Introduction

Introduction

Following on from the success of my Northern Bank War Memorials website, I undertook in 2013/14 similar research on the Ulster Bank officials who served in World War 2.

After the sale of the Ulster Bank Head Office in Waring Street, Belfast, the following important pieces of Ulster Bank Heritage were re-installed in a new location on walls in the staff entrance to the new Ulster Bank building in Donegall Square East, Belfast:

The World War 2 – Roll of Honour / War Memorial – Ulster Bank

These memorials, consisting of Bronze plaques feature those officials from the bank who served, went missing in action, died or were killed in either of the two conflicts.

The opportunity is being taken now to catalogue the information thereon and make that information public via internet searches.

Of the 120 men who volunteered and enlisted, 12 were reported as killed in action.

I had considered undertaking research and presenting on the Great War men who served. It is with much pleasure that I commend the new RBS website - NatWest Group Remembers .

I trust that you will find my site both interesting and informative.

My thanks must go to Rodney Sweetnam, a retired Ulster Bank staff member, who retained and catalogued the bank staff magazines. He came across this website, contacted me in late 2022 and sent me photographs of any references to the men listed here. The various promotion, retirement and obituary articles supplied me with photographs, full names, bank career information, wartime career information and family information. 

Thank you.

Gavin Bamford

+44 (0) 7510 287 981 

gavinbamford@btinternet.com

16th April 2023

We Will Remember Them

 

The following section of text is taken from 'The Ulster Bank Story' by Lyn Gallagher.

War and Peace 1927 - 1955

Page 202 - Circular to Managers by William Fullerton dated 5th September 1939:

"It is unnecessary for us to stress the seriousness of the position in which the Nation is now placed.  Great sacrifices will unquestionably be required from every one of us and we are sure the members of our Staff will do their best to help us to carry on the the work of the Bank successfully through the trying times which lie before us".

The following poem is by Laurence Robert Binyon, 1869-1943

For The Fallen

With proud thanksgiving, a mother for her children,
England mourns for her dead across the sea.
Flesh of her flesh they were, spirit of spirit,
Fallen in the cause of the free.

Solemn the drums thrill: Death august and royal
Sings sorrow up into immortal spheres.
There is music in the midst of desolation
And a glory that shines upon our tears.

They went with songs to the battle, they were young,
Straight of limb, true of eye, steady and aglow.
They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted,
They fell with their faces to the foe.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

They mingle not with laughing comrades again;
They sit no more at familiar tables of home;
They have no lot in our labour of the day-time;
They sleep beyond England's foam.

But where our desires are and our hopes profound,
Felt as a well-spring that is hidden from sight,
To the innermost heart of their own land they are known
As the stars are known to the Night;

As the stars that shall be bright when we are dust,
Moving in marches upon the heavenly plain,
As the stars that are starry in the time of our darkness,
To the end, to the end, they remain.

Acknowledgements to The Western Front Association website.

Watson, William Ernest

Lieutenant William Ernest Watson

Watson was born at 3 Ardenlee Gardens, Belfast on 4th October 1919 to Thomas Edward Watson, Shipwright and Jane Watson nee Moffett. They had married on 14th April 1914 at Duncairn Gardens Presbyterian Church.

Following his education, Watson joined the bank around 1936/37 based on a starting age of 17.

Watson volunteered and enlisted into the Royal Armoured Corps. Promotion to 2nd Lieutenant from Cadet was in 1942. Lieutenant followed (service number 245394).

He was serving with the 145th (8th Bn. The Duke of Wellington's Regt.) Regt. when he was Killed in Action on 31st August 1944.

Watson is buried in the Coriano Ridge War Cemetery, Italy - grave reference XII C 5.

The NatWest Group Archives website has published this information:

William Ernest Watson was born on 4 October 1919, the son of Thomas Edward Watson, a shipwright, and his wife Jane. In April 1939 he went to work for Ulster Bank at its head office in Belfast.

Two years later, in April 1941, Watson left the bank to go on war service, joining the Royal Armoured Corps. By 1941 he held the rank of Lieutenant and was serving in Italy. He was killed in action there on 31 August 1944. He was 25 years old.

William Watson is commemorated on two memorials at Ulster Bank’s Belfast head office: its roll of honour for staff who served in the Second World War and its memorial for those who fell.

Scott, James Gilmore

Lieutenant James Gilmore Scott

Scott was born about 1922 to William James Scott and Ida Mabel Scott nee Coote. They had married on 8th June 1921 at Longford Church of Ireland.

Following his education, Scott joined the bank around 1939/40 based in a starting age of 17.

Scott volunteered and enlisted into the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. Promotion to Lieutenant followed in 1943 - service number 258659.

He was serving with the 5th Bn. Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers attached to the 45th Regt. Reconnaissance Corps, R.A.C. when he was killed in action on 13th April 1944 aged 22.

Scott also served with the Chindits.

The Larne Times of 4th May 1944 reported:

He is buried in the Taukkyan War Cemetery, Myanmar (Burma) - reference 13 F 18.

