大象传媒

Memories of World War 2 A Snapshot from Coventry

by Betty Edwards

Coventry was formerly famous for watch making and car production, but all of this had to change in 1939. With the need of factories to build aeroplanes and ammunitionthe city became a prime target for the enemy. There was continuous bombing day and night. My parents -in-law lost their home and all of their belongings during the raid which destroyed the Coventry Cathederal. On my way to check on their safety, as there was no means of communication, I had at some point to carry my bicycle on my shoulder so as not to have the tyres burst due to smouldering debries and glass.
I was at that time employed by the then Standard Motor Co. in the cost/accounts/wages department, which was then building planes. One afternoon there was an early warning of a raid and we were all safely in the underground shelters prior to a direct hit on one section of the factory, but by a miricle, no casulties.
My late husband joined the Royal Navy in 1940 and on evening, whilst waiting with him to say 'goodbye' before his transport arrived to take him back to ship, there was a warning of a raid, which happened very quickly. Being in the city centre we saw much damage including a direct hit on the 'Rex Cinema', which made us realise that there was no possibility of traffic being able to get through. My husband walked to the Police Station for proof of raid, to account for lateness, and not 'AWOL'. He then caught a train and I walked home. The film showing at the cinema at the time was, ironocally, 'Gone with the Wind' starring Clarke Cable
My younger German friend also had similar experiences in her native land. We are grateful for reconciliation.

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