Balloon Barrage Boat crews

Discussion in 'General' started by temptage, May 2, 2012.

  1. temptage

    temptage I thought it would only take a few weeks......

    As I'm not sure which forum to post this I have taken a gamble on this one.

    The question is would the crews of Balloon Barrage boats/barges be classed as serving their country, or would they be classed as Civilians if they died while doing their duty?

    I have been doing some research in my local cemetery and have found the headstone of an individual on which it clearly says he was lost at sea. Having delved deeper it turns out that he was a Balloon Barrage Boat Skipper who was lost just off the Lincolnshire coast. But all records show him as a Civilian, which personally I think is wrong.

    Now surely if he was defending the country in any way shape or form, much like the home guard, then surely he should be recognised as a 'military' casualty and not as a Civvy.

    What say you? :Cartangry:
     
  2. wowtank

    wowtank Very Senior Member

    Merchant sailors I think count as Civilians and fire watchers and ARP do as well (I think) lots of Civilians died in ww2 doing there duty Fireman would deserve a mention . If you died for your country I don't think it matters as long as there is recognition for them.
     
  3. Orwell1984

    Orwell1984 Senior Member

    Barrage Balloon Vessels
    Here's a potted history of Barrage Balloon Vessels. Not sure if it's of any use but your man's boat may show up in the listing.
     
  4. Roddy1011

    Roddy1011 Senior Member

    Orwell 1984 -

    Do you have any details of Balloon Barges at Falmouth ? I am particularly after any pics. When I have more time, will post greater details of what I currently have...

    Roddy1011
     
  5. red ling

    red ling Member

    Maybe you will find these of interest.
     

    Attached Files:

  6. red ling

    red ling Member

    Just found some more info
     

    Attached Files:

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