Brave Firefighters Remembered 80 Years On After Blitz Bomb Tragedy
Exactly 80 years ago today, seven Auxiliary Fire Service (AFS) firefighters died when a German bomb tore through Soho’s AFS sub-station on Rathbone Street, W1. The devastating blast demolished the building and killed firefighters and civilians sheltering inside.
Among the fallen was Detective Chief Superintendent Stephen Clayman’s great-uncle, Myer Wand, a 31-year-old East End Jewish firefighter from Stepney. He left behind a grieving wife and son.
Fire Brigade Unveils Memorial Plaque for Blitz Heroes
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) held a small memorial service today at the Rathbone Street site to honour these wartime heroes. A commemorative plaque will soon be installed at numbers 7-9 Rathbone Street to mark their sacrifice.
The plaque will also pay tribute to Harry Errington, an AFS man who risked his life rescuing comrades from the burning building. King George VI awarded Errington the George Cross for his extraordinary bravery—the rarest of honours for a firefighter.
The plaque unveiling date will be announced once Covid restrictions lift, allowing the public to view this poignant reminder of the Blitz’s deadly toll.
Descendant Pays Emotional Tribute to Fallen Great-Uncle
“Today, 80 years on, we remember their sacrifice and gallantry,” said Det Ch Supt Clayman, BCU Commander for the Met’s East Area. “The sub-station took a direct hit, collapsing floors and igniting a massive fireball.”
“Myer Wand, his colleagues and nearby civilians were gravely injured. Yet the building itself still stands today—a lasting symbol of the Blitz’s impact.”
“These firefighters represent London communities. Like my great-uncle, I’m proud to work in emergency services protecting Londoners.”
“Myer and Harry came from immigrant Jewish families who enriched London’s culture and spirit—a legacy we must never forget.”
Fire Service Leaders Honour Wartime Bravery
LFB Borough Commander Rodney Vitalis added: “Remembering our history is vital. Today’s Soho firefighters draw inspiration from those who gave their lives here. It’s an honour to celebrate their memory with this plaque.”
This remembrance serves as a stark reminder of the courage and sacrifice shown during the Blitz, and the enduring spirit of London’s emergency services.
