems are now). We stopped at Freetown, and had our Christmas dinner there, then on to Durban. We changed ships there and after about six days there we boarded the 'HMT Dunera' with the possibility of Singapore, but we and other ships were diverted to Batavia, Java, and docked at Tanjong Priok harbour. http://ww2talk.com/index.php?threads/49-battery-48th-laa-royal-artillery-53-died-21-02-42.57953/ There are no diaries for the period for November 1941 to the capture of the Regiment by the Japanese. The PoW card for Alfred shows he was taken prisoner on 20/03/1942. 48 LAA Regiment RA, on arrival in Batavia, sent 95 Battery to Oosthaven in Sumatra en route for the airfield around Palembang (P1 and P2) to reinforce the air defence already there. When they arrived in Palembang they found that the evacuation was beginning and they had time only to turn round, retire to Oosthaven and return to Java. 95 Battery, on its return, was deployed around Andir airfield near Bandoeng (now Bandung). 49 Battery was deployed around Kalidjati airfield, North of Bandoeng and 242 Battery with RHQ were deployed in Batavia. 95th Battery was over-run by Japanese tanks at Bandoeng on 20/03/1942 and a file on missing men includes some detail. Those men who survived were shipped to Singapore on 14/04/1942 and from there Alfred is listed as being sent to Japan on 29/10/1942. 02/04/1945 Alfred dies at Omine Machi Camp at Hiroshima. His body is cremated and his ashes (in an urn) added to a shrine but moved in 1946 to the Yokohama cemetery.
   
   
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
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Ross Ward
Location Sydney, Australia
Email: ross@anzlawyers.com
Comments: I'm looking for information on my late uncle, Harry James Ward, AIF, date of birth: 13 January 1921. Died in July 1943. Buried at Kanchanaburi War Cemetery.
   
   
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. He was an Engineer and an Irishman. Any info on him would be appreciated.I am also searching for anything on other family that were on the Burma Thai Rail, Surnames LAMB
   
   
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. He was an Engineer and an Irishman. Any info on him would be appreciated.
   
   
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
   
   
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 Clactons own). This unit was mobilized for a war role in September 1939 and served in defending the south coast ports. The diary of this unit is included in WO 166/2838 and shows movements as follows:- September 1939 Battery is mobilized in Clacton-on-Sea and begins routine training. December 1939 One Troop of the Battery moves to Bawdsey. From this date onwards the Troops of the Battery are deployed at various locations around the Suffolk area. June 1940 Battery moves from 17th Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment to 48th Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment. 04/03/1941 Battery moves to Wantisden and took over duties at Hornchurch & Rainham. 17/03/1941 Battery moves to Brettenham Park, Suffolk and takes over local gun sites. The Battery diary ceases in April 1941. The Regimental Diary is in WO 166/2721 and goes from July 1940 to October 1941. From May 1941 the Regiment was based in the Essex and Suffolk area and continued in an anti-aircraft role with the Battery and Troop detachments being widely spread at locations of importance. 22/08/1941 Regiment moves to Yeovil and is informed it is due to be mobilized for overseas service (tropical climate). 15/09/1941 Regiment moves to Southend on Sea to complete mobilization. The 48th LAA Regiment, 'Bofors Guns', had three Batteries, 49, 95, 242. We sailed from Gourock on the river Clyde the day Japan declared war, December 7th 1941. We and many other regiments were on the 'Duchess of Athol'. We thought we were going to Basra (where the problems are now). We stopped at Freetown, and had our Christmas dinner there, then on to Durban. We changed ships there and after about six days there we boarded the 'HMT Dunera' with the possibility of Singapore, but we and other ships were diverted to Batavia, Java, and docked at Tanjong Priok harbour. http://ww2talk.com/index.php?threads/49-battery-48th-laa-royal-artillery-53-died-21-02-42.57953/ There are no diaries for the period for November 1941 to the capture of the Regiment by the Japanese. The PoW card for Alfred shows he was taken prisoner on 20/03/1942. 48 LAA Regiment RA, on arrival in Batavia, sent 95 Battery to Oosthaven in Sumatra en route for the airfield around Palembang (P1 and P2) to reinforce the air defence already there. When they arrived in Palembang they found that the evacuation was beginning and they had time only to turn round, retire to Oosthaven and return to Java. 95 Battery, on its return, was deployed around Andir airfield near Bandoeng (now Bandung). 49 Battery was deployed around Kalidjati airfield, North of Bandoeng and 242 Battery with RHQ were deployed in Batavia. 95th Battery was over-run by Japanese tanks at Bandoeng on 20/03/1942 and a file on missing men includes some detail. Those men who survived were shipped to Singapore on 14/04/1942 and from there Alfred is listed as being sent to Japan on 29/10/1942. 02/04/1945 Alfred dies at Omine Machi Camp at Hiroshima. His body is cremated and his ashes (in an urn) added to a shrine but moved in 1946 to the Yokohama cemetery.
   
   
Name: Tanya
Location Australia
Email: donotfeedthebackpacker@gmail.com
Comments: Looking for info on William Taylor 3649555.
   
   
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.
   
   
Name: Lisa
Location Inverness
Comments: Thank you for your help. Your research and quickness in replying is very helpful. Thanks again.
   
   
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
   
   
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 this was in malaya his birth date is 17th of march 1920 im hopeing you can help or can give me imformation of how i can find out
   
   
Name: Lisa
Location Scotland
Email: Laj2808@yahoo.co.uk
Comments: Hi, I was wondering if anyone could find any information about my great Uncle Malcolm Andrew Grant. He was a signal man. He was born in 1915 in Burton upon Trent. His number was 2361470. Many thanks
   
   
Name: Katie
Location Uk
Comments: Thank you for your research Mike
   
   
Name: Jonathan Moffatt
Location UK
Email: JonathanMoffatt@aol.com
Website: malayanvolunteersgroup.org.uk
Comments: I can help you on this one, Helen, particularly with details of his Sumatra Camps. He died at Sungei Geron Camp near Palembang, Sumatra just as liberation forces were starting to arrive there. His grave was originally at no.2 cemetery, Sungei Geron Camp. These graves were eventually moved to CWGC Jakarta. I'll e mail you some more information including his Liverpool address. Very good records were kept of the Palembang camps.
   
   
Name: Helen
Location Liverpool (U.K.)
Email: h.wilson1987@live.co.uk
Comments: My great uncle died in palamberg camp, Sumatra.1945. We have recently been looking into our family history and would love find out more information if possible. My uncles name is Patrick Donald Morris (but was also know as Jim?) he was born 17.01.1909. He was born in London near Marylebone but moved to Liverpool where he married my auntie, Lilian Robinson in 1935. I know his army number was 1735836. He was awarded the Pacific star medal in 1949. He died around 6 Sep 1945 as a POW . I know it's a long shot but would love to hear any extra information other than dares and posting lists
   
   
Name: Tracey Robertson
Location Melbourne
Email: trayleen@icloud.com
Comments: Hi Mike, hope you can help trying to find information on my paternal grandmothers brother acting Sgt Roy Keith Williams VX38640A.I.F 2/21 battalion at Ambon. He was presumed dead but his remainswere never found. My grandmother is now deceased and cannot find any info on him only what I was told by my dad who also is deceased. Trying to find a possible photo of him also.
   
   
Name: Geoffrey
Location Melborne
Email: jaffatheraider@live.com
Comments: I have not seen a link to this but thought it may be of interest to people looking into the fall of Singapore, Changi etc. http://www.pows-of-japan.net/articles/AUSTRALIAN_GENERAL_HOSPITAL.pdf
   
   
Name: Debbie
Location Australia
Email: dkelliher@optusnet.com.au
Comments: Hi, I'm looking for any information regarding my uncle, Edmund (Ted) John Moran from the 2/20 Australian Infantry Battalion. He was a prisoner of war in Changi I believe but I really don't know much more than this and can't seem to find much online. Like many, he never spoke about his experience to anyone. His service number was NX71481 and he was frm Segenhoe, NSW. If anyone could provide any information at all it would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks, Debbie
   
   
Name: Steve
Location UK
Comments: Hi, i'm looking for information for a friends Grandfather who was a POW on the Burma Railway. His name was Gwilym Parry and his service number was 1563913. Any help is greatly appreciated, thank you
   
   
Name: Rachel
Location Perth, Australia
Email: home@adamsfamilyonline.com
Comments: Hello - I am searching for any information regarding my grandfather George Edward James HAMMOND. He was captured by the Japanese shortly after his arrival in Singapore in 1942. Service number 4976627. He is listed as being a POW in Malaya POW camp. This is all the information that I can find and I would love to know more if anyone can help. He was with the Fifth Battalion Sherwood Foresters. He went back to live in Derbyshire after the war.
   
