BENOUVILLE CHURCHYARD
| British - 23 |
HISTORICAL INFORMATION:
The bridges over the Caen canal and River Orne were taken by elements of 6th
(Airborne) Division on the night of 5th/6th June 1944. Benouville became the
outer defences of 2nd Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Light Infantry
(Airborne) and 7th Parachute Regiment, while they awaited the arrival of 1st
Special Service Brigade from the direction of Sword Beach. Counter-attacks by
21st (Panzer) Division resulted in numerous losses, some of whom were buried in
the grounds of Benouville Churchyard. Most were from 7 Para or other units in
6th (Airborne) Division.
LOCATION:
Benouville is 10km north-east of Caen, and a few Km south of Ouistreham and the Car Ferry. From Pegaus Bridge go to roundabout and turn right; the church is further up on the right. There is a green CWGC sign at the gate, and there is parking opposite. Most of the graves are to the rear of the main burial area, with a few near the entrance.
PERSONALITIES:
 |
Captain William Bowyer 7th Bn Parachute Regiment |
- Killed 6th June 1944, age 27.
|
Pte Michael John McGee DCM 7th Bn Parachute Regiment |
- Killed 6th June 1944, age 20.
|
Rev. George Edward Maule Parry Royal Army Chaplains Department attd. 7th Bn Parachute Regiment |
- Killed 6th June 1944, age 29.
ŠPaul Reed 2002-2006
