South Yorkshire Times – Saturday 17 July 1943

New’s From Egypt and Germany

Mystery About Wombwell Soldier

Under the same date (May 17th) ,Mrs Chapman (23), who lives with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. George Thorpe, 12, Hadfield Street, Wombwell has received news of her husband Trooper Ernest Chapman, R.A.C., from both Germany and Egypt. This only adds to the perplexity which she has endured since her husband was taken prisoner by the Germans in the battle of Crete.

She has had several letters relating to her husband, all assuring her that he is safe and well, but only one from her husband himself.

Trooper Chapman is 27 and a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Chapman, of Lundhill Top, Wombwell. He served six years in the Army before the outbreak of war and, called up as a reservist, was married the day before he joined his unit. He was in the withdrawal from Dunkirk, and was captured in Crete after fighting in Greece.

His wife is employed by the Air Ministry. His brother Fred (26), is a Petty Officer in the Royal Navy.