Lance Sergeant Samuel Leyland, HQ Troop, from St Helens Lancashire, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Italy [1][3].
1938 attested into the Royal Artillery [2].
16 February 1942 joined No.3 Commando [2].
Award Recommendation
During operations around Agnone, Sicily, on 13/14 July 1943, when he was a Lance Corporal he distinguished himself by leading back to the British lines a party of four other ranks who were cut off. Meeting a German patrol of equal strength he out-manoeuvred it. Two Germans were killed and his own party came through without loss.
During operations around Bova Marina, Italy between 25 August 1943 and 4 September 1943, L/Sgt Leyland was to begin with i/c of one of the small parties which had to take to the hills when LCI 107 went aground and was abandoned. He succeeded in rejoining his O.C. after two days and took a prominent part in an ambush on the 31 August 1943.
Later on the same day he was one of a party which pursued some Italians. At the end of a long chase he was the only man who had been able to keep up with his officer. They captured an Italian post with a garrison of nine.
On 1 September 1943 when the party was attacked by a company of parachutists he exposed himself with a complete contempt for their fire and succeeded firstly in observing the enemies dispositions, which could only be done from a skyline, secondly, in bringing in rifles which had been left in full view of the enemy when they first opened fire.
This NCO was a splendid example to his men and an invaluable assistant to his officer throughout a period which many found trying. Calm consistent and cheerful he proved himself in every way an exceptional soldier. [Recommended for D.C.M. awarded M.M.] [3].

Sources
[1] London Gazette 36327, page 257.
[2] Royal Artillery Attestation Records 1938.
[3] National Archives file WO373/4/179.
Article in the Liverpool Evening Express 16 November 1944.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 117 issued Sept.2003.