PC Robert Smith: Uncovered by Documentary

0:00On April 29th, a new documentary shines a light on PC Robert Smith, a 64-year-old railway cop killed on duty at York Station during a German, air raid on 29th April 1942. That bombing was part of the Bataker raids, targeting historic English spots like York after RAF strikes on Germany. The film's called PC Robert Smith, the final beat and its makers hope it uncovers his living relatives. The raid hit as a late train from London King's Cross rolled in around 10-15 pm, with all 800 passengers safely evacuated before the first bomb dropped. Debrispart fires in Smith died alongside colleague William Milner, who got a King's commendation for bravery. York faced 11 such attacks in World War II, but stories like his stayed buried for decades. Filmmaker Mick Child, a 60-year-old X Railway engineer and now a student at York St. John University, felt a deep pull to this tale. He called the railway a life-long family bond, no matter your job there.

1:02Short on, real 1940s footage, his team recreated key moments like Smith's wedding and a daughter's funeral, filming at spots like Eden Camp, museum. Historians led by John Shaw dug into York's wartime raid since 2018, teaming up with the British Transport Police History Group. They matched findings on Smith, who got a basic cross at his grave in 2017, upgraded to a proper headstone last year. A fresh plaque now marks the spot at the station too. Shaw's still hunting family ties, like a sister who married a potter in Herrigate, or Kin from wife Smith's petter line. With the film out and these tributes in place, their bedding someone listening recognizes the names and steps forward to connect the dots. Stay in the know with entertainment and celebrity news. Today, AI-powered updates, I'm Corey with The Story.