BLAKE, Alfred Lapthorn

Title: 
Sir
Rank: 
Lieutenant Colonel
Unit / Base: 
Special Service (Commando) Group, Brigade, and Brigade Signals
45RM Commando
Holding Operational Commando
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Marines
Service: 
Royal Navy
Born: 
Wednesday, October 6, 1915
Died : 
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Major Alfred Blake was posted to Brigade HQ (3rd Special Service Brigade) when the Special Service Group was restructured in August 1943 [1]
  • 17 January 1944 appointed Brigade Major of 2 Special Service Brigade HQ in the Mediterranean and later awarded the Military Cross [2] for courage, tenacity, and skill whilst serving in this role. The citation covers the 11 months since his appointment during which he took part in all operations including Anzio, Monte Ornito in Feb. 1944, Dalmatian Island operations such Miljet in May and Brac in June 1944, and the attack and capture of Sarande in October 1944 [3].
  • December 1944 Major Blake MC was appointed 2nd in command of 45RM Commando in North West Europe. He also received a Mention in Despatches for good services with the 21st Army Group. [4].
  • By April 1945 he was O.C. 45 RM Commando and in November O.C. Holding Operational Commando [5].
  • 1979 Alfred Lapthorn Blake MC was appointed K.C.V.O. [6].
Extract from Commando Association newsletter 43 issued September 1966.
Our best wishes go to Lt. Colonel Alfred Blake M.C., LL.B., LP. (2 Bde. and 45 Cdo.) who in January next succeeds Sir John Hunt as Director of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.
 
Sources
[1] Navy Lists - see linked content below.
[2] London Gazette 37136, page 3191.
[3] National Archives file WO 373/47/72.
[4] London Gazette 37251, page 4439.
[5] HOC Farewell Dinner menu with signatures posted on the Forum.
[5] Many Commando Service Certificates with his signature.
[6] London Gazette 47723, page 4.
 

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