John Henry Pearson
Bevin Boy
from:Tallington, Linconshire
My Grandfather, John Pearson, known by everyone as Jack was a conscripted Bevin Boy from the years of 1943-1945. He was at the time a farm labourer and worked the land in a small village by the name of Tallington, in Lincolnshire. He did his training in Creswell and worked at the Silver Hill, Manton and Tavarsall Mines. Other Bevin Boys working at the time with Granddad were Richard, Lee and Percy. He billeted in Manchester with a Mrs Eliot.
He was born in 1920 and sadly passed away at the great age of 93. He never really talked about his time with the Bevin Boys, but in 1999 I started doing the family tree and he finally opened up to his time during the war.
He was one of 6 children, and had 4 of his own children. I spoke to my Grandfather about getting the Bevin Boy Medal and he was not really interested but as a surprise for his 90th Birthday I finally got the medals he had deserved. I have visited the memorial at the National Arboretum and wore his medals with pride. I find it sad that none of my family ever knew about how big a part their father had played during WWII, as none of them actually knew he was a Bevin Boy, until I told them. I would like this story to be told as I think his efforts during the war should not be forgotten. If anyone can remember my Grandfather please feel free to contact me. Mr Melonie Jane Pope (maiden name: Pearson) Granddaughter of John Henry Pearson
