MONTGOMERY, Robert Kerr

Known as: 
Bob
Rank: 
Captain
Unit / Base: 
2 Commando
Special Service (Commando) Group, Brigade, and Brigade Signals
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Engineers
Service: 
Royal Navy
Number: 
118439
P.O.W. number: 
18677
Honours & Awards: 
Born: 
Wednesday, November 3, 1920
Died : 
Thursday, October 20, 2016
Age: 
95
Captains Montgomery and Pritchard had been instrumental in the planning and training of the demolition teams for the raid at St Nazaire. Capt. Montgomery was in charge of the demolition teams on board HMS Campbeltown. Taken prisoner after the raid he was detained at Oflag 09A at Spangenberg kei Kassel, Germany [1][2]. Awarded the Military Cross in in recognition of gallant and distinguished service [3].
Award Recommendation
"On 28 March 1942 during the Commando Raid at St. Nazaire, France.
Capt. Montgomery was in charge of the five demolition parties detailed to destroy the Dry Dock at St. Nazaire. He had been responsible for a great deal of the planning and training of the Commando demolition personnel before the raid. During the destruction of the installations of the Dry Dock, Capt. Montgomery was conspicuous. Under heavy enemy fire he moved from one objective to another helping and advising the various parties in their demolitions. He was particularly helpful to the wounded, his cool actions being a fine example to all.
Capt. Montgomery was again conspicuous in the street fighting that followed. Armed only with a Colt automatic he helped lead the main force in its efforts to escape. By so doing he helped also in the destruction of many German pockets of resistance.
Capt. Montgomery at all times showed a complete disregards for his own personal safety. His courage and devotion to duty were outstanding and largely instrumental for the complete destruction of the Dry Dock area".
  • 18 February 1953 promoted Major, Royal Engineers [4].
  • 4 February 1967 Lieutenant Colonel Montgomery, MC, BSc., RE, retired from service [5].
Sources
[1] St Nazaire Society website.
[2] Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/1.
[3] London Gazette 37162, page 3493.

[3a] Award Recommendations / National Archives file WO373/46/260.
[4] London Gazette 39823, page 2033
[5] London Gazette 44258, page 2325

Additional content: 

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.