Private Herbert D Smith

Herbert Douglas Smith, son of Henry John and Edith M Smith, of Cheriton, Folkeston, enlisted into the 12th Battalion Royal Fusiliers, transferred to the Welch Regiment and then volunteered for airborne forces.

Private Smith undertook parachute training on course 36 at RAF Ringway from 6 to 12 November 1942, and was posted to B Company 6th Battalion (10th Bn The Royal Welch Fusiliers) The Parachute Regiment.

He took part in the amphibious landings in Italy in September 1943, on board a mine layer, HMS Abdiel. Unfortunately, HMS Abdiel struck a mine in Taranto Harbour causing significant casualties and loss of life, including Pte Smith.

Pte Smith died at sea on 10 September 1943. Aged 21.

He is commemorated on the Cassino Memorial.

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