1786196 Private William Henry (Bill) Ballard was born on 16^th June 1920 in Coventry, Warwickshire; the son of William Ballard and Mabel Ballard (née Fariss). In June 1921, 1 year old Bill was living at 146 Cross Road, Coventry, with his parents.

In 1939, Bill was still living at home with his parents, but was now working as a Brass Dipper, Drop Forging. The 1939 register of England and Wales also notes he was "ARP First Aid," suggesting he was already preparing for the war effort, which was later to be proven to be important preparation in view of the heavy bombing sustained by the city of Coventry during the war.

On 12 Jun 1943 he married Evelyn Ann Diggens in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire.

The following year Bill successfully completed Parachute Course 106; held at R.A.F. Ringway from 1^st to 16^th March 1944. His parachute instructor noted: “Seemed nervous at first, but gained confidence and finished well.” Bill was assigned to 5 Platoon of B Company, 11^th Parachute Battalion.

On 20^th September 1944, during the Battle of Arnhem, he was taken prisoner of war and held in Stalag 11B Fallingbostel. His POW number was 117593.

After the war, he returned to Coventry where he lived with his wife and together they raised their family.

Bill died on 8^th February 1992 in hospital at Leamington Spa.

We are still researching the life of Private Ballard. If you are a relative or have any information about him, please contact us.