WW2 Book Launch at Bromsgrove School

Posted: 25/09/2019

BOOK LAUNCH – BROMSGROVE SCHOOL AT WAR AND IN WALES 1939-45
AND ILLUSTRATED TALK BY THE AUTHOR, PHILIP BOWEN

Routh Concert Hall, Bromsgrove School
Saturday, 16th November 2019
7.30pm (doors open 7.00pm)

BOOK ONLINE


The evening will include an illustrated talk by Philip Bowen on the deeds of Bromsgrovians during this war and of the life of the School in Wales. It is certainly an event not to be missed.

In the Second World War, 103 Bromsgrovians died globally - retreating to Dunkirk; in North African deserts; going down with their ships; on D-Day; in the advance on Germany and in harrowing circumstances in the Far East. Many joined the R.A.F. and died in the air in Hurricanes, Lancasters, Spitfires and Wellingtons. Thirty became Prisoners of War.

The Welsh Exile was an extraordinary experience – Bromsgrove School occupied the smallest town in Great Britain. Pupils rode bicycles, joined the Home Guard and protected a famous railway tunnel, farmed, fished and wore sou’westers because of the rain. It was a time of liberation. There was the speed with which Headmaster David Walters masterminded the exodus and his dogged persistence which brought us back home just as the School was about to close. It also witnessed the foundation of our Prep School.

The book tells the story (and often illustrates) the sacrifice of the lives of many OBs. Sgt. Leakey V.C. was never seen again after taking on several Italian tanks on foot in Ethiopia; Lieut. Whitley died after tending to a German soldier on D-Day; Lt. Prior was killed when the coastal mine he was defusing blew up three days before Christmas 1945. Such heroism and self-sacrifice is the theme of the book.

Space is also devoted to ‘Survivors’ – Air Chief Marshal Sir Basil Embry was our most decorated OB and the story of his capture in France, his escape and 700 mile trek to Spain is the stuff of legend. He later pioneered the daylight precision attacks by the wooden high speed Mosquitos.

The book, and the evening’s presentation, is dedicated to the Fallen, to David Walters and to the people of Llanwrtyd Wells who welcomed our children in to their midst.

Places are limited and allocated on a first come first served basis. Please book your place via our online box office at www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk/whats-on or contact the Events Office at events@bromsgrove-school.co.uk / 01527 579 679 ext 357.