WHITTLE, F (2619944) (V)

Francis Whittle — Grenadier Guards Parbold, Lancashire Lance Sergeant Brother of my grandad, Wilf Whittle, also of the Grenadier Guards. Francis was a loyal family man, a devoted friend and a brave Grenadier Guard who served heroically during the Second World War and the fight for liberation. During Operation Market Garden in 1944, Francis was very seriously wounded during the intense fighting around the historic Battle of Nijmegen. He suffered a critical head injury and spent several months recovering in hospital. The battle was a hugely pivotal moment in the Allied advance, with the Grenadier Guards playing a significant role. Although Francis was discharged from the Army, he was determined to return to the front line. He rejoined his close friends and continued along the liberation route, helping to liberate towns, villages and camps along the way. Tragically, during the Battle of Eibergen on 31 March 1945, Francis and his close friend Frank Page were ambushed by approx. 40 German paratroopers as they made their way into the town along the lanes. Both were killed during the fighting, 22 years old. The family has since visited the place where Francis gave his life, fighting to protect his friend, Frank. To this day, the people of Eibergen continue to honour and remember both Frank and Francis, paying their respects to them each year. We will always remember Francis and the ultimate sacrifice he made. We will continue to return to Eibergen regularly, alongside the people of the town, to honour his memory and that of his fallen friend. Francis's Company Commander wrote to the family following his death, describing him as “the best that he had ever seen in action.” He said Francis was completely focused on “getting the job done”, and that his friends “almost worshipped him.” His courage, loyalty and selflessness will never be forgotten. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.