A re-dedication ceremony is to take place at Retford’s War Memorial to honour a serviceman who was killed in action during the Second World War.
Thomas Henry Ellis, who had links to the town, is being recognised at the event taking place on Sunday 10th May at 2:30pm.
Among the dignitaries attending, members of the Royal British Legion, the Deputy Lieutenant, representatives of The Prince of Wales’s Own Regiment Association, and Cllr Tony Eaton BCA, Chair of Bassetlaw District Council, they will be joined by descendants of Thomas Henry Ellis.
Stan Davies, Chairman of the Retford Branch of the Royal British Legion said: “I served in the army for 15 years and believe we must keep adding names of veterans who pass away to the Memorial.
“We must never forget the sacrifice of those who served to protect this great country of ours, and we need the younger generation to continue the remembrance of those brave men and women.”
The service is being led by the Reverend Dick Lewis and will include a tribute from Ellis’ nephew, a two-minute silence and the laying of wreaths.
Cllr Tony Eaton, Chair of Bassetlaw District Council said: “This memorial stands as a permanent reminder of lives given, families affected and the freedoms we enjoy today because of their service.
“This re-dedication reaffirms our commitment to remembrance and ensures their legacy will continue to be recognised by future generations.”
Thomas Henry Ellis originally enlisted into the Duke of Wellington Regiment and later the Yorkshire regiment.
He was born in 1914 but died while serving in the North African campaign on 21st March 1941, where he was also buried.
His name will be added to Retford’s War Memorial, joining the list of other service personnel who lost their lives during the First and Second World War.
Last Updated on Friday, May 1, 2026