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Archived Messageboard - Pre - Guestbooks,
(below)
Other sites Messageboards
To add new messages, please use "Guest Book Entries,
above"
Many "Shipmates" or their friends/relatives have tried to ask committee members, or
myself for help over the last year ago and we are often unable to give much information to the enquirers. I am
throwing the emails open to you all to help, if possible. If any of you "shipmates" out there can give
any assistance or advice to any enquirers on this page, please contact them direct, if possible, (where name/email
is given) or email alan
with any assistance available.
To ask a question or add a request to the Messageboard - email me at alan
USE - Edit - Find on this Page (On Top Bar) - To search for your
name ???
MESSAGE BOARD - Messages posted by Visitors to the site.
 SAD NEWS - 27th June 2007
I received the sad news today from Charles Davies, (son of Gerald Davies, former shipmate - Stoker), that Gerald
has passed away this morning following a long and heroic battle with MRSA and other "superbugs", contracted
in hospital.
This was a sad end to a heroic and Jovial man - We will miss him greatly at our last reunion
Charles Davies (CHAZZ) - 203 HINTON ROAD HEREFORD HR2 6BW |
Hello All, for anyone trying to track down the elusive but wonderful book 'A Formidable Commision'
I have just found one copy being sold on www.abebooks.co.uk. I was lucky enough to find a copy for myself so I hope this will prove helpful for anyone else trying
to find it. My Grandfather Ron Collins served on the Formidable as Leading Stoker between 1942-1945. It would be
wonderful to hear from anyone who knew him- C. Deering
Reply to: Carly2D@hotmail.com
- Link to details
of book - More Books |
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Photo of my father, Harry Taylor, born Blackpool, Lancashire, served
on the Formidable, Warspite and Indomible. (not sure of spellling)
I have more photos to send including newspaper items on the Formidable
written by NSW nurses who were also on the ship when it bought back POW. - I just found your website and my Dad
was born in Blackpool Lancashire and joined the Royal Navy at the age of 17, he served on the Formidable, Warspite
and Indomitable during WW2.
He met my Mother in Sydney and they married and had 7 children, Dad only managed to get back to England to visit
his parents and siblings on one occasion.
Harry Taylor and Chums - Colleen's Dad, Harry Taylor (back
row right)
Regards and thanks, to Colleen Wells. NSW
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A new article appears in The Wartime Memories Project -
HMS Formidable
http://www.wartimememories.co.uk/ships/formidable.html
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Dear Alan
Thank you for the message about the Formidable web site, quite a lot has happened since I originally
wrote to you, all my father's memorabilia and medals are now in the RM Museum at Southsea (POX1439 ERIC BUSS) also
I had a copy of the Formidable Commission that I wanted to go to a good home, and with the help of a friend Andrew
Ramsey (also from the Formidable) it is now in the Naval Museum in Alberta, have enclosed the marvellous letter
that I received from the curator there, thought you might like to see it and perhaps put it on the web for other
ex Formids to see.
best wishes,
sandra meacock colliehouse@btopenworld.com
|
Please take a while to scroll through these posts from members, shipmates and their
family. Sadly it is often not, until after the death of a loved one, that the family contact us for information,
but some of you out there may know the shipmates being talked about, so please try to help the submitters of these
messages, if possible. ... Alan
Their emails are reproduced in full, here - Also Please look on our BLOG and Guest Book and add your own entry
for future visitors, please ? |
John Bower
It is with sadness I wish to inform you of the death of my father John [Johnny]
Bower who passed away in January 2005. He served on HMS FORMIDABLE during WW2.He saw active service in Australia,
Singapore,The Cape, Ceylon, Gibraltar and North Africa. In 1991 he was due to attend a ship's reunion however shortly
before this he suffered a stroke and had to be looked after in a nursing home until his death in 2005.Dad often
spoke of all the places he visited whilst serving on FORMIDABLE.His shipmate was Fred Stevens [My Uncle] Whilst
on shore leave at Uncle Fred's house he met Kathleen Freds sister[my Mum]. They married in 1948 and had three children
of which I'm the youngest.My sister followed in Dads' footsteps and joined the the WRNS [because Dad always talked
of his time in the Royal Navy]. Fred emigrated to Australia in the 1950's sadly he died in June 2004. michelle@bower6982.freeserve.co.uk |
DEAR ALAN
MY FATHER SERVED ON H.M.S. FORMIDABLE & HMS ILLUSTRIOUS IN THE 40s HE DIED IN THE 80s
MY MOTHER TELLS ME HE GOT A MEDAL FOR BRAVERY THE EMBLEM OF THE OAK LEAF I BELIEVE
IS IT POSSIBLE TO GET ANY INFO ON THIS I WOULD BE VERY GRATEFUL FOR ANYTHING YOU CAN FIND
HE WAS P.O. JAMES FORD
MY NAME AND ADDRESS IS
SANDY FORD
THE ROCKERY
CAWDOR
NAIRN
IV12 5XP
01667 404603 MOB 07724554571
E-MAIL AFORD@SUPANET.COM |
Hello
My father served on the Formidable from 30/10/40-25/9/41 I believe this time was spent in the . I think he he was
an ERA. His name was Colin McKay from Clydebank, Scotland.
I would love to hear if anyone has any information.
Thank you
Barbara Thomson nee McKay barbiethomson@hotmail.com |
Hi Alan
Nice to meet you at last. Had a good time at the reunion, even though it was the wrong Formy. (My father sailed
on the older 1989 Formidable) - Noted the ties you were all wearing. Is it possible to buy those, if so, where
from ... ?
