STEWART, W.S.

Rank: 
Corporal
Unit / Base: 
50ME Commando
Regiment/Corps: 
Black Watch
Service: 
Army
Number: 
2754796
Honours & Awards: 
Corporal W.S. Stewart was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war in Italian hands [1][1a][1b]
1943 reported no longer a prisoner of war [2].
1944 Mentioned in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service [3][3a][3b].
​Recommendation
Captured in the Dodecanese on 27 Feb. 1941. Taken to Campo 78 (Sulmona) where he remained until his escape. In March 1941 he and another P/W attempted to escape from the Camp dressed as workmen but were caught at the gate.
He also took part with three others in an attempt to escape during the winter of 1941/42. The escape equipment was discovered and the attempt failed.
In April 1942 he made a third attempt getting over the wall with another P/W. They reached the wire and were cutting it when they were discovered and fired upon. They received 60 days in gaol for this third attempt.
After the Armistice P/W were liberated from Campo 78 and Stewart made his way South with another P/W meeting Allied troops at Ariano on 1 October 1943 [3a].
 
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists WO417/23.
[1a] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/21.
[1b] 50 Me Cdo Casualty List 25th-28th Feb. 1941 (War Office Oct 1941) Ref. GRO2E/1188/69C.
[2] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
[3] Prisoners of War Interrogation Reports / National Archives file WO208/3345 (rank shown Sergeant).
[3a] Award recommendations / National Archives files WO373/95/458 (rank shown Sergeant).
[3b] London Gazette 36563, page 2856.
 

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