Acknowledgements to CWGC and to Roll of Honour

The NatWest Group Archives website has published this information:

James Gilmore Scott was born on 30 March 1922, the son of William James and Ida Mabel Scott. In April 1940 he went to work for Ulster Bank at its head office in Belfast. Seven months later he moved to Carrickmacross branch, and then in February 1941, to Bangor branch.

In May 1941 Scott left the bank to go on war service, joining the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. By 1944 he held the rank of Lieutenant, and was serving in Burma. He died there on 13 April 1944, two weeks after his 22nd birthday. The inscription on his gravestone reads 'Your memory hallowed in the land you loved'.

James Scott is commemorated on two memorials at Ulster Bank’s Belfast head office: its roll of honour for staff who served in the Second World War and its memorial for those who fell.

Martin, Henry

Sergeant-Operator Henry Martin

Martin was born at Balteagh (townland) on 9th September 1915 to Thomas Martin, Farmer and Sarah Martin nee Gracey. They had married on 31st January 1916 at St. Barnabas Church of Ireland, Belfast.  

Following his education at Lurgan Technical College and Renfrew's College, Martin joined the bank in 1936 working in Head Office, Ballina, Head Office (again) and Banbridge branches.

He volunteered and enlisted into the Royal Air Force (VR) with service number 950327.

Martin was serving as a wireless operator / air gunner with 99 Squadron RAF (VR) when he was killed in action on 29th September 1941 aged 26.

The Belfast Telegraph of 2nd October 1941 reports:

It is reported elsewhere that:

28/29.09.1941. No. 99 Squadron Wellington IC Z8869 Sgt. Watt and crew.

Mission: Frankfurt

Date: 28/29th September 1941 (Sunday/Monday)

Unit: No. 99 Squadron

Type: Wellington IC

Serial: Z8869

Code: LN-?

Base: R.A.F. Waterbeach, Cambridgeshire.

Location: Great Finborough, Suffolk.

Pilot: Sgt. John Sydney Ferguson Watt 1052238 R.A.F.V.R. Age ? Killed

Pilot 2: Sgt. John Duncan Broadley NZ403937 R.N.Z.A.F. Age 23. Killed

Obs: Sgt. John Weir Humphrey R/65191 R.C.A.F. Age 20. Killed

W/Op/Air/Gnr: Sgt. Henry Martin 950327 R.A.F.V.R. Age 26. Killed

W/Op/Air/Gnr: Sgt. John Kenneth Whitfield 945230 R.A.F.V.R. Age 26. Killed

Air/Gnr: Sgt. David Richardson 1379034 R.A.F.V.R. Age 29. Killed

REASON FOR LOSS:

Taking off at 19.11 hrs from R.A.F. Waterbeach, Cambridgeshire to attack the German city of Frankfurt - no further details as to the success of the operation but a disaster in particular for 99 Squadron and the allies in general losing some eight aircraft of the 30 Hampdens and 14 Wellingtons sent.

Wellington Z8869 had completed the operation, returning collided with a line of trees, exploding and crashing at 00.55 hrs at Stone Farm, Great Finborough, Suffolk.  A large haystack was also destroyed in the blaze.  No details as to what cased this but probably due to poor weather and low fuel. 

Martin is buried in Ringshall (St Catherine) Churchyard - row B.

Acknowledgements to CWGC

Acknowledgements to Aircrew Remembered 

The NatWest Group Archives website has published this information:

Henry Martin was born on 9 September 1915, the son of Tom and Sarah Martin. In April 1935 he went to work for Ulster Bank at its head office in Belfast. He moved to Ballina branch in March 1938, back to head office in October 1938 and back again to Ballina branch in April 1939. Five months later he moved to Banbridge branch.

In May 1940 Martin left the bank to go on war service, joining the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Sergeant Martin died on active service on 29 September 1941. He was 26 years old.

Henry Martin is commemorated on two memorials at Ulster Bank’s Belfast head office: its roll of honour for staff who served in the Second World War and its memorial for those who fell.

Long, Frederick

Sergeant Frederick Long

Long was born at Avenue Road, Lurgan on 9th May 1921 to William John Long, Post Office Clerk and Emma Jane Long nee England. They had married on 17th September 1918 at Knocknamuckley Church of Ireland, Portadown.

Following his education, Long joined the bank around 1938 based on a starting age of 17.

He volunteered and enlisted into the Royal Air Force (VR) with service number 1530449.

Long was serving as a navigator / bomber with 142 Squadron RAF when he was killed in action on 9th April 1943.

He is buried in Massicult War Cemetery, Tunisia - Coll. grave VI A 3-6.

Acknowledgements to CWGC

The NatWest Group Archives website has published this information:

Frederick Long was born on 9 May 1921, the son of William John and Emma Jane Long. In January 1940 he went to work for Ulster Bank at its head office in Belfast. A month later he moved to Dundalk branch, then back to head office in July 1941.

 

Just a few weeks later, on 27 August, Long left the bank to go on war service, joining the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Sergeant Long was killed when the bomber for which he was the navigator crashed in North Africa on 9 April 1943. He was 22 years old.

