Rifleman Robert Warden, 2 LIR

Discussion in 'Italy' started by bexley84, Nov 12, 2019.

  1. bexley84

    bexley84 Well-Known Member

    In the spirit of the Gary Lineker's invocation that the men who served during the Italian campaign should not be forgotten, I note today the 75th anniversary of the death in Northern Italy of my father's comrade Rifleman Robert Warden, a 22 year old volunteer from Newtownards in co Down. Robert has originally joined up with the Royal Irish Fusiliers before transferring to the London Irish Rifles.

    Rifleman Warden is buried at Arezzo CWGC Cemetery and is believed to have died after suffering severe leg wounds during action... probably in the Monte Spaduro area in late October.

    warden (2).jpg

    Robert was the youngest child of John and Sarah Warden with two brothers David and John and three sisters Eleanor, Minnie and Maggie and his name is included in a memorial at the local Presbyterian church in Newtownards.

    In its way, the war diary entry of the 2nd Bn London Irish Rifles for 12th November 1944 epitomises the relentless agony of the campaign in Italy by highlighting the daily mundanity for the men who were experiencing their third winter away from home.

    2 LIR – ITALY.
    0600 Sitrep: Recce patrol to south of Pimples reported enemy in occupation. Fighting patrol found approach too open and were unable to carry out task before daylight.

    1030 CO’s O Group reference move back to 11 Brigade reserve area on night 13/14.

    1100 Intentions night 12/13: Local protection only.

    2000 Two deserters from sector on 78 Division’s left flank brought in by G Coy. Identification – Mortar Bttn, 1 Para Division.

    2030 Enemy patrol reported moving in front of G Coy’s positions. Orders to G Coy to let them get very close before opening fire.
    Otherwise nothing to report.

    Rifleman WARDEN, ROBERT

    Service Number 7046535
    Died 12/11/1944
    Aged 22
    2nd Bn. The London Irish Rifles Royal Ulster Rifles
    Son of John and Sarah Warden, of Newtownards, Co. Down, Northern Ireland.

    The CWGC lists the names of 44 other men who died in Italy on 12th November '44.
     
    Last edited: Nov 12, 2019
    Giberville, Owen and Tony56 like this.

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