Private Alfred W Dekker

Private Alfred William Dekker was the son of Arnold Frederick and Jane Dekker, of Bow, London, and husband of Alice Lilian Dekker, also of Bow. Official records bears the name 'AW Decker', a misspelt version of the family name. He served with 3rd Parachute Battalion after passing Parachute Course 35 at RAF Ringway in late October and early November 1943, after previously serving as a Bombardier in the Royal Artillery.

He was known to be a very fit member of the Battalion, and was part of the Boxing team and the other sports. Pte Dekker was part of B Company when he took part in the Battle of Arnhem, during Op Market Garden.

Private Dekker died on 18 September 1944, aged 25 years old. He is now buried at Oosterbeek War Cemetery, Arnhem. His headstone bears the name 'AW Decker', a misspelt version of the family name.