Frederick Long is commemorated on two memorials at Ulster Bank’s Belfast head office: its roll of honour for staff who served in the Second World War and its memorial for those who fell.

Hawthorne, James Thomas

Sergeant James Thomas Hawthorne

Hawthorne was born at 175 Cambrai Street, Belfast on 6th November 1912 to James Thomas Hawthorne, Grocer and Mary Hawthorne nee Taylor. They had married on 13th June 1906 at Jennymount Presbyterian Church, Belfast.

Following his education, Hawthorne joined the bank around 1929 based on a starting age of 17.

He volunteered and enlisted into the Royal Air Force (VR) with service number 973032.

Hawthorne was serving with 144 Squadron RAF as a wireless operator when he was killed in action on 1st February 1941.

It is reported that his Hampden aircraft, serial P1328 from No. 144 Squadron based at Willingham crashed at 2015 hours whilst flying in a snowstorm.  Sgt J K Thurlbeck and Sgt J T Hawthorne were both killed.

A death notice in the Belfast News-Letter of 10th February 1941 reports:

He is buried in Dundonald Cemetery - Sec. E 6 Grave 226.

Acknowledgements to CWGC - records his age as 27 (1914), to Flight Global website and to Bomber Command Aviation Resource website.

The NatWest Group Archives website has published this information:

James Thomas Hawthorne was born on 6 November 1912, the son of James Thomas and Mary Hawthorne. In April 1934 he went to work for Ulster Bank at its head office in Belfast. Eleven months later he moved to Ballina branch, then back to head office in October 1935. He moved back again to Ballina branch in March 1936; to head office in November 1936; and to Donegal branch in February 1937.

In November 1939 Hawthorne left the bank to go on war service, joining the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He trained to be a wireless operator.

Sergeant Hawthorne was killed in a flying accident in England on 1 February 1941. He was 28 years old. James Hawthorne is commemorated on two memorials at Ulster Bank’s Belfast head office: its roll of honour for staff who served in the Second World War and its memorial for those who fell.

Glendinning, James Edgar

Flying Officer James Edgar Glendinning

Glendinning was born at 11 Crawford Square, Londonderry on 7th April 1909 to John Clements Glendinning DL and Mary Frances Glendinning nee Campbell. They had married on 1st December 1897 at Ballinamallard, Co. Fermanagh.

In 1911 Glendinning (2) lived at house 11 Crawford Square, Londonderry with his parents and 2 brothers; William (11) and Harold Victor (7). Two others were resident in the property; Claire MacAllister, Mother's Help and Alice McCleary, Servant.

Following his education, Glendinning joined the bank around 1926 based on a starting age of 17.

He volunteered and enlisted into the Royal Air Force (VR). Promotion from Flight Officer to Flight Lieutenant occurred in July 1943. Promotion to Flying Officer followed (service number 151029).

Glendinning was serving with 404 Squadron, RCAF when he was killed in action on 22nd December 1943.

The squadron's war diary says:

The squadron's luck once again turned sour on 22 December. Three Beaufighters were detailed to provide anti-flak escort on a Rover Patrol to the Lister area for four Torbeaus from 144 Squadron. The patrol discovered what was thought at the time to be a German Destroyer, but in fact was likely Minesweeper M-489 of 775 tons, and a fully surfaced submarine, U-1062, skippered by OL K Albrecht. The Buffalos immediately attacked and during a furious battle, numerous cannon hits were observed on both targets. The crew of P/O Miller and P/O Young made two runs at the submarine. Both enemy vessels escaped a critical torpedo strike.  The barrage that was put up by the Minesweeper and the submarine was fierce - the guns of the submarine shot down two 404 Squadron aircraft. One crew lost was F/L R Munro and F/O WB Conn. "H (Munro) attacked the U-Boat with cannon from seaward, diving from 700 feet.  Was met with intense fire and did not pull out of the dive but plunged straight down into the sea. F (Gillespie) was seen to be on fire, then nosed down with Navigator's gun still firing, and crashed into the sea." The second crew was F/O IG Gillespie and F/O JE Glendinning. It was later stated by a crew from 144 Squadron that they had seen both of the 404 aircraft hit the sea.  The U-1062 was transporting torpedoes.

The Londonderry Sentinel of 30th December 1944 reports:

Glendinning is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Surrey - panel 124 and on the Downpatrick War Memorial.

Acknowledgements to CWGC and to 404 Squadron website. 

The NatWest Group Archives website has published this information:

James Edgar Glendinning was born on 7 February 1909, the son of John Clements Glendinning, a Northern Irish politician and newspaper proprietor, and his wife Mary Frances. In June 1927 he went to work for Ulster Bank at its head office in Belfast. In February 1928 he moved to Larne branch, then back to head office in October 1930, to Belfast Shaftesbury Square branch in January 1931 and to Downpatrick branch in July 1938.

 

In January 1942 Glendinning left the bank to go on war service, joining the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Flying Officer Glendinning was reported missing, later confirmed dead, on 22 December 1943, when his aircraft crashed into the sea on an operation. He was 34 years old.

 

James Glendinning is commemorated on two memorials at Ulster Bank’s Belfast head office: its roll of honour for staff who served in the Second World War and its memorial for those who fell.