(Anyone got any ties left - email Dave d_r_electrical@btopenworld.com?)
My best to you all
Dave Russell.
Visit our web site http//www.dprelectricalservices.co.uk - d_r_electrical@btopenworld.com |
Hi Alan
Maybe you can settle something for me We have been searching our ancestry. One member of the family met and married
a young lady from Belfast. This occurred during a six month stay in Belfast whilst the Formidable was having a
re-fit after being badly damaged on 26th may 1941. We always understood this major repair work took place in Belfast.
Of course having read the history on the www.fleetairarmarchive.net we now know different. "would the vessels personnel be based in Belfast employed on other naval
work for the duration of the repair"?.
It seems a strange question to ask but the information could be included against this family members history. I
hope you can help, but in any event we have gained knowledge we didn't have before Many thanks D. Elmer Donald
Elmer <offugo@tiscali.co.uk> |
Hi,
Could you please add the following to http://hmsformidable.org/Formy-messageboard.htm
----
My father, Lt John WW Baker was an engineering officer who served on HMS Formidable from about 1940 to about 1943.
He later went on to fly Seafires. I am keen to contact anyone who knew him. He died of a heart attack in 1952 when
I was only 2.
My mother has commissioned a paining of HMS Formidable in the Med flying Seafires, and the artist, Gordon Frickers,
is keen to obtain any information on: Colour schemes; Prop and colour under wings of Seafires?; Colour scheme of
the ship?; Any flags flown when launching / recovering Seafires?
If you can help with either or both, please contact me.
Michael Baker. Michael Baker <mbaker@pobox.com>
Dr Michael Baker +44 1993 842145 www.michael-baker.com websites; ecommerce; databases;
software selection, customisation and installation |
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Dear rowsleyauctions,
As you requested, your password has now been reset. Your new details are as follows:
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Hello.
I am the grandson of Phillip 'Jack' Worsfold of Surrey England who served aboard HMS Formidable during the whole
of the Second World War in his capacity as cook. To inform you that he passed away peacefully on Tuesday 2nd May
2006 aged 87. Taking away with him found memories of crew members from Formidable. He laves a widow Rose, Sons
Norman, Phillip & Colin and daughter Linda, and 5 grandchildren. Sadly missed.
Many thanks Lee-James Worsfold. (Grandson). Lee-James Worsfold <lee-james.worsfold@ntlworld.com> |
May I introduce you to the latest addition to the RN Shipmates system, and that is our new website.
Only a few months or so old, we are looking for more input from Associations such as yours, who are no doubt looking
for new members and looking for every opportunity to ‘spread the word’. Or if you are an individual looking for
your old shipmates and think you might like to start an Association, read on.
It costs an Association nothing to put your link onto the website, just go to www.rnshipmates.co.uk to see the
Ship’s Associations who have joined already and follow the instructions. If in doubt contact Steve the Webmaster.
Once your Association is there, spread the word to your fellow shipmate secretaries and help make the website another
‘place to be seen’. Add a topic to the forum or join in an existing one.
The RN Shipmate’s stand at the International Festival of the Sea at Portsmouth in June/July 2005 was nothing less
than a phenomenal success and we have already let it be known that we will be at the next I.F.O.S. in Portsmouth
in 2007. This will be with a bigger stand and a video display of any H.M.Ship’s or Royal Naval Association who
wishes to have representation; details of this will be available later. There will be a small Stand Fee to be represented
at I.F.O.S. 2007. This will be the same as 2005, £10.00 to have an A4 display on the boards and another A4
display in the folders on the benches and someone to answer questions and guide people to you. An improvement we
are incorporating in 2007 is a small leaflet/application form for Associations taking part. This is for the visitor
to take away, fill in at leisure and send to you to join your Association, or your new Association if you are using
RN Shipmates to launch one. We found that those visiting the stand and interested in an Association, were reluctant
to leave their names and addresses for us to forward on, no doubt they thought they would go onto a huge junk mailing
list. This service is of course included in the Stand Fee of just £10.00.
With reference to the Video display, there will be a small charge of £5.00 to enter a display and to man
the display at I.F.O.S.2007. By the way, do you fancy helping out on the Stand representing yours and other Associations?
Free Pass for the duration with every opportunity to see the Festival!!! By the response so far, I hope to double
that stand size and will be looking for eight volunteers.
RN Shipmates has at present well over 200 H.M.Ship’s Associations on file and the system is recognized by the Ministry
of Defence, Navy News, Pay and Pensions at H.M.S.Centurion and is listed on many Local Council web sites around
the country as a contact/information point for those seeking their lost shipmates. As an exercise, put ‘RN Shipmates’
into the Google search engine and you will come up with full details and more besides. Is your Association listed?
Make sure your secretary has sent his name and address and details of the Association to mike.crowe1@btinternet.com.
No Association for your ship? Let RN Shipmates help you start one!! Send for details and start swinging that lamp!!
Looking forward to seeing you on the web site and representing your Association at the International Festival of
the Sea Portsmouth 2007
Once again, let me remind you that this service is a hobby of mine and is free. Go and look at the website www.rnshipmates.co.uk,
put a posting there and find new members.
Mike Crowe - Welcome aboard - www.rnshipmates.co.uk
Email: mike.crowe1@btinternet.com. |
Hello
I have just come across your site.
My Father - CPO Alexander William Steele (Taf) was an Artificer on Formidable during the 2 World War.
He lived with us for ten years until he died in July 2000.
I have a large collection of photgraphs of him, with crew and friends, also under attack (Pacific) and sadly burials
at sea.
