Hawthorn have been lucky enough to view and handle primary sources of evidence dating back to WW2 as part of our history learning. Last week, Isaac and Henry shared their family's history with the class. Henry sent in photos and Isaac brought in artefacts; everyone was able to see ration books, identity cards, medals and a victory march card as well as having the opportunity to handle an incendiary bomb used during the war.
The photos of the items sent in by Henry included an identity card for Henry’s Great Grandma - everyone had to carry an identity card on them during the war. We learned that Irene was sent from Sheffield to an aircraft factory near Sedburgh. She then went on to Lancashire where she continued to work on aircraft parts used in the war and lived in a hostel. Other photos included Henry’s Great Grandad Atkin, two of his medals and his victory march booklet. He was in the Royal Artillery Heavy Ack - operator fire control (on Radar) as a Gunner stationed in Gibraltar.
He had metal cap badges with:
A 'Circle' (denoting a bomb), a Cannon - for Royal Artillery and on his arm a 'crosskeys' for Gibraltar and 'Royal Artillery' embroidered badges.
He reached the rank of Bombadier and was given two stripes, the equivalent of a Corporal.
Thank you, Henry and Isaac, for this incredible opportunity :-)
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