My name Is Ian PENMAN, and I am the son of Robert PENMAN DICK, often known as Bob DICK. My father was in the Royal Corps of Signals during the war and fought in Italy and North Africa. I think he was involved between 1942 and 1945. I am trying to find out more about his wartime experiences, and would very much appreciate hearing from anyone who could help. What I do know (apart from the fact that he was born in 1919, and was 20 when the war broke out), is that he was commanded by General Butterworth at some point. Probably in Italy in 1944. He also was attached to an Indian regiment around the time of Monte Cassino. I know that he fought there because he and I visited Monte Cassino in 1976, when I was 14 and he 57). As an aside, the reason that I know about the General Butterworth involvement is that, after the war, one of my father’s “hobbies” was running a Royal British Legion convalescent home, as its Chairman. The home in question was “Churchill Court” in Sevenoaks which was given to the RBL by Churchill after the war. Butterworth was his Vice-Chairman, which always amused him! With many thanks in advance! Ian Penman
Have you sent off for his service records? This is really the best place to start. Get a copy of military service records
Hi Ian Suggest you follow Tony56's advice In the meantime whilst his service records are being sorted, perhaps use the search function of the site to read more about Monte Cassino Enjoy TD
Hi Ian Blimey !...... You're quick off the mark In explanation: When Ian recently wrote to me concerning his late father, I persuaded him to come aboard, knowing that in matters relating to WW2 we are blessed in having some very knowledgeable people among our ranks. My somewhat dubious reputation is now at stake ! I am so pleased that members have already come forward with offers of help and know that he will soon be able to fill in many "blanks" that he has concerning his father's WW2 experience. Many thanks Ron
Ian Purely regarding info on Monte Cassino, try this: http://ww2talk.com/index.php?search/1260798/&q=Monte+Cassino+Ron&o=relevance Ron
Ian. Once you have your father’s Service Record, you will know which R SIGNALS unit he served in. That will allow us to place him at Cassino. If you would like to better understand the four battles of Cassino, I am taking a group there on 11-14 May 19. That will be the 75th Anniversary of the start of the Fourth and final battle. Regards Frank
Ian As for the connection to the Indian Rgt, don't miss this video: Great Battles: Monte Cassino (Aired: June 2005) Ron
