One name to go

With the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War approaching next year, I have been asked by Rustington Museum to lead a project tracing the history of the village war memorial and the men whose names are on it.

Much of the work is now complete, with details of all the First World War casualties compiled. However, for the Second World War, just one name is outstanding, Sgt Ronald Smith, who served in the RAF. We have been able to find nothing on him from official sources, including the War Graves Commission.

However, it was noticed on Remembrance Sunday earlier this month, a small wooden cross with Sgt Smith’s name on it had been placed at the war memorial. This suggests that he still has family or friends living in the Rustington area.

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I would be very grateful if anyone who knows about Sgt Smith could contact me via the museum, in The Street, Rustington. It is only right that all men who went off to fight for their country and never returned should be included.

All the information about the memorial and the men who lost their lives in the two wars will be included in a folder which will be kept in the museum collection, and will form the basis of a major exhibition next year on Rustington and the First World War.

Thank you.

Mary Taylor, official historian for Rustington

North Lane

Rustington

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