Please would you be so kind as to "post" his Obituary on your site. Sadly, we/I never thought of looking
up his past.
Kindest regards
John Alexander Steele jasja@msn.com
Barry, South Wales, UK
01446 720319 |
Hi Alan
My Father Robert Tremain (probably known better as Bob Tremain) served on HMS Formidable during WW2 and I would
really like to hear from anyone who may have known him. Unfortunately my Father died in 1986, but I have heard
lots of stories over the years of things that happened during his time on HMS Formidable. He was with the Fleet
Air Arm looking after the aircraft.
I hope I can hear from someone who knew him.
Regards
Wendy Tremain wendytremain@tiscali.co.uk |
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My father, Frederick William Ponting, was an Observer in the Fleet Air Arm. He served on Formidable
until she was hit in May 1941 (don't know when he joined) after which his squadron (don't know the number) became
shore based in Alexandria, Cyprus and then Alexandria again. I would love to know any general details about his
time on and above the Formidable and wonder if you can help? I know he flew in action in Swordfish, Albacore and
Fulmar but have few other details.
I am particularly interested in his rescue, after he had to ditch (probably around the time Formidable was hit),
by the Australian ship Perth which took him to Alexandria. Is it likely that the damage to Formidable would have
prevented his return to the ship?
Any help would be very much appreciated.
Ray Ponting RPonting@uwic.ac.uk |
| Hello, I was wondering if anyone out there knew my father who served on HMS Formidable, his name
was Henry Hammond. Unfortunatly he passed away in 1971, but I do remember a few things that he told me. He has
mentioned the attack on the Tirpitz, the ship being kamakaze attacked, visits to Alexander, ceylon, Australia,
Gibralter and being in the pacific when the A bombs were dropped. I seem to remember that his duties was an emergancy
electrican. he also mentioned loading torpedoes. He kept his uniform for some time after the war and I seem to
remember it having two crossed torpedoes on one of the arms. My father told me that a Doctor Prendergast served
on board, which by strange coincidence just happend to be our local doctor during the fifties. I have my fathers
medals one of which is the pacific star, also there is a small bar with "Burma" written on it and there
was a small silver rose? which unfortunatly has been lost. Can any one tell me what they stood for and what medals
they were attatched to? Many Thanks Ray Hammond e-mail lococraft@aol.com |
Hello,
I am trying to locate the Formidables Motto during the war, My grandfarther
was on the formidable for a long duration, his name was Cyril Hudson (Soapy)
and sadly passed away 9months ago.
Any help will be much appreciated.
Simon Alcott - Email: simonalcott2@hotmail.com |
The following is an email sent to you by an administrator of "Aircraft of World War II". If this message is spam, contains abusive
or other comments you find offensive please contact the webmaster of the board at the following address: admin@ww2aircraft.net
Hello to you all,
Recently we have had political discussions on the WW2aircraft.net site which, while interesting, have threatened
to derail threads and increase blood pressure. The Admins have created a new board called 'politics.' - This is
the place for all those soul-stirring, blood pressure raising topics.
Kiwimac
for ww2aircraft.net Administration team |
Dear Alan,
Only just discovered the Formidable website while I was looking for the coorect colours to paint a lifeboat shield
my dad won at shooting in the 40's.
Sadly he died on 27th September 2002 in Kendal after spending most of his life in Leicester. I wonder if anyone
remembers him? He left some photographs from the ship (he was on it for the second half of the war) I will see
if I can make digital copies of them to send to you.
Yours
Ivan Smith - Ivan and Carole Smith <ivansmith@kendalla9.freeserve.co.uk> |
Sir
We are trying to trace anyone who knew Petty Officer Ernest Nicholls who served aboard HMS Formidable from 1939
to 1945. He was awarded the bronze oak leaf for bravery in the Italian Landings and mentioned in Despatches 1944
we think. Sadly he passed away 1950 when my wife was aged 4. We are desparate for photographs and any shipmates
that knew him and are still alive to contact us.
David & Christina Buettner- Banks <davidbuettner01@aol.com> |
|
Dear Alan
I have enclosed a photo of my late father Sgt Eric Buss RM POX1492 wondering if perhaps there were any veterans
that might known him. he is the taller of the two marines the other being
somebody called Giffen I believe, they had both given blood to a NZ pilot.
best wishes
Sandra Meacock
|
Dear Alan,
My name is John-Andrew Pankiw-Petty. I'm a student at Queen's University
in Canada. My grandfather, Frank Petty, was a Petty Officer 1st Class on
the Formidable. When I was young and visiting him in England he sat me
down for hours and told me the story of his life in the Navy. That
conversation had a large impact on my life. I would love the opportunity
to speak with anyone who served with my grandpa. He died in 1995. Can you
help?
Respectfully yours,
John-Andrew Pankiw-Petty - 2pjap@qlink.queensu.ca |
|
Dear Sir
I write to ask you whether there is a written history of HMS Formidable (the aircraft carrier) from around 1939
- 1946 available on the web. I saw some film of german and italian air attacks on Malta on ARTE (european TV channel)
last night, with some sequences showing HMS Illustrious. Formidable was not mentioned by name - but I distinctly
recall that my father (Edwin Stephen Jeffs 1915-1996), who was Radar Officer for Formidable, was stationed in Valetta
for some time. Indeed I have several photographs from that period, through to the period where the ship was stationed
off Alexandria. Seeing this film was quite a shock to me, because I grew up with Formidable - several large prints
of the carrier in my parents house, and my father's certificate from crosing the Equator which remains hanging
by the stairwell - I realise how little I know about the precise movements of the ship during that period.
