- Contributed by
- Goronwy Jones
- People in story:
- W/ Off Goronwy Jones 644838
- Location of story:
- Northern France 1940
- Background to story:
- Royal Air Force
- Article ID:
- A2285057
- Contributed on:
- 10 February 2004
In 1940 I was 19 years old and a qualified Wireless operator in the RAF. I was posted to Arras and attached to 39 Field Regiment RA.
When the Germans were advancing we were told “every man for himself” and we went looking for transport. This was long gone, so we, my fellow wireless operator and myself spotted two discarded bikes.
We jumped on and while riding away we were strafed by a German plane. My left hand was injured and bleeding badly. A passing soldier saw this and directed me to a Red Cross building.
The nurse in charge thought we would not survive the strafing and was amazed we were still alive. While with the Red Cross, the four fingers of my left hand, which were literally hanging off were sewn on again and my arm was put in a sling. I was then put in an ambulance and proceeded towards Ostend.
However the driver informed us that there was no welcome there as the Germans were already in occupation. He then turned round and headed for Dunkirk.
We reached the crowded beaches and tried to get as near the water as possible - here I waited five days and nights for a boat, entering the water when allowed and witnessing the sinking of two large hospital ships.
Whilst on the beach I spoke to a Scottish Padre and asked him “What is your Boss up there doing? Whose side is he on?”
He replied “Away with you , you young Welsh heathen!” I do not know whether he survived as he was walking around comforting the wounded and the dying when I last saw him.
I was finally allowed to board a hospital ship and arrived at Newhaven, then on to Cardiff and Whitchard Mental Hospital which was quickly being turned into a military hospital.
On discharge from hospital I reported to RAF Uxbridge, having only got the hospital blue clothing, as I had lost everything I had. A corporal told me to report to the Guard Room. It was only when a young officer heard of my predicament that I was hastily transferred to Hospital Quarters.
~~~
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