Memorial Soham Rail Disaster

Tekst on the memorial:
On 2nd June 1944 the town of Soham was saved from certain destruction when an ammunition train carrying bombs in preparation for D-Day, caught fire as it approached Soham station. The train comprised 51 wagons, 44 of which were packed with 250lb and 500lb bombs. Driver Ben Gimbert brought the train to a safe spot in the station, while signalman Frank Bridges sent word of the impending danger from his signal box. Fireman James Nightall went to uncouple the burning wagon from the train and guard Herbert Clarke set off for Barway, placing detonators along the line to warn on-coming trains. The men knew that the burning wagon could explode at any minute and at 1.43 am, as the population of Soham slept, a huge explosion ensued. Frank Bridges and James Nightall lay dead on the platform. Ben Gimbert was seriously injured and Herbert Clarke, blown to his knees, continued to set detonators. 800 buildings were damaged in the explosion and many people were injured, but only two died. The actions of these men saved countless lives. Thanks to the recovery operation led by American servicemen this vital line of communications for D-Day was re-opened within 24 hours. Ben Gimbert and James Nightall were awarded the George Cross.

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