I am sure you must receive many letters of this kind. I should nonetheless be most grateful if you could point
me to a source of further information.
I thank you for the work you have put into your most informative web site.
sincerely,
Peter S. Jeffs.
pete jeffs <jeffs@mail.micronet.fr>
|
Hi
What type of info do you have regarding sailors, their names, etc
who served on the HMS Formidable during World War 2?
My father-in-law (Desmond Camons) was a gunner on the HMS Formidable, in the
Pacific ocean during the battle at Okinawa.
Thank you
John Anthony - JohnA@Transnet.co.za |
Hello Alan
Firstly Happy New Year to You!!!
could you please post the following message on the bulletin board for my Grandad. He was unaware of the site on
the net and is interrested in finding out more that goes on regarding the ship.
Does Anybody remember Bert Cashell he was a Radar Operator on the Formidable from 1944-45. Please contact if you
do. I am also looking for some photos from around that time of the ship and it's crew, so if anybody can help please
contact Bert on mailto:greg.ruthven@virgin.net
Thanks Alan
Greg |
 Dear
Mr. Brown:
I thought that you might be interested in this photo of my uncle Ron Mitchell who served on the Formidable during
the war. Unfortunately I know little about him, as he died shortly after the war of tuberculosis. I do know however,
that he served in the Mediterranean and the Pacific towards the end of the war. This picture is one of the few
that my mother has of him.
I was told once that the Formidable had a problem with tuberculosis, would you know if that's true?
Please feel free to use this photo in any way you see fit. Perhaps somebody might recognize him.
Kudos on a great site.
David Lacey
32 Taylor, Cr.,
St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada,
N5R 5J4
dave@ronanddave.com |
|
Thanks to Frank Cope <Frank.Cope@btinternet.com> for these
photos
HMS Formidable in Sydney
HMS Formidable leaving Woolamoo
|
 Dear Sir,
My grandfather, Lewis James Block JX212127, served aboard the Formidable in 1944, possible up until his release
in 1946. I was wondering if you had any information regarding the ship's history during that period, and also whether
you could put a message upon your message board for anybody who knew my grandfather to contact me at Steveblock@yahoo.com. He may well have
been acting petty officer on board this ship. He passed away in 1979, but the family would love to hear about anything
anyone could tell us.
Here is a photo of him. - Steveblock@yahoo.com |
Dear Sirs,
I emailed you before on events etc and Formy's end to which you kindly replied.
My father-in-law (Sid Iliffe) was on the Formidable October 1940 until November 1943 and would like to know if
any one can help with the following question.
Do you have any details of the carrier attack on SAKISHIMA Islands 150 miles South West of Okinawa? This took place
at the same time as the American landings on Okinawa.
Also does anyone know of a book on this operation?
Your web site is most informative. Thank you for your efforts.
Is it possible to put together a chronology of events for the Formy? Birth to Death ops etc? To assist I will be
sending you some photos from Sid Iliffe for your records once these are scanned into jpegs.
Best regards.
Alan Laubscher (please reply to email alanlaubscher@pickeverard.co.uk ) |
Hello,
My Uncle Samuel Wrout served aboard the Formidable during the 2nd world war,
He has just given me many photos showing the damage received, and the planes
that took off from Her decks, He is now in His late 70s and not had good
Health lately, If anybody knows Him I am sure it would be a great surprise to
be contacted, I will pass on any names for Him to get back to you,
Many Thanks,
Jim Castle - Tremarclub@aol.com |
Hello
Would you be so kind as to post the following message on your Formidable website.- If you have any further ideas
as to where to look I would be greatful for the help.
My uncle and I are attempting to find out more about his fathers ( my Grandfathers) service career. His name was
Horace Little. We understand that he was a Flight Sargent in the RAF but was tranfered to the Fleet Air Arm for
a time. He was in charge of the "ground crew" and was a powerplant mechanic. We beleive he was with #829
Squadron ( Albacores) (we have a photo of him infront of one) at the time the Formidable received damage from the
Luftwaffe on May 26 '41 in the Med. Any info would be greatful. Even more about the battle and others at that time.
Thank you- Neil Medcalf - Neil & Lynda Medcalf <zoman@pacificcoast.net> |
A very impressive web page indeed.
You might want to check out and link to my small contribution to World War
II history at http://www.usswashington.com/dl_index.htm
It's a day-by-day history of World War II.
Comments and criticism are welcome at dhlippman@juno.com
Best,
David H. Lippman |
Please look at these 1943/44 Deck Hockey Team members !
James Murphy. He served as CEA in Formidable from 9th December 1943 to 28th
Feb 1946.
In the photo he is in the team, standing on the right, holding the hockey stick
in his left hand.
Anyone else recognise anyone ???
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Please Reply to:
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My grandfather who died some years ago Maurice Stevenson served
aboard HMS Formidable between Oct 1940 to Oct 1942.
I am currently doing some research on his naval service as I have his records and wartime photographs.
If anyone out there in the ether, knew Maurice, please contact
!
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Please Reply to:
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Great job with the "Formy Photos" pages! You have some great photographs
there. One photo, Hicks13.jpg, is especially interesting to me as an aviation buff as it is the only one I've ever
seen that shows a Fairey Barracuda wearing D-day invasion stripes. The information blurb with this photograph refers
to the aircraft as the "Meteoric Dustbin". I was wondering, was this the name of this particular Barracuda,
or a nickname for Barracudas in general? If the former, and this particular Barra was aboard the Formidable, would
you happen to know what squadron it was with? Also, do you know of any other photographs of either Barracudas or
Corsairs with invasion stripes, or do you or any other Formidable Association members recall Corsairs being painted
with invasion stripes?
