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18th February 1944On this day:
If you can provide any additional information, please add it here.
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Remembering those who died this day.
- Brindley George Abraham. (d.18th Feb 1944)
- Bywater Harry George. Able Sea (d.18 Feb 1944)
- Finch William. Able Sea. (d.18th February 1944)
- Friend George Albert. Able Seaman (d.18 Feb 1944)
- Frost William Henry. Leading Stoker (d.18th Feb 1944)
- Green Kenneth. Ldg/Sea (d.18th February 1944)
- Kirtley Robert Wilkinson. PO/Stok. (d.18th Feb 1944)
- Leach Alfred. Ldg.Sig (d.18th Feb 1944)
- Lewis Alleyne. L/Cpl. (d.18th February 1944)
- Llewellyn Hubert Creighton. Lt. (d.18th Feb 1944)
- Loxam Harry Peter. Able Sea. (d.18th February 1944)
- Martin James Caleb. Able Sea. (d.18th Feb 1944)
- McLachlan Ramsey Alan. Stoker 1st class (d.18th Feb 1944)
- Phillips Dennis Dixon. Stoker 2nd Class. (d.18th Feb 1944)
- Pinnock Harry. ERA4. (d.18th Feb 1944)
- stubbs Harould. ERA. (d.18th Feb 1944)
- Taylor Gelert Grafton. Stkr.1stCl. (d.18th Feb 1944)
- Waldegrave John Montagu Granville. COM. (d.18th Feb 1944)
- Warriner Norman. (d.18th Feb 1944)
The names on this list have been submitted by relatives, friends, neighbours and others who wish to remember them, if you have any names to add or any recollections or photos of those listed,
please
Add a Name to this List
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Want to know more about the 18th of February 1944? There are:17 items tagged 18th of February 1944 available in our Library
These include information on officers, regimental histories, letters, diary entries, personal accounts and information about actions during the Second World War. |
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Stories from 18th February 1944
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Able Seaman. Elijah Cheetham. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope. My brother Elijah Cheetham, served on HMS Penelope and was onboard when she was sunk on the 18th of February 1944. I was 8 years old at that time. Recent documentarion has come to light confirming his service record. He volunteered for the Navy on the 28th of July 1943, his service is listed as comencing on 17th of December 1943, his 18th birthday. However he began his training at HMS Raleigh on the 28th of July 1943, transferring to HMS Victory on the 5th of October.
He joined HMS Penelope on the 12th of November 1943 and served onboard until she was lost in Feb 1944. He survived the sinking and sent a letter to his mother two weeks later. Here are some extracts from that letter:
From Mess 1, Ferdola Barracks, Malta.
I'm terribly sorry I haven't written to you for the last fortnight, I have been rather ill in hospital. I am a survuivor of HMS Penelope. As you know we have been doing a lot of work on the 5th Army front and our rewards was as follows:
It was Friday morning Feb 18th and we were well on our way to Anzio to give Jerry another suprise packet, but it was us that received the suprise. All of a sudden there was a terrific explosion and everyone dived for the gangway to get on the upper deck to see what was happening. We had been torpedoed but the ship was not sinking, although it had listed badly to starboard. No one was in a panic because there were too many lads injured to start worrying about ourselves, so we did the best we could to get the injured lads to sickbay. Shortly afterwards there came two more explosions (torpedoes) and the ship split in two so it was everyman for himself. I didn't hesitate because before I knew where I was I hit the water fully dressed, including sea boots, stockings and overalls.
I tried to swim for it but couldn't because my sea boots seemed to be dragging me under. I kicked these off and my overalls. Much to my relief I was able to keep my head up even though the sea was rough. I swam about for a bit but I soon got fatigued and felt myself slipping. Family came to mind and I struck out with renewed strength. After three hours I was finally picked up and dragged aboard absolutley naked apart from my waist belt and ring. Three tots of rum sent me to sleep.
We were taken to a hospital in Naples and there I have been for the last fortnight. We were then drafted to this camp once more and I was told that I should be going home. The big nobs think otherwise. I haven't done enough time out here yet, so I must stay. That's how you get treated as a survivor. All we have been issued with is toilet gear and battle dress, so it looks as if I shall have to buy new kit myself.
There were 750 in the ships company and only 200 were saved. Terrible isn't it. I am pleased to say that Stan Lake survived. I couldn't write to you seperatley. I have had to smuggle this into the country, the ship hasn't been announced as sunk yet. We are not allowed to mention that we survived. Paddy is going home so I have asked him to post this for me in England. It doesn't get sensored there, but he insists on bringing this personally. I do hope he makes it becasue I know he will get a great welcome. Please try not to worry too much about me I'm ok now and believe me I'm willing to go back and give Jerry exactly what I received and more. Even though I'm not coming home I still have that consolation of squaring things up.
Cherrio and God bless you all. Your loving son Lidge xxxx.
Elijah joined the Black Prince in July 1944 and served onboard for the remainer of the war, he was discharged on the 8th of December 1946 as having served with very good character. Roy Cheetham.
