In memory of

Leading Aircraftman William John Tanner

LAC William John Tanner

Jane Court

The grave of LAC William John Tanner at St. John's, Coulsdon.

Tracy Conran

LAC William John Tanner was the son of William and Emily Tanner, of Old Coulsdon. He was married to V. J. Tanner, of Old Coulsdon.

William was a Flight Mechanic with No.615 (County of Surrey) Squadron. He died of injuries sustained during the bombing raids of 18th August, 1940 – the “Hardest Day” of the Battle of Britain.
The 615 Squadron Operations Record Book says he was hit by machine gun fire. He died of his wounds at 1500hrs, the following day, in Purley Cottage Hospital, according to RAF records, although his date of death is given as 20th August on his gravestone and in the 615 Squadron Operations Book, which also records that his funeral took place on 23rd August.

The inscription on Tanner’s grave marker reads:

‘Only Sleeping’
In Loving Memory of
My Dear Husband
Leading Aircraftsman
William John Tanner
R.A.F.
Died 20th August 1940
Aged 28 years

Rest in peace Sir and thank you for your service.

Service number

819076

Rank

Leading Aircraftman

Date of death

19/08/1940

Age at death

Cause of death

WW2 Killed as a result of enemy action (ground)

Memorial or graveyard location

COULSDON (ST. JOHN) CHURCHYARD (1)

Grave or memorial details:

Grave 226.

Notes

Many thanks to Jane Court for allowing permission to use her photo of LAC Tanner and Tracy Conran for photographing his grave. Thanks also to Andy Long and Carole Skinner for their assistance with research.