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‘14 Years Ago’ – Accordionists in World War Twoby Rob Howard |
It is a fact that accordions were frequently played by many soldiers, sailors and airmen in both the Allies and Axis forces in World War Two, in all theatres of the conflict. The Accordions Worldwide news for October 23rd 1998 included a true story about accordionist Arthur Oldfield, who was rescued at Dunkirk in June 1940 minus his accordion. ENEMY AIRCRAFT ATTACKS ACCORDIONIST - ENGLAND The Nottingham Evening Post included an article recently about "Arthur and the Songsters". 80 year old accordionist Arthur Oldfield has entertained for over 65 years and has some interesting tales to tell about his younger days. As a soldier he was stranded on the beach at Dunkirk as bullets rained down from enemy aircraft. Arthur was faced with a tricky decision - Should he leave his prized accordion behind or attempt to take it with him? Arthur survived the ordeal but his accordion wasn't so lucky! After returning to safety, he bought another accordion to entertain the troops at air bases and army barracks all over the country. He has performed with Bebe Daniels, Ben Lyon, Reginald Dixon, George 'I'm proper poorly' Williams, Neville King and the legendary Gracie Fields in 1941. |