Research re 8th Parachute Battalion in Normandy

I'm continuing my research into the 8th Parachute Battalion's involvement in D-Day and beyond, the research being to do with my own interest and the fact that my father fought with them.

I have recently carried out an online search of documents held at the Imperial War Museum at Duxford and it appears they hold a book/document titled;

"The history of the 8th Parachute Battalion in Normandy, 6th June to 6th September 1944"

It has shelf mark of "02(41).324 [ Parachute Regt., Bn. 8]/5" and the author is shown as a LEAKE, R.A. (TONY) and the publisher being N.Pub.

Before I start to pester Duxford about it, I just wondered whether anybody out there has viewed this document/book in any previous research or in fact have a copy of it ?

Thanks in advance for any help

Bill

 

Hi Bill,

I can't tell you anything about that particular document, but if you haven't done so already, you can hear Tony Leake in a 4 reel IWM interview online. His account is very thorough and focused. If the audio gets stuck or won't advance a reloading of the page sometimes help.

Leake, Robert Anthony - 8 Para - IWM interview

Regards ...

 

Hi Cee,

Thanks for the information, will have a listen.

Regards

Bill

 

Bill

I've had lots of info and help from Tony Leake, on and off, over the years with regard to Normandy and Varsity; his is an interesting story as he began in the 8th and then transferred to 224th Parachute Ambulance, which supported the 8th on Varsity. After the War, he trained as a doctor.

After your initial enquiries about your father, I tried to get hold of Tony, but no joy; having spoken to him, this morning, he tells me he was with family for Christmas. Unfortunately, he doesn't remember your father.

This is the Battalion War Diary June-August 1944

I can assure you that his booklet will be excellent.

Steve W.

 

Hi Steve,

Thanks for that info, sounds like Tony is an amazing man and would be very interesting to talk to.

Have you read his booklet ? If so do you know if Tony has a copy that he would sell or would the only copy be at Duxford ?

Thanks

Bill

 

Bill

I haven't read Tony's book; I doubt he has more than his own copy, so it's going to be a trip to Duxford. The team is very accommodating and happy to help family members particularly; contact Wendy George

Steve W.