Sorry to throw questions at you like this, but your photograph has me truly intrigued! If you can provide any information
at all about the Meteoric Dustbin, or Barracudas and/or Corsairs with invasion stripes, I'll be hugely grateful.
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My name is Michael Hesketh, my Wife's Father served on HMS Formidable
for a year & half. He lost his wife earlier this year and I thought it
would be nice to try and send him to your Reunion.
His name is Samuel McMaster from Belfast.
Any information would be helpful.
Thank you for your time
M I Hesketh
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Bob Lauder, a Works Manager has an employee called Kevin who has a grandfather
who is not in the best of health. Kevin says his grandfather loves reminiscing about his time in HMS Formidable.
Being Ex Fleet Air Arm myself Kevin asked if I could try and make contact with the association and maybe find someone
who remembers his granddad and maybe write to him and make him feel a lot better. His details are these; A/B A.Nightingale
(known as Birdie) P/JX 381273 HMS Formidable 1942-46 Port watch. Duties included, Helmsman,Qm, Bosuns mate, and
PI pom poms.
If you could help in any way I can be contacted at this e-mail bob@rudloe-stone.com or at robert.lauder1@btinternet.co.uk and I will pass
on to Kevin any information. Thanks.
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Both my uncles Eddie and Cyril Thornberry served on the Formidible.
Eddie a corsair pilot. Cyril the ship's surgeon.
They served at the same time in Norway 1944.
Amazingly in Sailor Yarns CR Cartledge refers to the tragedy of the ships
surgeon expereincing the deeath of his younger brother who was also serving
on the carrier.
Eddie was killed 24 Aug during an attack on the Tirpitz.
I have no contact with Cyril and would like to know if he is still alive.
Like also to know if anybody knew either of the brothers
Thanks for an amazing site, Dermot Thornberry
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Hi, my name is Louise Wickham grandaughter of Derrick Francis Wickham. My grandad
served on the Formidable as a Radar Operator from 1944-1946. He would be very interested to hear from any of his
old shipmates who remember him but is particular interested in hearing from anyone living in the North West area.
Derrick lives in Denton, Manchester and used to have contact with Derrick Cook who lived in Edgeley Stockport but
unfortunately lost contact in about 1953 and would love to hear from him again. Some names that my Grandad has
mentioned to me include Pony Moore and Ken Ashby. We have some pictures of the old days and would be happy to share
them with you. If anybody would like to contact us please e-mail to louise.wickham@ntlworld.com
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Hi I wonder if anyone can help me find out more about my father's time on the Formidable, his
name was John Collins and he was from Glasgow I am sure he was a radar operator, and I know he was on board when
it was hit in the Pacific by the Japanese,I also recall him saying that they went into Sydney for repair, if anyone
recalls him I would be grateful if they could get in touch.
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My father William Oliver Merritt P/JX-151905 served
aboard HMS Formidable from 17/7/43 to 6/5/45 as A/Leading Seaman and A/PO. His tour finished when he was injured
during kamikaze raids between 4-6/5/45 and repatriated to Australia to recover. Qualified A/AA2 Gunnery 26/5/44.
Unfortunately passed away 27/11/2001. Would be interested in hearing from his shipmates - putting together family
history, and dad was not one to talk about his war years, difficult to get info about him and ships served aboard.
Many thanks
Michael Merritt
Dear Alan,
I have a brass ships bell which is impressed "H.M.S FORMIDABLE",.
I believe this is a ships mess bell.
How many Bells did H.M.S Formidable have?
Do you know the where abouts of these?
Kind Regards
David gordon.
My father-in-law, Kenneth Samual Wardell, was an AB Gunner on Formidable from 1944 to 1946.He was in Norway and
the Pacific. His captain was Phillip Ruck-Keene. He joined when he was 17.5 years old and is still breathing.Does
anyone out there remember him?
Sorry for my bad english. My name is Pietro Criscuoli, i am an italian giornalist. I need informations about an
episode of the second world war. At 24 july 1943, near the island of Ventotene, in Tirrenian Sea, a little ferry,
S.Lucia, was torpeded and foundered by some english aircraft. I know that the only aircraft-carrier operating in
the zone was the Formidable. I would know news about this episode: how many aircraft, which type, and anything.
Is an episode of 60 years ago. The wreck of S.Lucia is at the bottom of the sea. More of 90 people died. The peace
is over all. I like illuminate the darkness in wich sank S.Lucia.
Thank you, Pietro Criscuoli
Dear Mr. Brown: I thought that you might be interested in this photo of my uncle Ron Mitchell who served on the
Formidable during the war. Unfortunately I know little about him, as he died shortly after the war of tuberculosis.
I do know however, that he served in the Mediterranean and the Pacific towards the end of the war. This picture
is one of the few that my mother has of him. I was told once that the Formidable had a problem with tuberculosis,
would you know if that's true?
Please feel free to use this photo in any way you see fit. Perhaps somebody might recognize him. Kudos on a great
site.
David Lacey 32 Taylor, Cr., St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada, N5R 5J4
OK Guys ... I know this was the previous HMS Formidable ... But there's just a hope ???
My name is David Russell.
I have just come across your impressive web site.
My granddad's brother Henry James Russell. was on HMS Formidable when it was sunk in 1915.
He was just 19 when it happened. He was a private in the Royal Marine Light infantry.
I am wondering if anyone has information on him and maybe even a photo?.
Any information regarding him would be appreciated.
Thanking you all in advance. - David Russell.