   
Name: Laura
Location UK
Comments: Looking for any insight for 1807370 Samuel Snooks deceased POW. He was my great uncle and all I know is buried in the Chungkai War Cemetery. Any help appreciated.
   
   
Name: Mal scott
Location Uk
Email: Malcolmscott04@gmail.com
Comments: I am looking for any info on my grandad. Fred painter who was a gunner of the 5th regt royal artillery and was held pow in kinkaseki, kukutsu and one other begining with t during ww2
   
   
Name: Louise Lovesee
Location England
Email: l.lovesee1571@btinternet.com
Website: l.lovesee1571@btinternet.com
Comments: I am trying to find info on my grandfather Percy Budd POW in Japan. My grandmother recently recently passed away leaving little info. Family life was dramatic after his return as a pow. My family know very little & now having children myself feel it very important wi to know what their great grand father achieved and was subject to for all our sakes.
   
   
Name: PETER REBEIRO
Location BANGLADESH
Email: peterr2602@yahoo.com
Comments: i WANT THE RECORD OF my 2 own uncles SGT GEORGE REBEIRO OF the Indian Army Corps of clerk (I.A.C.C) Regiment attached to the British Army (Berkshire) Regiment who was an Ex prisoner of war Captured with ninety thousand British and Australian troops in Changi jail Singapore for three years and SGT, ALBERT REBEIRO OF The North Staffordshire regiment of the Indian army corps of clerk (I.A.C.C) Parachute division of the British Army during the second world war ,
   
   
Name: Jeanne
Location Singapore
Email: lelongsingapore@gmail.com
Comments: Hi. I don't know if this is the right website to ask. I'm putting up a private exhibition on WWII and Syonan (Singapore under Japanese Occupation 1942-1945) artefacts. A group of collector friends believe there have been some fake Changi POW tags floating around. May I know if there's someone I can show a tag to in order to ascertain it's authenticity? Thank You.
   
   
Name: Pamela Dumbleton
Location Birmingham United Kingdom
Email: palmy.dumble@hotmail.co.uk
Comments: I am writing regarding Pte. Edward Brettell . Vx30486He was an orderly in the AIF MEDICAL CORPS . -- captured in Singapore by the Japahnese in 1942 . -was sent to the Burma -Thailand Railway with A force . At the finish of the railway he was being transported on the Hellship Rayuko Maru when it was torpedoed by American submarine sea lion on 12.9.1944. He died in some way , after the attack. Memo mortal at Labuan cemetery N.Borneo. He is mentioned in col.thomas Hamiltond book " Soldier ,Surgeon in Malaya " as A fine little English orderly ( he emigrated to Australia in 1923). I think he is also mentioned in Dr. Hobbs diary ( one of the articles on this website) . But I think his name is spelt slightly wrong. He was mainly known as Ted. ( real name Samuel Edward ) . I wondered if any survivors (if any) or relatives / associates / friends may know anything about any of above mentioned ( ie. Different camps on railway, medical details , ship /s etc. etc. or if anyone knows him or may have heard his name mentioned at all .i know it's a bit of along shot but I would be very pleased to hear anything. Regards Pamela Dumbleton . P.s. I have some other questions about the Rayuko Maru incident which I would like to ask about ( and ask for peoples comments ) later.
   
   
Name: Heather
Location Kent uk
Email: heathoflynn@hotmail.com
Comments: Hi, I am trying to find out about my Grandfather, Captain William Irving O'Flynn. He was in Singapore when it fell.I know he worked on the Thai / Burma Railway. Other than that, I have not got any information about his time as a FEPOW. He was in the Manchester Regiment and any information would would be Amazing to have. Kind regards, Heather.
   
   
Name: Iwan Kusters
Location Netherlands
Email: ikkusters@chello.nl
Comments: Thank you very much for the information Mike! I'm glad that you found out the same as I did (and some more) Now I can finally make a document about my granddad and what has most likely happened to him.
   
   
Name: Daphne Stott (now Bradbury)
Location Cape Tpwm
Email: dbradbury@telkomsa.net
Comments: I was born in Lunghwa Camp in Shanghai October 1944 and wondered if there was anyone still alive who may remember my famiy Herbert and Alexandra Stott who were interned at Lunghwa . Also whether there are any other children born in the camp who are still alive? Trying to compile a family biography
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 20.03.2017
Comments: Katie, Your Grandfather was with the 197 Field Ambulance RAMC. Address shown as 6, Littel Royd, Streethouse, Pontefract. He arrived in Singapore on the USS Mount Vernon, after changing ships in Halifax, Nova Scotia. His Liberation Questionnaire, completed by himself, shows that he remained in Changi for the whole duration of the war, until repatriation on 26.09.1945. His service records will not include any details of his time of imprisonment, but will give you details pre Jan 42, and after the war. Copies of files available if wanted.
   
   
Name: Katie
Location UK
Email: K_e_budd@yahoo.co.uk
Comments: Hi Mike, I am in the very early stages of trying to find out which camp(s) my Grandfather was in.He arrived in Singapore a short while before the surrender, I am led to believe from a very small diary he kept, until it's liberation.He was a medical orderly in the 18th Div RAMC, his name was John Gott service number 7374137. I've are in the process of ordering his war records in the hope that they may shed some light. If not, where would you suggest we looked? Many thanks
   
   
Name: Mike
Comments: I dont understand why the last 7 people who have been given information, seem to have posted and then never returned for answers, Seems a waste of everyones time.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 10.03.2017 UK
Comments: Hi Iwan, Unfortunately I only have details of the UK POWs who sailed in Java Party 20, but agree that all your research does seem to be correct. I have very little information of Dutch records.. Looking at his Japanese Index Card it looks to me that he was originally in branch camp II which I believe would possibly be Cilacap. His index card shows at least 3, maybe 4, different POW numbers, suggesting 3 or 4 camps, unless renumbering occurred at a camp (which did happen quite often). One strange fact has emerged, and that is I have a file dated 22.06.1944, marked Java Camp 2, and W.F.Commu, pow number 16353 is listed as being there. Looking at his index card this is obviously impossible. Sorry, none of this is of much help to you.
   
   
Name: Iwan Kusters
Location Netherlands
Email: ikkusters@chello.nl
Comments: Hello Mike, I hope you can help me out. I'm looking for any information about my grandfather W.F. Commu ( N.I. 82782) So far I found out that he was captured on March 8th 1942 in Bandung and that he was on the NN Maru 17 on 18-05-1944 (from Batavia to Singapore (as a part of Java Party 20) Unfortunately I can't find any passengerslist so I can't be sure he was part of Java Party 20. From there on he was on the Myo Maru, followed by the Tamahoko Maru (that was torpedoed) and he died (probably by drowning). As you can see there's a big gap between his date of capture (march 8th 1942) and where he went on the NN Maru 17 18-05-1944. I hope you can help me with that or give me some tips how to find it myself. All I can find is that he was probably in the main camp of Java POW Camp 16353 but was he there for a day...a month? I have no clue. Hope you can fill in some gaps for me, you would make me and my family really happy! Greetings, Iwan
   
   
Name: Jody
Location PERTH
Email: jody__roberts@outlook.com
Comments: Hi, I am trying to find any information from my Granddad's time as a POW. His name is Robert A Oders - service number WX13420. Thank you
   
   
Name: Cherie Hately
Location Canberra
Email: Cheriehately949@gmail.com
Comments: Hi Mike, my dad, Dr Colin William Shaw served as a Captain with the Indian Army & was a POW in Changi prison along with some of the Australian medical doctors. I have a Japanese $10 note with all their signatures autographed on the note. I would love to talk to or hear from anyone who may have known this incredible dad of mine. Thanks, Cherie Hately
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 27.02.2017
Comments: Hi Jeannie. I can trace some information on your Dad, but unfortunately cannot get evidence of his camps, which is the main thing you want. 2/Lt J Rios was not with the main 2/10 Baluch Rgt. , but with HQ 8th Indian Infantry at the surrender of Singapore. He was sent to the Siam Railroad on 04.11.1942 as part of 'N Party', he joined up with the workforce known as 'Group 4' This group of men had their 'Base Camp' at Tarsao. From here they were made to work in many camps , namely Wampo, Tonchan, Kanu and Hintok. After the line was joined on 17.10.1943 some men went further north to Kinsayok and Krian Krai , but other worked southwards at Tamuang and Kaorin. Although he had 4 different POW numbers during his captivity, 1132 / 6805 / 9240 / 1322 I cannot match these up to camps, but would imagine they are Changi / Base camp Siam/ Group 4 / Final Camps. If you want any photocopies of files let me know.
   
