No 2 Commando
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Displaying 1 - 300 of 522'A document on the object of Special Service'
Service in a Commando
'Glomjford - Operation Musketoon’
Sunday, September 20, 1942
Location
Glomfjord
Norway
66° 51' 33.12" N, 14° 1' 36.48" E
Glomfjord, Norway
Operation Musketoon was a raid on an electricity generating station at Glomfjord in German occupied Norway. Ten Commandos from No 2 Commando and 2 Norwegian corporals working for the SOE took part in the raid leaving thier home port on the 11th September 1942.
They were taken by submarine to a remote Fjord, completed a difficult overland route, approaching their target from the rear and successfully destroyed it.
Seven were captured and later executed at Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp under Hitler's infamous Commando Order.
'Malta detachment - Force X'
This was a detachment of 4 Officers and some 60 OR's formed December 1940 from volunteers within 'B' Company No.1 Special Service Battalion. They trained at Gourock using Submarines and Folbots. After training the Force embarked from Greenwich joining a convoy for Malta.
'Messina to Palermo railway raid'
Friday, August 29, 1941
Location
Sicily
38° 1' 19.6896" N, 14° 11' 7.9656" E
On the night of 29th/30th August, 1941, a small party of Commandos, led by Lt. Dudley Schofield, landed from the submarine 'Triumph' of the 10th Submarine Flotilla (operating from Malta), and successfully demolished one and a half spans of a bridge about 55 miles East of Palermo carrying the main Messina to Palermo Railway.
Log Book HMS Triumph 30 Aug.1941
'Scaletta - Operation Blackcock (1)'
Sunday, August 15, 1943
Operation Blackcock was a British amphibious landing to take Scaletta on the north-east coast of Sicily. Planned by Lieutenant General Sir Miles Dempsey’s XIII Corps, of General Sir Bernard Montgomery’s 8th Army, the operation was designed as one of a pair of Allied operations to cut off the last elements of the German forces trying to fall back to their evacuation point at Messina in north-eastern Sicily.
'Vaagso - Operation Archery'
Saturday, December 27, 1941
Location
Vaagso, Norway
Norway
62° 0' 10.2204" N, 5° 3' 52.9092" E
Vaagso Norway
A raid on Vaagso and Maaloy to destroy fish oil factories and sink enemy shipping.No 3 Commando were supported by 1 and a half troops of No 2 Commando, and detachments from No.4 Commando and No.6 Commando, and some from the Royal Norwegian Army.
- Some of the Commandos who participated [view......]
- Gallery images for Operation Archery [view......].
2 Commando
The History
The first No.2 Commando was formed on the 22nd June 1940 for a parachuting role at Cambrai Barracks, Perham Down, near Tidworth, Hants. The Unit at the time consisted of four troops - 'A', 'B', 'C' and 'D'. Eventually 11 troops were raised. A nominal roll of 'C' and 'D' troops can be found in our documents album within the No 2 Commando gallery.
2 Commando Brigade, Dalmatian Islands Operations
Sunday, January 16, 1944
Location
Vis, Yugoslavia
Croatia
43° 2' 41.298" N, 16° 6' 16.5024" E
Commando operations on or from the Dalmatian islands.
Read more here in our No 2 Commando History section.
2 Commando Commanders
This history of No. 2 Commando was compiled at the request of The Commando Veterans Association, who wanted a record of the unit’s activities and first-hand recollections of its members as seen through the eyes of a No. 2 Commando veteran. There was a certain urgency about the request because this veteran, turned author, is old and just about one step away from the knacker’s yard. There is much to tell about the No. 2 Family and its Father, Charlie Newman.
Bob Bishop
Read more about each Commanding Officer below.
2 Commando Detachment 13 Sep'41 for 7 months
On 13 September 1941 Captain Godfrey Franks and a detachment of 25 Other Ranks left No.2 Commando and proceeded to Gibraltar from where they made several onward and return journeys between Gibraltar and Freetown, via Ghana and Lagos. Their role on board was primarily manning A.A. guns, the 14 pounder on the stern, 3 Bren guns on the top deck, and general ship maintenance and look out duties.
2 Commando Nominal Roll
In 1946 the Army Council decided that the Army Commandos were to be disbanded and no provision was allowed or made for any depository or office which would have at least contained a complete Roster of Names of the men who served in the various units.
2 Commando Salerno/Scaletta Casualties
Type: Files
Year of Publishing: 2018
Keywords: salerno, casualties, 2 commando, avalanche, vietri, dragone hill, piegolette, piegolelle, the pimple, scaletta, sicily, italy
A document created by an officer of No 2 Commando with specifics relating to No 2 Commando casualties at Salerno, and locations of where they lay, or were first buried.
It also includes details of three from the action at Scaletta, Sicily the previous month.
We have a full Commando Roll of Honour for Salerno. [view].
nb. If the document below does not display, reload/refresh this page in your browser.
2 Commando War Diary 18/19th September 1943
No 2 Commando War Diary 18th September 1943, and part of the entry for the 19th.
[Transcribed from the 2 Cdo.War Diary]
2 Commando, Glomfjord, Norway
Operation Musketoon
"It was on a day in late July, 1942 that the author noted the absence from the ranks of his troop of Capt. Graeme Black, Pte. Eric Curtis and Rfmn. Cyril Abram. At the same time, men of other troops recorded that Capt. Joe Houghton, Sgt. Richard O’Brien, L/Sgt. Bill Chudley, Pte. Reg Makeham, Cpl. John Fairclough, T.S.M. Miller Smith and Pte. Fred Trigg had also vanished. No member of No. 2 Commando had any inkling as to the significance of these disappearances, but as usual, no questions were asked.
2 Commando, Lake Comacchio
Operation Roast.
"Remote from what was to be known as the ‘Battle of Lake Comacchio’, this author did not have a clue as to what was happening to his friends in No. 2 Commando. He had been inside Germany for some time and way out of touch.
It seems that No. 2 Commando had been joined by No. 9 Commando and Nos. 40 and 43 R.M. Commando to implement the task of grabbing a spit of land which extended from Lake Comacchio to the Adriatic Sea, with further exploitation northwards envisaged in the minds of the ‘planners’.
2 Commando, Operations from Vis
"No. 2 Commando started to arrive at Komiza on the Yugoslavian island of Vis on January 16th, 1944. They were to operate on Yugoslav soil for the next six months. The Commando was still much-depleted as a result of the battering it had taken at Salerno, and almost half the unit remaining in Italy consisted of the replacement men and those ‘old hands’ who formed the training cadres.
2 Commando, Salerno
Operation Avalanche
2 Commando, Salerno Aftermath
"As the No. 2 Commando War Diary states, the remnants of the unit, following the Salerno campaign, were redeployed to Catania, Sicily. For once they were not lodged in their usual dusty field. By some accident they had been given a roof over their heads in the shape of a former Italian barracks.
2 Commando, Sarande, Albania
Operation Mercerised
2 Commando, Sicily
Operation Husky.
2 Commando, Spilje, Albania
Operation Healing 11
2 Commando, St. Nazaire
Operation Chariot
"If any reader of this attempt to record the history of No. 2 Commando has gotten this far, he or she will have noted that the pride of place, on Page 1, has been given to the remembrance of the men of the Commando who died in the course of No. 2 Commando operations, including the men who did not return from St. Nazaire.
2 Commando, Vaagso
"The frustrations of 1941 dragged on almost to the end. It had not been a good year from the offensive-action viewpoint of the men of No. 2 Commando. They had done nothing to speak of and were upset at being unemployed. However, the Vaagso raiding force announced the end to this inertia, commencing warfare on December 27th, 1941, landing on Maaloy Island and overrunning the place in less than ten minutes.
4 Independent Company Nominal Roll
This nominal roll has been compiled from detail within this archive added to that provided many years ago by Dennis Reeves, Honorary Curator of the Liverpool Scottish Museum Archive, and compiler of the book Special Service of A Hazardous Nature: The Story of the Liverpool Scottish Involvement in Special Forces Operations in the WW2.
It is not complete. Many went on to serve in No.2 Commando.
It is not complete. Many went on to serve in No.2 Commando.
Contact us with details to have an a name included, or provide additional information.
A breakdown of the Grohote raiding force
THE ATTACK ON THE GERMAN HELD VILLAGE OF GROHOTE IN THE ISLAND OF SOLTA, DALMATIA. SATURDAY 18TH MARCH 1944. SOMETIMES KNOWN AS "DETAINED 1".
A document about 2 Commando Overseas
2 COMMANDO OVERSEAS April 13th 1943 - May 8th 1945
An account from a booklet written by an unknown member of No 2 Commando detailing the period April 13th 1943 to 8th May 1945 Gourock – Ravenna. From the collection of Lance Sergeant Joe Rogers MM.A False start
A Return in 1973 to Yugoslavia
Written by Henry Brown OBE, Secretary of the Commando Association and first published in Commando Association newsletter 57 of September 1973. Image from our archive [view here] depicts Colonel Jack Churchill and his brother General Tom Churchill during the visit.
ABRAM, Cyril Henry
Rifleman
6922005
No 2 Commando
Rifle Brigade
Executed
Rifleman Cyril Abram was one of the seven men of No. 2 Commando who were captured after Operation Musketoon, and later executed under Hitler's Commando Execution Order, at Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, Berlin, 1942.
AGNEW, J.F.
Corporal
5335029
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
13 September 1941 member of the No.2 Commando Detachment to Gibraltar, and then Freetown via Ghana and Lagos, rejoining the main body of the commando seven months later.
- 11 September 1943 wounded during operations at Salerno, Italy.
Sources
[1] Linked Content below
AINSLIE, Walter
Gunner
898494
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Walter Ainslie was attested into the Royal Artillery in 1939. He served in 5 troop from mid 1942 and was wounded on 12 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy. He remained with No.2 until the war ended.
AIRD, Michael Derrick
Private
3772603
No 2 Commando
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Michael Aird, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268 and has no known grave.
Michael was a grocer in 1939 before enlisting and resided 36 Gilroy Road, Fairfield, Liverpool. Son of George and May Aird.
Sources
CWGC.
Michael was a grocer in 1939 before enlisting and resided 36 Gilroy Road, Fairfield, Liverpool. Son of George and May Aird.
Sources
CWGC.
ALDERSEA, S.
Private
No 2 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
Post war member of the original Commando Association with whom they lost contact. Last known address: Stoke on Trent. [Source: CA Lost Legion 1].
ALDRED, Jack
Sergeant
1892443
No 2 Commando
Royal Engineers
Lance Corporal Jack Aldred, 4 Troop, was one of the Commando contingent emabarked on Motor Launch ML 443 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28March 1942. He was evacuated back to the UK after the raid [1].
Service [2]
1 December 1940 attached from the R.E. to 1 Special Service Bn.
ALLAN, Hugh Bryan
Lance Corporal
14000107
No 2 Commando
Royal Scots
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Hugh Allan died during the action at Jaconti, near Vietri. He was originally buried "at the bottom of Jaconti village (East side). Map Ref. 601307."
Son of J. C. and Christine J. F. Allan, of Ayr.
Son of J. C. and Christine J. F. Allan, of Ayr.
Sources
[1] CWGC.
AMESBURY, Alfred Edmund
Corporal
4536995
No 2 Commando
44th Reconnaisance Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Alfred Amesbury, formerly No.2 Commando 3 Troop, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy serving with the Reconnaisance Regiment having left the Commando.
