- Contributed by
- Albert Grundy
- People in story:
- Charles Thomas Grundy, Albert Grundy
- Location of story:
- Wanstead, London
- Background to story:
- Civilian Force
- Article ID:
- A3672506
- Contributed on:
- 16 February 2005
This is Albert Grundy’s story; it has been added by Louise Bullen, (his grandaughter) with permission from the author, who understands the terms and conditions of adding his story to the website.
Albert Grundy joined the Auxiliary Fire Service (AFS) in 1938. His father, Charles Grundy was the Station Officer. A week before war started Albert was made up to a Sub Officer.
Nothing happened for a year, until 7th September 1940.
It was a Saturday afternoon and the alarm went off. Albert was sent with five pumps to the George Green, where a large number of incendiaries had been dropped. These had fallen on the roofs of houses; starting so many fires that Albert had to break up his crew to deal with the numerous fires.
In the evening, the bombers came back and this time Albert was sent to Herman Hill Methodist Church, Wanstead. The church had taken a direct hit. Five pumps were needed for this fire including two from Ilford and two from Staines in Middlesex. After that there were raids for 57 consecutive nights.
© Copyright of content contributed to this Archive rests with the author. Find out how you can use this.
Recommended story
Story with photo 