Douglas Baple

Bank: National Provincial Bank

Place of work: London Twickenham branch

Died: 15 February 1942

Douglas Roy Baple was born on 14 November 1919, the son of William and Mary Baple. He was educated at Dorking County School. He joined the staff of National Provincial Bank as a probationer at London Finsbury Square branch in May 1936 and was promoted to junior clerk in August 1936. He moved to London Cripplegate branch in June 1938 and was promoted to clerk in October 1938. He moved to Twickenham branch in June 1939. Outside work he was an enthusiastic sportsman, playing tennis and football; he played for the bank on its first XI team.

Baple was also a territorial soldier, and at the end of August 1939, just before the outbreak of the Second World War, he was called up for full time service in the Royal Engineers. He was later commissioned into the 1st Punjab Regiment of the Indian Army. Second Lieutenant Baple was killed in action at the Fall of Singapore on 15 February 1942. He was 22 years old. His colleagues at Twickenham branch noted in the bank's staff magazine, 'he endeared himself to all by his natural charming personality. He will be sadly missed by all who were privileged to know him.'