AMOS, Richard Henry
Sergeant
5343009
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Private Richard Amos (1 Troop) was one of the Commando contingent embarked on Motor Launch ML 446 during Operation Chariot at St Nazaire.
Evacuated back to the UK he remained with No.2 Commando and by the end of the war held the rank of Sergeant. Wounded 1944.
ANCHOR, John Robert
Guardsman (Acting Corporal)
2616491
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal John Anchor, 6 Troop, was awarded the Military Medal for his gallantry during Operation Healing 2 at Spilje Albania. The citation for his award is in our report on the Operation below. Post war member of the Commando Association from Chelmsford, Essex.
Sources
London Gazette 36730, page 4570.
ANDERTON, Harold
Guardsman
2620580
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Guardsman Harold Anderton, 1 Troop, was wounded 28 March 1942 during Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, and evacuated back to the UK. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 446. Post war member of the Commando Association.
ANDREWS, Albert Mailly
Rifleman
6916421
No 2 Commando
Rifle Brigade
Military Medal (MM)
Rifleman Albert Andrews was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service. He was one of the Commando contingent that took part in operations from HM Submarine Triumph against the Palermo and Messina railway on the 29/30 August 1941. His party could not be re-embarked and were captured [1][2][3].
Recommendation
ARMITAGE, H.E.
Private
4546729
No 2 Commando
West Yorkshire Regiment
Private Armitage, 3 Troop, was reported missing on 13 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy, before being found to be a prisoner of war. He was last seen fit an well on 10 September patrolling the Eastern slopes of Liberatore Hill in the company of Pte. Brinkley and Cpl. Hawkins.
ARNOLD, Frank, H.W.
Corporal
5932921
No 2 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Corporal Frank Arnold, 5 Troop, was wounded on 13 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy. He served in 'B' Section, No.4 Sub-Section of the Troop since at least July 1942. Member of the No.2 Commando Boxing Team. Former occupation Shop Assistant. Post war resided Cambridge.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
ASHCROFT, Arthur
Known as:
The Hawk
Private
2929623
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders
Private Arthur Ashcroft, 5 Troop, was one of the Commando contingent who embarked on HMS Campbeltown for Operation Chariot , the raid at St. Nazaire 28 March 1942. Wounded and taken prisoner war after the raid, he was later transported to Stalag 344 at Lamsdorf, Poland.
- 25 April 1940 posted to 'X' Company 1st Liverpool Scottish.
ASQUITH, William
Private
4546321
No 2 Commando
West Yorkshire Regiment
Private William Asquith served in 3 Troop. Wounded 9 October 1944.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/84.
His son Arthur Snodgrass.
AUKETT, Norman John
Known as:
Jim
Corporal
2616306
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Norman Aukett, a former lorry driver from North Kensington, served in 2 Troop. Post war Norman and his wife Sheila resided in South Australia. Norman was an active member of the Commando Association returning for several reunions. He was also an early member of the St Nazaire Society. Sheila died in 1995 [1][2][5].
AUSTIN, James Herbert
Bombardier
2083573
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Bombardier James Austin was reported missing 6 June 1944 whilst serving in the Adriatic, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/82.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
CBF List of No.2 Cdo.
BACKHOUSE, Charles, R.
Corporal
2931647
SAS
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Mentioned in Despatches
Charles Backhouse served with No.2 Commando before joining the 1st S.A.S. [1].
He received a Mention in Despatches for his escape having been taken prisoner of war whilst serving with the 1st SAS [2].
Recommendation
BAMPTON, Stephen Dorcas
Sergeant
6349577
No 2 Commando
Queens Own Royal West Kent
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Stephen Bampton was killed in action in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando had been placed "in the line" near Ravenna.
- 16 August 1943 (Private) (No.2 Commando) wounded during operations at Sicily.
Sources
CWGC.
Army Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/66.
BANKS, Frederick Charles
Known as:
Stan
Acting Lance Corporal
3863503
No 2 Commando
Loyal Regiment
Frederick Banks (known as Stan) served in No.2 Commando 1 Troop
BANTING, Gareth Bernard (Reverend)
Captain Chaplain 4th Class
159706
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Chaplains' Department
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain (Reverend) Gareth Banting, Padre of No 2 Commando, died during operations at Sarande.
BARBER, H.J.
Known as:
John, forenames believed to be Harold James
Private
5779882
No 2 Commando
Royal Norfolk Regiment
Private H.J. Barber, known as John, was wrongly reported killed in action on 13 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy, before being confirmed as alive and a prisoner of war. A former Carpenter and Joiner from Suffolk he was serving in No.2 Commando 5 Troop, 'B' Section, No.3 Sub-Section.
Sources
BARE, Jack Stormont
Captain
88169
No 2 Commando
Artists Rifles
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Jack Bare died during operations from the No. 2 Commando base on the island of Vis against the enemy held island of Hvar.
Extract from the No. 2 Commando War Diary
BARLING, Gilbert Michael
Known as:
Mike
Captain
99317
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Captain Gilbert Michael Barling M.B., R.A.M.C. was attached to No.2 Commando HQ on 2 August 1941. In March 1942 he embarked on board motor launch ML 341 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire but en route transferred to ML 446. After the raid he was evacuated back to the UK treating some of the wounded.
Sources
BARLOW, Arthur Leslie
Private
6032057
No 2 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private Arthur Barlow was wounded 10 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/67.
BARLOW, Jack
Lance Corporal
6482241
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Colonial Police Medal
Lance Corporal Jack Barlow served in 6 troop and also in the Intel Section of No.2 Commando. He was one of the Metropolitan Police Intakes to the Commandos. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at the Police Section House, Arlington Road, Camden London [Source: The 1939 Register for Camden].
The following is from his daughter Jennie Barlow.
BARNARD, Frederick Charles Kenneth
Lance Sergeant
1776512
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Post war member of the Commando Association from Welling, Kent.
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 56 (1973).
RA Attestations Register 1940.
Handrwritten nominal roll No.2 Cdo from D.R.
BARNES, William Walter
Lance Sergeant
6482223
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Mentioned in Despatches
1939 William Barnes was a Metroplitan Police Constable residing in Paddington.
1942 volunteered for the Commandos as part of the 1st Police Intake.
December 1942 (Fusilier) No.2 Commando 6 Troop.
20 March 1945 (Fusilier) (No.2 Commando) wounded during operations in Italy.
BARRON, Robert James
Known as:
Robbie
Sergeant (later Major)
2877629 & 253487
No 2 Commando
London Scottish The Gordon Highlanders
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Mentioned in Despatches
Sergeant Robert Barron, 1 troop, was one of the Commando contingent who participated in the St. Nazaire raid on ML 446. Evacuated back to the UK [1].
General Service [3].
- May 1935 T.A. 1st Bn. London Scottish.
- Sept. 1939 embodied 1st Bn. London Scottish.
BARRY, John
Private
3663903
No 2 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Barry died of wounds received at Dragone Hill, Salerno, on the 13th September 1943. He died at 67 General Hospital CMF. Son of Denis and Kathleen Barry, of Slaithwaite, Yorkshire.
BARTON, Bernard James
Known as:
John
T/Captain (later Major)
134120
No 2 Commando
The Buffs / Reconnaissance Regiment / Royal Armoured Corps
Military Cross (MC)
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Bar to the Distinguished Service Order
Bernard James Barton was commissioned Second Lieutenant in The Buffs on the 22nd June 1940 (1).
On the 30th January 1941 he was transferred to the Recce Corps. (2)
BAVISTER, Robert John
Known as:
Bob
Temporary Captain
100219
No 2 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Mentioned in Despatches
Captain Robert Bavister received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the Mediterranean Theatre [2].
Service Record
BAYLISS, Leonard Frank
Known as:
Len
Lance Sergeant
6467968
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Lance Sergeant Len Bayliss, 3 Troop, was in Lieutenant John Roderick's Assault Party on HMS Campbeltown during the raid on St Nazaire. Wounded and prisoner of war.
Sources
BEARDSELL, John Clifford
Rifleman (later Sergeant)
6912677
No 2 Commando
Rifle Brigade
Mentioned in Despatches
Rifleman John Beardsell, 3 Troop, embarked on board HMS Campbeltown for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. During the raid he was wounded by enemy fire whilst still on board. He was transferred to a motor launch and evacuated back to the UK [1][2][3].
Service record [4].
BECKETT, Paul Henry
Private
4747367
No 2 Commando
York and Lancaster Regiment
Private Paul Beckett served in No.2 Commando from November 1943 until disbandment in 1945.
Sources
His son Mike Beckett.
Commando Service Certificate.
CVA Gallery entry.
CBF List of No.2 Cdo.
BELL, William White
Known as:
Dingle
Acting Lance Corporal
6461342
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Lance Corporal William Bell, 6 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 during Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked on ML 192.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/43.
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/43.
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/11.
BELLRINGER, Roy
Known as:
Tingaling and Ding Dong
Lance Sergeant
5342397
No 2 Commando
Commando Basic Training Centre
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Lance Sergeant Roy Bellringer served with 1 troop and took part in the raid at St Nazaire. He was on board ML 446 and was evacuated back to the UK. In July 1942 he was part of the No 2 Commando Boxing Team. We have numerous photos in the gallery of him both before and after St Nazaire, and in an image of the boxing team.
BENNER, Norman Joseph
Rifleman
6920786
No 2 Commando
Rifle Brigade
Died on war service
Rifleman Norman Benner died as a result of an accident.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/73.
BENNETT, Derick S.
Private
6351281
No 2 Commando
Queens Own Royal West Kent
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Derick Bennett, 6 troop, died during operations at Dragone Hill, Salerno. Son of Alfred John and Thyrza Bennett, of Maidstone, Kent.
BENNETT, Frederick
Known as:
Fred
Private
3655156
No 2 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Private Fred Bennett, 5 Troop, was wounded on 13 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy. He served in 'A' Section, No.2 Sub-Section of the Troop. Former occupation Plumber and Painter. Post war member of the Commando Association from Warrington.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/67.
CVA Gallery 5 Troop images.
BENNETT, John Henry
Private
No 2 Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Frome, Somerset.
Sources
Commando Association Lost Legions List 2.
BIRNEY, David Leslie
Captain
75991
No 2 Commando
Rifle Brigade
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain David Birney, Officer Commanding 2 troop, died of wounds after Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire which took place on 28 March 1942*.
He was commanding an assault group that had embarked on Motor Launch ML 447.
BISHOP, D.B.
Gunner
11061131
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner D.B. Bishop was wounded on 29 July 1944 during operations at Spilje Albania.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/80.
BISHOP, Ivor, W.
Regimental Sergeant Major
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Lance Corporal Ivor Bishop, 1 Troop, was one of the Commando contingent who embarked on Motor Launch ML 446 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942. Evacuated back to the UK he became Troop Sergeant Major of 6 Troop, and later Regimental Sergeant Major of No.2 Commando*.
Sources
BLACK, Graeme Delamere
Captain
106240
No 2 Commando
South Lancashire
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Military Cross (MC)
Executed
Captain Graeme Black DSO, MC, was executed whilst a Prisoner of War. He was one of the seven Commandos of No. 2 Commando who were captured after Operation Musketoon, and later executed under Hitler's Commando Execution Order, at Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, Berlin, 1942.