   
Name: JEANNIE
Location France
Comments: Hello Mike, My dad, Jack Rios, Service Number EC 3884, was a British Second Lieutenant of the 2/10 Baluch Unit of the Indian Army. He was captured in Singapore on 15/02/42 and liberated 04/09/45. He spoke sometimes of his experiences but it was obviously too painful to share precise locations and details. I do know that he worked deep in the jungle on the Burma line for most of his captivity and that he spent a lot of time working alongside Australian soldiers. He spoke of using explosives on special occasions to bomb the river in order to add fish to their meagre diet of unsalted rice. Some other stories were hellish. Would you have details of which camp/s he was in, please? Thank you for all your time and work on this valuable research.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 21.02.2017
Comments: Hi Matt. Although I have many individuals details, not much on regiment detail. I imagine you already have the journey details on HMS Andes and USS Wakefield. Upon arrival they went to Tekhock Village on Tampines Road. Many became infantry men as much of their equipment had been lost. They supported other regiments of the 18th Div. and were mainly located in the north-east of Singapore. You state your particular interest is what happened before they were sent to Thailand, but are you aware that 82 of the men were sent by hellship to Taiwan where 31 were made to slave in the copper mine at Kinkaseki and 8 men died. Also 65 of the regiment died when the hellships Rakuyo Maru and Kachidoki Maru were sunk by American submarines Sealion and Pampanito. 4 of the regiment also died in Japan and are buried at Yokohama.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 21.02.2017
Comments: Pauline, Sgt Willmott died of Beri beri.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 21.02.2017
Comments: Hi Pauline. Re Sergeant J J W Willmott. Address shown as 12, Sephton Street, Lostock Hall, Preston, Lancs. Civilian occupation .. Postman. After initially being sent to work on the Siam Railroad on 10.10.1942 as part of 'S Party' , he was later returned to Singapore and went to River Valley Camp. On 02.02.1945 he was put on the hellship Haruyasa Maru and shipped to Saigon. As you stated, he died on 19.06.1945, but it was here in Vietnam and not at Camp 4 Thailand. I cannot trace what he died through. He is now reburied at Kranji Cemetery on Singapore.
   
   
Name: Pauline Keyworth
Location Surrey
Comments: Hi, I'm trying to help a work colleague with her family history. Her GGrandfather Joseph William Willmott died in No 4 POW camp. In Thailand 19 June 1945. We believe his reg no was 1073133 Royal Artillary. He was with 88Field Reg part of the 9th Indian divn. It would appear that he was taken prisoner on 15 Feb 1942 which I understand is quite a significant date. Is there anything In your records that you can tell us about him kind regards Pauline
   
   
Name: matt janson
Location newcastle
Email: matt.janson@hmps.gsi.gov.uk
Comments: Hi i'm after any information ref the bedfordshire yeomanry,148 filed regt RA particularly their arrival in Singapore just before the surrender and any action they took part in defending the island and then also what happened to them prior to be sent to thailand, im planning a trip to singapore and what to retrace the units steps.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 17.02.2017
Comments: Bob, I dont think I am able to help, but before giving up, can you supply a few more pieces of information. Do you know if he was Hong Kong or Malaya/ Singapore ? I cant see him listed on any of the Singapore files, and Tony Banham has detailed lists of men in HKSRA who were captured at Hong Kong and he is not listed there either. Was he perhaps captured later in the war ? Do you know what POW Camp ? Have you got his service number ? What was his date of birth ? Any other useful information ?
   
   
Name: Bob Ullah
Location Glasgow
Email: shuttleworks@icloud.com
Comments: Dear friends, my father, Rahmat Ullah,was a Gunner 1st Class with the HKSRA, enlisting in Ahmbala, India. My father recalled losing many of his Indian and Scottish colleagues in the POW Camp. He appears he wasn't issued with any medals which the family have applied to the MOD fir assistance. This process has taking a few years and still no resolution, despite submitting copies of birth certificates, service book and any information requested. Is this normal? Are the records for HKSRA available, I'm finding it difficult to find out more info. Our family has a history in the Forces, our most recent family member would be my Uncle who was a Color Sergeant with the Argyle and Sutherland Regiment, serving in Northern Ireland, Belieze, Middle East etc. Now retired.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 15.02.2017
Comments: Its becoming concerning that folk are posting requests and then never seem to return. Should we stop wasting our time ? Probably not, as for some the information that we supply ensures their relatives story will be told to family members and remembered so the men did not go through years of suffering for no avail. But for those posting and not returning, can I suggest you bookmark the site as a memory jogger to return.
   
   
Name: Ann Goodall
Location Scotland
Email: aburke538@gmail.com
Comments: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPbhPDfdWtU&t=22s My father is the man laying on the bed on the still. His name was Douglas Haig Goodall. He was in Omori/ Shang Shui Po and Osaka POW camps. This film is excellent. We were overjoyed to have found it with footage of my Dad.
   
   
Name: Erik Buttars
Location Queensland Australia
Comments: Looking for any information and images of my Dutch late father-in-law, Claude Belloni. Claude was captured in Java and later sent to Chango. From Changi he was shipped to Japan with 700 plus POW, his ship was sunk by a US submarine as the ship approached Yokohama Harbour, Claude was one of the few survivors. He was then interned in the Nagasaki camps till the end of the war, and survived the Atom bomb dropped on Nagasaki.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 05.02.2017 UK
Comments: 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.
   
   
Name: Gwyn
Location Noth Wales
Comments: I'm searching for any information on my late father William Burgess . He was a gunner in the Royal Artillery (service number 1796042). I know he was captured in 1943 and I have a postcard which he sent home in 1944 indicating he was imprisoned in Java but no further information about his imprisonment between 1942 - 1945 .
   
   
Name: AMY
Location TEXAS
Email: AMYMCADAMS1974@YAHOO.COM
Comments: Looking for further information on my Grandfather, Frederick Charles Bailey, captured on Timor, taken to Jave, from there, taken to Fukuoka 3 where he remained till 1945 OEGAOA MESMO? Commanding officer Australian Lt/Col Leggett 23/2/42- 23/9/42 Grandad Bailey POW # 4335 camp 1923 Gunner Royal Artilllery @Timor, date of capture 17/2/23 4344644. Fred was bought home on HMS Indefatiguable to Hull after he repatriated to Canada, coming home after 6 months recuperation after 4 years of being a POW. His brother James William Bailey, Gunner #9 field regiment RA taken prisoner by Japanese @ Changhi
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 23.01.2017
Comments: Alan, Lance Sgt. Turner of 88 Field Rgt, had the christian names of John Andrew, not Anthony John. Can you add any further detail about your relative ? Date of birth/ home town/ mothers name/ etc
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 23.01.2017 UK
Comments: Paul, Pte Albert Sharp 4750794 1/5 Sherwood Foresters, I'm sorry but cant help much. Address shown in files as 1, Linden Road, West Cornforth, Durham. The only information I can trace is that he departed Changi for the Siam railroad on 09.10.1942, and then moved to another camp on 28.10.1942. No other information.
   
   
Name: Alan Turner
Location Surrey
Email: Alangturner@aol.com
Comments: I am looking for any information for Lance Sergeant Anthony John Turner of 88th Field Regiment Royal Artillary captured in Malaya 17th February
   
   
Name: Paul Farrow
Location London
Email: paul.farrow@johnlewis.co.uk
Comments: I am looking for any information on a friends Grandad, Pte Albert Sharp 4750794 1/5 Sherwood Foresters. He was captured at the fall of Singapore and liberated 2/9/45. We have a number 45070 and Camp TH. Where would this be? Are there records of his movement if any? Many thanks
   
   
Name: Andrew
Location Perth W A
Comments: Thanks Mike the tracing his steps certainly would Not be easy so maybe is it possible to get any Information on his location in Thailand while there Or any record of his time in Singapore Regards Andre
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 17.01.2017 UK
Comments: Hi Andrew. You didnt state he was British army. Gunner J V Harrington of 19, Wendover Way, Welling, Kent was a member of the 118 Field Regiment Royal Artillery. Incarcerated at Changi until 19.04.1943 when he was sent on train 12 of 'F Force' to the railroad. Men in very poor health had a 200 mile march to their destination so retracing his footsteps will be arduous for you. The terrible conditions and the story of the cholera outbreak can be found on the articles pages of this website. The file seems to suggest (not confirmed) that he returned to Singapore in December 1943.
   
   
Name: Andrew
Location Perth Western Australia
Email: a.m.todd@toddsauctions.com.au
Comments: My uncle James Victor Harrington Was A Japanese POW in Singapore his service number is 913383 I am Thailand soon and want to retrace his steps to share with 90 year old Mum (His younger Sister)
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 13.01.2017 UK
Comments: Hi Jill. Private John William Culshaw, imprisoned Changi from Feb 42 to May 42, then moved to Havelock Road Camp. Moved back to Changi in Dec 42. Sent to the Siam Railroad on 21.03.1943 on train 7 with 'D Party'. Banpong Camp from March 43 until Jan 44 when he was sent to Kanchanaburi. In June 44 he moved to Nakom Paton and possibly ended the war here. There was not a Camp 4D, it just refers to a group of men over a wide area.
   