I can be contacted via e mail drusel@globalnet.co.uk or d_r_electrical@btinternet.com
Or mobile phone 07956-186411
Does Anybody remember Bert Cashell he was a Radar
Operator on the Formidable from 1944-45. Please contact if you do. I am also looking for some photos from around
that time of the ship and it's crew, so if anybody can help please contact Bert on
I am trying to find any one who may remember serving
with my father, Kenneth John Frost he served on the Formidable in WW2 as a telegraphist. He was born in Stoke On
Trent and joined the ship in Belfast. He is currently living in Australia.
Please contact Ken Frost Jr,
I came across your web-site by accident.
My father Ron Seaman was a Petty Officer on HMS Formidable immediately following WW2.
Are there any fellows out here who will remember him?
Sadly he is no longer with us but I would be interested in hearing or knowing of any others who were with him in
the 'Singapore days'. Best regards, Nigel Seaman
I am researching my family history. My grandfather
was (according to the records I have) Captain of HMS Formidable between 1940 and 1942. He later became a Rear Admiral
on the Illustrious before suffering a stroke in 1944. I would be very interested to hear from anybody who can tell
me more about him. - Thank you. - Simon Lough
My Uncle Sam Wrout has sadly passed away today 14th May 2003 He served on the
Formidable during the 2nd World War in the Pacific. He never married but
leaves behind very grateful Nephew and Nieces for His time spent with us.
God Bless and Rest in Peace,
This is a photo of three stokers from the H.M.S Formidable,my
Grandfather Owen Traynor is the man on the right.I,m interested in finding out whom the other two men are,if you
can help please contact me at
I am trying to find any one who may remember serving
with my father, Kenneth John Frost he served on the Formidable in WW2 as a telegraphist. He was born in Stoke On
Trent and joined the ship in Belfast. He is currently living in Australia.
Please contact Ken Frost Jr,
My grandfather, Lewis James Block JX212127, served
aboard the Formidable in 1944, possible up until his release in 1946. I was wondering if you had any information
regarding the ship's history during that period, and also whether you could put a message upon your message board
for anybody who knew my grandfather to contact me at stephen.block@virgin.net. He may well have been acting petty officer on board this ship. He passed away in 1979,
but the family would love to hear about anything anyone could tell us.
From Ron Mitchel's nephew ??
I thought that you might be interested in this photo of my uncle Ron Mitchell who served on the Formidable during
the war. Unfortunately I know little about him, as he died shortly after the war of tuberculosis. I do know however,
that he served in the Mediterranean and the Pacific towards the end of the war. This picture is one of the few
that my mother has of him.
I was told once that the Formidable had a problem with tuberculosis, would you know if that's true?
My Uncle Samuel Wrout served aboard the Formidable
during the 2nd world war,
He has just given me many photos showing the damage received, and the planes
that took off from Her decks, He is now in His late 70s and not had good
Health lately, If anybody knows Him I am sure it would be a great surprise to
be contacted, I will pass on any names for Him to get back to you,
Many Thanks, Jim Castle
I have in my position a old original photo of the formidable on fire of Japan it shows the formidable in the distance
on the horizon whith smoke billowing from her, this is a authentic picture ,and was after a kamikaee attack, as
my Father was on board at the time of the attack. HE WAS A GUNNER ABLE SEAMAN WILLIAM HUMPHRIES
My uncle and I are attempting to find out more about his fathers ( my Grandfathers) service career. His name was
Horace Little. We understand that he was a Flight Sargent in the RAF but was tranfered to the Fleet Air Arm for
a time. He was in charge of the "ground crew" and was a powerplant mechanic. We beleive he was with #829
Squadron ( Albacores) (we have a photo of him infront of one) at the time the Formidable received damage from the
Luftwaffe on May 26 '41 in the Med. Any info would be greatful. Even more about the battle and others at that time.
Thank you- Neil Medcalf
Are there any models of the ship that i can get hold of please
please let me know many thanks s collins
I wonder if you or any of your members could help me with this question:
Did 888, 885, 893, and 820 squadrons carry the US star insignia rather than the roundel in Apr '43. The star was
carried earlier for the Torch landings but when did aircraft revert to their roundels again?
I am researching Formidable for a diorama I am building depicting her and members of Force H in Algiers harbour.
H.M.S Formidable Stoker Thomas Trump looking for his shipmates:
George Hagard and John Silitoe who served with me on H.M.S Formidable in 1946-1947, if you are still in the land
of living please contact me. Tom Trump - Home tel: 01962 882698
My Grandpa Owen Traynor served aboard the Formidable as a Chief Stoker from 1940-1945,If anyone has any photographs
or new Owen Traynor then please contact me at herman@elderave69.fsnet.co.uk Thankyou very much.
A very impressive web page indeed.
You might want to check out and link to my small contribution to World War II history at
My name is Gary Freeman and I am trying to get some information about my
father who was on HMS Formidable during the second world war.
My father past away in 1971 when I was 12. Being so you I didn't get the
chance to learn about things he did during his life.
I have very good photos of him during that time on the ship including an
occasion when the Formidable was hit by a Japanese plane.
I guess I'm hoping that I may be able to get in contact with someone that
may have known him and be able to tell me about him.
I would appreciate any help you can provide me.
Yours Sincerely, Gary Freeman
My Father in Law Alfred Allan Dees (Known as Allan) served on the Formidable
during WWII as a Royal Marine. During this time whilst at shore in Sydney he
met his future Wife Phyllis. After our local ANZAC day dawn service yesterday whilst having Breakfast
Allan & Phyllis spoke of a party that was held in the Formid's Hanger before
it returned to England (I Think). They recalled how the room had been decorated with plants and a pond or the
like in the room. They said they would love to have had a photo of the room
as it was a night they both remember with great affection. They were only
newly weds If any one out their could help, it would be much appreciated.
