Clapton House

"During World War II Clapton
House was the base for the
Polish (Medical) Parachute
Regiment. The Gravestone outside, in
memory of their
mascot Smokey
was rededicated on 9th May 1997"

In May 1944 the 1st Independent (Polish) Parachute Brigade moved from Scotland to Stamford and its surrounds. The Medical Battalion was housed in Clapton House, St Pauls Street. During Operation Market Garde in September 1944, the Medical Company under Lt. J. Mozdzierz went in with 90 men, 2 died, 7 were missing and 13 wounded.
Clapton House is now part of Stamford School and in the grounds just behind the house are two memorial to commemorate the Polish Airborne in Stamford.
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"In memory of the
2500 Officers and men of the
1st Independent polish Parachute Brigade
Who during the years 1944-45
were stationed in the Stamford area.
Tobie Ojezyzno
For My Country"
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"Polish Para Fd Ambulance
Dearest Dog
Smokey
8 May 43
29 Aug 44"