Memorials and legacy:
There are numerous memorials to both the 10th Battalion and Captain
Queripel around the UK and in the Netherlands to commemorate their
heroic actions.
Before departing for Arnhem, the men of the 10th Battalion were
stationed in villages surrounding the market town of Melton Mowbray
in Leicestershire. Their main base was in Somerby, with other units
located in nearby villages such as Thorpe Satchville and Burrough on
the Hill.
This region, known as High Leicestershire, offered an ideal setting for
the battalion’s intensive training exercises. The paratroopers undertook
a range of drills, including
long-distance marches, night
operations, and mock assaults,
all designed to prepare them for
the demands of airborne warfare.
Despite the intensity of their
training, the soldiers developed
strong bonds with the local
community. Many veterans later
recalled this period as “the best
time of their lives,” reecting the
deep camaraderie and mutual
respect that grew between the
troops and the villagers.
Queripel was billeted in a house in Oweston, while the ofcer’s mess and
headquarters were based in Somerby House in the village of Somerby,
The house, and other signicant locations are commemorated by a
maroon memorial plaque similar to that above, marking this signicant
period in its history.
is memorial on a house in Oweston commemorates
the fact that from December 1943 until the departure
of the 10th Battalion to Arnhem on September 18,
1944, Captain Queripel VC billeted there.