BLACKWELL, Alun Trevor
Lance Corporal
3655742
No 2 Commando
Independent Companies and Special Service Battalions
South Lancashire Regt (Prince of Wales Volunteers)
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Private Alun Blackwell enlisted with the South Lancashire Regiment (Prince of Wales Volunteers) in October 1939. In 1940 he volunteered for the Independent Companies and took part in the Scissors Force expedition to Norway. He was later selected for a Special Operations Executive operation in Tunisa in 1941.
BLATTNER,Charles William
Lance Sergeant
3063224
No 2 Commando
Royal Scots
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Charles Blattner, 5 troop, died during operations at Salerno, Italy.
Son of Julian and Mary Blattner.
Son of Julian and Mary Blattner.
Follow this link to read more about him: No 2 Cdo 'Some of the Men'.
Sources
CWGC.
BLAZE, John Willie
Bombardier
874391
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Sask, Canada.
Sources
Royal Artillery Attestation Register 1937.
Commando Association newsletter 11 (1950).
BLISSETT, Harry Harold
Major
90331
No 4 Independent Company
No 2 Commando
1 Special Service (Commando) Brigade
The King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Mentioned in Despatches
Major Harry Harold Blissett served as a Captain in No 4 Independent Company and No 2 Commando. He was appointed Brigade Major in the 1st Special Service Bde in preparation for DDay. In 1945 he received a MiD for gallant and distinguished services in NW Europe[1].
Source
BLOWER, Alfred
Known as:
Alfy
Private
3772259
No 2 Commando
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Alfred Blower, 4 troop, died of wounds received at Dragone Hill, Salerno, on the 13th September 1943. He died at 67 General Hospital CMF. Son of Alfred and Elizabeth Blower, of Liverpool; husband of Winifred Blower, of Liverpool.
Extract from the Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 08 December 1944.
BLYTHE, William
Known as:
Bill
Lance Corporal
2930644
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Lance Corporal William Blythe, 5 Troop, was one of the commando contingent embarked on Motor Launch ML 177 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire 28 March 1942. Reported missing after the raid, found to have been taken prisoner and transported to Stalag 344 Lamsdorf, Poland.
BONDY, Theodor
Driver
PAL/30441
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Driver Theodor Bondy was awarded the BEM (Military Divison) in 1943 in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the Middle East.
Sources London Gazettes Supp 36209, page 4543 CVA Gallery No 2 Commando imagesBOON, Peter
Gunner
5183803
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gloucestershire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Peter Boon, 1 troop, died during operations at Splije, Albania. He has no known grave.
Son of Albert and Florence Boon, of Avening Road, Gloucester.
1st September 1939 Gloucestershire Regiment, later transferred to the Royal Artillery from which attached to No.2 Commando.
Sources
CWGC.
BOWMAN, Lionel George
Private
5956867
No 2 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Lionel Bowman, 5 Troop, died of wounds during operations at Salerno, Italy.
Son of Harry and Alice Mary Bowman, of Wanstead, London. In 1939 Lionel was a press advertising representative residing at 45 Redbridge Lane, Wanstead.
Sources
CWGC.
BRADLEY, Eric
Sergeant
3770135
No 2 Commando
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Died on war service
Sergeant Eric Bradley died as a result of an accident during the period when No 2 was a Para Commando unit.
Sources
CWGC.
British Army Casulaty Lists 1939-45.
Notes
BRADLEY, Richard
Known as:
Dick
Lance Sergeant
5344190
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Sergeant Richard Bradley, 1 troop, was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished services in the field relating to his successful escape in October 1943 after being wounded and captured during the raid at St Nazaire in March 1942.
BRIGHTY, John
Lance Corporal
3973527
No 2 Commando
Welch Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal John Brighty, 2 troop, was reported wounded and missing, later presumed killed in action, during Operation Healing 11 at Spilje Albania. He has no known grave.
Son of Mr. and Mrs. John Edward Brighty; husband of Mary Brighty (nee Haymarch), of Ayr.
Sources
CWGC.
BRINKLEY, James
Private
6104149
No 2 Commando
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Brinkley, 3 Troop, was reported missing 13 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy. He was last seen fit and well on 10 September 1943 patrolling the Eastern slopes of Liberatore Hill in the company of Pte. Armitage and Cpl. Hawkins. Later found to have been taken prisoner and transported to Germany.
BRISCOE, Harold R.
Lance Corporal
T/264673
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Harold Briscoe, 1 troop, died during operatios at Lake Comacchio, Italy.
BROOKS, A.C.
Private
4928693
No 2 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
Wounded during operations at Salerno, Italy.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/67.
BROOME, Richard Frank
Known as:
Dickie
Captain
85468
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
South Lancashire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Richard Broome, OC 5 troop, died during operations at Salerno, Italy. He was originally buried on the forward slope of Dragone Hill. Son of Geoffrey and Ethel Broome; husband of Desiree L. M. Broome, of Rake, Hampshire; father of Angela.
BROWN, Louis Walter
Known as:
Ben
Sergeant
2929147
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Sergeant Louis 'Ben' Brown, aged 24 and from Liverpool, served in 5 Troop and took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire on 28 March 1942. Embarking on board HMS Campbeltown, he was wounded during the raid and reported missing, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/11.
Sources
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/11.
BROWN, Robert Hall
Lance Sergeant
2879761
No 2 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Sergeant Robert Brown, No 2 Commando, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service. He was one of the Commando contingent that took part in operations from HMS Triumph against the Palermo and Messina railway on the 29/30 August 1941. His party could not be re-embarked and were captured [1][2][3].
BROWNING, James Stanley
Known as:
Jimmy
Private
2191363
No 2 Commando
Pioneer Corps, Royal Engineers
Jimmy Browning served in No.2 Commando 1 Troop and later the He
BRUCE, James
Sergeant
5989540
No 2 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Sergeant James Bruce, 1 Troop, took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. Embarked on board motor launch ML446 he was wounded during the raid and evacuated back to the UK.
Sources
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/41.
St Nazaire Society website.
BRUNSWICK, Arthur Trotter
Lieutenant
172379
No 2 Commando
Durham Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Arthur Brunswick, HQ Troop Intelligence Section, died of wounds from a mortar explosion during operations at Dragone Hill, Salerno. Son of Mr. and Mrs. A. T. Brunswick, of Dunston, Co. Durham.
Extract from the book Operation Avalanche - The Salerno Landings 1943
BRYAN, Edward Joseph
Known as:
Ted
Lance Corporal
3775300
No 2 Commando
King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Edward Bryan, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He has no known grave.
Son of Adam and Mary Bryan; husband of D. M. Bryan.
BRYANT, J.H.
Private
5510092
No 2 Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Private Bryant was wounded 17 October 1943 during operations in Italy.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/67.
BUCKBY, Raymond
Lance Sergeant
1805833
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Raymond Buckby, 1 troop, died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.
BUCKMASTER, Eric Henry
Private
T/264339
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Eric Buckmaster served in No 2 Commando 5 troop from mid 1942 until the Commando was disbanded soon after the war ended. Eric was wounded on 9 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy, and sent for medical treatment to North Africa. He returned to the unit in November 1943. Read some of his memories from that period below.
BUCKMASTER, Eric, Memories of No 2 Commando
Over the last few years Eric Buckmaster, No 2 Commando, has been a wonderful help to this Archive by providing information in response to our many questions, not only about those who served with him in No 2 Commando 5 troop, but also in providing other more general information about events and places.
Eric served alongside his brother Stanley Buckmaster [more...] in 5 troop. Here are some extracts from a few of his responses.
Joining No 2 Commando 5 troop
BUCKMASTER, Stanley Owen
Known as:
Stan
Driver
T/10691421
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Stanley Buckmaster joined 5 troop from the RASC after Salerno. His younger brother Eric was already in the Troop. Stan was wounded on 17 April 1945 during operations in Italy.
Extract from Commando Association newsletter 110
Obituary by Henry Brown OBE.
BUNN, Norman
Trooper
7893626
No 2 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Norman Bunn, 2 troop, died of wounds in 11 Casualty Clearing Station, Brindisi, Italy. Son of Samuel and Elizabeth Bunn, of Wall Heath, Brierley Hill, Staffordshire.
BURKE, Edward
Known as:
Tiny
Sergeant
2929845
No 2 Commando
1st Bn. Liverpool Scottish / Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Edward 'Tiny' Burke, from Kirkdale Liverpool, enlisted into the 1st Bn Liverpool Scots TA, Queens Own Cameron Highlanders. His civil occupation had been a Driver.
- 23 April 1941 after volunteering for the Independent Companies he was posted to No 4 Independent Company and later took part in the landings at Bodo Norway as part of Scissors Force.
BURN, Michael Clive
Known as:
Micky
Captain
74087
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
Military Cross (MC)
Captain Michael Burn, 6 troop, was awarded the Military Cross for gallant and distinguished service during Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942. He was in charge of the commando contingent on board motor launch ML 192. Reported missing after the raid, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Recommendation
BURNS, Charles
Gunner
.1612571
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Charles Burns, 6 troop, was killed in action during operations at Dragone Hill, Salerno. He has no known grave. He was reported to have been buried by the 6th Yorks and Lancs. on the forward slope of the hill. Son of John and Isabella Burns, of Cambuslang, Lanarkshire.
Sources
BURNS, Ronald Edward David
Rifleman
6895664
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps (11th Bn)
(1st Bn. Queen's Westminsters)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Rifleman Ronald Burns, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on ML 268.
Son of Edward and Alice Janet Burns, of Brockley, London.
BUSHE, Patrick
Known as:
Paddy
Rifleman
7014446
No 2 Commando
Royal Ulster Rifles
Rifleman Patrick Bushe, 6 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked on ML 177.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/42.
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/11.
CALLAGHAN, Dennis
Lance Corporal
14241621
No 2 Commando
Black Watch
Halifax Police
Private Dennis Callaghan, 6 Troop, was wounded on 13 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy. He was one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos from Halifax and in 1939 was single and a Police Constable at Warley Road Police Station, Halifax. In the late 70's he was living in Tenerife.
CAMERON, John Ewen
Corporal
410258
No 2 Commando
Lovat Scouts
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal John Cameron, formerly a gamekeeper from Perthshire, died in Italy.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/78.
[Image] Article in the Perthshire Advertiser 12 July 1944.
Notes
CAMPBELL, Norman Murray Priggen
Lance Sergeant
5958258
No 2 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Norman Campbell, 3 Troop, died of wounds during the 6 week period when No.2 Commando was placed "in the line" in Italy under 5 Corps.
The War Diary records that he was seriously injured, later dying of his wounds, during shelling that took place between 1110hrs and 1550hrs. The same entry records that LBdr. King was also killed during this shelling.
CANDLIN, James Daniel
Known as:
Danny
Gunner
993419
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner James Daniel Candlin, 2 Troop, was wounded during operations at Salerno, Italy, on 14 September 1943 and again at Spilje Albania on 29 July 44. Post war he transferred to the Royal Engineers on 30 October 1951. He was a member of the Commando Association residing Hull.
CANT, Evelyn Arthur George
Corporal
14241841 and 343757
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Essex County Constabulary
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Corporal Evelyn Cant, 4 Troop, was wounded on 16 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy [1][1a].
CAPP, William Thomas
Known as:
Bill
Corporal
14241731
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Corporal William Capp served in 5 Troop and was Piat Mortar operator.
A serving Metropolitan Police Officer he had volunteered as one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos. In 1939 he was residing at the Police Section House, 277 Upper Street Islington.
