#Story
Doctor William Annand
Following the devastating raid on the city of Coventry on 14 November 1940, in early April 1941 the population were once again subjected to a Luftwaffe (German Air Force) raid. This became known as Coventry’s forgotten Bblitz with many more killed and the city further destroyed. The Coventry & Warwickshire hospital was hit numerous times during the April raids.
Doctor William Fraser Annand lived at 25 Warwick Road, Coventry. He was 63 years of age and was a Consulting Physician at Coventry & Warwickshire Hospital, Stoney Stanton Road. He had served at the hospital for 21 years.
On the night of the 8 to 9 April 1941, Dr Annand was on duty at the hospital. At around 21:00 that night, a Luftwaffe raid began to hit the city and the area of the hospital. Incendiary bombs hit the hospital and throughout that night up to five high explosive (HE) bombs also hit the hospital.
Dr Annand oversaw the Resuscitation ward on this night, a dangerous and challenging environment. With the hospital hit by HE bombs, he continued to work and administered care to patients. The corridor in which he was working had the end wall blown out by a blast and the side of one of his wards was partially destroyed.
He continued, throughout the night, to cooly show courage and a complete disregard for his own safety. His actions on this night set an example for other hospital staff members, giving them confidence to continue as well as reassuring patients. It was reported that he undoubtably saved the lives of many under his care.
Dr Annand was recommended to recognition of his bravery and work by the Regional Commission, who stated that ‘Dr Annand’s one thought was for the care and comfort of his patients.’ It was clear that he felt his actions, under the continued German bombing, were necessary, and that work needed to continue irrespective of the conditions. His actions that night were an outstanding example of courage, and he inspired others.