The Airfield Construction Branch Association is desperate to trace family members of Albert Edward Alexander, a leading aircraftman with the Royal Air Force during the war.

Aircraftman Alexander died on April 22, 1945, aged 38, and is buried at Reading Cemetery.

The association is holding a memorial service in August for all those on active service at RAF Ashford in Kent when a German bomber dropped a 1,000lb bomb on the camp.

One of the organisers, Geoffrey Chesher-Brazier, said: “We are trying to find family members of 20 men across the country.

“Remembrance plaques featuring the names of those who lost their lives on that day are being made and will be unveiled during the service, so we are hoping as many relatives as possible will be able to make it. It is important that they share in the day.”

Aircraftman Alexander was the son of William and Florence, who were both born in Reading.

The memorial service has been in the pipeline since October, and Mr Chesher-Brazier, 75, added: “A total of 20 people died, 14 on that day, and six sustained such serious injuries that they never recovered and lost their lives after the bombing. All of these men were volunteer reservists attached to 5003 Squadron. We would greatly appreciate any help in tracing living relatives of these young men who gave their lives in order that we may live in peace.”

The service is at St Mary’s Parish Church in Ashford on August 4.

Anyone with any information should call Tessa Watkins on 0118 955 3362 or email tmwatkins@

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