CAPSTICK, N.
Private
14241651
No 2 Commando
Black Watch
Lancaster Police
Private N. Capstick served in 5 Troop and later the Transport Section.
A serving Police Officer from Lancaster he had volunteered as one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos.
CARPENTER, John Richard Owen
Private
5631088
No 2 Commando
York and Lancaster Regiment
John Carpenter served in 5 Troop of No.2 Commando. He was wounded in Italy 17 April 1945 when a shell hit him in the shoulder but did not explode.
Sources
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives / National Archives file WO417/91.
Account by Eric Buckmaster 5 Troop.
CARRICK, George
Lance Corporal
14241652
No 2 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Lancashire Constabulary (Colne)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal George Carrick, 3 troop, died during operations on 13 September 1943 at Dragone Hill, Salerno, Italy, where he was initially buried (Map ref 602409) [1][2].
Son of George and Ethel Carrick, of Astley, Lancashire.
CARROLL, John Joseph
Fusilier
6469540
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Fusilier John Carroll, 3 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked on ML 177.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939045 / National Archives file WO417/43.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 and WO392/11.
Casualty Lists 1939045 / National Archives file WO417/43.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 and WO392/11.
CARTER, Hugh John
Corporal
4078193
No 2 Commando
Monmouthshire Regiment (4th Bn)
Died on war service
Died in the UK
Corporal Hugh Carter was in the original No 2 (Parachute) Commando. He died in a training accident at Ringway during a parachute jump.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/20.
CARTWRIGHT, William
Trooper
14241732 or 14241792
No 2 Commando
City of London Police
Trooper William Cartwright served in 3 Troop. He had volunteered for the Commandos in 1942 as part of the Police Intakes that commenced that year.
In 1939 he was Police Constable 90 'B', warrant number 9363, serving at Snow Hill Police Station, City of London.
Sources
CASWELL, William, J.
Gunner
2059600
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner William Caswell was wounded on 29 July 1944 at Spilje, Albania.
Sources
Army Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/80.
Commando Association Lost Legion List 3.
[Image] Jayne Sanderson (granddaughter).
CAVENEY, John
Fusilier
3134031
No 2 Commando
Royal Scots Fusiliers
Fusilier John Caveney, a former bricklayer from Paisley, served in 5 Troop of No.2 Commando [1][2][3].
CHADWICK, John R.
Private
No 2 Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association from Gillingham, Kent.
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 119.
CHALLINTON, William A.
Lance Sergeant
3515161
No 2 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Lance Sergeant William Challinton, 5 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after the raid at St Nazaire, France, later found to be a prisoner of war. One of an assault party who disembarked from HMS Campbeltown, their role to destroy enemy coastal defence guns covering the dry dock area, he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for gallantry.
CHANT, Douglas
Private
5110274
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Private Douglas Chant, 2 Troop, was one of the commando contingent embarked on Motor Launch ML 307 for Operations Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire 28 March 1942.
He was evacuated back to the UK after the raid [1][1a].
- July 1942 member of the No.2 Commando Boxing Team [2].
CHAPMAN, William Jopp
Private
14241789
No 2 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Birmingham City Police
William Chapman was a Police Constable in Birmingham who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In January 1943 he was in the Mortar Section. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Birmingham.
Sources
The 1939 Register covering Birmingham (listed as Police Constable).
CHEETHAM, Gerald
Fusilier
6482292
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Metropolitan Police
Died on active service
Fusilier Gerald Cheetham, Heavy Weapons Troop, died of illness (pneumonia) whilst on active service in Italy. Son of Thomas James Cheetham and Charlotte Cheetham [1][1a][1b].
A former pupil of Ashton Grammar School before joining the Metropolitan Police from which he later volunteered for the Commandos as part of the 1st Police Intake of 1942 [2][3].
A former pupil of Ashton Grammar School before joining the Metropolitan Police from which he later volunteered for the Commandos as part of the 1st Police Intake of 1942 [2][3].
CHEETHAM, John Frederick
Known as:
Jack
Corporal
2930999
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Corporal Jack Cheetham, 5 Troop, was reported wounded and a prisoner of war on 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire. He had embarked on HMS Campbeltown.
Sources
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/48.
CHESTERS, William
Corporal
14241790
No 2 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
??
Corporal William Chesters was wounded 17 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy (Piegolette). Post war member of the Commando Association from Derrington, Staffs.
Sources
Casualty Lists / WO417/67.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 107 (1998).
CHUDLEY, William Henry Albert
Lance Bombardier
882221
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Executed
Lance Bombardier William Chudley was one of the seven men of No. 2 Commando who were captured after Operation Musketoon, and later executed under Hitler's Commando Execution Order, at Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, Berlin, 1942.
Sources
CWGC.
CWGC.
CHURCH, Francis John
Lance Corporal
14411819
No 2 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Private Francis Church was wounded twice the first being on 29 July 1944 (Spilje Bay, Albania), and when a Lance Corporal on 17 April 1945 (Argenta and Lake Comacchio, Italy). Post war member of the Commando Association from Prestwich, Manchester
CHURCHILL, John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming (Lt Col)
Known as:
Mad Jack
Lieutenant Colonel
34657
No 2 Commando
No 3 Commando
No 5 Commando
Manchester Regiment
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Bar to the Distinguished Service Order
Military Cross (MC)
After a brief spell as 2i/c No 5 Commando, the then Major John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming Churchill (later affectionately known by some as Mad Jack) moved to 2i/c No 3 Commando. Wounded during Operation Archery at Vaagso 27 December 1941.
CLARK, James
Gunner
402083
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Military Medal (MM)
Gunner James Clark was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the field.
Sources
London Gazette 36983, page 1427.
CLARKE, Alfred John Douglas
Gunner
902982
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Alfred Clarke died during operations at Sarande, Albania.
No 2 Commando War Diary entry: " 9th Oct'44. Sarande - 3 troop moving round left flank come upon enemy positions suddenly. Heavy spandau and rifle grenade fire. Capt. Parsons MC is hit. Lt Coyle takes over but is hit in the leg. Moves forward again but is killed by grenade."
CLARKSON, George
Lance Corporal
14241653
No 2 Commando
??
Served in the Mortar Section/ Heavy Weapons Troop January 1943.
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Cheshire.
Sources
Image with details on photo in gallery titled No. 2 Commando Mortar Section/ Heavy Weapons Tp. Jan. 1943.
Handwritten list of No.2 Commando OR's from Mrs Desiree Roderick MBE (CBF).
Image with details on photo in gallery titled No. 2 Commando Mortar Section/ Heavy Weapons Tp. Jan. 1943.
Handwritten list of No.2 Commando OR's from Mrs Desiree Roderick MBE (CBF).
CLEMENTS, Albert Edward
Private
14241733
No 2 Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
West Sussex Constabulary
Private Albert Clements served in 1 Troop and was injured in 1943 during training at Gibraltar after which he was evacuated to the UK for treatment. Albert was part of the Police Intakes who had volunteered for the Commandos in 1942 having served 3 years in the Sussex Police at Southwick and Worthing Police Stations. Post war member of the Commando Association from Sussex.
CLIBBORN, William Cuthbert
Known as:
Bill
Lieutenant
90842
No 2 Commando
No 3 Independent Company
Essex Regiment
Lieutenant William Clibborn, 2 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later found to have been wounded and become a prisoner of war. He embarked on ML 447 for the raid.
Sources
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/1.
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/1.
COBELLI, Dominic
Lance Corporal
5340537
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Lance Corporal Dominic Cobelli, 1 Troop, took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. He embarked on board motor launch ML446 and was evacuated back to the UK after the raid.
Sources
St Nazaire Society website.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 105 issued September 1997.
St Nazaire Society website.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 105 issued September 1997.
CVA Gallery.
COBLEY, Victor Charles
Lance Corporal
14241816
No 2 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Plymouth City Police
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Victor Cobley served in the Heavy Weapons Troop. In 1944 he was commissioned Second Lieutenant. A serving Police Officer he volunteered as one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos.
COCKIN, Robert
Lance Corporal
3654681
No 2 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Lance Corporal Robert Cockin, 4 Troop, aged 22 and from Stockton, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later found to have been wounded and taken prisoner of war. He embarked on Motor Launch ML 267 which was hit by enemy fire and sank.
CODD, Lawrence Joseph
Signalman
2332748
No 11 Commando
No 2 Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Signalman Lawrence Codd, No.2 Commando, was reported missing 6 June 1944, later found to be a prisoner of war. At this time a small number of commandos from No.2 Commando were engaged in a failed attempt to locate and liberate their Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel 'Jack' Churchill, who had been captured during Operation Flounced on the island of Brac a few days earlier.
COLEMAN, Lloyd William
Lance Sergeant
14241610
No 2 Commando
Somerset Light Infantry
Newport Borough Police
Mentioned in Despatches
Lance Sergeant Lloyd Coleman was Mentioned in Despaches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the Mediterranean theatre. He served in 5 troop, ('B' Section, No.4 Sub Section) and, after a course on the 3" Mortar, the Heavy Weapons Troop.
CONNOR, Stanley, J.
Known as:
Stan
Private
T/328227
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Stanley Connor died during operations at Salerno, Italy.
Son of James and Honora Connor; husband of Grace F. Connor, of Colindale, Middlesex.
Sources
CWGC.
CONWAY, John Alphonsus
Fusilier
14241817
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers, 9th Bn.
Gloucestershire Constabulary
Fusilier John Conway was wounded 18 January 1944 during operations in Italy.
1939 - Police Constable serving at the Police Station, High Street, Stow on the Wold.
1942 - Volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes.
Sources
COOK, Kenneth
Known as:
Ken
Private
14241818
No 2 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Police Force not known
Private Kenneth Cook served in 'A' Section, No.2 Sub-Section of 5 troop. A serving Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes.
From 1994 onwards he was the Secretary of the Bristol Branch of the Commando Association.
COOKSON, Charles
Corporal
14241654
No 2 Commando
Kings Own Scottish Borderers
Burnley Borough Police
Corporal Charles Cookson served in 1 Troop and later the Heavy Weapons Troop.
A serving Police Officer he volunteered as part of the Police Intakes to the Commandos.
1939 Police Constable, Burnley Borough Police, residing at 117 Woodgrove Road, Burnley.
July 1942 direct Police Intake to the Commando Basic Training Centre, Achnacarry.
COOPER, Dudley Edward
Fusilier
14241655
No 2 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Manchester Police
Military Medal (MM)
Fusilier Dudley Cooper was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy.
He was a serving Police Officer who joined the Manchester Police on 26 March 1941 before volunteering for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes.
Recommendation
COOPER, George
Private
14241819
No 2 Commando
Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment
Yes
Private George Cooper served in 'B' Section, No.3 Sub-Section of 5 Troop, and later in the Mortar Section.
A serving Police Officer he volunteered as one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos. He was married and from New Houghton near Mansfied.
Sources
Notebook of LSgt Joe Rogers MM of 5 Troop.
COPLAND, William Oranmore
Major
50169
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
South Lancashire Regiment
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Territorial Decoration (TD)
Major William Copland was second in command of No 2 Commando. He had previously served with No 4 Independent Company. Major Copland was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. Subsequently awarded the Distinguished Service Order for gallant and distinguished service.
Recommendation
COUGHLAN, John
Lance Corporal
3781807
No 2 Commando
King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal John Coughlan, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He has no known grave.
John embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 267 which was hit by enemy fire and sank with the loss of eight of the 11 Commandos, and all bar five of the RN crew.
Sources
CWGC.
John embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 267 which was hit by enemy fire and sank with the loss of eight of the 11 Commandos, and all bar five of the RN crew.
Sources
CWGC.
COULSON, John Richard
Corporal
14241656
No 2 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Southport Police
Corporal John Coulson served in 5 Troop before transferring to the HQ Troop.
1942 serving Police Officer from Southport, volunteered for the commandos as part of the Police Intakes. Post war member of the Commando Association (Liverpool).
Sources
COULTHARD, Arnold, C.
Private
14241706
No 2 Commando
Durham Light Infantry
Sunderland Police
Private Arnold Couthard served in 6 Troop.
He was a serving Police Officer from Sunderland who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. He is amongst the Police Officers from Sunderland who had passed their Police First Aid Course named in a newspaper report in 1940.
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Sunderland.
COX, Edward
Known as:
Eddie
Gunner
1779578
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Edward Cox died during operations at Scaletta, Sicily. We have a document that states "Buried on a terrace on the Shore side of the road at the North end of the beach North of Scaletta".
Sources
CWGC.
Page 4 of Salerno/Sicily Casualties document (see linked content below).
CWGC.
Page 4 of Salerno/Sicily Casualties document (see linked content below).
COX, Cecil Ernest Robert
Corporal
14241734
No 2 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
West Sussex Constabulary and Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Cecil Cox, 1 troop died on 22 March 1944 of wounds received on the 18/19 March 1944 during a raid on the village of Grohote on the Dalmatian island of Solta. Son of Ernest and Alice Jane Cox of Horsham Sussex. Cecil Cox was a Metropolitan Police Officer who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942 [1][2][3][5][6].
COX, Hugh Wilfred
Private
2931801
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish QOCH
Private Hugh Cox, 5 Troop, was one of the commando contingent on board HMS Campbeltown during Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire in March 1942
COY, Reginald
Gunner
848464
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Reg Coy served as a signaller in No.2 Commando from May 1944 to 20 January 1946.
Testimonial
COYLE, James Albert
Lieutenant
255389
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant James Coyle died during operations at Sarande, Albania.
No 2 Commando War Diary entry: " 9th Oct'44. Sarande - 3 troop moving round left flank come upon enemy positions suddenly. Heavy spandau and rifle grenade fire. Capt. Parsons MC is hit. Lt Coyle takes over but is hit in the leg. Moves forward again but is killed by grenade."
CRABTREE, Ben
Guardsman
14241707
No 2 Commando
Coldstream Guards
Sunderland Police
Guardsman Ben Crabtree served in 6 Troop [1]. Post war on 6 October 1945 he transferred to the Corps of Military Police [2] before being released from service.
His service number indicates he was one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos. In 1949 he was a Detective serving in Sunderland Police [3].
CRADDOCK, Raymond Charles
Sergeant
14650082
No 2 Commando
East Surrey Regiment
[Image credit] Vicki Craddock, daughter.
CRAIG, John
Private
14241657
No 2 Commando
Black Watch
Police Force not known
Private John Craig from Blackpool served in 'A' Section, No.2 Sub-Section of 5 Troop. He was reported missing 13 September 1943 whilst with Rfn. A. Davies in a forward section post on Hill 321 at Vietri Sul Mare, Italy, which was overrun by the enemy for a period of 2 hours. Both were later found to be prisoners of war.
CRAIG, Robert
Bombardier
14241708
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Hartlepool Police
Bombardier Robert Craig served in No.4 Troop and the Heavy Weapons Troop.
A serving Police Officer from Hartlepool County Durham he volunteered as one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos. Post war member of the Commando Association.
Sources
Fred Mather, No.2 Commando.
CRAIG, Robinson Ostle
Private
14241791
No 2 Commando
Kings Own Scottish Borderers
Newcastle Under Lyme Borough Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Robinson Craig died [1] during operations on 11 September at Dragone Hill, near Vietri Salerno. He was buried there the following day, his grave being marked with a cross. However it was never again found and Private Craig is one of the many who now have no known grave [2].
CRIPPIN, Ronald
Warrant Officer 2
S/136147
No 2 Commando
No 2 Independent Company
Royal Army Service Corps
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Ron Crippin, then a Corporal in the HQ troop, took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. He embarked on motor launch ML 447 and was evacuated back to the UK. He was awarded the British Empire Medal ( Military Division) "in recognition of distinguished services during the raid". (1)
CRIPPS, Arthur Raymond
Rifleman
11420547
No 2 Commando
Royal Ulster Rifles
Killed in action or died of wounds
Rifleman Arthur Cripps, 1 troop, died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.
CROWE, Edward Louis
Known as:
Ted
Private
14241837
No 2 Commando
Royal Norfolk Regiment
Peterborough Police
Edward Crowe volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942.
1939 residing with his parents in Sheringham, Norfolk, profession Printers Apprentice.
1941 April, joined the Police at Huntingdon, Peterborough.
1943 January, serving in the Mortar Section/Heavy Weapons Troop of No.2 Commando.
CUDBY, John
Fusilier
6468006
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Fusilier John Cudby, 6 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked on ML177 for the raid. Post war member of the Commando Association from Workington.
CUNNINGHAM, Henry Peter
Private
3781746
No 2 Commando
King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Henry Cunningham, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He embarked for the raid on ML 267 and has no known grave. Son of John and Margaret Cunningham, of Old Swan, Liverpool.
CUNNINGHAM, James
Corporal
3525713
No 2 Commando
Royal Tank Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal James Cunningham was awarded the Military Medal whilst serving as a Sherman tank driver in the Royal Tank Corps. His gallantry took place during a full armoured attack on 26 March 1943 near El Hamma in Tunisia.
CURTIS, Eric Gordon
Private
6349613
No 2 Commando
Queens Own Royal West Kent
Executed
Private Eric Curtis was one of the seven men of No. 2 Commando who were captured after Operation Musketoon, and later executed under Hitler's Commando Execution Order, at Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, Berlin, 1942.
Sources
CWGC.
CWGC.
DAVID, Douglas, W.
Fusilier
6482296
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
In 1939 Douglas David was a serving Metropolitan Police Constable residing at Blackheath Police Section House, Greenwich, SE10.
1942 - 1st Police Intake at the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre).
Attached No.2 Commando, next of kin his wife, home address Brockley, London SE4.
DAVID, Gordon Percy
Trooper
14241820
No 2 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Frome, Somerset Constabulary
Trooper Gordon David was wounded on 14 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy. A serving Police Officer from Frome, Somerset, he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
DAVIDSON, Douglas Oscar
Trooper
14241622
No 2 Commando
Leeds City Police
Douglas Oscar Davidson was a serving Police Officer who joined the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable with Leeds City Police residing at 45 Richmond Avenue, Leeds.
Post war member of the Yorkshire Branch of the Commando Association.
Sources
DAVIES, Arthur Henry William
Rifleman
14241793
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
Stoke on Trent Police
Rifleman Arthur Davies served in 'A' Section, No.2 Sub-Section of 5 Troop. He was reported missing 13 September 1943 whilst with Pte. John. Craig in a forward section post on Hill 321 at Vietri Sul Mare, Italy, which was overrun by the enemy for a period of 2 hours. Both were later found to be prisoners of war.
DAVIES, Leonard
Known as:
Len
Private
14241658
No 2 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Lancashire Constabulary (Barrowford)
Private Len Davies served in 5 Troop and later the H.Q. Section. He was a serving Police Officer in Barrowford who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes in 1942.
Source
Notebook of LSgt. Joe Rogers MM of 5 Troop.
Article in the Nelson Leader newspaper 03 September 1943.
DAVIES, R.J.
Gunner
2060103
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner R.J. Davies was wounded on 29 July 1944 during operations at Spilje Albania.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/80.
DAVIES, Raymond Spencer
Lance Sergeant
5780063
No 2 Commando
Royal Norfolk
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Raymond Davies, 5 troop, died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.
DAVIES, Ronald John
Corporal
7014421
No 2 Commando
Royal Ulster Rifles, The London Irish Rifles
Died on active service
Corporal Ronald Davies, 2 Troop, was accidentally killed from a rifle shot whilst instructing a Squad [1][2][3].
- 11 September 1943 (Lance Corporal) (No.2 Commando) wounded during operations at Salerno, Italy [4].
Sources
[1] CWGC.
[2] No.2 Commando War Diary 27 March 1944.
[1] CWGC.
[2] No.2 Commando War Diary 27 March 1944.
DAVIES, Wyndam Francis
Fusilier
6482247
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Wyndam Davies, 6 troop, was killed in action at Dragone Hill, Salerno, Italy. Initially buried as far as is known by the 6th Yorks and Lancs Regiment on the forward slope of the hill.
Son of Francis and Mary Ann Davies, of Port Talbot, Glamorgan.
Volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942.
DAVIS, Stanley Berkeley Edward
Known as:
Dai
Lance Sergeant
6459239
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Lance Sergeant Stanley 'Dai' Davis, 3 Troop, was reported missing on 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later found to have been wounded and taken prisoner of war. He had embarked on HMS Campbeltown for the raid. Post war member of the Commando Association from Surrey.
Sources
DAWSON, John William
Lance Sergeant
6465567
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Lance Corporal John Dawson took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. Embarked on motor launch ML156 he was evacuated back to the UK after the raid.
- 29 July 1944 (Lance Sergeant) (No.2 Commando) wounded during Operation Healing 2 at Spilje Albania.
Sources
St Nazaire Society.
DAY, Arthur Frank
Private
6350696
No 2 Commando
Queens Own Royal West Kent
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Arthur Day died during operations at Piegolelle (aka Piegolette), near Salerno, Italy. He was initially buried jointly with two Royal Marine Commandos in a vineyard 30 yards South of Piegolelle. Son of Algin and Alice Day, of Kennington, London.
DAY, Stanley Ambrose
Captain
70873
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Royal Corps of Signals
Military Cross (MC)
Captain Stanley Day, adjutant of No 2 Commando, was awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished services during Operation Chariot, the raid on St. Nazaire. He was one of Lt. Col. Newman's HQ party on board MGB 314 and was taken prisoner after the raid. He was held at Oflag 9A/H at Spangenberg, Germany.
DE NOBRIGA, Derrick John
Sergeant
6896540
No 2 Commando
The King's Royal Rifle Corps
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Sergeant Derrick John de Nobriga was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service. He was one of the Commando contingent that took part in operations from HMS Triumph against the Palermo and Messina railway on the 29/30 August 1941. His party couldnot be re-embarked and were captured [1][2][3].
DEAKER, George James
Lance Bombardier
6201681
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Bombardier George Deaker, 5 troop,died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.
DEARY, Patrick Gabriel
Known as:
Paddy
Fusilier
3854234
No 2 Commando
Royal Irish Fusiliers
Fusilier Patrick Deary, married and from Blackrod, Lancashire, served in 5 Troop 'B' Section, No.3 Sub-Section. He was wounded on 13 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Dorset.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
Notebook of LSgt Joe Rogers MM (5 troop).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
Notebook of LSgt Joe Rogers MM (5 troop).
