Charles Herbert Willis

Name:Charles Herbert Willis (Charlie)
DOB:27/5/1920
Born:Bede Terrace East Boldon
Conflict:WW2
Service:RAF
Rank:Leading Aircraftman
Medals:Italy Star - War Medal - Africa with Clasp
Service Record:1105182 A.C
Story Before joining the Royal Air Force Charlie had worked for the Meadow Dairy to which he returned after the war and became Manager there until 1961 after when he set up in business with his wife Frances as an Off Licencee and General Dealer in North Road Boldon Colliery. Charlie aged 20 married Frances Margaret Malia aged 18 during World War 2 on the 14th January 1941. During W.W.2 He served as far as we know in North Africa and Italy and was awarded Several Medals and Mentioned in Dispatches because he had taken over in an emergency and guided an Aircraft down. Here we can see Charlie in a group photo 2nd row from back 2nd left the, location is currently unknown as are the others in the group. It is also interesting to see that his relatives managed to retain the original box and for the medals and the accompanying note these are quite often lost. The box shows his address at the time of receipt as being 227 Charles Street Boldon Colliery. Charlie died Dec. 3rd. 1990 aged 70 and Frances died Dec. 18th.2008 aged 86.

Source: J . Kirton


email : boldonwm@yahoo.com