from:Forest View, Pentwyn Green, Penallt, Nr. Monmouth, Wales
This is a true copy of the letter my mother received when she made inquiries with regard to my father Mark Smith's death:
From. Major R. Close Brooks DSO. now, 2/7 The Queens Royal Regiment, C.M.F. 3 Mar. 45
Dear Mrs. Smith.
5381068 Cpl Smith M.
The War Office have written to say that you would like to hear further details of your husband's death. As the Oxford & Bucks are now disbanded, it has been difficult to trace any men who were present at the time.
However, 969873 Pte. Dore C. now of this unit states that Lt. Pollard and 8 men including Cpl. Smith and himself went out on patrol. In case of ambush Pte Dore and another were ordered to remain well behind.
As the patrol approached a house, German machine guns suddenly opened up from all sides and the patrol was overrun.
Two days later the ground was captured and your husband's body and those of two others were found. Much later Lt. Pollard and Pte. Brookes were reported Prisoners of War.
Your husband died doing his duty during the battle for the Gothic Line in the area North of Montefiore and Gemmano, and West of Mondaino, on the Adriatic side.
You will have the details of the grave already and later you will be sent a photograph of it.
I offer you my deepest sympathy in your great loss.
Yours sincerely,
R. Close Brooks Major
Late 7th Oxf & Bucks Light Infantry