Gunner W Rowell 33 Field Regiment Missing after Dunkirk

Dear Mr Reinders,



I am writing to you regarding your recent submission, which sought to identify the grave of Gunner William Rowell, 856468, who sadly lost his life during the withdrawal to and evacuation from Dunkirk. Thank you for your patience while we conduct an initial investigation into this case.



We have thoroughly assessed the argument and documentation you have provided alongside our own records, and I regret to inform you that on this occasion, we will not be able to progress your case to a full investigation.



The three graves which you highlighted (Sage War Cemetery, 2. B. 8, 2. B. 9 and 2. B. 11) were all concentrated from the same communal grave in Plot C, Juist New Cemetery. This grave, according to German cemetery records, contained the remains of twelve British soldiers who had been washed ashore in 1940. Unfortunately, no means of unique identification, either physical or based on artefacts, was found for any of the casualties when they were brought to Sage War Cemetery.



This is in contrast to the records from Juist Cemetery which you provided in your submission, and which appear to indicate that Gunner Rowell was buried in an individual grave, no. 46.



As such, there is sadly not enough evidence for us to associate any of the three graves you have suggested with Gunner Rowell. I understand this is not the outcome you were hoping for; as I’m sure you are aware, we require a very high standard of evidential proof before an identification can be accepted, and in this case this is simply not possible to achieve. Nonetheless, we remain very grateful to you for your ongoing support and commitment to the appropriate and respectful commemoration of the fallen – it is very much appreciated.



With kind regards and best wishes,



The Commemorations Team

 

You tried Philip.

And a damn good try it was too.

Kind regards, always,

Jim.

 

They are good at writing those letters, they clearly have a proof letter they edit. If I was a cynic I would say they are trying to save money.