231938 Dvr. Christopher Harold Read Royal Army Service Corps 33 Transport Coy. My late grandfather, Christopher Read was a serving member of the Royal Army Service Corps between 18th of April 1940 and 24th of July 1946. He was a Class III Vehicle Mechanic and originated from the Dulwich area but later moved to Swanscombe, Kent.
Chris had very dark hair which was often in a parting, slicked with Brylcreem and stood at approx 5'5. He was of medium build and would have been, at that time, a smoker.
Chris was captured during his service (possibly in 1942) and taken to Stalag VIII B in Poland. His POW number was 266520. From my memory as a very small child, I remember being told he was injured quite badly and suffered a wound to the abdomen. However, this may be an error of recollection on my part as I was very young when my grandfather passed.
From his service records, he was described as a "good all round vehicle mechanic during his period of service in the Army. He is reliable, honest and sober". Chris was stationed at Brighton from 07.06.40, Aldershot from 26.07.40, Stalbridge 22.04.42 and latterly joined 33 T. Coy RASC from 01.02.43. He was also part of the BLA. At the end of the war, he was awarded The Defence Medal & The Campaign Star and discharged to the Limes Transport Cafe, Prattsbottom, Farnborough in Kent.
I have no photos and nothing apart from formal war records obtained from the Army Personnel relating to him. I am desperate to learn more about my grandfather as he was very much loved, dearly missed and above all, I am exceptionally proud of him for his efforts during the war.
I note from various stories posted on here that some members have lots of photos from Stalag VIII. If anyone has any information or indeed photos which relate to my grandfather either during active service or indeed as a POW, please, please, could you make contact?
Thank you in advance.
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