I have only just found your site and briefly shown Allen its contents. '
Would you believe that in one of the photos A FEW OF FORMID"S ROYALS Allen
recognised his Best Man. I will keep Allan involved in the site as it surely gave him great pleasure
yesterday and I am sure he could contribute at some Time in the future.
Keep up the good work - Paul Barton
32 Pitt St
Springwood
Blue Mountains
New South Wales
Australia 2777
Emails; kassavidasi@bigpond.com <mailto:kassavidasi@bigpond.com>
pbarton@cordukes.com.au
I was wondering if anyone had a picture of Formidables' ships crest. I have seen 2 different copies of what was
named as HMS Formidable... difference being the colours - cyan/yellow and red/black. Can anyone help??
I currently do not have ANY copies of this and would be interested in gettng a copy.
BILL COOPER, DERBY, "OLD BLACKY" 1946 onwards.....Blacksmith, seeks any old mates that may
want to get in touch, lot,s of stories to revisit if your up for it!!!
Trying to get mini-reunion going locally ,probably one-off for mates only...anyone remember me.....
(Big Derby County Fan at the time....1946 final, against Charlton and all those days....)
Please Reply to Bill Cooper (formally of Duffield,Derby) via Son...
I would like to add details of your association to my new website
Vic Simmons No 340. Has anyone any information concerning Stanley Francis Lodge,
Petty Officer, Torpedo Gunners Mate. Served in Formy from 44 until 47 He was my run ashore
oppo and I would like to know whether he is still around, any info good or
bad will be welcome. Please post answer to email address
AA gun crew during kamikaze attack
Hello! My name is John Kennedy jr. , and my father John Kennedy Sr. served aboard the Formidable in both the Atlantic
and Pacific theaters. He was an American assigned to the Admiralty and held the rank of Lt. Cmdr. He was a technical
rep on the Corsair fighter, and worked with many of the pilots and mechanics who flew Corsairs from the Formidable.
Dad is now 82 yrs old, and still tells of stories of the ship. He was wounded while at battle station in a AA gun
crew, of which all but he were killed, during a kamikaze attack. Any one who remembers him could contact thru me
at Email: DETJBKJR@AOL.COM.
"Old Formidable" 1915 ???
I have a picture of the twin brothers who died 1 Jan 1915 aboard the Formidable. It is a very good clear picture
of the Villiers Russell Brothers. I have been after a picture of the wreck of the Formidable (1915) .. Can you
help me, if so I will get you a good copy done for the site. Thanks, Mark
I wonder if you might be able to somewho publicise the follwoing within your association.
I am trying to contat anyone that served with my Grandfather Alan William Tatham (Leading Seaman) onbaord HMS FORMIDABLE
in the latter part of the war in the far east. He joined the ship in Sydney, I think, in 1944/5 - having travelled
there on the Dominian Monarch troop ssihp.
I would be very pleased to hear from anyone that might have known him - he passed way 2 years ago and is a big
gap in my life . I would love to write a book all about him so if there is anyone that remembers him I would so
like ot hear form you.
Many Thanks, Steve Tatham
(Lieutenant Commander Royal Navy !)
I am sending this on behalf of my father, Norman Fletcher, who served on HMS Formidable from April 1944 to February
1946. He does not have a PC himself, but his address is: 47 St Nicolas Park Drive, St Nicolas Park, Nuneaton, tel.
02476-328579. He would be interested in hearing from you about the association, which I discovered via your website.
He ended his service as an Air Artificer (L), and tells me that he would be remembered because he ran the ship's
cinema!
Many Thanks
Tony Fletcher
ANYONE REMEMBER WATCHING THE SHIP'S
CINEMA IN 1944 ????
Raggy Page if you can recall him,he spent a lot of his time on board
in the Marine office as i recall he is now on a Messenger Download
If you wish to contact him he reads
sydneypage@optusnet.com.au
He is living on his own now so he may be may be glad of a natter.
I believe that my grandfather was a cpo
aboard this ship,I still have the pennant that he brought home with him.
I am interested to search for any possible photos of him,his name Robert
Wilks Campbell Thompson from Ashington
Northumberland.he was away from home for
4 years during the war. Please respond if you can help.
I was just browsing and came across your site. My father Albert Snaith, PMX773370 was his number I believe he was
a ships cook and served during 1945-46. I know he would be very interested in the association so could you send
him some details please. His address is Mr. Albert Snaith 10, Torcross Close Glenfield Leicester LE67 4TH. He is
not well,
It would be good for Dad to get in touch with past shipmates.
Many thanks, Ken Snaith
ANYONE WHO KNEW Albert Snaith ...
Ship's Cook !
ANYONE KNOWS C. R. CARTLEDGE ????
See
his story
I am currently researching the sinking of the HMS FORMIDABLE in 1915. Four members of my town died during the sinking
and I have tried without vain to get a decent book on the subject. Anything to do with the WW1 battleship would
be appreciated. Can you please let me know if I can buy such a book. Thank you very much, Mark Potts
PS Any photos would also be appreciated.
Can you please e-mail me pictures
of HMS Formidable because my great uncle was on the ship when it blew up
My grandfather, George Edward Moore, has attended, I think, at least one of
the Formidable reunions. I really would like to get him one of the books
you mention on the website as a Christmas present, but I have been unable to
track down Seeley Service. Do you know how I can get hold of them, or where
else I might get the book "A Formidable Commission".
