GB CIVIL DEFENCE IN WORLD WAR 2
GB CIVIL DEFENCE IN WORLD WAR 2
This is Ella English, my aunt, in her Civil Defence (CD) uniform during World War II. The CD was a civilian volunteer organisation in Great Britain. In 1941 the use of the CD replaced the pre-existing Air Raid Precautions.
Also attached to the photo is a newspaper clipping which mentions Ella:
Through your paper we would like to say 'Thank You' to the wardens of A1 Post, Hewens Corner, for their kindness during the long years of blitz. In the early days cheerful Mrs Bishop and her friend, Mrs Pateman, later kindly Mr Hutchings and his friendly little assistant Miss English. and others too many to mention, we say: Thank you all for your help in those dark days and nights
On Ella's hand you can make out her engagement ring. Sadly her fiancé was killed in action and she never, ever married.
Also note the empty milk bottle by the door awaiting collection.
#worldwarii #civildefence
I just can't say enough about this post - it has everything, family history, touching love story and documentation and photo. She is an aunt you are rightfully proud of!
ReplyDeletePatsy Priebe has expressed it perfectly! That's a really dear photo and clipping. Your Aunt Ella must have been a very special lady.
ReplyDeleteA touching story Mike Perry. Thank you for sharing it with us. One can only hope that they found each other again in the hereafter.
ReplyDeletePatsy Priebe Ann Kennedy Thank you Patsy and Ann - Ella was my favourite aunt, she always spoilt me.
ReplyDeleteMargaret Siemers Yes, one would hope they are together now. I once published the formal letter Ella received saying her fiancé had been killed. It brings home the awfulness of war.
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