No person with this exact profile is listed on the Commonwealth War Graves Commission database but this is believed to be R/209196, Fireman Trimmer Charles Mitchell of HM Yacht. He was the son of Henry James and Lilian Mitchell of Kesgrave and born on the 23rd April 1920 in Ipswich*.
His connection with the village has not yet been found.
*Actually believed to have been born in Bury St Edmunds District—a sister (Rose) was born in Rougham
HMY Sappho detonated a mine she was seeking to defuse just outside of Falmouth on Sunday 29th September 1940. All of her 32 crew perished. Only one body was ever recovered (W A Pain) and is buried in the Commonwealth War Graves Commission WW2 plot in Falmouth Cemetery. The wreckage of the yacht was eventually washed ashore in St Austell Bay.
Charles Mitchell served with the Naval Auxiliary (Merchant Navy) and is commemorated on the Liverpool Naval Memorial.
Hi,
Don’t know if you can help me but I’m seeking a Picture or Photo of HMY Sappho sunk in 1940. My wife’s grandfather was killed on the Sappho along with all the others. I have the minutes from the Royal Navy Court of Enquiry into the sinking but as yet, have not been able to obtain any pictures. My wife’s grandfathers name can be found on the Plymouth Hoe War Memorial.
Thanks and kind regards,
Nick Moseley