WELSH, Albert James

Rank: 
Temporary Troop Sergeant Major
Unit / Base: 
42RM Commando
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Marines
Service: 
Royal Navy
Number: 
EX/1217
Troop Sergeant Major Albert Welsh, 'X' troop, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for bravery and undaunted devotion to duty during operations in Burma. 
Recommendation
Arakan 1945.
At Hill 170 near Kangaw on 31 January 1945 TSM Welsh's Troop were called up to reinforce No.1 Commando at a critical period when the enemy seemed likely to gain a footing on the crest of the hill.
They were ordered to put in a counter attack which they did with great dash, the Troop Commander, the Platoon Commander of the leading Platoon, and all but one of the forward section on the left soon being killed. TSM Welsh took charge and reorganised the troops, his remaining Platoon Commander by then also having been hit.
Himself occupying a forward trench he repeatedly drove off counter attacks with grenade and tommy gun fire until he was twice wounded. It was only after he had pulled out a number of casualties that he went back to the regimental aid post refusing a stretcher. 
His aggressive fighting spirit, complete disregard for his personal safety, and inspiring leadership did much to hold together the remnants of his troop.
 
Sources
London Gazette 37079, page 2527.
National Archives file WO373/98/563.
 

Ask Questions / Add Information / Add Photos

Use the Archive Forum for research enquiries, or to add information or photos. [register now]
Read some frequently asked questions here [FAQ's].
Contact the Archive via the [contact form].
 
All content is researched and administered by the Commando Veterans Archive.