SS Severn Leigh (pictured above, sinking; image courtesy uboat.net) was en route from Hull in England to St John, New Brunswick, Canada as part of a trans-Atlantic convoy. From August 20th, the ship had been chased by German U-boat U-37, but after three days her number was up. A torpedo hit her bow, and the crew abandoned ship in four lifeboats. The U-boat's captain spotted that the ship's gun was manned, and that the radio operator was sending out distress signals. So he resurfaced and shelled the ship again. Shrapnel strafed two lifeboats, still alongside, killing 33 crew members.
Frank James Fox, a chief steward from Hull, was in one of the lifeboats, but died, or was found dead on arrival in the Outer Hebrides. He lies buried in the cemetery at Sandwick. Frank was 65 years of age, and left a wife, Emma, in Hull.
This entry is dedicated to his memory, and to the memory of the many in the Merchant Navy who gave their lives in the defense of their country, and contributing towards the liberation of Europe from the oppression of Nazi Germany in the Second World War.
dear Guido,
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful tribute!:):)
thank you so much!
I love the tombstone picture the most ; followed by the ship. Did you take those yourself?
very talented!
huggggggggggggggggggggggs
nat
It's great that you are able to find these graves, research the stories, and keep knowledge of these men alive.
ReplyDeleteLori
It's so interesting to read these stories, Guido. Thank you for sharing your findings with the rest of us. Linda in WA
ReplyDeleteOn both sides of the pond, we need to remember those who have given their lives in so many joint efforts so that we enjoy many freedoms. Chris
ReplyDelete