DEIGHAN, Bernard John
Known as:
Paddy
Sergeant
4751121
No 2 Commando
King's Own Scottish Borderers
1942/43 Private, 5 troop, ‘A’ Section, No.1 Sub Section, No.3 on the Bren gun; billeted 61 Mill Street, Ayr; next of kin brother (Dublin); civil occupation Hotel Porter.
1945 Sergeant, No.2 Commando.
Post war member of the Commando Association.
Emigrated to Australia, married Eileen, 2 children, Catherine and Peter.
DENISON, Mallinson Charles
Known as:
Bung
Lieutenant (later Major)
145047
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Mentioned in Despatches
Croix de Guerre (France)
Lieutenant Mallinson Charles Denison, 3 Troop, was one of the Commando contingent for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. He embarked on HMS Campbeltown in charge of a small protection party to cover the personnel carrying out demolitions on the dry dock. After heavy street fighting and when all ammunition was spent he was captured and became a prisoner of war.
DENNY, George
-
6029743
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Post war member of the Commando Association.
Sources
Commando Benevolent Fund (RY).
DETTMER, Charles Henry
Gunner
5123008
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Charles Dettmer, HQ Troop Intelligence Section, was severely injured losing an arm in the same mortar explosion that killed Lieutenant Arthur Brunswick of No.2 Commando at Dragone Hill, Salerno. Post War Fleet Street journalist.
DIAMOND, Thomas
Private
3779240
No 2 Commando
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Thomas Diamond, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action.
Son of Mrs. Barbara Diamond of 28 Penrith Street Liverpool 8. Brother of Royal Artillery Gunners John Diamond and Joseph Henry Diamond, both prisoners of war at the time.
DICKINSON, Joe
Private
4748227
No 2 Commando
York and Lancaster Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Joe Dickinson, 3 Troop, was one of the commando contingent embarked on Motor Launch ML 156 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire 28 March 1942. He was evacuated back to the UK after the raid [1][1a].
- 1943 killed in action in Italy serving with 1st Bn. York and Lancaster Regiment [2][3].
Sources
DINHAM, Walter George
Known as:
Wally
Company Sergeant Major
S/109291
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Served in the HQ Administration Section from the early days of No. 2 Commando through to its disbandment.
Sources
Eric Buckmaster No.2 Commando.
Handwritten list of No.2 Commando from Mrs Desiree Roderick MBE.
Photos in the No.2 Commando Gallery.
DIXON, Herbert
Known as:
Bert, Herbie
Fusilier
6290340
No 2 Commando
The Buffs (Royal East Kent Regiment)
Herbert Dixon enlisted with the Buffs on 15 March March 1940. He then volunteered for No.5 Independent Company. After joining No.2 Commando he was posted to 6 troop. Late 1943 when the Commando was restructured he was moved to 5 troop. There are group photos of him and others in the 5 troop album.
DIXON, Herbert, Memories of No 2 Commando
Herbert 'Herbie' Dixon wrote this document aged 75. It includes more than just his military service and is well worth reading. Our thanks to his grandson Tim Huelin for allowing us permission to reproduce on our website.
Names mentioned are as follows:
No. 2 Commando -
DONALDSON, John
Known as:
Jock
Lance Corporal
2884838
No 2 Commando
London Scottish The Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal John Donaldson, 3 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed died of wounds. He has no known grave.
Son of William Donaldson and of Jessie Donaldson (nee Hunter); husband of Anne Donaldson (nee Smith), of Dundee.
DOUGLAS, Edward
Known as:
Ted
Corporal
292793
No 2 Commando
Liverpool Scottish Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal Edward Douglas , 5 troop, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the field. He was one of the Commando contingent on board Motor Launch ML 177 for Operation Chariot, and one of only five men from those who landed at St Nazaire, that evaded capture and escaped through France back to the UK.
DOWNES, Reginald William
Known as:
Reg
Private
6207462
No 2 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
Reg Downes joined the T.A. in 1938 before enlisting in the Middlesex Regiment. From there he volunteered for the Commandos and after being selected and completing his training was attached to No. 2 Commando 5 Troop in 1941 [view....].
DRANSFIELD, George David
Driver
T/92276
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Military Medal (MM)
Driver George Dransfield was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services during Operation Healing 2 at Spilje, Albania.
Recommendation
"This man showed great courage and determination throughout the action. In the early stages he was particularly conspicuous in the bayonet assaults.
DRIVER, Frank
Gunner
1431687
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Frank Driver was reported missing 13 September 1943 during operations in Italy (Salerno), later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association from Hull.
DRURY, Charles Henry
Private
6019959
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Charles Drury, 2 troop, died during operations at Dragone Hill, Vietri, near Salerno.
Husband of Theresa Drury, of Walthamstow, Essex.
In 1939 before his military service he was employed as Butcher (Cutter) residing at 140 Hale End Road, Walthamstow.
Sources
[1] CWGC.
DUFFY, Anthony Patrick
Sergeant
3773298
No 2 Commando
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Anthony Duffy died during operations at Scaletta. We have a document that states "Buried on terrace on Shore side of the road, at the North end of the beach, North of Scaletta."
Sources
CWGC.
Page 4 of Salerno/Sicily Casualties document (see linked content below).
ECKMAN, William John
Private
3772667
No 2 Commando
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Private William Eckman, from Everton Liverpool, served in 4 Troop and was one of the commando contingent who embarked on Motor Launch ML 306 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire on 28 March 1942. Reported as missing he was later found to be a prisoner of war.
EDGLEY, Robert Ernest
Known as:
Bob
Captain
212512
No 2 Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
Royal Artillery
Captain Robert Edgley volunteered for the Commandos in 1944 whilst serving in the Royal Artillery. After selection and successfully passing the training he was attached to No.2 Commando accepting the temporary reduction in rank to Lieutenant which was required [1].
ELDRIDGE, Leonard Frederick
Sergeant
6461633
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Leonard Eldridge, 2 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on Motor Launch ML 447 and has no known grave.
Son of Frederick and Lily May Eldridge; husband of Margaret Alice Eldridge, of Tunbridge Wells, Kent.
Sources
ELLIOTT, Alfred John
Private
3773017
No 2 Commando
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Mentioned in Despatches
Croix de Guerre (France)
Private Alfred Elliott, 3 Troop, received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the Commando raid at St Nazaire on 28/29 March 1942. Embarking on board HMS Campbeltown he was taken prisoner after the raid and later imprisoned at Stalag 344 Lamsdorf* and Stalag 3A Luckenwalde**.
Recommendation
ELLIOTT, James
Bombardier (Acting Lance Sergeant)
1470935
22528477
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Royal Engineers
Gunner (Acting Lance Bombardier) James Elliott, 2 Troop No.2 Commando, was wounded on 16 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy. No.2 Commando were involved in heavy fighting around the village of Piegolelle (aka Piegolette).
Post war member of the Commando Association.
Post war member of the Commando Association.
Extract from Army Book 64 and Service Card form W5258.
ELLWOOD, William Cyril
Known as:
Bill
Company Sergeant Major
6019994
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Lance Sergeant William Ellwood was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for "gallant and distinguished services in Italy" [1].
Citation
Gulf of Salerno 13 Sept. 1943
EVANS, Frank
Private
5617635
No 2 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Private Frank Evans took part in the raid at St. Nazaire on 28 March 1942. He embarked on motor launch ML262 and was reported missing after the raid, but was subsequently found to have been taken prisoner. He was transported to Stalag 344 at Lamsdorf, Poland. He had earlier also served at the S.T.C. and No.3 Commando*.
Sources
EVANS, Ralph
Driver
T/175282
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Died on war service
Died in the UK
Driver Ralph Evans died as a result of an accident during a parachute training exercise at Ringway whilst serving with the original No 2 (Para) Commando. He was the first casualty of the newly raised Commando units.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Records / National Archives file WO417/16.
EVERETT, Thomas, H.
Known as:
Tommy
Lance Sergeant
7264371
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Private Thomas Everett, R.A.M.C. attached to No.2 Commando HQ, took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire on 28 March 1942. He was evacuated back to the UK and remained with No.2 Commando [1].
- 16 August 1943 (Private) wounded during Operation Husky at Sicily [2].
- Later promoted Sergeant [3].
EWENS, George
Lance Corporal (later Sergeant)
6460277
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Lance Corporal George Ewens, 3 Troop, took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire on 28 March 1942. Embarked on Motor Launch ML 156, he was evacuated back to the UK after the raid [1].
- Emigrated to Tasmania [2][3].
Sources
[1] St Nazaire Society website.
FAHY, James or John
Private
3771871
No 2 Commando
King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Private Fahy, 4 troop, embarked on ML 177 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire on 28 March 1942. Reported missing after the raid, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/41.
FAIRCLOUGH, John
Guardsman (later Sergeant)
2619513
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Military Medal (MM)
Guardsman John Fairclough was one of the ten Commandos and 2 Norwegians who took part in Operation Musketoon. Seven were taken prisoner and later executed.
FERGUSON, John Ronald Alexander
Lance Corporal
2880192
No 2 Commando
London Scottish
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Corporal John Ferguson was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service. He was one of the Commando contingent that took part in operations from HMS Triumph against the Palermo and Messina railway on the 29/30 August 1941. His party could not be re-embarked and were captured [1][3].
FIELD, William Frederick
Lance Corporal
5337375
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Lance Corporal William Field was reported missing 28 March 1942 after the raid at St Nazaire, later confirmed as wounded and a prisoner of war. Liberated in 1945 [1][2][3].
- Served in 1 Troop of No.2 Commando and embarked on ML 457 for the raid [4].
- 23 August 1945 attached Survey T.C. (Royal Engineers) [5].
FINCH, Victor William Charles
Known as:
Nicky
Corporal
6012717
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Corporal Victor 'Nicky' Finch, 3 Troop, embarked on HMS Campbeltown for the St. Nazaire raid (Operation Chariot). He was reported missing on 28 March 1942 later found to be a prisoner of war.
FISHER, Norman Lucas
Corporal
6896443
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps (11th Bn)
(1st Bn. Queen's Westminsters)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Norman Fisher, 6 troop, died on 25 April 1942 of wounds received on 28 March 1942 during Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. He was one of the commando contingent on motor launch ML 192 and had initially been reported as missing in action until his death was confirmed.
Sources
CWGC.
Sources
CWGC.
FITCHETT, John
Known as:
Jack
Private
3780278
No 2 Commando
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Private John 'Jack' Fitchett, 4 Troop, was one of the Commando contingent for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942. He embarked on board Motor Launch ML 443 and was one of those to be evacuated back to the UK.
- 30 July 1944 (Corporal) (5th Bn., East Lancashire Regiment) wounded North West Europe.
Sources
FITTON, Douglas
Known as:
Doug
Private
3192224
No 2 Commando
Kings Own Scottish Borderers
Private Douglas Fitton, from Leeds, served in 'A' Section, No.1 Sub-Section of 5 Troop. He was married and his civil occupation had been a Labourer. Post war member of the Commando Association from Leeds.
Sources
CVA Gallery 5 Troop images.
Notebook of LSgt Joe Rogers MM (5 troop).
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 68 issued March 1979.
FORMOY, Donald Neville
Lance Corporal
6467881
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Donald Formoy, 6 troop, died during operations at Dragone Hill, Salerno, and was originally buried by house at the top of the steps on the West side of Hill. He was buried with a religious ceremony in a communal grave with Capt. Mason and Pte Bennet D.
