Edward Coalville

My name is Matthew Chapman and I am currently developing a documentary about the Asia Pacific war. 

I would be greatly interested in talking with any survivors of HMS Prince of Wales for the purpose of the program and also for personal reasons. My Grandfather Edward Coalville was a survivor of Dec 10th but unfortunately died of natural causes several years before I was born. Any help you could offer me would be of great value and most appreciated.

I recently interviewed a FEPOW who helped build huts for a group of HMS Prince of Wales veterans who where washed up in Sumatra. I will endeavour to find out more for you. 

My historical interest is in the Royal Marine Detachments of HMS Prince of Wales and Repulse.

I'm interested in finding out more about their commanding officers, Captains C. Aylwin and R. Lang and also about the Royal Marines who were captive in Sumatra (Padang and Palembang) and those who escaped Singapore in February 1942 and reached Ceylon - which ships were they on Stage 1 and 2 of the journey? 
Pleased to hear from any interested parties. 

Please contact myself or Andy (webmaster) with any information.

Matthew Chapman

Andy Wade (Webmaster)

Information provided by
Matthew Chapman