   
Name: Jill Statton
Location Adelaide, South Australia
Email: jmstatton2@gmail.com
Comments: Am seeking further information on my late uncle Jack - John William CULSHAW, Pte 5949717 of 5th Bttn, Beds and Herts. Jack was a POW from his capture in Malaya in 1942 until liberated on September 2, 1945. He, too was in 4D Camp and I would be grateful for any further details regarding his incarceration.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 09.01.2017
Comments: Hi Kemal, Lance Corporal C. A. Windsor, 6020727 of 46, Dillbridge Road, Colchester, Essex. Imprisoned Changi until 31.10.1942 when he was sent in Party R to the Siam Railroad. Chunkai Camp from Nov. 1942 until May 1944. Nakon Paton from May 1944 until Feb. 1945. Petchburi from Feb.1945 until Aug 1945 where he was probably involved in building a new aerodrome.
   
   
Name: Kemal
Location Colchester
Email: Kemalkadar@aol.com
Comments: Looking for any information on my grandad Cecil Alfred charles Windsor lance corporal 6020727 4 Suffolk regt. many thanks.
   
   
Name: Alan O'Neill
Location Scotland
Email: pitforthie_alan@yahoo.co.uk
Comments: I am looking into my elderly mother in law's family for her. My mother in laws uncle was Alberton Middleton of the Gordon Highlanders (2 Battalion?). Family stories tell of him being in Singapore with his family prior to being captured in the fall of Singapore. Apparently his wife, Jean, and two children got onto the final boat to Australia. Albert sent to Changi prison camp. Notg knowing if his family had survived, Albert lists his NOK as his mother, Christina Margaret Cables Middleton. Any help much appreciated. Alan
   
   
Name: Erika
Location South of England
Comments: Hi, thanks for getting back to me.... my dad is finding some more stuff out... I'm dad says that after the ark royal he went into destroyers and is trying to find out more.... my grandad never really shared much of his war days but my dad said also try William John Norris or john William Norris as he used both.... he went into the navy when he was about 14 .... and was born either in Wiltshire or Dorset.... dad said he spent his childhood in Hindon Wiltshire ... he's also asking his sister his dob as he can't remember ... I will let you know anything else I find out Thank you again x
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 03.01.2017
Comments: Hi Erika, The reference to your Grandfather being a gunner on HMS Ark Royal must be a separate wartime episode to him being a Japanese POW as this ship was sunk in 1941 off Gibraltar. From an initial search there were 7 J.Norris who were POWs of the Japanese. 4 of these can be eliminated as 1 was Canadian, 1 was Australian and 2 died in captivity. This leaves 3 who MAY be your grandfather. Can you post any further information ? e.g. middle name, where he lived, date of birth, parents christian names, wife name, job before war etc.
   
   
Name: Erika
Location South of England
Email: kakanorris@outlook.com
Comments: Hi my grandad John Norris was on the Ark Royal as a gunner in WW2 .... He ended up a POW in Japan... He never really spoke about his time there and unfortunately has passed away now ... If anyone has any information on this I would be very greatful.... I have asked my dad about it but he told me that my grandad never really spoke about it so I'm assuming it was horrendous for him and he blocked it out... regards
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 23.12.2016 UK
Comments: Wayne, is it the same Arthur Bancroft whose story is told on the 'Articles' pages of this website ? Served and sunk on HMAS Perth ? (copy and paste link:) http://www.pows-of-japan.net/articles/61.htm
   
   
Name: Wayne Bancroft
Location Carlisle W.A.
Email: bancroftwayne1@gmail.com
Comments: Second cousin of Arthur Bancroft, a family treasure. Found two other Bancroft's on the Memorial in Ballarat. Any info would be appreciated.
   
   
Name: vicki kostrt
Location sydney
Comments: Looking for any information you may have on Willem johanne koster who was sent to changi at the age of 13 as he was considered to be an adult. He was born in batavia on 23 Oct 1941. Any information would be appreciated.
   
   
Name: Simon
Location Wiltshire
Email: greymouser67@gmail.com
Comments: Hi Mike, Thank you very much for the information. It has been very helpful. Kind regards, Simon
   
   
Name: Mike
Comments: Simon, Nike camp was 281Km north of the start of the railroad, just 19Km from the Burma border. Alternative spellings are Niike, Nikki, Nieke and Ni Thi.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 05.12.2016 UK
Comments: Hi Simon, Private J Gore, address shown as (very feint) 57, Ingle Thorpe Street, Fulham, London SW6. Although the CWGC website lists him as REME, all the documents from Changi in 1942 list him as RAOC 14th Division. He is listed as being sent to the Siam Railroad in the ill fated 'F Party', on 29.04.1943, in train 12. 7,000 men were sent over 12 days, made up of 3334 British and 3666 Australians. they were to suffer the highest casualties of any group. They remained under the control of the Malay Command, not the Thai-Burma Command so they suffered in the distribution of supplies. Another factor was the forced march of some 300 kilometres in shocking conditions to their work area near the Burma border. The final disaster on top of over work, poor rations, and diseases rife in the area was the cholera epidemic, which struck during the wet season. 3,100 of 'F Force' died. James was one of those who died of cholera, and that is why he is listed on the Singapore Memorial rather than having a grave in Thailand, due to cremations.
   
   
Name: Simon
Location Wiltshire
Email: greymouser67@gmail.com
Comments: Hi, I have just found this site, and was hoping someone could help me. I am currently researching my wife's Grandfather, 7651411 Craftsman James Gore REME, who was captured in 1942 and is reported to have died in Malai, Nike, Thailand in August 1943. Does anyone have any other information about him, or cn you tell me where this camp was? I know that he is on the singapore memorial. many thanks, Simon
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 02.12.2016
Comments: Hi Jenny, I can give you a little information. Private W J Bedford, service number 6459205, address given as 123, Tewkesbury Road, South Tottenham, London. Enlisted with the Royal Fusiliers which have their garrison at the Tower of London. Transferred to RAMC (date unknown) and was with 32 Company RAMC at the fall of Singapore on 15.02.1942. It does not appear that he left Singapore during his captivity, firstly at Changi and later (probably May 1944) at Kranji Hospital Camp.
   
   
Name: Jeiiny Slade
Location Wiltshire
Email: jen74slade@gmail.com
Comments: Hi, I am trying to fond out as much as I can about my Grand dad. His name was William John Bedford, from North London (Tottenham area). He joined up and was a Japanese POW. He died many years ago now as have all my family that would have known any information. I believe he was a medic . He never really spoke about the war years but from the little I have gathered his life was proabably spared because he was a medic and he used to do deals with the guards. Whether this is true or not is something that I guess I will never know for sure. Again going back years I believe the Japanese apologised for the PPW's treatment and in the event of his death the payment made as compensastion was made to my late grandmother. I know much about my grandmothers family during the war. Their house got bombed while her brothers were on leave and she los many family members. I am told that William John Bedford had a sister married to her brother and that they both died during this bombing along with other family home on leave. The mystery though is my grandfather and I would love to be able to pice together a bit about his life during the war so that I can pass the information onto my children . So many fought for freedom and yet so many stories are lost :-( If anyone can help me I would be eternally grateful. Many Thanks. Jenny
   
   
Name: Maria
Location australia
Email: ozelkie@hotmail.com
Comments: Thanks Mike. would you have any idea where the Honbu (HQ) would have been.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 22.11.2016
Comments: Maria, 'Honbu' is the Japanese for headquarters.
   
   
Name: Maria
Location Australia
Email: ozelkie@hotmail.com
Comments: I have a list of camps/work areas from TBRC of where my father was, but recently found 2 more not on that list on FMP one was "Thailand or 4D Camp" which I see from other comments means Group 4, but what does Group 4 mean? and the other I found was "Honbu Camp" My father was with the AIF. thanking you in advance.
   
   
Name: Steve
Location Stockport
Email: s.greatbanks@ntlworld.com
Comments: Thanks Mike for your help with information on Allen Capstick. You will be pleased to know that he settled in Canada with his wife after the war and brought up a family in Ontario.
   
