Today marks the 80th anniversary of Operation Market Garden, one of the most ambitious and daring military operations of World War II. Launched on 17 September 1944, this joint Allied operation aimed to secure key bridges in the Netherlands and pave the way for an advance into Germany.
RAF Barkston-Heath played a key part in Operation Market Garden, with aircraft taking off at around midday on 17 September 1944.
A dear family member of one of our Engineering colleagues, Sgt Maurice Charles Parsons boarded a C-47 at RAF Barkston Heath at 11:30, the morning of 17 September, and was dropped over Arnhem, where after 3 days of engaging with the enemy, he was eventually captured. The rest of the war was spent in Stalag 12A as a Prisoner of War (POW) until he was liberated by Russian forces on 21 April 1945.
Who was Sgt Maurice Charles Parsons
Sgt Maurice Charles Parsons was born in Dumfries on 11 August 1918 to a family of five brothers and a sister. All siblings, but one, served in the three branches of the armed forces throughout WWII, with his sister supporting as a nurse. They all were exposed to the dreadful experiences of war, but they survived to tell their stories.Â
Maurice was drafted in June 1939 into the Militia and transferred to the Royal Scots Fusiliers. He was mentioned in despatches twice during WWII; once during the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) from France in 1940 for ‘distinguished service’.
Having volunteered for the Parachute Brigade in 1941, he recorded 36 descents (three operational – N. Africa, Sicily and Arnhem) He was wounded at Sicily in 1943. He recovered and rejoined the 6 platoon ‘S’ Coy, 1st Battalion Parachute Regt at Grimsthorpe Castle, Lincs where he was pictured in a photo taken prior to Market Garden on 15 September 1944.
The rest of the war was spent in Stalag 12A as a Prisoner of War (POW) until he was liberated by Russian forces on 21 April 1945.
His time served during WWII affected his health in many ways, and, sadly, he died suddenly from a massive heart attack in 1977 when Neil was 6 years old.Â
“My father and his family missed him dearly as he was always held with high regard. As a result, it reminds me how the bold efforts of some can potentially benefit others.” NeilÂ
On this day we honour the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought valiantly during this critical campaign. Their courage and determination in the face of adversity continue to inspire us. Let us take a moment to reflect on the lessons of history and pay tribute to those who gave their all for the cause of freedom.
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6 Platoon, S Company, 1st Parachute Battalion, UK, 1944
Sgt Maurice Charles Parsons Medals
Sgt Maurice Charles Parsons – May 1943
Sgt Maurice Charles Parsons – March 1940
Sgt Maurice Charles Parsons – January 1944