Can You Help Identify An Unknown Soldier?

A dedicated researcher is seeking help from the people of Bradford to identify a fallen soldier who was killed during the fierce battles of Anzio, Italy, in 1944.

Nigel Hodgson is conducting research into an unknown soldier buried in The Beach Head War Cemetery at Anzio, located in Plot 21, Row A, Grave 10.

The soldier’s remains were originally buried on the battlefield (Location shown in the centre of the blue circle on the map) before being exhumed in September 1944 and moved to The Beach Head War Cemetery after the fighting had moved north. Due to the intense and prolonged combat in the area, many soldiers were hastily buried by their comrades, with later exhumations unable to identify them. As a result, numerous fallen soldiers were laid to rest under the marker of “Unknown Soldier” while their names were instead engraved on the memorial plinths at Cassino War Cemetery some 120km from Anzio.

One of the missing soldiers whose name appears on the Cassino memorial is Private John Broadbent (Service Number: 4544435) of the 1st Battalion, Green Howards Regiment. Records show that Private Broadbent was born and enlisted in Bradford, and at the time of his death, his parents were still living in the city. He was killed in action on 27th April 1944.

Mr. Hodgson’s Grandfather was also lost during the campaign, and it’s possible that the grave may in fact be his. However, to narrow down the search, Mr. Hodgson is now appealing to the people of Bradford to help confirm which company within the Green Howards Private Broadbent belonged to. Surviving relatives or anyone with family records, letters, photographs, or memories that could shed light on his service history are urged to come forward.

If you have any relevant information, please contact Nigel Hodgson at nigel.hodgson4@gmail.com. Any details, no matter how small, could be crucial in identifying the unknown soldier and ensuring he is finally named and honoured appropriately.