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William "" Raper. Navy, HMS Penelope. My grandfather William Raper (known as Bill) served on the HMS Penelope during WW2. He was one of the survivors when she sank in 1944. Unfortunately I don't know what his rank or number was at this point.Annabel Smith
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Capt. Thomas Stephens. MC & Bar. Royal Army Medical Corps , . My Grandmothers’s brother, Dr Thomas Stephens, served in the RAMC and was attached to the 4/16th Punjab Regiment. I understand he was at El Alamein and Monte Cassino. I was told he was awarded an MC at El Alamein and an MC Bar at Cassino. However, whilst I have been unable to find any record of the MC for El Alamein, I have found details of an immediate MC awarded at Cassino. I have found a copy of his citation dated 15 March 1944 which reads as follows and was recommended by Lt Col S.W. Packwood:
“On the night of 13-14th Feb 1944 the Btn took over the sector immediately North of the Cassino Monastery and flanking the much disputed Pt593. From the outset casualties came in in a steady stream and Capt T. Stephens, the Btn M.O. was continually occupied, not only in dealing with casualties of his own Btn, but also with those of at least two other Btns in nearby sectors which came through his R.A.P. This continued till 17th Feb and this M.O. worked without relief under conditions continually fraught with danger for long periods both day and night. The climax was reached on the morning of 18 Feb when ½ G.R and 1/9 G.R. attacked the monastery position. Casualties were very heavy and the Btn RAP formed the bottleneck through which they had to pass. The R.A.P. and approaches to it were continually under shell and mortar fire. Stretcher bearer parties, mostly consisting of personnel new to the area, had to be organised and put into action. Capt Stephens was prominent in this work throughout this period. Apart from dealing with scores of casualties he personally led stretcher parties on numerous occasions to where casualties lay and where it was almost certain death to venture. His example and untiring efforts throughout were inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of his corps.
Since 21st Feb the Btn has been in an area continually harassed by artillery, mortars and nebelwafers. Casualties have been frequent and the enemy fire at all times well concentrated and prolonged. Capt Stephens has always been first on the scene of casualties and often before the enemy fire has ceased. His alertness, promptitude and courage has been responsible for the saving of many lives and his actions have become a source of great moral comfort to all ranks of the Btn."
Commandant, 4th Btn, 16th Punjab Regiment”
Prior to the War, Tom was a GP in Ardsley, Nr Wakefield, Yorks. I know that Tom had two sons who I believe were called Timothy & Nigel, but have been unable to trace them. Anyone who can shed any further light on Tom or his sons would be much appreciated.
Alison Dickinson
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Able Seaman George Albert Friend. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope. (d.18 Feb 1944) My uncle, George Friend,died on HMS Penelope when it was sunk.i never knew him but my father, Ronald,talked about what happened to him.i would like to find out more if anyone has any information.julie hadfield
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Leading Stoker William Henry Frost. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope. (d.18th Feb 1944) My Grandfather served on HMS Penelope during World War 2 and was killed when the ship was torpedoed & sunk off the coast of Anzio on February 18th 1944. He was the leading stoker on the ship. I have a photograph of him with someone on board and would love to know if anybody the name of the man in the photo with him, and if he survived? Lisa Astbury
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Stoker 1st class Ramsey Alan McLachlan. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope. (d.18th Feb 1944) Ramsey Alan Mclachlan was my Great Uncle (my nans brother) he served on HMS Penelope during the Second World War he was only 19. He died on the 18th February 1944 the ship was destroyed. My nan used to tell me stories about him, it was such a sad loss at such a young age as of all the men that died serving in the war.
I would love to hear from anyone who remembered him or knew of him as i never got to know him would love to know something about him. He served as a stoker 1st class. I have some photos of him and would love to add some memories to them.
Reading the stories on this web site has given me some idea .
Tania Toy
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Stoker 2nd Class. Dennis Dixon Phillips. Royal Navy, HMS. Penelope. (d.18th Feb 1944) Dennis Phillips was the son of George and Annie Phillips, of Wiverton, Nottinghamshire. If anyone has any information or tales please let me know.Chris Woods
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Ldg.Sig Alfred Leach. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope. (d.18th Feb 1944) In my youth I can remember my father talking about his younger brother Alf Leach. He died on the Pepperpot. Does anyone have any further information about my uncle Alf?Andrew Leach
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George Abraham Brindley. Royal Marines, HMS Penelope. (d.18th Feb 1944) My Grandfather George Abraham Brindley was killed on 18th February 1944 when HMS Penelope was torpedoed and sank. My Grandmother, Mary, already had my mother Gladys, Mary and George were to be married on his return home. There is no record of George having a daughter during his war service. I would dearly love to see a photo of my Grandfather, as apparently my younger brother looks very much like him. Rose Smith
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Ldg/Sea Kenneth Green. Royal Navy, H.M.S Penelope. (d.18th February 1944) Kenneth Green was my uncle. He died at the age of 21. His service No.P/JX 161047. Son of Emily & Joseph Green of Leeds, Yorkshire.My Nana never got over Kenny and told me some lovely tales about him as a boy with his older brothers. Harry was in the Royal Air Force in WW2. Eric was in the Army in WW2. Both came home safe...My Mum loved all her brothers. I wish I could have met my Uncle Kenny but I am very proud of him and he will always be rememberd as a brave young man. Janet Davies
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Able Sea Harry George Bywater. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope. (d.18 Feb 1944) My Uncle Harry Bywater went down on the Penelope. I have a photograph of him in uniform and a handkerchief sent to the family with the Penelope crest on if anyone would like to see them.Sandy Wilson
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Lt. Hubert Creighton Llewellyn. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope. (d.18th Feb 1944) For Hubert Creighton Llewellyn
A time to remember.
