Operation Varsity

Hi all.
Like others before me I'm trying to trace a family member from the Ox & bucks, Cpl.Hugh Robert Hewitt, 5382304 2nd Bn. Ox & Bucks (52nd LI). I think he was in B comp but cannot be sure, we know he was reported Killed in Action 24th March 1945. I probably am posting this request on the wrong thread and hope someone will direct me to the right one. Hoping someone will be able to fill in the gaps. Belfast beau.

 

Hello and welcome to the forum.

Incase you haven't seen it, he is listed on CWGC:

http://www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2032158

If you can get to the National Archives his unit has a war diary that will contain some information as to what the unit was doing when he died, depending on how detailed the diary is he may even get a mention in it.

WO 171/5254 2 Oxfordshire and Buckingahmshire Light Infantry 1945 Jan.-May

 

Belfast Beau

Below are pictures of the headstone for your relative.
As part of 2 OBLI he would have been part of 6th Airborne Division and gliderborne, the date he was killed is the first day of the operation to cross the Rhine.

I am intending to be at TNA week commencing 29th November for 3/4 days and if you wish me to have a look at the War Diary for that month let me know and I will have a quick look (its not on my lengthy list of documents to look at but whats one more!)

Unfortunately I have no further information about him from my database I am afraid.

Regards

Andy