   
Name: J wood
Location Norwich Norfolk
Email: janet_swithy51@yahoo.co.uk
Comments: My dad was in raoc in camp 1 &3 I know that from post card sent from cam His name was William e Westwood service no 7633175
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 15.11.2016
Comments: Rab, re L/Bdr John Anderson, 12th Coast Regiment. For anything to do with Hong Kong you are better going to the expert, Tony Banham. I am sure he will help with questions. His website is http://www.hongkongwardiary.com/
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 15.11.2016 UK
Comments: Hi Richard, re uncle Joe Goodwin. Private Goodwin, 5829865, 4th Suffolk Regiment. Next of kin shown as Mrs Plant, 7 Cage Walk, Walton, Felixstowe, Suffolk. Sent to the Siam Railroad on 25.10.1942. Died at Tonchan Main Camp on 28.01.1943, and was buried in original grave 15.. Tonchan was 139 Km upline from Nong Pladok.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 15.11.2016 UK
Comments: Hi Steve, re2nd Lt Alan Littlewood Capstick EC 2378 2/9 Gurkha Rifles. Address of next of kin, Father, shown as c/o British Petroleum Mission, Broad Street, New York, USA. Imprisoned at Changi for 9 months, and then on 05.11.1942 sent to the Siam Railroad as part of 'M Party'. 654 men made up of 152 Officers and 502 other ranks. Details of camps not known. Released into allied hands 30.08.1945. Regarding some of the information you got from Ancestry, I believe can be answered as follows. 17 is the Japanese way of writing 1942, so OL 17 actually means he was sent Overland (train) 1942. 1944 former camp M-7-145, is actually his former camp POW number. Remarks 17/11/12 is the Japanese date of 1942/Nov/12th which is probably when he arrived at the Railroad camp, as it is a week after he departed Singapore.
   
   
Name: John Taranto
Location Australia
Email: johntaranto@exemail.com.au
Comments: I'm seeking information about my little known step father Karel Lodewijk Goldbach, He was a doctor and officer in the dutch army, lieutenant or captain. Karel was captured in Java in 1942 and eventually was assigned to a section of the Siam/ Burma railway. I never knew him, my mother and he divorced before I was born. I believ an ancestor of his was a former governor of part of the Netherlands Indies.I would greatly appreciate any information anyone may have, Many thanks, John
   
   
Name: Rab Sterritt
Location Belfast
Email: rabsterritt@hotmail.co.uk
Comments: Looking information for a friend, her uncle was lance bdr John Anderson who was lost on the Lisbon Maru, any help would be appreciated.
   
   
Name: Victoria Smith
Location Leicestershire
Email: victoriaanita1982@hotmail.co.uk
Comments: Looking for info on my Grandad Peter Smith born 27th Jan 1916 died 1974 who was in Thailand in a camp in 1942 have an image of his index card from an ancestory website. I have no idea how to translate it . Links to Bagworth and Ibstock in Leicestershire. I'm mainly wanting to know how long he was there what type of work he did there etc? Did he work on the railway
   
   
Name: richard Goodwin
Location haverhill Suffolk
Email: rgoodwin12345@aol.com
Website: rgoodwin
Comments: My uncle Joe Goodwin died on the burma railway,been trying to find imformation about him, my father fought in burma in the chindits,they went out on two diffrent ships joe went to sinapore and was captured my dads ship was sent to burma.
   
   
Name: AJ
Location London
Email: aj@netaxis.co.uk
Comments: Hello, my grandfather John Smith a former book-binder from London, died in as a Japanese POW. He was captured in Singapore and his war grave is in Kanchanaburi Thailand. That's the only info I have. I would be so pleased if anyone had any more details on his regiment etc. Many thanks
   
   
Name: Sue
Location UK
Email: Austins15@yahoo.com
Comments: Mathew thank u so much and in one click I've got 4 camps which I haven't been able to find on and off over the last few years. In years to come, I intend to go to Japan (not sure Dad wld be happy about this) but want to try and trace his route, not sure how feasible this will be, but this is a great help. Massive thanks. Sue
   
   
Name: matthew
Location manchester
Comments: Sue. http://www.cofepowdb.org.uk/cdb/Controller.jsp?action=viewimage&photo-id=3743 i think this is him
   
   
Name: matthew
Location manchester
Comments: i was recently in Singapore and went to the changi war museum. http://www.cofepowdb.org.uk/ this is a website which is constantly being updated with War documents of people who were POW in the far east and who were assigned to that area of the world. i found my grandfathers information on this webiste which was incredible. strongly recommend you check it out
   
   
Name: Sue
Location Uk
Email: Austins15@yahoo.com
Comments: My deceased father, Charles Edward Burgess known as Charlie, was captured in the Java Sea around March 1942. He was in the Royal Artillery as a Gunner, rank 1646368. Wld anyone know where I shld start looking for his details ..... I think, although not certain he went to Java Camp but can find no other details. Know he had a Friend called Winkler???? However his final camp may have been 20 miles from Nagasaki and came home after the A bomb via US on the QueenMary??? Any help greatly appreciated. Thanks. Sue
   
   
Name: Steve
Location Stockport
Email: s.greatbanks@ntlworld.com
Comments: I would be grateful for any information on 2nd Lt Alan Littlewood Capstick EC 2378 2/9 Gurkha Rifles captured on 15 Feb 1942,at the fall of Singapore. I have bits of information from the Ancestry website which says he was a POW in Thailand during the war and liberated on 2 September 1945, camp TH. Also from Ancestry is that on the 5 November 1942 he was at OL 17, in 1944 his former camp was recorded as M-7-145 and the remarks section on this form was M17/11/12.
   
   
Name: Malcolm
Location Cumbria
Comments: Thanks for that info it was more than I had. Very much appreciated.
   
   
Name: Jonathan Moffatt
Location UK
Email: JonathanMoffatt@aol.com
Website: malayanvolunteersgroup.org.uk
Comments: Jenny, if you want to e mail me I know a little about the 'Asia Boys' [Empress of Asia crew] who were mostly interned as civilians in Changi Gaol until May 1944 then Sime Road Camp, Singapore. In the final days before the Fall of Singapore most were hospital orderlies at Singapore General Hospital.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 09.11.2016
Comments: Malcolm ...... Not much information I'm afraid. Douglas was imprisoned at Changi until 27.10.1942 when he was sent to the Siam railroad as part of "V Party". This was a trainload of 650 men of which the largest contingents were 227 men from the Manchester Regiment and 233 men from the Gordon Highlanders. I have not been able to trace their camps but will email some detail as to where you might obtain it.
   
   
Name: Malcolm
Location Cumbria
Email: malcolmwaters@kendalofficeequipment.co.uk
Comments: Mike .... what I have so far Douglas Henry Hill, Private service no 3534636 1/BN Manchester Reg, dob 12/08/1916 Captured Singapore 15/02/1942
   
   
Name: Jenny Neill
Location Liverpool
Comments: Hi I'm wondering if anyone has any details about my grandfather.his name was John Charles Cahoon and he was a pow after the ship he was on (empress of Asia)was destroyed on the 5th Feb 1942.i believe he was taken to changi prison.i don't have alot of details about him unfortunately as he died before I was born.any help would be greatly appreciated thank you .
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 08.11.2016
Comments: Hi Malcolm. Maybe, possibly, hopefully. If you give his name and any other information you already have. Regiment, service number etc would help to speed up a search but not essential. More information = more chances. If you want to add an email, documentary evidence can also be sent. (but up to you).
   
   
Name: Malcolm
Location Cumbria
Comments: BTW Mike is there anyway of finding out which camp(s) my Cousin would have been in
   
   
Name: Malcolm
Location Cumbria
Comments: Many thanks Mike ...........
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 05.11.2016
Comments: Emma, see email, with your grandfathers name as subject.
   
   
Name: Emma whyte
Location Glenrothes
Email: Emma_whyte@sky.com
Comments: Still trying to find information out about my grandfather Thomas mcmorran from west Lothian Scotland was in the lovat scouts, British army. prisoner of war early 1940s thanks
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 31.10.2016
Comments: Hi Malcolm, very confusingly, Camp Thailand or 4D Camp does not refer to ANY camp. It is a terminology used referring to the men who were in Group 4, and therefore could relate to numerous camps.
   
   
Name: Malcolm
Location Cumbria
Comments: Hi All.......... does anyone know if ''Camp Thailand or 4D Camp'' goes by any other name
   
   
Name: Lee Shaw
Location Edinburgh
Comments: Dear Mike, thank you so much for the information, it's much more than i have at the moment. I really appreciate your time and effort. my kindest regards.
   