FOWLER, Henry Francis
Lance Corporal
6019554
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Henry Fowler, 2 Troop, died of wounds on 24 January 1943 [1][2]. He was one of the commando contingent for Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire embarked on board motor launch ML443 and was seriously wounded by enemy fire during the unsuccessful attempt by the naval crew to land the Commandos on board. He was evacuated back to the UK [3].
FREEMAN, B.G.
Known as:
Ginger
Lance Corporal
5989934
No 2 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Lance Corporal Freeman, 1 Troop, was one of the commando contingent embarked on motor launch ML 446 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire on 28 March 1942. He was wounded during the raid and evacuated back to the UK.
Sources
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/41.
FROUD, George
Private
5336140
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Private George Froud was serving in 2 Troop in December 1942. Post war member of the Commando Association from Abingdon.
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 112 issued March 2001.
[Image] From the 2 troop photo in the No.2 Commando gallery.
FURSSE, Reginald Henry
Sergeant
6896471
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
Corporal Reginald Fursse, 6 Troop, was one of the Commando contingent on motor launch ML 156 during Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire on 28 March 1942 [1].
- Evacuated back to the UK, he remained with No. 2 Commando [2][3].
FYFE, Charles Alexander
Known as:
Jock
Lance Corporal
2591013
No 2 Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Lance Corporal Charles Fyfe, a Signaller in No.2 Commando HQ, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked on HMS Campbeltown. Charles, married and from Glasgow, was an electrical engineer in civil life.
Sources
FYNN, Francis West (Lt Col)
Known as:
Ted
Lieutenant Colonel
109827
No 2 Commando
No 12 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Military Cross (MC)
Mentioned in Despatches
Bronze Star Medal (USA)
Lieutenant Colonel Francis West Fynn M.C. was appointed Commanding Officer of No 2 Commando from June 1944 after Lt Col Churchill was taken prisoner of war.
A former Lance Sergeant in the Royal Artillery T.A., he was appointed Second Lieutenant on the 23rd December 1939 [1].
GALLAGHER, John
Acting Lance Sergeant
3768318
No 2 Commando
King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Acting Lance Sergeant John Gallagher, 4 Troop, was one of the commando contingent embarked on motor launch ML 306 for the raid at St Nazaire on 28 March 1942. Wounded and taken prisoner of war.
Sources
GARDNER, John, A.
Private
3598488
No 2 Commando
Border Regiment
Private John Gardner, 3 Troop, embarked on HMS Campbeltown for the raid at St. Nazaire on 28 March 1942. Reported as missing after the raid he was later found to have been taken prisoner and transported to Stalag 344 at Lamsdorf, Poland.
Sources
St. Nazaire Society website.
GARLAND, Lindsay Ernest Albert
Sergeant ( Acting Troop Sergeant Major)
6012353
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Troop Sergeant Major Lindsay Garland, 2 troop, died during operations at Salerno, Italy. Son of Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Garland; husband of Margaret Garland, of Ecclefechan, Dumfriesshire.
He was with Captain the Duke of Wellington [more...] during the attack on 'The Pimple' in the village of Piegolelle, Salerno. Both were killed.
He was with Captain the Duke of Wellington [more...] during the attack on 'The Pimple' in the village of Piegolelle, Salerno. Both were killed.
GARRATT, Arthur Ernest
Lance Corporal
5338655
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Arthur Garratt, 2 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. Embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 447. Son of Matilda Garratt, of Islington, London.
Sources
CWGC.
GEE, Harold
Corporal
3864592
No 2 Commando
The Loyal Regt. (North Lancashire)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Harold Gee, 3 troop, died of wounds during operations at Sarande, Albania.
Extract from the No 2 Cdo War Diary
11th October 1944
" Cpl H. Gee (3 Tp) died of wounds. Funeral of Padre, Cpl. Gee, and a RM. CO read Burial Service. Officers acted as Pall Bearers for Padre. 2 i/c as Chief Mourner. Last post sounded."
GELDER, John Willie
Lance Bombardier
1606731
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Bombardier John Gelder was awarded the Military Medal for his gallantry during Operation Healing 2 at Spilje Albania. The citation for his award is on our report on the Operation above.
GIBSON, William
Known as:
Bill
Lance Sergeant
2879864
No 2 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant William Gibson, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268 and has no known grave.
Son of Alexander and Margaret Gibson; stepson of Elizabeth Gibson, of Thornliebank, Glasgow.
GILL, Richard
Rifleman
6846123
No 2 Commando
The Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)
Military Medal (MM)
Rifleman Richard Gill was awarded the MM in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the field.
The death of Rfn. R. Gill. MM. (2 Cdo) of Salisbury, Wilts. was announced in Commando Association newsletter 62 issued March 1976.
Sources
London Gazettes Supp. 36983, page 1428.
GOLDIE, Thomas
Lance Sergeant
3130469
No 2 Commando
Reconnaissance Corps
Lance Corporal Thomas Goldie was wounded during operations at Spilje, Albania on 29 July 1944. Post war member of the Commando Association from Kilwinning, Ayrshire.
Final rank attained Lance Sergeant.
GOLDTHORPE, Alfred, G.R.
Private
3056437
No 2 Commando
Royal Scots
Private Alfred Goldthorpe was a Canadian who enlisted with the Royal Scots and was reported missing 26 May1940 whilst part of the British Expeditionary Force in France. After initially being reported as detained in France this was corrected in 1941 to no longer detained [1].
- Volunteered for the Commandos.
GOODE, Frank Cecil
Rifleman
7016236
No 2 Commando
Royal Ulster Rifles
Rifleman Frank Goode, 3 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 during Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked for the raid on HMS Campbeltown. Post war member of the Commando Association from Surrey.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/42 and WO417/43.
GOSS, Leonard George William
Fusilier
6459167
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Leonard Goss, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 192 and has no known grave. Son of Leonard Butcher Goss and L. Goss, of Brixton, London.
GOULD, Norman Patrick
Known as:
Pat
Rifleman
877100
No 2 Commando
Royal Ulster Rifles, The London Irish Rifles
Killed in action or died of wounds
Rifleman Norman Gould died during operations at Dragone Hill, Salerno, and was initially buried there (Map ref. 612409). Son of Percy Harrington Gould and Bertha Gould, of Kensington, London. Former civil occupation: Draughtsman.
GRAY, Andrew
Known as:
Dolly
Fusilier
3185419
No 2 Commando
Royal Scots Fusiliers
Military Medal (MM)
Fusilier Andrew Gray, 5 troop, was awarded the M.M., in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy [1].
Recommendation
Gulf of Salerno 13 Sep 43.
GRAY, Frank Herbert
Private
14235476
No 2 Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Frank Gray was reported missing presumed died on 11 March 1945 during operations in Italy.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/95.
GREER, Samuel
Rifleman
7015368
No 2 Commando
Royal Ulster Rifles
Rifleman Samuel Greer was wounded on 17 April 1945 during operations in Italy (Lake Comacchio). Post war member of the Commando Association from Belfast.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/91.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 78 issued March 1984.
GRIEF, George Valentine
Lance Corporal
5949085
No 2 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Lance Corporal George Grief, 1 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked on ML177 for the raid. Post war member of the Commando Association from Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire.
Sources
GROSE, William Ernest
Guardsman
2617390
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds
Guardsman William Grose, 2 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 447 and has no known grave.
Son of Ernest Albert Grose, and of Agnes Grose, of Welling, Kent.
Sources
CWGC.
CWGC.
GROVES, Eric Richard Clifford
Lance Corporal
T/83555
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Corporal Eric Groves was awarded the MM for his gallantry at Argenta, Italy, on the 17th April 1945.
GWYNNE, John Edward Herbert
Private
2929834
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Gwynne, 5 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action [1][1a]. He had embarked for the raid on HMS Campbeltown and received a posthumous Mention in Despatches [2][3].
Recommendation
HACKETT, John, J.
Lance Corporal
3771287
No 2 Commando
King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Lance Corporal John Hackett, 1 Troop, was wounded 17 April 1945 during operations at Lake Comacchio and Argenta, Italy.
Sources
Casualty lists / National Archives file WO417/91.
[Image] Di Edwards.
HAINES, George Ernest
Troop Sergeant Major
6141513 & 365081
No 2 Commando
East Surrey Regiment
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Troop Sergeant Major George Haines, 5 troop, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his gallantry during the raid at St Nazaire [1].
Recommendation
HALLGARTH, Thomas, R.
Gunner
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Hull.
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 98 (1994).
HANNON, Thomas Gerrard
Known as:
Gerry
Private
3654970
No 2 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Private Thomas Hannon, HQ Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He was 'batman' to Major Bill Copland (2 i/c) and embarked for the raid on HMS Campbeltown.
Sources
Casualty Lists /National Archives file WO417/43.
HANSTOCK, George Alfred
Private
5781568
No 2 Commando
Royal Norfolk Regiment
Private George Hanstock was wounded 16 September 1943 at Salerno, Italy. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Mexborough, Yorkshire, until emigrating to Australia in 1970.
Sources
Casulaty Lists / National Archives file WO417/67.
[Image] Chris Peachey, grandson.
HARBERT, Harold
Corporal
5337734
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Served in No.2 Commando 5 Troop, 'A' Section, No.1 Sub-Section.
Civil Occupation: Haulage Contractor.
Sources
Notebook of Lance Sergeant Joe Rogers MM, 5 troop.
[Image] Steve Harbert, son.
HARDING, Victor Philip
Private
5189003
No 2 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Private Victor Harding, 1 troop, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service for his successful evasion from capture after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire on 28 March 1942.
HARKNESS, Peter
Lance Sergeant
2879689
No 2 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Peter Harkness was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. Son of Peter and Catherine Ann Harkness.
HARRINGTON, Jack Lonsdale
Lance Corporal
7014698
No 2 Commando
Royal Ulster Rifles
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Corporal Jack Harrington was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of distinguished services during Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire on 28 March 1942. He was one of the Commando HQ contingent who embarked on board MGB 314. Reported missing after the raid he was later found to have been taken prisoner and transported to Stalag 344 at Lamsdorf, Poland.
HARRISON, Maurice
Known as:
Boy
Lance Sergeant
6896247
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps (11th Bn)
(1st Bn. Queen's Westminsters)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Maurice Harrison, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 192.
Son of Samuel G. and Maud A. Harrison, of Streatham, London.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/41 and WO417/95.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/41 and WO417/95.
HARRONS, Charles Edward
Corporal
5337958
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Charles Harrons, 1 troop, died after No 2 Commando had just taken part in the raid on Spilje, Albania.
An entry in the No 2 Cdo War Diary dated 24th August 1944 states " Burial Service for Cpl Harrons (1 Tp) who died in hospital at Bari was held in the afternoon."
HAUSMANN, Fritz Sigmund
Known as:
HOUSEMAN, Fred
Lance Corporal
PAL/ 1344
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Fritz Sigmund Hausmann was born in Bingen Am Rhein, April 27th 1921. He was a German Jew who at age 13, fled Germany alone and went to school in Palestine.
HAWKINS, Frederick
Corporal
5885298
No 2 Commando
Northamptonshire Regiment
Corporal Frederick Hawkins, 3 Troop, was reported missing during operations at Salerno, Italy, later found to be a prisoner of war. He was initially thought to have been killed. He was last seen patrolling the Eastern slopes of Liberatore Hill in the company of Pte. Brinkley and Pte. Armitage on 10 September 1943.
