ELLWOOD, William Cyril

Known as: 
Bill
Rank: 
Company Sergeant Major
Unit / Base: 
2 Commando
Regiment/Corps: 
Essex Regiment
Service: 
Army
Number: 
6019994
Lance Sergeant William Ellwood, 3 Troop, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for gallant and distinguished service in Italy" [1][4].
Recommendation
Gulf of Salerno 13 Sept. 1943
During the Fighting on the 13th September at Dragone Hill the enemy attempted to come through our position. They threw stick grenades and brought automatic fire to bear, killing one man and wounding another. Lt. Peters went forward and was also wounded. Sergeant Ellwood with complete disregard for enemy fire and grenades ran forward in the open and fired magazine after magazine into the enemy from his T.S.M.G. at point blank range. Seven enemy dead were found in this area after the action. Throughout the operations he has set a fine standard of leadership, and although hit twice by shell splinters, has continued to command his sub-section with dash and determination [2].
  • Final rank C.S.M. Post war emigrated to Perth, Western Australia [3].
Sources
[1] London Gazette 36327, page 256.
[2] National Archives file WO 373/4/96.
[3] CA Newsletter 30 issued 1960.
[4] Troop number and rank of Sergeant in No.2 Cdo WD report by Capt Keep on course intake training instructors 15/12/43.
 

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