[London, United Kingdom] – [07.11.2024] – Fraser and Fraser, a leading genealogy and international probate research firm, recently completed a unique and heart-warming pro-bono case that bridged continents and generations. The firm successfully traced the family of Corporal David Kilgour Mitchell, a Scottish Soldier who perished during World War II.
Corporal Mitchell, a members of the 1st Battalion Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment), lost his life on 25th October 1944, in the Netherlands. He is buried in the Nederweert War Cemetery.
Jurgen Beekers, a Dutch resident, working with the Adoption Graves Foundation Nederweert, has been on a quest, on behalf of those who have adopted Corporal Mitchell’s grave, to locate a photo of the fallen soldier. Following the devastation of World War II, the practice of grave adoption became a common way for individuals and communities in the Netherlands, and other countries around Europe, to honour the sacrifices of fallen soldiers. Adopters regularly visit the graves to commemorate the fallen and maintain the cemeteries.
Each year, on Armistice Day (November 11th), adopters gather at the cemeteries to pay their respects and participate in commemorative ceremonies. This year, the adopters will be able to honour Corporal Mitchell with a newfound personal connection, thanks to the photographs provided by Fraser and Fraser. With the help of a local news article, Fife Today, his plea reached Fraser and Fraser.
The firm’s team of genealogists along with Fraser and Fraser’s Scottish Case Manager, Karen Johannesson, embarked on a mission to trace Corporal Mitchell’s family. Through diligent research, they successfully located David’s niece, Marie, who provided photographs of the soldier.
“It was a privilege to be part of this project,” said Andy Loakes, Case Manager at Fraser and Fraser. “Connecting the adopters with Corporal Mitchell’s family is a testament to the power of genealogy to bring people together, even across vast distances and time. It also highlights the profound impact of grave adoption, a practice that ensures the memory of fallen soldier’s lives on.”
The photographs will be shared with the adopters, allowing them to honour the memory of Corporal Mitchell with a more personal connection, and just in time for Armistice Day.
This case underscores the enduring power of human connection and the importance of remembering those who have sacrificed their lives for freedom.
About Fraser and Fraser
Fraser and Fraser is a leading genealogy firm specialising in tracing missing heirs and beneficiaries. With a rich history and a team of experienced genealogists, the firm has successfully resolved thousands of complex cases.
We work closely with solicitors, finance professionals, large corporations and local authorities providing assistance with every step of estate administration.
In 2021 the firm was crowned Probate Research Firm of the Year in the British Wills and Probate Awards.
For more information contact: Ceyda Baser, Marketing Manager
marketing@fraserandfraser.co.uk | 020 7832 1400
EXPLORE