HAY, William
Lance Corporal
325315
No 2 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Lanarkshire Yeomanry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal William Hay was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. Son of Thomas and Margaret Hay, of Carluke, Lanarkshire.
He embarked for the raid on Motor Launch ML 267 which was hit by enemy fire and sank. Eight of the 11 Commandos, and all bar 5 of the RN crew, on board were killed.
HAYES, Frank
Guardsman
2615360
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds
Guardsman Frank Hayes, 4 troop, was killed in action during operations at Vaagso, Norway.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/36.
[Image] Cropped from 4 Troop image in Gallery.
HEALEY, Frank H.
Fusilier (Acting Lance Corporal)
3136018
No 2 Commando
Royal Scots Fusiliers
Frank Healey, 5 Troop, was wounded on 9 March 1945 during operations in Italy. He served in 'A' Section, No.2 Sub Section of the Troop and had been with the Commando since at least 1942. A former labourer he was married and resided near Stockport.
HEATHER, William Bernard
Lance Corporal
6400817
No 2 Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal William Heather, 2 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 447 and has no known grave. Son of William and Harriette Heather.
HEATON, Harold, L.
Known as:
Harry
Sergeant
3655790
No 2 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Corporal Harry Heaton was wounded on 9 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy. He had served in 5 Troop since 1941 and was in 'A' Section, No.2 Sub-Section when wounded. Final rank attained Sergeant. He was married and a former manager for a Timber importer in Wallasey. Post war member of the Commando Association from Great Barr, Birmingham.
HEERY, John
Known as:
Jack
Lance Sergeant
1889465
No 2 Commando
Royal Engineers
Lance Corporal John 'Jack' Heery, 6 Troop, was one of the commando contingent who embarked on motor launch ML443 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire on 28 March 1942 [1][1a]. He was evacuated back to the UK after the raid.
- 16 August 1943 (Acting Lance Sergeant) (No.2 Commando) wounded in Sicily during Operation Husky [2].
HEMPSTEAD, Stanley
Sergeant
6014969
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Stanley Hempstead, 2 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 262. Son of Frank Hempstead and Marion (nee Barnard).
His name is amongst those remembered on the Brightlingsea War Memorial in Essex.
Sources
HENDERSON, John Patrick Leo
Major
117132
No 2 Commando
2 Special Service (Commando) Brigade
Royal Engineers
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Major John Henderson MC, 2 Special Service Brigade, died during operations in Italy [1].
On the 8th May 1940 he transferred from the Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry to the Royal Engineers retaining his seniority as 2/Lieutenant. [2].
HENDRY, Bernard
Private
5337785
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Private Bernard Hendry was awarded the Military Medal on 15 March 1945 in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the Field [1].
- 9 September 1943 wounded during operations in Italy (Salerno) [2].
- 9 October 1944 wounded during operations in Italy [3].
Sources
HESKETH, W.
Private
3533229
No 2 Commando
Manchester Regiment
Private Hesketh was wounded 17 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy.
Member of the Commando Association last known residing Glossop, Derbyshire.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/67.
Commando Association Lost Legion List 6.
HEWETT, Herbert Edward
Known as:
Ted
Troop Sergeant Major
6013031
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Troop Sergeant Major Herbert Hewett, 2 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 during Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked for the raid on ML447.
HIGGINBOTTOM, Edwin Alexander
Lance Corporal
6145277
No 2 Commando
East Surrey Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Edwin Higginbottom died during the 6 week period in February/March when No 2 Commando were placed "in the line" in Italy under 5 Corps.
HIGGINS, K.
Private
4133888
No 2 Commando
Cheshire Regiment
Private Higgins was wounded three times during his service with No.2 Commando.
- 16 August 1943 Sicily.
- 13 September 1943 Salerno, Italy.
- 11 March 1944 Italy.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO/417/66, WO417/68, and WO417/73.
HINES, Eric Arthur
Sergeant
5953566
No 2 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Corporal Eric Hines was wounded 4 February 1944 during operations in Italy.
Member of the Commando Association who record final rank as Sergeant.
Died in, and interred, Mombasa, East Africa.
Son of James & Emily Hines.
Memorial headstone at Deeping St Nicholas, Lincolnshire.
Sources
HODGSON, Eric Stewart
Known as:
Bertie
Captain
75234
No 2 Commando
Hertfordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Eric Hodgson, Officer Commanding 1 troop, was reported missing believed killed 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He was in charge of the commandos on motor launch ML 446 and has no known grave.
Son of Gerald Hodgson, and of Marjorie Hodgson, of Croxley Green, Hertfordshire.
HOGGETT, William
Lance Corporal
2326631
No 2 Commando
Royal Signals
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Lance Corporal William Hoggett was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal on 15 March 1945 in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the Field.
Sources
London Gazette 36983, page 1427.
London Gazette 36983, page 1427.
Britain, Campaign, Gallantry & Long Service Medals & Awards.
HOLLAND, William Anthony
Private
3602596
No 2 Commando
Border Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Private William 'Dutch' Holland, 3 Troop, received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the raid on St. Nazaire on the night of 27/28th March, 1942. Embarking on board HMS Campbeltown he was reported missing after the raid but later found to be a prisoner of war.
Recommendation
HOLMES, Frederick Lewis
Sapper
1876041
No 2 Commando
Royal Engineers
Sapper Frederick Holmes was one of the commando contingent who embarked on motor launch ML443 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942. He was evacuated back to the UK after the raid. He remained with the No.2 Commando attaining the rank of Lance Sergeant.
HOLT, Frederick
Known as:
Fred
Corporal
2929875
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish QOCH
Corporal Frederick Holt, 5 troop, was one of the commando contingent on board HMS Campbeltown during the raid at St Nazaire in March 1942 [1]. He was initially reported missing in action until it was discovered he had been taken prisoner [2][2a][2b]. He was transported to Stalag 383 at Hohenfels Germany [3].
HOMER, Levi
Known as:
Leo
Lance Corporal
2930668
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Lance Corporal Levi Homer, 5 Troop, was one of the commando contingent who embarked on Motor Launch ML 457 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire on 28 March 1942. Reported missing after the raid, later found to be a prisoner of war. Known as Leo Homer by some, his true name was Levi Homer.
Articles in the Liverpool Echo 2nd, 6th, and 18th May 1942.
HONEY, Peter
Private
2930015
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Military Medal (MM)
Private Peter Honey, 5 troop, was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished service during Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire 28 March 1942. He was one of the Commando contingent who embarked on HMS Campbeltown. Reported missing after the raid, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Recommendation
HOOPER, Richard Henry
Known as:
Dickie
Captain
70956
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
The King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Military Cross (MC)
Territorial Decoration (TD)
Captain Richard Hooper was awarded the Military Cross for his gallantry during operations at Scaletta Sicily, during which he was wounded [1][2].
Recommendation
"Operation 'Blackcock' Sicily 16th August 1943.
HOOPER, Walter Francis
Corporal
2023893
No 2 Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
Corporal Walter Hooper, 1 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He was one of the commando contingent who had embarked on Motor Launch ML457.
HOPE, J.R.
Private
6024341
No 2 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private J.R. Hope was one of the commando contingent embarked on motor launch ML 446 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire 28 March 1942. Evacuated back to the UK after the raid he remained with No. 2 Commando and was later wounded during operations at Salerno on 18 September 1943.
Sources
HOPWOOD, Howell Gaston Lloyd
Known as:
Bill or Hoppy
Lieutenant (later Honorary Captain)
79651
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Lieutenant Howell Hopwood, 5 Troop, received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the raid on St. Nazaire on the night of 27/28th March, 1942. Embarked on board HMS Campbeltown; prisoner of war after the raid.
Recommendation
Recommendation
HORSCRAFT, Francis Alexandra
Private
11050237
No 2 Commando
Cheshire Regiment
Royal Artillery
Private Francis Horscraft was wounded on 27 February 1945 during operations in Italy.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/89.
Royal Artillery Attestation Register 1940.
HOUGHTON, Joseph Blundell
Birth name:
Johnson-Houghton, Joseph Blundell
Captain
No 2 Commando
Executed
View full record below under his birthname of Johnson-Houghton.
HOWARD, John Denis
Lance Corporal
7375194
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Corporal John Howard, RAMC attached to No. 2 Commando, was awarded the Military Medal [1] in recognition of gallant and distinguished service durng Operation Healing 2 at Spilje Bay, Albania, on 28/29 July 1944 [2]. The citation for his award is in our report on the Operation above.
Sources
HOWARTH, Arnold
Known as:
Arnie
Lance Sergeant
3448514
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Croix de Guerre (France)
Lance Sergeant Arnold Howarth was one of the five Commandos who escaped after landing at St Nazaire on the raid. Arnold joined the Grenadier Guards in 1939 aged 18. His 5 brothers were also in the Armed Forces. He later volunteered for and was attached to No.2 Commando. He represented his troop in a No.2 Commando Inter Troop Boxing Competition in July 1941.
HUDSON, George Herbert
Lance Corporal
6896827
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps (11th Bn)
(1st Bn. Queen's Westminsters)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal George Hudson, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/41 (1942) and WO417/59 (1943).
St Nazaire Society website.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/41 (1942) and WO417/59 (1943).
St Nazaire Society website.
HUGHES, Edward Joseph
Gunner
14204254
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Edward Hughes died during the 6 week period in February/March when No 2 Commando were placed "in the line" in Italy under 5 Corps.
HUGHES, Henry Finn
Lance Corporal
7590916
No 2 Commando
Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Henry Hughes died during operations at Spilje, Albania. He has no known grave. Son of Peter Hughes, and of Margaret Kathleen Hughes, of Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/79.
HUGHES, William Armsted
Known as:
Bladder
Private
2929408
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Private William Hughes, 5 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked for the raid on Motor Launch ML177.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/43.
HULME, George
Rifleman
3247242
No 2 Commando
Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Rifleman George Hulme died of wounds. This was during the period No.2 Commando were involved in operations at Sarande. Son of Mrs. B. Hulme, of Worsborough Bridge, Yorkshire.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/84.
HUMBLE, William McLean
Known as:
Bill
Lance Sergeant
2940188
No 2 Commando
Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Metropolitan Police
Military Medal (MM)
Colonial Police Medal
Mentioned in Despatches
Lance Sergeant William Humble, 5 troop, was awarded the Military Medal and also received a Mention in Despatches, both during operations in Italy [1][1a].
Recommendation
"Gulf of Salerno 13th September 1943.
HUNTER, John Edmund
Lance Corporal
6968214
No 2 Commando
Rifle Brigade
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal John Hunter, 5 troop, died [1] during operations at Dragone Hill, Salerno, on the 13th September 1943 and was originally buried by the 6th Yorks and Lancs. However his grave was never found [2].
HURST, Ernest
Known as:
Ernie, seen elsewhere as Edward
Private
2931768
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Private Hurst, 5 Troop, was one of the Commando contingent emba
HUTCHINSON, F.S.
Private
6216020
No 2 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
Private Hutchinson was wounded 13 September 1943 during operations in Italy (Salerno).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
HUTTON, George Francis
Troop Sergeant Major
6012900
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Troop Sergeant Major George Hutton, 1 troop, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the field. [1]
IMRIE, Ian
Gunner
1811089
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery 130 H.A.A. Regt.
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Ian Imrie died during the 6 week period in February/March when No 2 Commando were placed "in the line" in Italy under 5 Corps.
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