IRELAND, Leonard Colin

Rank: 
Marine (Acting Corporal)
Unit / Base: 
40 Commando RM
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Marines
Service: 
Royal Navy
Number: 
CH/X 4492
Born: 
Wednesday, November 14, 1928
Died : 
Friday, January 18, 1952
Killed in action or died of wounds
Age: 
23
Local Roll of Honour: 
Acting Corporal Leonard Ireland, 'X' troop, was shot and killed after an ambush in South Perak, Malaya [1+2].
 
'X' Troop had been put temporarily under the command of 45 Commando for 'Operation Broderick' targetting armed bandits in the South Perak region. After an initial contact with bandits by 'B' troop 45 Commando, two sections of 'X' troop under Lt. Langley followed up with the assistance of a surrendered bandit. After 100 yards the tracks led across a waist deep stretch of water. While the leading scouts were wading, fire was opened from at least 3 bren guns at about 30 yards range [2].
 
Mne. Alexander was mortally wounded, Cpl. Ireland was killed, and Mne. King and Lt. Langley were both wounded [2].
 
Sources
[1] AFM ROH 
[2] Globe and Laurel March/April 1952 edition, pages 68 and 86.
 
Notes
The AFM ROH shows his rank as Marine. The Globe and Laurel article refers to his rank as Corporal. The latter may have been a temporary rank.
 
Primary Roll of Honour: 

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