READING, Percy James Thomas

Rank: 
Regimental Sergeant Major
Unit / Base: 
'42 Commando RM'
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Marines
Service: 
Royal Navy
Number: 
PO/X 1696
Honours & Awards: 
Regimental Sergeant Major Percy Reading was awarded the B.E.M. for gallant and distinguished service with 3 Commando Brigade, Royal Marines, in Malaya during the period 1st January to 30th June. 1952 [1].
 
Recommendation
"RSM PJT Reading has been Regimental Sergeant Major of 42 Commando Royal Marines since 10th January 1950. During the whole of this time he has worked unsparingly to improve the efficiency, morale, and discipline of the Unit. Throughout this period, which includes twenty months of anti - bandit operations in Malaya, he has been a true leader and a vital link between Officers and Other Ranks. He has always displayed the highest qualities of drive, tact, and unselfishness and has accomplished every task with the maximum efficiency.
 
On three occasions he has organised and successfully led emergency paries into the jungle to evacuate casualties. Being responsible for the ammunition supply of the Commando he has repeatedly been recommended for the exemplary state of security, storage and accounting, and at no time has a call for ammunition, no matter how difficult to obtain or supply, gone unanswered.
 
His active interest in every aspect of unit life and his unshakable sense of loyalty and discipline has been a sustained source of inspiration to all ranks" [2].
 
Sources
[1] London Gazette Supp. 39675, page 5527.
[2] National Archives file WO373/131/28.
 

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