Thomas, Richard Alexander

Sub-Lieutenant Richard Alexander Thomas

Thomas was born at 1 Stranmillis Gardens, Belfast on 4th November 1918 to Richard Blethyn Thomas and Alicia Thomas nee Ferguson. They had married on 1st January 1918 at Donegall Road Presbyterian Church, Belfast. 

Sadly, his mother, Alicia (23) died on 4th November 1918 at 1 Stranmillis Gardens, Belfast from influenza (48 hours) and pneumonia (1 day). 

Following his education at Methodist College, Belfast, Thomas went to work for the bank about 1937 based on a starting age of 19.

Thomas volunteered and enlisted into the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve.

He was serving on HMS St Angelo (Fleet Air Arm, Malta) when he was reported missing on 6th February 1942 although it is recorded elsewhere as 7th February 1942.

CWGC records him as Killed in Action as 6th February 1942.

FAA, 830 Sqn, St Angelo, air operations

THOMAS, Richard A, Ty/Sub Lieutenant (A), RNVR, missing

The Belfast News-Letter of 14th February 1942 reports:

Thomas is remembered on the Lee-on-Solent Memorial, bay 4, panel 2.

Acknowledgements to CWGC

Acknowledgements to Naval History 

The NatWest Group Archives website has published this information:

Richard Alexander Thomas was born on 4 November 1918, the son of Helena and Richard Blethyn Thomas. In March 1937 he went to work for Ulster Bank at its Gortin branch, moving to Omagh branch a year later.

In January 1941 Thomas left the bank to go on war service, joining the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. He was posted to HMS St Angelo, a naval base in Birgu, Malta. Sub-Lieutenant (A) Thomas died on active service on 6 February 1942. He was 23 years old.

Richard Thomas is commemorated on two memorials at Ulster Bank’s Belfast head office: its roll of honour for staff who served in the Second World War and its memorial for those who fell.

Bradley, John Whitfield

Pilot Officer John Whitfield Bradley

Bradley was born at 21 Eglantine Gardens, Belfast on 19th May 1918 to David Bradley, Tea Merchant and Minnie Bradley nee Kirker. They had married on 14th June 1909 at University Road Methodist Church, Belfast.

In 1911 the family lived in house 15, Pretoria Street, Cromac, Belfast. David was a book-keeper.

Following his education at Methodist College, Belfast, Bradley joined the bank around 1935 based on a starting age of 17.

Bradley volunteered and enlisted into the Royal Air Force (VR). Promotions followed to Pilot Officer with service number 113428.

At one time, Bradley was stationed at RAF Oulton, located to the west of the market town of Aylsham, Norfolk. It was built between 1939 and 1940 as a bomber airfield and had grass runways.

Bradley was serving with 139 Squadron, RAF (VR) when he was killed in action on 15th October 1941 aged 23.

Courtesy of Nigel Henderson

He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Surrey, panel 31.

Acknowledgements to CWGC

Family Headstone
Courtesy of Nigel Henderson

Methodist College, Belfast - War Memorial
Courtesy of Nigel Henderson

The NatWest Group Archives website has published this information:

John Whitfield Bradley was born on 19 May 1918, the son of David and Minnie Bradley. In March 1937 he went to work for Ulster Bank at its head office in Belfast. In May 1938 he moved to Belfast Crumlin Road branch, and then back to head office in April 1939.

 

In June 1940 Bradley left the bank to go on war service, joining the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He trained as a pilot and eventually flew Blenheim bomber aircraft. On 15 October 1941 the Blenheim he was piloting was lost without a trace after takeoff from its UK base. The aircraft's crew, including Pilot Officer Bradley, were all killed on that day, although they were initially listed as missing and his death was not presumed until May 1942. John Bradley was 23 years old when he was killed.

 

John Bradley is commemorated on two memorials at Ulster Bank’s Belfast head office: its roll of honour for staff who served in the Second World War and its memorial for those who fell.

Andrews, William Henry Lowry

Lieutenant William Henry Lowry Andrews (known as Lowry)

Andrews was born at 63 Marlborough Park South, Belfast on 8th December 1918 to Joseph Moody Andrews, Merchant and Lavina Hatrick Andrews nee Graham. They had married on 10th January 1917 at Windsor Presbyterian Church. 

Following his education in Bangor Grammar School, Andrews joined the bank around 1935 based on a starting age of 17.

He volunteered and enlisted into the army. Promotion to Lieutenant from Cadet followed in August 1940 (service number 143809). 

Andrews was serving with 32 Field Regiment, Royal Artillery when he was killed in action at El Alamein on 8th July 1942 aged 23.

The Belfast News-Letter of 27th July 1942 reported:

Lowry Andrews is buried in the El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt. Grave reference 'XXIX A 9'.  

Acknowledgements to CWGC

There is a memorial to Andrews in the Trinity Presbyterian Church, Bangor.

Lowry Andrews is also remembered on the Bangor Grammar School War Memorial [picture] and on the Crusaders Union (Urban Saints) War Memorial, Isle of Wight [picture, website].

