Ernest Finchett came from Rossett near Wrexham.

Private Ernest Finchett went missing on 23-09-1944. He was killed in his slit trench near the church at Benedendorpsweg, Oosterbeek. By an exploding shell or mortar bomb.

Case forwarded in May 2007.

Used sources:

War Dairy

Arnhem Oosterbeek War Cemetery page

Publications:

Battle of Arnhem September 1944, Roll of Honour.

By Land, Sea and Air: An Illustrated History of the 2nd Battalion the South Staffordshire Regiment 1939-1945,          B. Smulders, A. Junier, J. Kortsloot.

Persons:

Mr A. B. Finchett.

Mr I. Williams.

The family received a letter on 13 October 1944 from the Adjudant 2nd Battalion South Staffordshire Regiment:

Dear Mrs Finchett

It greeves me deeply to have to inform you of the death of your son Pte Finchett, 4200996 who was killed instantly when a shell landed close to his trench during the Battle of Arnhem 23  September 1944. He was buried by our own padre who also remained behind and as a result we are unable to give you more information.

My father Ivor Williams 51214938 served with A comp South Staffs at Arnhem.He told me of the time during the battle behind the old church he was with Ernest Finchett 4200996 also S/Staffs, Ernie died right beside dad after maybe a mortar round exploded, dad was unhurt. Dad always knew Ernie's body was never found.