WILSON, David McDonald

Rank: 
Marine
Unit / Base: 
'45 Commando RM'
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Marines
Service: 
Royal Navy
Number: 
RM 21814
Born: 
Wednesday, May 30, 1945
Died : 
Tuesday, May 26, 1964
Killed in action or died of wounds
Age: 
18
Cemetery/Memorial: 
Marine David Wilson 45 Commando
David Wilson 45 Commando
Marine David Wilson aged 18, a radio operator with 'X' Company, was shot and killed during operations in the Radfan Mountains about 60 miles north of Aden [1][2][3].
Obituary in the Globe and Laurel [2].
Marine David Wilson was killed in action on 26th May 1964. He was serving in 1 Troop, 'X' Company, 45 Commando, RM. His troop was engaged in operations in the Radfan Mountains of the Federation of South Arabia and was advancing down a steep-sided valley when it came under fire from several directions simultaneously. Marine Wilson was shot in the back and died almost instantly. Wilson was a Liverpool man and deep condolences are offered to his parents in the tragic loss of their young son" [2].
 
Bob Howden adds "Dave Wilson and I started our RM training together with 788 Squad in November 1962 at The Depot RM and would Pass for Duty with 789 Squad in August 1963. Dave was awarded the green beret with 788 Squad but whilst in Kings Squad he received a wound to his hand during fixed bayonets arms drill which necessitated a delay in passing for duty, following which he was drafted to 45 Commando RM"
 
Sources
[1] AFM ROH.
[2] Obituary in the Royal Marines Globe and Laure magazine October 1964 edition.
[3] Jimmy Barr 45 Cdo. via BBC, In Living Memory - The Armed Forces Memorial By Colette Hooper.
[Image1] Bob Howden  - from a 788 Squad form up photo Nov. 1962.
[Image 2] John Robertson - Special Forces ROH website.
 
Primary Roll of Honour: 

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