The NatWest Group Archives website has published this information:

William Henry Lowry Andrews was born on 8 December 1918, the son of Joseph M Andrews, a merchant, and his wife Ina. He was educated at Bangor Grammar School. In April 1937 he went to work for Ulster Bank at its head office in Belfast. 

 

In December 1939 Andrews left the bank to go on war service, and by 1942 he was a Lieutenant in the Royal Artillery, on active service in the Middle East. He was killed in action in Egypt on 8 July 1942. He was 23 years old.

William Andrews is commemorated on two memorials at Ulster Bank’s Belfast head office: its roll of honour for staff who served in the Second World War and its memorial for those who fell.

Cumins, Oliver

Leading Aircraftman (Air Gunner) Oliver Cumins

Cumins was born at 'Lisveen', Ardenlee Avenue, Belfast on 4th April 1916 to John Macbeth Cumins, Butcher and Matilda Cumins nee Stewart. They had married on 22nd August 1909 at Drumlegagh Presbyterian Church, Strabane.

The family later moved to Carnbane (sometimes Cairnbane) House, Newport Bridge area of Lisburn.

Following his education in the Royal Belfast Academical Institution (Inst), Oliver joined the bank about 1933at Head Office followed by Enniskillen branch. 

Oliver volunteered and enlisted into the Royal Air Force with service number 1112854.

He was killed in an aircraft accident on 31st May 1941 just over two miles away from the RAF Penross, Pwlleli, north Wales.

Oliver is buried in Lisburn Cemetery - reference Sec. A. Grave 451.

Oliver's family were advised of his death via the following two letters:

Courtesy of the organisers of 2015 Hillsborough WW2 Exhibition

Courtesy of the organisers of 2015 Hillsborough WW2 Exhibition

Local newspapers gave this account of the tragedy:

Courtesy of the organisers of 2015 Hillsborough WW2 Exhibition

Courtesy of the organisers of 2015 Hillsborough WW2 Exhibition

Oliver Cumins was buried with full military honours in Lisburn Cemetery.

Oliver is remembered on the Hillsborough War Memorial.

Oliver is also remembered on his church war memorial.

Acknowledgements to CWGC. There is no CWGC headstone.

Acknowledgements to As it Was

A researcher on the 'WW2 forum' advises:

"... I think the distinction is between 'killed', being associated with the hostilities, and 'died'.

For fliers, if the death occurred in a raid or sortie, I think that 'killed in action' is appropriate, no matter what the circumstances: shot down, ran out of fuel, hit a mountain in fog, or just disappeared.

If the death occurred on a training flight, I would put: 'died in an accident on active service'; for someone sheltering from a bombing raid on an airfield, 'killed on active service'; and if someone was killed in a road traffic accident while on leave, for example, just 'died in an accident'.

Incidentally, the number of deaths during training was quite substantial.

Belville ..."


Local history group, History Hub Ulster commemorated the centenary of the unveiling and dedication of the Hillsborough War Memorial on 13th May 2022 and created this video talk that also mentioned Oliver Cumins.

Another member of the Cumins family also served in WWII - Robert Cumins (dob 3rd January 1921):

Courtesy of the organisers of 2015 Hillsborough WW2 Exhibition

The NatWest Group Archives website has published this information:

Oliver Cumins was born on 4 April 1916, the son of John Macbeth Cumins. He was educated at the Royal Belfast Academical Institution. In June 1934 he went to work for Ulster Bank at its head office in Belfast. In September 1939 he moved to Enniskillen branch.

In early January 1941 Cumins left the bank to go on war service, joining the Royal Air Force. He was training to be an observer at 9 Bombing and Gunnery School in Wales when, on 31 May 1941, the aircraft in which he, a pilot and another student were flying crashed into the sea off Pwllheli. His body was found in the sea the next day. Leading Aircraftman Cumins was 25 years old.

Oliver Cumins is commemorated on two memorials at Ulster Bank’s Belfast head office: its roll of honour for staff who served in the Second World War and its memorial for those who fell.

McAlister, William Gordon

Sergeant William Gordon McAlister

McAlister was born on 17th July 1920 to James McAlister and Mary McAlister nee Kennedy. 'Gordon' was not recorded on the birth registration.

In January 1937 William volunteered and enlisted into the Royal Air Force (VR) with service number 749508 and was appointed a Class F Reservist.

Following his education William joined the bank probably around 1938/1939.

William was serving with 51 Squadron RAF (VR) when he was killed in action on 9th September 1940.

Members of the ww2talk.com website give the following pieces of information:

--------------------------

Monday - Tuesday 9-10 September 1940

51 Squadron

Whitley V P5021

Took off from Dishforth for Berlin. damaged by flak and came down in the North Sea 120 miles East of the Firth of Forth, the survivors were picked up by a naval launch that had been tasked for the rescue following the sighting of the crew in their dinghy by a 220 Squadron Hudson.

Crew:

P/O. A W. Millson, Safe

Sgt. H C G. Brook . Safe

Sgt. W G. McAlister +

Sgt. E A. Young. Safe

P/O. D. Careless. Safe

Source - RAF Bomber Command Losses Vol.2 2nd Edition - W R. Chorley

--------------------------

1 Whitley was lost as part of a force of 76 Battles, Blenheims, and Wellingtons attacking targets in Germany, Belgium and France.

