Featured Life Story: Claude and Thomas Gronert

Twin brothers Thomas and Claude Gronert from Cornwall volunteered for the British Airborne Forces despite being exempt from service as tin miners. Trained as paratroopers, they fought side by side in North Africa, Italy, and finally at Arnhem during Operation Market Garden. On 17 September 1944, just 21 years old, they were killed within moments of each other during the advance on Oosterbeek. Buried together at the Arnhem-Oosterbeek War Cemetery, their graves bear the inscription: “Winds of heaven blow softly here where lie sleeping those we loved so dear.” Their story endures as a heartbreaking testament to bravery, sacrifice, and an unbreakable bond between brothers.. Read more....