   
Name: SD Stewart
Location Canada
Comments: Hi Mike, thank you so much for this! It's far more information than I have ever had before. I really appreciate your time and effort on this!
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 15.10.2016 UK
Comments: Hi SD. Here is some information, but it leaves lots of unanswered gaps. Address, 16 Marquis Road, Aberdeen, Scotland. Lance Corporal John S Stewart, was a regular soldier who signed up in May 1939 with the Royal Corps of Signals. (RCoS). He was with the 3rd Indian Corps. Captured at Singapore on 15.02.1942, and was a prisoner there for 9 months. Sent to the Siam Railroad on 04.11.1942 as part of 'N Party', which consisted of 656 men, and over half were RCoS. I cannot trace his camps in Siam, and his return to Singapore. August 1944 he was sent to Japan, and probably (not confirmed) into Osaka Camp 6 Akenobe, which was a copper mine. When this camp was destroyed by American bombers he was moved on 18.06.1945 to Nagoya 9B Camp (Jinzu Iwase) where he would have worked as a stevedore in the docks. It was from this camp he was liberated.
   
   
Name: SD Stewart
Location Canada
Comments: Hello Mike, so sorry to bother you again, but I'm wondering if there is anything you might be able to find on John Sim Stewart? We know he was captured on February 15, 1942 and his service number was 2584346. My father had me late in life and would never speak about his experience as a POW. I wish I had been able to get him to share more, and now that he is gone I'm not sure where to look. Any information you could provide or direct me towards would be very appreciated. Thank you so much.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 14.10.2016
Comments: Lee, information on Victor has proved to be VERY elusive. He is recorded as being taken prisoner on Java on 08.03.1942, but I can find no trace of him leaving Java. However, information suggests he died in Borneo, and by his date of date this corresponds to just before the horrific Sandekan death marches. If you try further internet searches, the regiment was 77 HAA (Heavy Anti Aircraft) and not 77 AA. Sorry I could not help further.
   
   
Name: Lee Shaw
Location Edinburgh
Email: leeshaw300@outlook.com
Comments: I am trying to find any information regarding my great uncle Victor Tom Glover. He was a Lance Sergeant with the 77 A.A. Regt., R.A. Sig. Sec. Royal Corps of Signals In the British army. He died in 06/02/45 Age 31. I believe he is honored at the Kranji, Singapore memorial. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
   
   
Name: Kerry Sibson
Location Uk
Comments: I am trying to trace more about edwin marsden who was cousin to my grandfather. He was pow and worked on the railway including the bridge at river kwai. He would never speak much about his experiences and I would like to learn more. Sadly he is no longer with is to ask further. He had some original embroidery from the time of being pow he did and he gave this to a museum
   
   
Name: Rachel Sapstead
Location Loughborough, Leicestershire, UK
Email: rachel.sapstead@le.ac.uk
Comments: I'm interested in tracing Gerald Owen Shelton Year Captures 15th Feb 1942 after the fall of Singapore. Nationality British. Service number 1811521. Rank Private. Country of imprisonment: Thailand, 4D Camp
   
   
Name: Ross Gandy
Location London
Comments: Mike, thanks very much for taking the time to providing this. Its appreciated.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 10.10.2016 UK
Comments: Hi Ross.Re Quarter Master Sergeant C F Gandy. Service number 835700. At the fall of Singapore on 15.02.1942 he was serving with the HQ Royal Artillery 11th Indian Division. I am unable to trace what his own regiment was. If you now scroll down a few posts to the post about Corporal Philip Pembridge. Your Grandfather also was on the same hellship, England Maru, and put into Camp 6 Taihoku. He remained in T6 until 26.10.1944, when he was then sent to slave in the Kinkaseki Copper Mine, where he became prisoner number 1121, or as he would always remember ichi ichi ni ichi. In June 1945 all the men were taken into the jungle to a camp known as Kukutsu, which was to be their extermination camp if the Americans landed. There was actually no camp when they arrived, they had to clear an area of jungle and tea plants and build some shelter. The conditions were terrible and the beatings from demoralised Japanese was extreme. When the Japanese surrendered they made their way down to a recovery camp and eventually to Keelung where they were repatriated by the American navy to Manila. His homeward journey was probably via USA or Canada, but I cannot confirm this.
   
   
Name: Ross Gandy
Location London
Email: rossgandy@hotmail.co.uk
Comments: Hi, I am not sure if you still have the detail but, could you share the information on Christopher Gandy. He was my grandad, any information on him would be appreciated.
   
   
Name: Kellie
Location Kallangur - Northside of Brisbane 8/10/201
Email: kaspicer@westnet.com.au
Comments: Hello all, I am not sure where to start. My Great Uncle Jack Eric Wallis service number Qx13907, was part of the 2/26th Australian Infantry Battalion (7th Division) in the Malaysian conflict of WWII. First he was missing presumed to be a POW, then they confirmed he was a POW, because he was on a casualty list and as mentioned he was a POW and placed in Changi. Have always wanted to know more information not just about Changi and what happened but information about the men themselves. I don't know if their is any information on my Great Uncle but I wouldn't mind anyone who may know. I only have one photo of him and I am trying to find more but don't know if any exist. Hoping that someone out their knows more about this story, even if you can direct me to any books, would love to know more. Thankyou all in advance.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 07.10.2016
Comments: Hi Hayley. Corporal Philip Pembridge, service number 2375694. Royal Corps of Signals, 11th Indian Division. Captured at the surrender of Singapore, 15.02.1942. Imprisoned at Changi for 6 months. (I will now copy from a previous post as details are the same). 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, including Philip were sent to Taihoku #6 Camp in Taipei. Most men on Formosa were eventually sent to work at Kinkaseki as so many men there either died or became sick, but Philip remained at T#6. 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. They were then taken to Manila for the onward journey home, some via Suez but many via San Francisco or Vancouver. I have been to Kinkaseki and T#6 a few times, and have many photos including your Grandfathers name engraved on a memorial wall if you would like them.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location UK 07.10.2016
Comments: Hi Catrina, re John Preston. I cant be much help , but maybe can direct you to a narrower search. The Royal Scots were in Hong Kong when the Japanese attacked, but he is NOT listed as being there. They were also a regiment that fought in 1943/4 against the Japanese in Kohima and Imphal. As he is not listed as a Hong Kong or Singapore POW, it seems the Burma route should be investigated.
   
   
Name: Hayley pembridge
Location Newport, s wales
Email: hpembridge@hotmail.co.uk
Comments: Hi, would you be able to see if there is any information in my grandfather? He was Phillip pembridge from Newport, s wales. I don't have any details of where he was as he would never talk about his experiences. Thank you.
   
   
Name: catrina
Location preston
Email: catrinadewar@hotmail.co.uk
Comments: hi i wonder if an one can help i am looking for any imformation on john preston private in the royal scots he was a prisoner of war with the japanese not sure of where or his number, his home town was alloa clackmannanshire if this helps
   
   
Name: SD Stewart
Location Canada
Comments: Looking for any information on my father, John Sim Stewart. I know he was captured on February 15, 1942 and his service number was 2584346. Any information would be greatly appreciated!
   
   
Name: Patricia McCormick
Location London, england
Comments: I am looking for info, on my grandfather George henry mash, who was a pow in wwll
   
   
Name: Kay Fitt(nee) Hall
Location Market Bosworth
Email: admin@stpetersprimary.org
Comments: Although I have not been able to find any more information about my Father Edmund Hall I would like to obtain any more information about two of his close friends Stan Watts of London and Jack Farrow of Sherringham
   
   
Name: A.Ahmed
Location Asia
Email: raycan88@gmail.com
Website: raycan88@gmail.com
Comments: Hi, i am looking for info regarding my great grandfather of the 14th punjab regiment, 5th battalion. Taken prisoner in 1942, singapore malaya. shoulder no. 10173. any info regarding him would be most appreciated. thank you. his name is Muhammad Khan
   
   
Name: Rachel
Location Stockport
Email: rbakewell@outlook.com
Comments: I am looking for information regarding my uncle Tom he was also known as Basher Bailey his name was Tom William Bailey.
   
   
Name: chris
Location norkolk
Email: secondhandcentre@btinternet.com
Comments: Thanks mike, that's why I couldn't find his regt They said he was shot trying to escape, but know there was more to it,, but really appreciate your help now know where to start looking,
   
   
Name: amanda
Location los angeles
Email: mandychapp@gmail.com
Comments: Hello I am trying to find out any information about my Great Uncle Ronald Fitzgerald, who was the governor of Stanley Prison during the war years (and before) and was interned by Japanese. Any information would be wonderful. Thank you Amanda
   
   
Name: Mike
Comments: Lee, see email about Chindits.
   
   
Name: Lee
Location Berkshire , uk
Email: Ltmsevenoaks@gmail.com
Website: Ltmsevenoaks@gmail.com
Comments: Hi trying to get information about George Elder from blackwatch can anybody please help. Any information would be great. Thank you in advance
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 17.09.2016
Comments: Chris, Firstly the regiment is incorrect on the CWGC website, he was actually in the 21 LAA Royal Artillery. Taken prisoner on Java on 08.03.1942. Sent to Kuching, Borneo. What followed was one of the worst atrocities by the Japanese of the whole war. I dont intend to give any detail more than to give some numbers and names for you to further investigate. In summary out of appx 2,970 men, just 6 survived. The words to search are Sandakan and Ranau. He would be remembered on the Singapore memorial as most graves were not identified in Borneo.
   