* other bombers were lost in other attacks, resulting in 15 showing as commemorated at Runnymede.

William [McAllister], however, is the only one from 51 Sqdn so commemorated, therefore it seems as if the aircraft may have come down in the sea and the rest of the crew rescued to fly again.

The pilot was P/O Carter with Sgts Brook and Young.

The Loss Card shows the serial as P5022 whereas elsewhere it seems to be P5021.

Fitting this should come up today RIP

Hmm, strange to have different pilot and an extra crew man!

--------------------------

Operations Record Card

The Loss Cards generously set up by Fred Wilson show only 4 crew with only McAlister detailed in full.

Crew details as per Loss Card, but Chorley is usually accurate, however the Loss Card SHOULD show the crew they thought was aboard.

As 3 were rescued, perhaps confusion crept in somewhere (and the * obviously should have read "8" other aircraft lost on other operations)

Perhaps "careless"!!

Millson, Brook, Young and Careless don't show as 51 Sqdn casualties...

--------------------------

The Belfast Telegraph dated 17th September 1940 reported that Sgt-Observer McAllister had been missing since 10th September.

Belfast Telegraph 17th September 1940

McAlister is commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial, Surrey - panel 16.

Runnymede - 2 up from bottom of panel

Air Forces Memorial, Cooper's Hill

Acknowledgements to CWGC.

The NatWest Group Archives website has published this information:

William Gordon McAlister was born on 16 September 1912, the son of Mr and Mrs James McAlister. He was educated at Belfast Royal Academy and joined the staff of Ulster Bank at its head office in Belfast in April 1932. Four months later he transferred to Aughnacloy branch, where he remained for three months until returning to head office in November 1932. Outside work he was a long-standing member of Malone Rugby Football Club, and became a member of the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve.

As a reservist, McAlister was called up for full-time service at the outbreak of war in September 1939. Sergeant McAlister was reported missing, and later presumed to have been killed, on 9 September 1940. He was 27 years old and left a widow, whom he had married in 1939.

William McAlister is commemorated on two memorials at Ulster Bank’s Belfast head office: its roll of honour for staff who served in the Second World War and its memorial for those who fell.

Love, James Clements

Sergeant James Clements Love

Love was born on 21st July 1917 at Clougherney, Co. Tyrone to William Love and Charlette Love nee Clements. He lived in Fintona and was educated in Dungannon Royal School and Omagh Academy.

James joined the Ulster Bank on 22nd February 1939. His last post in the Bank was in Castlewellan branch.

Ulster Bank, Castlewellan branch

James volunteered and enlisted into the Royal Air Force (VR) with service number 745109. 

The Aberdeen Press and Journal of 17th June 1940 carried a report from the Air Ministry that Sgt J C Love (RAF) was 'missing'.

The Scotsman of 7th February 1941 carried a further report from the Air Ministry that confirmed Sgt J C Love as 'previously reported missing, now presumed killed in action'.

Love was serving with 254 Squadron RAF (VR) when he was killed in action on 1st June 1940.

Sgt Love is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Surrey - panel 16.

Info from CWGC, to 254 Squadron. 

Acknowledgements must also go to 12Oclockhigh website who state "... Blenheim IV R3630. Shot down by Fw Otto Sawallisch of 2./JG27 during patrol over the Goodwin Sands and crashed in the Channel 8.08 a.m.  Sergeant Richard Arthur Bate, Sergeant James Clements Love and LAC William Thomas Harrison all missing. Aircraft QY*Q lost. ..."

Further information courtesy of James Brady who also asks "I understood that he and a friend from the Bank enlisted together (? Also in the RAF ). Do you have any means of finding out the name of that person?" Please add a comment if you can assist with this query.

The NatWest Group Archives website has published this information:

James Clements Love was born on 21 July 1917. In March 1937 he started work for Ulster Bank at its Castlewellan branch.

At the outbreak of war in September 1939 Love left the bank to go on war service, joining the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Sergeant Love joined 254 Squadron, a Coastal Command Squadron, and he took part in air operations over Dunkirk during the Dunkirk evacuations, which happened between 28 May and 4 June 1940. The Blenheim in which he was flying was lost over Dunkirk on 1 June 1940, with all three crew members missing, presumed dead. He was 22 years old.

James Love is commemorated on two memorials at Ulster Bank’s Belfast head office: its roll of honour for staff who served in the Second World War and its memorial for those who fell.

Gawn, James D

James D Gawn

The following info MAY relate to this bank official:

James David Gawn was born at Station Road, Larne on 1st February 1920 to William Craig Gawn, Motor Engineer and Kathleen Gawn nee McKenzie. They were married on 23rd April 1918 at Joymount Presbyterian Church, Larne.

Following his education, Gawn joined the bank possibly around 1937 based on a joining age of 17.

The Forces War Record website does not record a James D Gawn as serving.

Gawn died on 3rd December 1978 and is buried in Larne. He was unmarried.

