Soldiers Killed In World War Two Are Finally Laid To Rest

Tributes have been paid at a ceremony to mark the final resting place of two British soldiers who were killed during the Second World War.

An investigation by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC) revealed the location of Guardsmen Joseph Goulden and Raymond Frederick Rose’s graves.

The pair who hailed from Pontefract, Yorkshire, were honoured during a rededication service at Salerno War Cemetery in Italy

The service, organised by the JCCC, was conducted by The Reverend Jacob Caldwell CF, Chaplain of the 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards.

Families of the two men attended the ceremony, along with current members of the Coldstream Guards.

Sue Raftree of the JCCC paid tribute to the servicemen.

“These two brave soldiers fought for their country to make our lives better.

“Originally buried as unknowns they now have their own headstones whilst their families finally have closure. “

Guardsman Joseph Goulden was 31-years-old when he was killed and Guardsman Raymond Rose was just 19.

The Goulden family said they were deeply humbled by the discovery of a relative who fought and died during World War Two.

 “Joseph Goulden enlisted in the Coldstream Guards and successfully fought in Africa and Egypt before he was sent to Italy where he bravely fought and died taking Hill 270.

“We were very proud to attend the ceremony today in Salerno.”

The Rose family paid tribute to the sacrifice made by their relative.

“Raymond volunteered to go to war and we ask ourselves ‘would we?’ - probably not!

“Incredible sacrifice at the age of 19. To risk his life for the good of his fellow man; the ultimate sacrifice.”

Two new headstones bearing their names have been provided by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, who will now care for their final resting place in perpetuity.