John Woodward lived in the same cottage as Laurence Brown, the other Assistant Group commander in Number 6 Group, as recorded in the 1939 Register. This shows that the two men knew each other well before the war. He died Lakeview, Blackrock, Cork, Ireland and probate granted to Laurence Oliver Brown.
John's aunt, Mary 'Charlotte' Besier, was married to the famous playwright Rudolf Besier. After his death and the conclusion of WWII, Charlotte, John, and Laurence all moved together to Cork, where they lived for the remainder of their lives.
Research carried out by Amanda Gareis uncovered many great articles on dogs written by Mr. Woodward, reviews and advertisements for Mr. Brown's novels (writing as Laurence Oliver), and even some charming little newspaper profiles from the 1930s about the two writers and their pets. They were clearly very accomplished and interesting people.
| Unit or location | Role | Posted from | until |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dorset Group 6 - Bridport Area | Assistant Group Commander | 28 Dec 1940 | 03 Dec 1944 |
Builder and internal decorator
He is recorded as being promoted to Lieutenant in the 1st Battalion Dorset Home Guard on 1st January 1942. He is then appointed second Lieutenant 203 Battalion GHQ Reserve Home Guard on 14th January 1943, suggesting that he may have been with the normal Home Guard unit prior to this. On 2nd July 1943 he was promoted Lieutenant.
TNA ref WO199/3390
John Pidgeon
1939 Register
Amanda Gareis