   
Name: chris harvey
Location norfolk
Email: secondhandcentre@btinternet.com
Comments: Hi looking for information on my granddad Lawrence Leonard mansi, 1563176, 42bty.,2/lt.A.A. regt., royal artillery. All I can find out is when he died would appreciate any more info thx.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 16.09.2016 UK
Comments: Simon, re L/Cpl H W Sayers, of Leatherhead, Surrey. RASC 18th Division, which means he only arrived in January 1942, just weeks before the surrender on 15.02.1942. Imprisoned at Changi, Thompson Road and Siam Road on Singapore, before being sent to the Siam Railroad on 24.04.1943. Entrained on train 7 of 'F Force'. 500 UK POWs and 100 AIF POWs on this train for a 5 day nightmare journey. If you search 'F Force 1943' you will get the full horrors of this party and the heavy loss of men through malnutrition and disease including cholera. It appears he was fortunate enough to be returned to Singapore by December 1943, where he went to Sellarang and later to Kranji, where he ended the war. I will also email regarding some documents.
   
   
Name: Simon
Location Hampshire
Comments: I'm trying to find out as much as I can about my great uncle. His name was Herbert Dennis Sayers (he preferred to be called Dennis) his no. Was T/166936 I have found out he was captured in Singapore on the 15/02/1942 If anyone can shed any light on what he may have done during his service I would be extremely grateful. Many thanks
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 13.09.2016
Comments: Kay, as with all those POWs who remained on Singapore, there is very little information as there is no paperwork trail. Service number 4860471. All I can tell you is that he was in 1st Leicestershire Regiment but was moved to HQ 11th Indian Army, before the Japanese landings in December 1941. He is listed as I.A.C.C. which I can only imagine means Indian Army Control Centre. From Feb.42 - May 44 he was in Changi Camp, and then after all the civilians were moved out, he went into Changi Gaol, where he remained until 15.09.1945.
   
   
Name: Kay Fitt(nee) Hall
Location Market Bosworth
Email: admin@stpetersprimary.org
Comments: I am looking to find some more information about my father Sgt Edmund Hall who was prisoner in Changi jail until his release by Lord Mountbatten at the end of the war
   
   
Name: Amanda Orchard
Comments: Many Thanks Mike for your info you have sent :-)
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 12.09.2016 UK
Comments: Hi Amanda. Private CJ Campbell, service number 5775512, 5th Norfolk Regiment. Address shown as 2, Albion Terrace, Wisbech, Cambs. Taken prisoner at Singapore on 15.02.1942, imprisoned Changi. 19.03.1943 sent on Train 5 of Overland D Party to the Burma/Siam Railroad. Between 14th - 23rd March, 5000 men were sent, comprising of 2780 from UK, and 2220 from Australia. Most of these men slaved around Tarso, Hintock and Kinnsayok. I do not have his particular camp details.
   
   
Name: Amanda Orchard
Location Houghton, Cambridgeshire, UK
Email: Amanda@amandaorchardevents.co.uk
Comments: I'm after any info about my lovely granddad Clifford Campbell who was in the Royal Norfolk regiment & was in Changi jail. He was a cook but we know very little as he never see about it. Any help gratefully received. Thank you.
   
   
Name: Lee Searle
Location Uk 10/9/2016
Email: Ltmsevenoaks@gmail.com
Comments: I am trying to find information about my great uncle who was in BlackWatch - George Elder we know he was taking as a pow but sadly we have no further information. Thanks in advance
   
   
Name: lewis lambert
Location Wisbech Cambs
Comments: Hello Mike, Thanks for the speedy reply, very much appreciated Lewis
   
   
Name: Michelle
Location Uk
Email: Mjdreading@gmail.com
Comments: Hi, I'm trying to find out information about my grandfather, John Darby he was in the Gordon highlanders and A Japanese pow but for his own reasons never discussed his history. I am proud of my grandfather and would like to understand a few things. Any information is welcome. Thanks
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 07.09.2016 UK
Comments: Hi Lewis, .. Private Alfred Lambert, 1st Cambridgeshire Regiment. Address: 8, Newmarket Road, Burwell, Cambs.. Imprisoned Changi, 15.02.1942, Work parties around Singapore. Sent to the Siam Railroad on 10.10.1942. (sorry no camp details). Returned to Singapore, prisoner at River Valley camp. On 02.02.1945 boarded the Japanese hellship Haruyasa Maru and sent to Saigon, Vietnam. I imagine he ended the war there.
   
   
Name: lewis lambert
Location Wisbech Cambs
Email: lewisjlambert@gmail.com
Comments: Hello, I was wondering if you had any information regarding Alfred Lambert 5933445. He was my grandfather's brother (also a FEPOW) but we have no other information about him thanks
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 05.09.2016 UK
Comments: Hi Pamela, Gunner William Henry Edwards, service number 1109356, address: 1, Abergwilyra, Rhosrobin, Near Wrexham. 135th Field Regiment. Taken prison at the fall of Singapore 15.02.1942. Imprisoned at Changi, and then spent 5 months at Bukit Timah. This was probably working on building a shrine for the Japanese to honour their dead. He then spent time at Roberts barracks and also time in Changi Hospital. On 25.04.1943 he was sent to the Burma/Siam Railroad of Death. Probably, in December 1943 he was returned to Singapore where he was located in September 1945 at war end. I do not have his camp details on the railroad.
   
   
Name: Pamela Cartlidge
Location Cardiff
Email: pamelacartlidge@btinternet.com
Comments: I am trying to gather information about my uncle Harry (William Henry Edwards) who was taken prisoner by the Japanese in 1943. He survived Chengi weighing just 6stone. I believe he was taken to America to fatten him up before coming home, would like to know where he went.
   
   
Name: Hayley collis
Location Central coast nsw
Email: hayleycollis@gmail.com
Comments: Just wondering if anybody had any information on my grandfather Jack Collis POW Japanese war camp?
   
   
Name: Maureen
Location Poole, Dorset
Email: megrant271@virginmedia.com
Comments: Mike, I did respond to the email, I sent my reply on 15th August, after I had seen your answer. I continued my research with the information you gave . I thought that was all the information you had for me. I am sorry I did not realise that I was expected to also respond via this page Thanks
   
   
Name: Mike
Comments: Its disappointing you never responded to the original answer posted on 08.08.2016, (scroll down) and also the email sent to you. With no reply I assumed you were not interested and after spending time searching out information and photographing folders, I then deleted then about 2 weeks later.
   
   
Name: Maureen
Location Poole, Dorset
Email: megrant271@virginmedia.com
Comments: Hi, Re: Gunner H W Usher 1759182, 35 LAA Following my last contact with this page I have found some information about my uncle Bill. I have not however been able to find anything from March 1942 when he was captured by the Japanese, to September 1943 when he was transported to Japan. Similarly I have not found anything on his journey home after early September 1945, when he was liberated from Fukuoka # 8 camp. Unfortunately I do not have any living family members I can ask if they have any further information. I do remember my mum telling me as a child that it was a long time after the WW2 ended that uncle Bill came home. She also told me that he returned home a very sick man both physically and mentally. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Maureen
   
   
Name: Simon
Location Hampshire, UK
Email: simonparker1977@ntlworld.com
Comments: I'm trying to find out as much as I can about my great uncle. His name was Herbert Dennis Sayers (he preferred to be called Dennis) his no. Was T/166936 I have found out he was captured in Singapore on the 15/02/1942 If anyone can shed any light on what he may have done during his service I would be extremely grateful. Many thanks
   
   
Name: Sara stringer
Location York
Comments: I am looking for information about a Frank stringer who died in June 1943 as a Japanese prisoner of war aged 27 . He's my husbands grandfather. Please email me on nuttynurse73@hotmail.co.uk many thanks in advance .
   
   
Name: Cherie
Location UK
Comments: I am seeking any info on Gunner George T C McDonald (88th Field Regiment, RA). He was captured in Malaya (I believe) during the Battle for Singapore and reported missing in Feb 1942. He was one of the many POW casualties who died whilst being transported on the Japanese cargo ship 'Hofuku Maru'. Sunk by US submarines 15 Sep 1944. I have no information on which camp/s he was held in and would be grateful for any information. Thank you.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 24.08.2016 UK
Comments: Hi Adam, I can fill in a few gaps for you, but not much detail I'm afraid. Gunner Claude Avery, 1639336 was actually taken prisoner on 09.03.1942 (not 1943) on Java. His regiment was the 48 Anti Aircraft Regiment (48 LAA). He was sent to Borneo on a Japanese hellship on 03.02.1943, the ships name is unknown and generally referred to as NN Maru 15. This ship docked at Kuching. He was repatriated from Borneo at war end, and I have no record that he went to the Burma/Siam railroad. Hope this helps. There is another poster on this forum who has added far more detail about Borneo in the past, hopefully he will look in and add detail.
   
