Kenneth Smith
AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN AND IN THE MORNING WE WILL REMEMBER THEM
Rank: Signalman Service No:2328696 Age:24 Regiment: Royal Corps of Signals and Long Range Desert Group Awards: George Cross Additional Information: Son of Bertie Smith and of Alice Jane Smith, of Louth, Lincolnshire. Citation for George Cross The following details are given in the London Gazette of 19th October, 1945: "The King has been graciously pleased to approve the posthumous award of the George Cross, in recognition of most conspicuous gallantry in carrying out hazardous work in a very brave manner to No. 2328696 Signalman Kenneth Smith, Royal Corps of Signals." Signalman Smith was based on the Adriatic Island of Ist, at a time when sabotage was a daily occurrence. He found a time-bomb at his detachment's billet, which was shared with civilians and their children. He realised it was ticking and could explode at any moment, he removed it as far away as possible but it exploded before he could make his own escape, he was the only casualty of the blast and undoubtedly saved many lives. Commemorated Humby Private Chapel / Old Somerby St Mary Magdalene WW2 / St Peter-RofH / Ropsley W.M.
