254784 Able Sea. Peter Atherton Royal Navy HMS Saunders from:16 Boscow Crescent, St Helens, Lancashire (d.8th June 1944) Uncle Peter Atherton was taken prisoner of war at Tobruk 1942. The exact date I cannot ascertain but from the documents in my possession it is evident that he was on a vessel of 13 crew delivering supplies at the port. A subsequent document confirms they had been captured before they could get up enough steam to get beyond the boom.
At first he was reported as missing but as two officers aboard that vessel where known to be prisoners of war the signs were hopeful. So it proved to be and it was reported that Peter was indeed a prisoner of war.
Sometime later, again sorry to be unable to provide a date, on the initiative of the Italians an exchange of prisoners took place. From documents I understand that the Italians wanted certain prisoners held in Saudi Arabia and as it turned out Britain got some fit men in return.
After being repatriated Peter went back into service and became an Able Seaman.
Peter died on the 8th of June 1944 and is buried at Newhaven Cemetery. He was awarded the 1939-45 War Medals and Africa Star.
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