Hi all Just joined the forum, so thought I would introduce myself. I live in Derby, am 41, have a partner of 4 years, and 3 kids. I have always had a passing interest in WW2, mainly due to the family stories, and memorabilia that my grandparents and other relatives had. My interest grew stronger during last year’s 65th D-Day Anniversary visit to Normandy with a friend who had similar interests. We had a brilliant weekend exploring all 5 beaches, and museums, most notably the Atlantic Wall Museum, Pegasus Bridge, Mulberry harbour at Arromanches, Pointe Du Hoc, the Wreck Museum and the battery at Longues-Sur-Mer. Since then I have visited other museums in the UK, read a lot more about D-Day and other battles of interest, and tried to find out more about my Grandad’s service history, who I know landed in a Horsa glider in Holland during the ill-fated Market Garden campaign. I have a small collection of artifacts, some nice German daggers, a gas mask, some interesting documents (including one signed by Monty!) maps dated 1944 and medals. Would really love a British and German helmet too! (I might put pics on if anyone is interested?) I think the main reason I have joined this group, is that the friend who I visited Normandy with last year, passed away suddenly in January, so I am looking for other like minded people to share my passion with. If any of you know of any WW2 Societies/groups (not re-enactors) in the Midlands areas, I would love to hear from you! Also, if you know of any cool trips being planned to European battle fields, I would be interested in these too. My friend and I were planning a trip to Stalag Luft 111 (the ‘Great Escape’ POW camp) and possible Colditz this year, but sadly this will no longer be possible. Anyway all, that’s me, be great to hear from any of you! Best wishes Neal
Welcome to the forum Neal. We have a number of your fellow countrymen about and I'm sure some will be able to help. I might also suggest you register at our sister site ww2talk.com. They have a more British/European outlook and may have more direct information for you.
Welcome on, Neal....very sorry for the loss of your friend. I know how hard that can be! You have found a great place to find great folks that will share your common interests. Look forward to reading your posts.
