Michael Walsh of Ballinamult

[Ady]

Visiting Kanchanaburi Ware Cemetery in Thailand, I came upon the grave of Sapper Michael Walsh.  A member of the Royal Engineers he was presumably a captive of the Japanese working on the Burma-Siam Railway.  He died on 9 December 1944 at the age of 26, the same day I was born in Chatham, Kent, in England.  He and I shared the same surname.

I have no reason to think we may be related (although like most Walshes, my family, several generations back, does hail from Ireland (my ancestor appears to have come from Esk, moving to Northumberland in the early 19th Century)).  But I was compelled me to try to find out a little about him, and whether any members of his family survive.

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission record him as the son of James and Johanna Walsh of Ballinamult, Co Tipperary.

I have tried all other avenues I can think of,  and just hoping someone here might have knowledge or ideas.  Any suggestions greatly appreciated.

[englandphil]

Ady, the Army Roll of Honour has him listed as residing in Hertfordshire, I dont know if this helps.

Name: Michael Walsh
Given Initials: M
Rank: Sapper
Death Date: 9 Dec 1944
Number: 2009978
Birth Place: Eire
Residence: Hertfordshire
Branch at Enlistment: Other Corps
Theatre of War: Malaya
Regiment at Death: Royal Engineers
Branch at Death: Other Corps

[Ady]

Many thanks for the nformation - I'll continue to pursue my chase.  Very much appreciated - and greetings from Canberra, Australia while I'm at it!