As the 80th anniversary of VJ Day approaches, the courageous sacrifice of two brothers who perished as Japanese Prisoners of War is being honored. Cuthbert Pugh and his older brother Edward Pugh rest in peace in Myanmar.
Geoff Pugh, a dedicated individual, has meticulously located every “Pugh” who lost their lives in both World War One and World War Two. His relentless pursuit to find and commemorate these fallen heroes has been a labor of love.
In preparation for the 80th VJ Day anniversary, Geoff has successfully identified all 127 Pughs who perished in WW2, as well as all 278 who lost their lives in World War One. Among his poignant discoveries were the graves of Cuthbert and Edward Pugh, brothers from different regiments, now laid to rest side by side in a Myanmar cemetery.
Reflecting on his journey, Geoff expressed, “It has become somewhat of an obsession, but my goal was to honor these men and women and ensure their legacies endure. Their stories are truly remarkable.”
Highlighting the individual stories within the vast list of fallen soldiers, Geoff shared the accounts of Cuthbert Martin Parkhurst and Edward Baldwyn, who were brothers serving in different Regiments and both became Prisoners of War under Japanese captivity.
Cuthbert, aged 30, from the Royal Norfolk Regiment, passed away on July 12, 1943, while Edward, aged 34, from 251 Field Park Company, Royal Engineers, succumbed on December 10, 1942. Geoff also uncovered the poignant tale of George Sydney Pugh, who tragically fell just days before VE Day.
The narrative extends to the 23rd Hussars Royal Armoured Corps, where soldiers like George Sydney Pugh and his comrades made ultimate sacrifices near the end of World War Two. Their bravery and dedication, culminating in their tragic deaths, remain a somber reminder of the price of freedom.
Geoff, a retired timber trader from Essex, has made it his life’s mission to pay tribute to these fallen heroes, traveling with his wife to various countries to visit Pugh gravesites. His deep connection to the cause stems from personal history, with his grandfather also having served in WW1.
As Geoff’s research delves into poignant stories from different parts of the world, the significance of each sacrifice resonates deeply. From sailors to soldiers and airmen, each life lost in service is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.
Claire Horton CBE, Director General of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, commended Geoff’s dedication in honoring the memory of those who served and perished in the World Wars, emphasizing the importance of preserving these stories for future generations.
Geoff’s tireless efforts and unwavering commitment serve as a poignant reminder as the world commemorates the 80th anniversary of VJ Day. The legacy of the Pugh brothers and countless other brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice must never be forgotten.