Hi, My Grand father was called Johann Hendrik Beukes and the only thing that I know is that he conscripted in the South African forces during World War 2 and that he finished in Italy being wounded. My GF engaged for combat at 16yo (minimum age in those days), born in 1926 : which makes conscription in 1942. I've seen in internet (http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/37274/supplements/4685) one Johan Hendrik Beukes who won the War Medal for acts of Gallantry and Devotion to duty under fire. He's service number was 26606 and he was a Warrant Officer 2nd Class (Imperial Light Horse) in the South African Forces. Does anyone knows more about that Beukes to know for sure if he was my GF? Any help would be highly appreciated! thanks Eclipselanders.
You'll need to do your family tree. I found only one entry that may be possible for him on Ancestry. Was he born in SA? If so, I'm unsure what geneology site would be better suited. Is he attached to your mothers or fathers side of the family?
This is the recommendation for the Military Medal relating to the Johan Hendrik Beukes you found in the London Gazette... Details from http://discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/SearchUI/Details?uri=D7377159 I'm afraid I can't think of any way other than applying for copy of service records to confirm whether or not this is your grandfather or another individual of the same name. The account given does mention that this Beukes was wounded twice while an escaper/evader fighting with partisans, perhaps these injuries might tally with anything known by you or your family. Please note that the recommendation gives more details, Johan Hendrik Adriaan Beukes, Imperial Light Horse, 3 Brigade, 2 South African Division, as well as date and place of capture in North Africa. Do you or any family member have medals, or paperwork, or photographs etc belonging to your grandfather? Anything at all which might be able to provide a clue as to his service?