This information came from a Gawn family website.

Information Required

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Nesbitt, William R

William R Nesbitt

Nesbitt was probably born around 1920.

Following his education, Nesbitt joined the bank probably around 1937 based on a joining age of 17.

The Forces War Records website records a W R Nesbitt serving in the Royal Regiment of Artillery with the rank of 2nd Lieutenant in 1941.

The London Gazette dated 16th August 1946 records a W R Nesbitt as transferring from the Royal Artillery to the Royal Army Ordnance Corps. His service number was 182835.

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Moody, David G

David G Moody

Moody was possibly born around 1922.

Following his education, Moody joined the bank possibly around 1939/40 based on a joining age of 17.

Moody volunteered and enlisted into the armed forces.

The Forces War Records website records a D G Moody serving as a 2nd Lieutenant with the Royal Ulster Rifles in 1941.

The London Gazette of 12th March 1946 records a 2nd Lieutenant D G Moody transferring from the Royal Ulster Rifles to the Royal Artillery. His service number was 214656.

Following demobilisation, Moody is thought to have returned to the bank.

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Ferguson, Thomas James

Thomas James Ferguson

Ferguson was born at Marlborough Park, Belfast on 13th March 1900 to Stanley Ferguson, Solicitor and Edith Francis Ferguson nee Carr. They had married on 11th April 1899 in Belfast.

In 1901, Ferguson (1) lived in house 7, Marlborough Park, Belfast with his parents and 2 servants; Elizabeth Donaghy and Charlotte Endicott.

In 1911, Ferguson (11) lived in house 16, Deramore Park, Belfast with his parents and 4 siblings; Stanley Carr (9), Frances Ethel (7), Sally Dickson (6) and Howard (2). Also in the house were a governess, a housemaid, a cook and a nurse. Stanley Ferguson detailed his occupation as Bank Director.

Following his education, Ferguson joined the probably around 1917 aged 17.

The book 'The Ulster Bank Story' by Lyn Gallagher mentions T J Ferguson on page 215 in the chapter on 'Juniors'. It records a Maureen Nash being interviewed by Ferguson in 1940 and at the end of the interview she was asked to start immediately. This date may indicate that Ferguson was already a member of the bank management and in a position to conduct interviews.

Stanley Ferguson is discussed in this website countydown in an article about a Banbridge firm, Edenderry Works and Thomas Ferguson and Co Ltd. The article says that Stanley qualified as a solicitor and may have been the Chairman of Ulster Bank in 1906. This is confirmed in the book 'The Ulster Bank Story' by Lyn Gallagher.

Affiliation with History Hub Ulster

Affiliation with History Hub Ulster

Ulster Bank War Memorials is pleased to continue its affiliation with History Hub Ulster.

RBS Book of Remembrance

RBS have published a Book of Remembrance.

It records the men from all the constituent banks who served and died in the Great War, WWII and the Korean War.

The title page:

A record of the men and women on the staff of the

United Kingdom constituent banks of

The Royal Bank of Scotland Group

who gave their lives during the

First and Second World Wars and the Korean War

The banks that are listed:

• Beckett & Co 
• Child & Co 
• Commercial Bank of Scotland 
• Coutts & Co 
• District Bank 
• Drummonds 
• Glyn, Mills, Currie & Co 
• Glyn, Mills & Co 
• London County Westminster & Parr’s Bank 
• Manchester & County Bank 
• The National Bank 
• National Bank of Scotland 
• National Provincial & Union Bank of England 
• National Provincial Bank 
• Nottingham & Nottinghamshire Bank 
• Northamptonshire Union Bank 
• The Royal Bank of Scotland 
• Ulster Bank 
• Westminster Bank
• Williams Deacon’s Bank

Bankers at War website

There used to be a website called 'Bankers at War' that detailed all the men from the RBS (Royal Bank of Scotland) group who served in WWII.

The following edited text (removing references to the Great War) is taken from the site:

Introduction

At the outbreak of the war, men from all occupations left their places of work and volunteered to serve their country. The world of Banking was no different. Throughout this country in many bank branches can be seen evidence of this in many varied war memorials and Rolls of Honour.

This website has been created in order to flesh out the stories behind many of these names. Who were these men? Where did they work? What did they do in the war? Hopefully some of these questions can be answered.

Background

This project came about through the individual research of two men. Adam Brown is an employee of the Royal Bank of Scotland, and David McNay works for the Bank of Scotland (part of HBOS and now part of the Lloyds Banking Group). It was through researching the Rolls of Honour for their places of employment that they met and decided to combine their work in a Roll combining as many banks as information could be found.

We welcome any information that you may have that will enable us to complete the picture of a specific individual.


The Ulster Bank 'WWII' section details:

The following names were taken from the RBS Group Book of Remembrance -

Second World War

Andrews, W H L
Bradley, J W
Cumins, O
Glendinning, J E
Hawthorne, J T
Long, F
Love, J C
Martin, H
McAlister, W G
Scott, J G
Thomas, R A
Watson, W E

It would appear that no further work has been undertaken on the site and that the site is now down.