Hello ... Shipmates !!!
I was just wondering if you could help me, during past conversations with my father in law Mr David Romain, i remember
him talking about his time on HMS Formidable, at the back end of WW2, .... I am trying to put together some information
on his time on the Formidable, as he is due to enter a nursing home shortly and they require back ground information.
He has spoken about Kamikaze Hits and being on board when the Atom Bomb exploded, though I don't think he actually
saw it, he did mention that the Capitan's was Ruck something.
If you have any further information, or copy of records of his time on board it would be much appreciated.
Many Thanks, Martin Perkins, Son in Law
Shall appreciate your Please Reply
to a sincere request for info. Thanx in advance.
Eden Chan wrote:
Hi. Alan
I'm an oldster aged 71 living in Singapore, even when theJapanese were
here during period 1941-1945. From 1944, S'pore experienced air raid by
American B-29s. There was one raid in 1944 when I was brave enough to
stand in the open and counted the raiders which, in this instance,
numbered 93. The aircraft were flying very high, well above the
anti-aircraft bursts. These couldn't be the US superforts becoz they
never came in that great a number.
I believe they could be British carrier-borne planes becoz history
recorded the presence of one carrier operating in the Indian Ocean at
the time. This could either be the HMS Indomitable or Formidable that
flew off aircraft to bomb Sumatra. Some were shot down over S'pore and
their crews executed by the Japs. Some years ago, veterans from the
carrier visited S'pore to conduct a memorial service for these heroes.
I'll appreciate it if you could enlighten me if the carrier involved was
the Indomitable or the Formidable.
Thanx & regards.
Eden Chan
A number of the Radar Division
(A.D.R) attend the annual reunion and are seeking information on A.B. Woodbine (Willy) and A.B. Porritt (Bill).
Dear Sir/Madam,
You don't know me but I help out at Kegworth Museum, which your association
has visited over the past couple of years during your annual reunion. I am
trying to put together a little display about HMS Formidable and the link
with the village.
I have contacted Graham Faulkner Drucker about the details on the Fleet Air
Arm Archive website to see if I could use some or all of them in the
display. I visited the Fleet Air Arm Museum recently with a couple of
friends and had access to the archives and I have a few photographs in mind.
I wondered if you would like to add anything to the display.
I hope to hear from you soon.
Kind Regards, Ian
I wonder if you can help me. My dad was on the Formidable
for a while, and I would like to find out a bit more if you can help. His
name was William James Barry Spence, and I think his service number was
684774. Not sure on that though. He was an armourer. Unfortunately he passed
away last year, but I would like to know more about the ship and the
aircraft etc. I have a substantial interest in aviation history.
Coincidentally, I live at Sileby, which is just over the hill from you.
HI
my father, Arthur John Flint from Dagenham\ Essex served on Formidable
during WW2 - he was a steward in the officers mess, I should be most happy
to hear from any who knew him,
Val Crowdy(nee Flint).
Dear Betty
My Uncle "John Forward service No K17082" served on the above ship, I
have found his Navy Record and am now trying to find out about his medals,As
I understand there are Four of them.
As you know The Formidable was lost in January 1915 off Portland Bill.My
uncle was a Stoker on her.And was only just 20 years old when it was sunk.
I am doing my family history and he most certainly plays a big part in it as
he gave his life for his country.(Like so many others )
If you can help in any way as to where I can get any information on his
Medals I would be very grateful.
Kind Regards
Ray Forward
Hello,
I'm really pleased to see a site about the Formidable. My late father
John Deegan served as a stoker on board the formidable during the second
world war. He once told me a story about the Ship being bombed while he was
working down in the engine room. When his shift was over they found that
stokers in the previous shift had died as a result of the attack.
He never really spoke much about the war although he did tell me about the invasion of Scicily.
Are there any photos of the crew taken during the war at any time
or of the stokers, it would be nice to know there was as I have only three
photos of him during that time, two when he was at the training establishment
H.M.S. Royal Arthur, and one on board the Formidable.
Yours faithfully
John Melvin
My dad in law served on the formidable late 1940 until he left in june 1941 His name was Roy Batt started as an
air mechanic, leading air mechanic , petty officer air mechanic and ended up as a chief petty officer air mechanic
in 1948 Do you have any idea where we could get more information? I have a wonderful picture of him in dress whites
taken in Austrailia around this time with a little poppy or rose badge above his medal ribbon any suggestions Thanks
for any help
Jacki Batt
Wonderful site- great photos.
I'm also in the process of creating a multimedia/computer animated piece on the battle of Cape Matapan and was
wondering if there were any good orthographic or line drawings of the ship from that time period? Thanks for any
help.
Dave Higgins
An Uncle of mine, Cyril Grantham; served with 806 on the Formidable as a TAG Observor from 14.1.1941 to 16.8.1941
joining them with the disbandment of 819 after the attack on the Illustrious. I should mention that he was one
of the detatchment of 806 that was shore based on Malta for a few weeks prior to joining the Formidable. I know
he had a bad time after the Formidable was damaged and spent most of the remainder of the war as an instructor
in the West Indies.
I have very luckily managed to contact one ex-aircrew member of the Illustrious who remembers him and an aircraft
fitter of 819 who has provided much invaluable information.
Can you help me contact any surviving comrades of Cyril's 806 Squadron service from this period of 1941.
Regards Rob.
If you know anything about the 893 squad my father was in it the fleet air arm, Eddie Wood from Eccles Manchester.
I would like to find out if anyone remembers him?
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