- Born 11-02-1924 in Rotherham.
- Deceased 13-06-1943 in Volthe – 19 years.
- Parents Harry Elderkin and May Eager Roberts nee Matthewmann from Rotherham, Yorkshire, England.
51e Squadron – Royal Air Force. Sergeant (airgunner) Volunteer Reserve – Service nr. 2213691
Arnold grew up at Rotherham in a family with five children. His mother was married before, her husband died in the first world war in France. Arnold’s father was manager of the COOP. He passed away in 1940. He also served in the first world war.
Arnold worked in an office. One day he found three white feathers in his officedesk. This was meant as a symbol for cowardness for people who didn’t join the army. Shortly after he called in for duty in September 1942 at the Royal Air Force, RAF base Padgate.
Shortly before he died he was home for a few days of holiday. He got very frightened at nights and told his sister he had the feeling, next time he wouldn’t come back home. He died during his second raid.
His family visited his grave a few times including in the year 2008.
Buried: R.K. Begraafplaats in Rossum.
Remembered on the familygrave in Rotherham.
Awarded with the War Medal, the 1939-1945 Star and the Europe Star.
Text on grave: ‘Deep in our hearts he is living yet, we loved him too dearly to ever forget.’