I never knew my father.
No warrior, he.
But he, answered his nation’s call to arms.
To defend the country, he loved,
And protect its freedom, for Mum and me.
I never knew my father.
A Welshman from the valleys,
A doctor, who loved life.
HMS Penelope, his destination
The sea, his battlefield to be.
Reluctantly, he left Mum and me.
I never knew my father.
The war went on and on,
the land screamed with the pain of soldiers,
the sky turned red with the blood of airmen,
And the sea—
the sea, submerged the bodies of drowned sailors,
And raged in fury at the folly of men.
We feared for him, Mum and me.
I never knew my father.
And, it was not to be.
The knock, the telegram,
the cacophony of grief.
He had died fighting for us, his King and Country.
A black and white photograph of a laughing, happy man,
Life had changed forever, for Mum and me.
I never knew my father.
The fighting did stop,
Surrender did come,
The armistice was signed, and humanity wept with relief,
But, all this came too late for so many, many, more,
Than, just Mum and me.
I never knew my father,
The decades pass, peace and forgiveness prevail
Happiness returns and life goes on.
When, on a grey November day,
as a nation mourns its dead,
a laughing, smiling shimmering face, and time stops still.
An old black and white photograph has sprung to life,
Resurrection, perhaps?
Too late for Mum to see, but there, for me.
Julie Cadle
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ERA4. Harry Pinnock. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope. (d.18th Feb 1944) I didn't know my Uncle Harry, but I learnt about him from my mother, his sister.
Harry Pinnock was an engineer who volunteered at the outbreak of war. He did his naval training at The Royal Naval College, Dartmouth.
Harry served as an ERA4 on HMS Penelope and he died when the ship was lost on 18th of February 1944.
M.E Wilcox
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ERA. Harould stubbs. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope . (d.18th Feb 1944) Harould Stubbs was my hubbies great uncle there are no winners in war just heart ache. His poor mum never got over it , when my hubby was a boy she would sit him on her lap and cry, singing all the old songs . He died on HMS Penelope on the 18th of February 1944 he was an engine room artificer, he didn't stand a chance, he was 23. RIP Harould and all aboard that awful day. Pamela Mather
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Stkr.1stCl. Gelert Grafton Taylor. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope . (d.18th Feb 1944) Stoker 1st Class Gelert Taylor served on HMS Penelope (The Pepperpot). He was born in Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire in 1904. My grandfather, Gelert, died when HMS Penelope was torpedoed on 18th February 1944. He was married. His wife Ivy and their three children Phyllis, Mary and John, found it difficult to deal with their loss living through the blitz in Portsmouth. Gelert's wife Ivy lived to a ripe old age and she always spoke about him with love and affection.
David Braiden
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L/Cpl. Alleyne Lewis. South Caribbean Force, Windward Islands Btn.. (d.18th February 1944) Lance Corporal Lewis was the son of Arthur and Eliza Lewis of Barbay, St Johns, Grenada.
He was23 when he died and is buried in the Roseau Roman Catholic Cemetery in the Dominican Republic. S Flynn
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Norman Warriner. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope. (d.18th Feb 1944) My great uncle Norman Warriner was killed on HMS Penelope when she sank. My father was named after him.Yvonne
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Able Sea. William Finch. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope. (d.18th February 1944) Bill Finch was lost at sea when H.M.S. Penelope was torpedoed off the coast west of Naples. He was 42 years old.
Les Finch
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Able Sea. James Caleb Martin. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope. (d.18th Feb 1944) James Martin was my uncle and he lost his life whilst serving on HMS Penelope (nicknamed HMS Pepperpot, due to the number of bullet holes etc. in it from previous war skirmishes).
When she was supporting the bombardment of the German defences on the Anzio beach-head she was hit by 2 torpedoes from U-Boat U-410 and sunk on 18th of February 1944. Robert Martin
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PO/Stok. Robert Wilkinson Kirtley. Royal Navy, HMS Penelope. (d.18th Feb 1944) He was the brother of William Oswald Kirtley, who died of malnutrition on 21/09/1944 aboard a Japanese ship.James Peter Cain
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