Basil Desmond Longworth Royal Engineers (WW2)

[Lee Layland]

I'm looking for any information on the above soldier (my grandfather). I know he served in North Africa, Italy, and Monte Casino.

I am led to believe he started in bomb disposal but changed 'profession' when one of his closest friends was blown up in front of him.

He was from St. Helens if that helps, but obviously (I assume) he would have been posted where ever and not likely with any one unit.

We have applied for his service records but have been told that will take up to 12 months (only another 8 to go then)!.

Any help - family that may remember his etc - would be great.

We did hear a story that he was being bullied by some G.I.'s until the Gurkha's came in and showed them the door shall we say - but that is unconfirmed.

Thanks for reading.

PS. He died when my mum was 16 so we know very little.