   
Name: Adam mason
Location Bromley
Email: A.mason261@btinternet.com
Comments: Hi, my grandfather Claude L Avery no.1639336 Royal Artillery was a pow of the Japanese between 1/2/43 and 8/11/45. I believe he was on the Burmese railway. Finding any further information over the last few years has drawn a blank. Can anyone help me? I would really appreciate it. Adam.
   
   
Name: Gwenllian South
Location Colchester
Website: www.gwenllian-south.co.uk
Comments: My grandfather, Stoker Petty Officer James South, was a POW in Tokyo between 1941 and 1945. Understandably, he never wanted to speak about his experiences there, but I would be keen to know more about his life and service. Thank you.
   
   
Name: Jonathan Moffatt
Location UK
Email: JonathanMoffatt@aol.com
Website: malayanvolunteersgroup.org.uk
Comments: Hello, Hollie 3055241 Pte F.V. Sanders is on a list I have of Royal Scots Hong Kong POWs. His home address [father]: Mr H. Sanders, 9 Chestnut Tree Avenue, Limetree Park, Coventry. Yes, Tony Banham the man to ask - his book and website entitled 'Not the Slightest Chance.'
   
   
Name: Hollie
Location UK
Email: hols084@hotmail.com
Comments: Thank you I will do, I do believe that he was a Japanese POW but will see if the Hong Kong site can tell me some more of the story as I don't know what camp he was in. Thanks for the speedy response.
   
   
Name:
Comments: Hollie, with anything to do with Hong Kong go to Tony Banhams website at http://hongkongwardiary.com. I can see your grandad listed there, as being hospitalised on 24.12.41 etc. Tony will help further.
   
   
Name: Hollie
Location UK
Email: hols084@hotmail.com
Comments: Hello, I am hoping to learn more about my grandad Frederick Vivien Sanders. I know that he was recruited in Wales into the Royal Scots Infantry regiment and served in the Defence of Hong Kong against the Japanese in WW2. Thank you!
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 14.08.2016
Comments: Hi Emily. Re Quarter Master Sergeant C F Gandy. I have quite a lot of information regarding your Grandad. However, due to so many recent posts where people are not bothering to return for answers after a lot of time has been spent searching for information, I will await you posting again with an email address, to prove it is worthwhile spending time.
   
   
Name: Emily Wood
Location Darwen, Lancashire
Comments: I have recently found out (although I've not many family members left to get more detail from, that my grandad's brother (Christopher Frank Gandy) was a Japanese POW. From what I have been told, he served in the Royal Artillery (it will have been an Essex regiment, as that is where my family are from). He was gassed as a POW, but managed to survive & live until 1987.
   
   
Name: Rhonda O'Donnell
Location Melbourne, Australia
Email: rocketrhonda63@gmail.com
Comments: My grandfather was a British POW prisoner captured by the Japanese in WW2. If anyone knew of him could they please get in touch with me. He was Lance Corporal Horace Frederick Mann with the Royal Norfolk Regiment, 4th Battalon. Captured on 15-2-1942 and died on 2-8-1943 at 'H Force' Camp 3. was overland to railway with 'H Force' 4-5-1943.
   
   
Name: Rhonda O'Donnell
Location Melbourne, Australia
Email: rocketrhonda63@gmail.com
Comments: My grandfather was a British POW prisoner captured by the Japanese in WW2. If anyone knew of him could they please get in touch with me. He was Lance Corporal Horace Frederick Mann with the Royal Norfolk Regiment, 4th Battalon.
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 08.08.2016 UK
Comments: Hi Maureen. Gunner H W Usher, 1759182, 35th Light Anti Aircraft Regiment (35 LAA). Departed Batavia, Java on 11.09.1943 on Harugika Maru, as part of Java Party 16. Arrived Singapore 14.09.43. Departed Singapore on 20.09.1943 on Ussuri Maru for Japan. Imprisoned at Fukuoka 8 Camp, Inatsuki. This was predominantly a coal mining camp.
   
   
Name: Maureen
Location Dorset
Email: megrant271@virginmedia.com
Comments: See my previous comment Re: H W Usher 1 forgot to add my email -
   
   
Name: Maureen
Location Dorset
Comments: I am looking for more information about my uncle Bill. Full name Herbert William Usher, service number 1759182. I am interested in his time as a POW. Captured 1942 (Java) Liberated 1945 (Japan)
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 05.08.2016
Comments: Hi David. Sgt, Dermot Cullen was RASC and he was with 18th Division 54 Infantry Brigade. See email I have sent regarding his camps. 4D was not a camp, it means he was with those in Group 4.
   
   
Name: David Cullen
Location Dublin, Ireland
Email: djcullenmac@gmail.com
Comments: Hi, I am looking for any addition information if you have it regarding my Great Uncle. Sergeant Dermot Cullen. Service No: T 56154. Royal Army Service Corps ? - Not 100% on that. Particularly like to know the various camps he may have transitioned through. The only one I could find was "4D Thailand" I believe he was likely interned in the immediate aftermath of the fall of Singapore. He survived his ordeal and lived a long life. The family has many sketches produced and saved by him during his captivity with some names detailed that we know nothing about. Many thanks.
   
   
Name: Lyn Collingborn
Location South Wales UK
Email: lyncollingborn@btinternet.com
Comments: looking for info on Sidney Betenson B 3rd July 1915 D,6th Nov 1999. Went down on the HMS Exeter,she was sunk on 1st March 1942, . Seven hundred and fourteen men of HMS Exeter were taken as POWs by the Japanese to a camp at Macassar after the sinking I have a few photos but very little info Thanks for any help Lyn
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 01.08.2016 UK
Comments: Hi Jean, Bombardier John Henry Hanson 880016, 85th Anti-Tank Regiment. Sailed from Gourock on 12/11/1941 on Empress of Japan. Arrived Halifax and transferred to the USS Mount Vernon. They then sailed for Trinidad, Cape Town, Mombassa and finally Singapore, arriving 13/01/1942. Imprisoned Singapore from 15/02/1942 until 29/10/1942 when he was sent by train to the Siam Railroad, this was known as T Party. This party consisted of men also from the 135 Field Regiment, 125 Anti-Tank Regiment, and some of the 6th Norfolk Regiment. I cannot confirm what camps he worked at on the railroad. Stuart Young of the 85th Anti-Tank had a book published posthumously in 2013 called Life on the Death Railway which apparently contains details of 610 POWs he came into contact with. If you copy and paste this link it will show copies available at Abebooks. http://www.abebooks.co.uk/servlet/SearchResults?isbn=9781848848207&n=100121501&cm_sp=mbc-_-9781848848207-_-new The files show he returned to Singapore before war end, but he is not listed in Changi files. I believe he was probably at Adam Road Camp,
   
   
Name: Jean Lee
Location Waled
Email: Jean.lee786@gmail.com
Comments: I am looking for infotmation about my father bombadier John Henry Hanson 880016.He wasa Japanese prisoner of war in Malaya.And like most of his generation didnt speak much of his experiance but the things he did tell were of great friendships.My father always said without the Guerkas he would not made it home.
   
   
Name: Eugenia Bemis
Location Chepachet RI
Email: eugeniab65@yahoo.com
Comments: Hi ,I'm looking for any information contained to my father.Edgar Eugene Griffith . The most I know is he was a cook on a ship . Please help me fine out more about This time in his life .. I need to know,the why it was so messed up . Him and my mother couldn't get it together . I just loved my daddy such .
   
   
Name: Mike
Location 25.07.2016 UK
Comments: Hi Jake, re Cpl S Hooks, 5773020. Sailed from Gourock on 27/10/1941 on the Duchess of Atholl for Halifax, Nova Scotia. They then changed ships to the American SS Mount Vernon. They then sailed for Trinidad, Cape Town, Mombassa and finally Singapore, arriving 13/01/1942. Sent to Ayer Hitam in Malaya, and in battle by 21.01.1942. Thereafter continuous retreat towards Singapore which fell on 15.02.1942. I imagine that Sidney was taken prisoner in Malaya as the records then show that he was sent to work on the Siam Railroad on 14.1042 direct from Kuala Lumpur. This was a party of 401 men and they were sent to Ban Pong. I do not have any further camps information.