James Barton

This story and photos are shared by the Trust with kind permission from Mavis Williams, Researcher. Information also from Colin Barton, great nephew and Robert Boslem

James Barton, known as Jimmy, was born in Cambusnethan, Lanarkshire, Scotland circa 1924, the son of Joseph & Martha Barton, who had married on the 14th of June 1905 in the same registration district. He was one of eight children.

An article in the Wishaw Press and Advertiser of 30 June 1944 reported that he had been killed in action on the 6th of June 1944.  James had joined the Army 2 years previously and had been home on leave in March 1944. In civil life he had been employed by John Stewart & Coy. Ltd., Coltness Coach Works. He was a former member of the 2nd Wisham Company, The Boys Brigade and connected to Cambusnethan Old Parish Church. He was described as a quiet and pleasant young man who was popular with all who enjoyed his friendship.

The family, in 1944, were living at 8, Burnhall Place, Waterloo. James was the second son in the family to have died whilst in the services. Two years previously, Thomas Houston (Tommy) Barton, the 3rd son of Joseph & Martha had died in a Military Hospital on the 15th of June 1942. His body was returned home to be buried in the Cambusnethan Cemetery. Tommy did not die of wounds or was killed in action, on the Casualty List he is described as ‘Died’. According to research carried out by a family member, Tommy had been affected by the bangs from the guns and was in a sanitorium when he died. He was married and his young widow moved to Australia but did not marry again as she found it too painful after losing Tommy. It was a tragedy for the family, but they were able to bring him home and grieve, unlike when James died. So, in 1944, deep sympathy was extended to the whole family.

Wishaw Press and Advertiser, 30 June 1944 (courtesy of Colin Barton)

 

According to the Wishaw press clipping, James’ friend, Tpr. Charles Bulloch from Glasgow wrote to Mr. & Mrs. Barton giving details of James’s resting place and letting them know the respect that local women had shown by placing roses on the grave. Tpr Bulloch also said that he had inscribed the wooden cross on the grave with James’ name and essential details. Research by the family member revealed that James had just been called to duty and had been asked to cover for someone for a short period when he was killed.

James was first buried In Hermanville before being reburied in Ranville British Cemetery on the 23 July 1945.

Courtesy of Robby, 02 June 2019