Sergeant Wilfred R Smith

10 Sep 1943

Wilfred Reginald Smith, son of David R and Nellie Smith, of Wainfelin, enlisted into the Royal Welch Fusiliers, and remained with them when they became airborne forces.

Sergeant Smith successfully undertook parachute training at RAF Ringway, 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 Sgt Smith.

Sgt Smith died at sea on 10 September 1943. Aged 25.

He is commemorated on the Cassino Memorial.

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Service History

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