World War II - War Memorial / Roll of Honour

The Ulster Bank War Memorial / Roll of Honour was unveiled on 19th November 1948. The image below is of the War Memorial dedicated to the men who volunteered for service and gave their lives in the Great War [WWII] 1939 to 1945.

Acknowledgements to RBS Heritage Archives.

The WWII Roll of Honour is installed about 20 feet up an inside wall of the Ulster Bank, Donegall Square East building.

The book, 'The Ulster Bank Story' by Lyn Gallagher records a photo of the unveiling of the memorial by Sir Milne Barbour DL, MP on page 208.

A researcher from the 'Great War Forum' has given me the following image.

Acknowledgements to Lennon Wylie.

The next image records the names of those who volunteered, served and returned from the war. 



Medals Awarded During the 2nd World War

The medals awarded during the 2nd World War were:

War Medal 1939-1945 was awarded for those who had served in the Armed Forces or Merchant Navy full-time for at least 28 days between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945.  In the Merchant Navy, the 28 days must have been served at sea.   It is sometimes described as the "Victory Medal" for WWII, although that is not its correct name.

Defence Medal was awarded for for service in WWII.  It was instituted to recognise both military and some types of civilian service.

The following Campaign Medals were also awarded (in alphabetical order):

1939-1945 Star was awarded for for operational service between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945.

• Army personnel had to complete 6 months service in an operational command.  Airborne troops qualified if they had participated in any airborne operations and had completed 2 months service in a fully operational unit.
• Air Force personnel had to participate in operations against the enemy providing that 2 months service had been completed in an operational unit.  Non-aircrew personnel had to complete 6 months service in an area of (overseas) operational army command.
• Naval personnel qualified if they completed 6 months service, and at least 1 voyage was made through an operational area.
• Royal Observer Corps personnel for service of 1,080 days.

 

Africa Star was awarded for for a minimum of one day service in an operational area of North Africa between 10 June 1940 and 12 May 1943.   The whole of the area between the Suez Canal and the Strait of Gibraltar is included, together with Malta, Abyssinia, Kenya, the Sudan, both Somaliands and Eritrea.   The areas not bordering the Mediterranean only qualified for the Africa Star from 10 June 1940 to 27 November 1941.
 

Air Crew Europe Star was awarded for Commonwealth aircrew who participated in operational flights over Europe, from UK bases.  Two months operational flying was required between 3 September 1939 and 5 June 1944 in order to qualify.   The 1939-1945 Star must have been earned before commencing qualifying service for the Air Crew Europe Star.  From 6 June 1944 (D-Day), operational flying over Europe qualified aircrew for the France & Germany Star.

Atlantic Star was awarded for six months service afloat, in the Atlantic or in Home Waters, within the period 3 September 1939 to 8 May 1945.   Also awarded to aircrew who have taken part in operations against the enemy at sea within the qualifying areas for Naval personnel, subject to two months service in an operational unit.   The 1939-1945 Star must have been earned before commencing qualifying service for the Atlantic Star.

Burma Star was awarded for service in the Burma Campaign between 11 December 1941 and 2 September 1945.  This medal was also awarded for certain specified service in China, Hong Kong, Malaya and Sumatra:

• Hong Kong - between 26 December 1941 and 2 September 1945
• China and Malaya - between 16 February 1942 and 2 September 1945
• Sumatra - between 24 March 1942 and 2 September 1945

Second World War service in China, Hong Kong, Malaya and Sumatra after 8 December 1941 but prior to the above start dates was recognised by the award of the Pacific Star.

France & Germany Star was awarded for operational service in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Germany from 6 June 1944 (D-Day) to 8 May 1945.   The qualifying sea area is the North Sea south of a line from the Firth of Forth to Kristiansand (South), in the English Channel and in the bay of Biscay east of longitude 6 degrees west, provided such service was directly in support of land operations in France, Belgium, the Netherlands or Germany. British uniform regulations stipulated that neither the Atlantic Star nor the Air Crew Europe Star would be awarded to a recipient of the France and Germany Star.   Subsequent entitlement to the Atlantic Star was denoted by the award of the Atlantic clasp.   A clasp for the Air Crew Europe Star was not issued as that Star could not be earned after 5 June 1944.   Army personnel who entered Austria may not qualify for this award, as their service is recognised by the grant of the Italy Star.

Italy Star was awarded for operational service (on land) in Italy, Greece, Yugoslavia. Pantelleria, the Aegean area and Dodecanese Islands and Elba at any time between 11 June 1943 and 8 May 1945. Other areas to qualify for the award are:

• Sicily - between 11 June 1943 - 17 August 1943
• Sardinia - between 11 June 1943 - 19 September 1943
• Corsica- between 11 June 1943 - 4 October 1943

Pacific Star was awarded for operational service in the Pacific Theatre between 8 December 1941 and 2 September 1945, and also for certain specified service in China, Hong-Kong, Malaya and Sumatra:

• Hong Kong - between 8 December 1941 and 25 December 1941
• China and Malaya - between 8 December 1941 and 15 February 1942
• Sumatra - between 8 December 1941 and 23 March 1942