TSM Frank Walsh, MM; No9 Cdo

This message was edited 2 times. Last update was at 31/10/2010 02:10:02

I am trying to find imformation on TSM Frank Walsh on behalf of Ken Young 9 Commando. TSM Frank Walsh was formerly from the Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders before joining 9 Commando. Ken says he was badly injured by a flame thrower hitting a German arms dump and exploding at lake Commachio,Italy. Ken thinks he survived the war and was awarded the MM. Ken described him as "A bloody fine troop Sergeant Major". Ken would like to know what become of him. He says he has wondered throughout his life. Ken is now 91. Any imformation would be appreciated.

This message was edited 8 times. Last update was at 04/02/2013 12:51:21

Hi Marc

When I mentioned Frank Walsh in the transcript I placed on the forum of Ken's last video
http://www.commandoveterans.org/cdoForum/posts/list/1093.page
sadly I got no responses. All I can say is that he indeed was awarded the Military Medal and it is mentioned in the book Commando Gallantry Awards of WW2. Here is a copy of the entry :

Acting Sergeant Frank Walsh 2986730 Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders and No.9 Commando
Military Medal (Immediate)
Ref.Map Italy 1/500,000 No.158 IV
On 5th March 1944 No. 2986730 Sgt Walsh F. was commander of a section of a fighting patrol operating in Area Square 8230. Throughout the patrol, Sgt Walsh showed outstanding courage and leadership whilst under heavy small arms fire and mortar fire, both in locating enemy positions and leading the assault on these positions. During a period in which the patrol was pinned down by enemy fire and sufferred 40% casualties, Sgt. Walsh organised and led small parties to outflank the enemy position in a most determined and courageous manner. Whenever his party was held up, he pushed on himself in order to outflank the enemy and cause their fire to be lifted from his sections position. During the final asault on the enemy position, he displayed an outstanding example of leadership to all the men and although he was wounded during the assault he carried on until he had bayoneted and killed the Boche who had wounded him. After being wounded he refused to return to the Regimental aid post until he had organised his section and was ordered to return by his patrol leader. ( L.G. 20.7.44)

I would just repeat the following words you mention above and that I heard Ken say on the tape when he finished talking of Sgt Frank Walsh MM . He describes him as:
" a bloody fine troop sergeant major"

Thats a great tribute from one soldier about another

Thank you Pete. I only wish Ken could of known before he passed away. I would like to think that by you telling me this Ken now knows.