Archive
No 1 Commando
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Displaying 1 - 202 of 2021 Commando
History of the Unit
1 Commando Nominal Roll
In 1946 the Army Council decided that the Army Commandos were to be disbanded and no provision was allowed or made for any depository or office which would have at least contained a complete Roster of Names of the men who served in the various units.
1 Commando Operations
These are the main operations that No 1 Commando took part in, either on their own, or as part of a Combined Operations assault. They are in date order and form part of our overall history of No 1 Commando. No 1 Commando were part of 3 Commando Brigade during the Burma Campaign. Many of the documents we have for this period are related to more than one single commando unit and are listed jointly in the document 3 Commando Brigade Operations in Burma.
Click on the links for more detail about each.
1 Commando War Diaries
Transcripts taken from the War Diary for No 1 Commando covering specific periods. They are basic transcripts for private research and educational use only. Whilst we always endeavour to achieve accuracy, we acknowledge that there may be dates and/or entries missing, and other possible errors, The actual War Diaries can be found at the National Archives in Kew.
1 Commando, Documents
Documents and maps relevant to No 1 Commando. These include reports on specific actions, orders of the day, troop reports, newsletters, and other items. Some of these documents are transcripts taken from official records covering specific periods. They are basic transcripts for private research and educational use only.
1 Commando, Memorial Service
A transcript of a document detailing a Memorial Service for No 1 Commando Casualties at Myebon. The document from John Mewett, transcribed by Elaine Southworth-Davies.
Source: National Archives WO 218/81.
MYEBON 4th FEBRUARY 1945
Memorial Service for the Fallen and Wounded Officers and Men of No. 1 Commando during operations on Myebon Peninsula and the Kangaw Bridgehead, January 1945.1. Hymn
“Let Saints on earth in concert sing”1 Commando, Op Bizerte part of Lt.Col Ken Trevors narrative
Transcript of Operation "Bizerte" Narrative
To: Lt-Col. Trevor From: Philip Jordan
Location
60 miles East of Tabarka
Tunisia
37° 13' 45.8184" N, 9° 12' 33.444" E
1 Commando, Operation Bizerte Plan and Structure Dec'42
No. 1 Commando: Operation Bizerte
Appendix 1: December 1942
Authors: Various
Copy of original document supplied by: John Mewett
Transcribed by: Jennie Barlow
Maps will be added later to this War DIary segment
The report is divided into the following headings:
1. Intention
2. Objects
3. Plan
(a) Navy
(b) Army
4. Execution of Plan
5. Attainments of Objects
6. Information
1 Commando, Report on Operation 'Bottle' 15 Oct'45 Hong Kong
Report of Operation 'Bottle' undertaken by No 1 Commando whilst on policing duties in Hong Kong 15 October 1945.
National Atchives Document reference WO 218/18
1 Commando, Troop reports Op Bizerte Dec 1942
No. 1 Commando: Operation Bizerte
Appendix 1: December 1942
Troop Commanders reports
Authors: Various
Copy of original document supplied by: John Mewett
Transcribed by: Jennie Barlow
NA Document ….no Ref Number
TROOP COMMANDERS' REPORTS
Lt. D.H. Cowap (Capt. Morgan's Troop)
Bad landing; wireless set drowned and we had no W/T communication for the whole operation. Left beach 0245 hrs. on D.1.
3 Commando Brigade, Burma Operations
Saturday, January 1, 1944
Location
Myanmar
21° 54' 50.274" N, 95° 57' 22.4028" E
The reports at the foot of this page relate to the operations of the Commando Units attached to 3 Commando Brigade that took place after the 1st January 1944.
Link of interest
There were a large number of casualties in the Burma Campaigns, both battle and illness.
Lieutenant Colonel R. Wigglesworth, M.B., B.S. Lond., Royal Army Medical Corps, wrote an excellent article titled
AIRD, William
No 1 Commando
Private William Aird was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma [1].
Recommendation
"At Kangaw Hill 170 (Map ref. 5154? , Myebon sheet 1/25000) on 23 Jan 45 Pte Aird was the bren gunner in a trench which bore the brunt of a fierce Jap night counter attack.
Early on a grenade landed in the trench inflicting multiple wounds of the back to Pte Aird. He made no mention of his wounds and manned his bren gun awaiting the attack.
ALDRIDGE, William Reginald
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant William Aldridge died in North Africa. He recieved a Mentioned in Despatches for "gallant and distinguished service in North Africa."
Sources CWGC London Gazette 36180 page 4226. Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65.ALEXANDER, John MacAlister
No 1 Commando
Fusilier John Alexander died during operations in North Africa.
Sources
CWGC.
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/55.
RWF Enlistment Registers Ref 8613s RWF Museum.
Notes
Middle name spelt as on CWGC record. Spelt as McAlister on Enlistment Register above.
ALLEN, Edward Patrick
No 1 Commando
Private Edward Allen, from Swansea, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma [1].
Recommendation
ANDERSON, Barrie Sherwill Norman
No 1 Commando
Trooper Barrie Anderson was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations in North Africa and later found to be a prisoner of war. He died in captivity on 12 January 1943 in Italy.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/57.
Notes
ANDREWS, Alfred Archley
No 1 Commando
Fusilier Alfred Andrews died during operations at Kangaw. He is mentioned in this report about the battle. [view].
ANNETTS, G.H.
No 1 Commando
Corporal G. Annetts was reported missing during operations in North Africa 2 March 1943, found to have been taken prisoner and later transported to Stalag7A.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/58; WO417/59.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Commando Association Lost Legions, List 1.
ANSELL, Arthur James
No 1 Commando
Trooper Arthur Ansell died during operations in North Africa.
BAGOT, Henry Hunter
No 1 Commando
Trooper Henry Bagot died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
BAKER, Albert
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant Albert Baker D.C.M., died during operations at Kangaw.
2 years earlier he was awarded the DIstinguished Conduct Medal (Immediate) for gallantry in North Africa whilst a Lance Corporal.
Recommendation
BAKER, George Horace
No 1 Commando
Gunner George Baker died during operations at Kangaw.
BAKER, Herbert Valentine
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal Herbert Baker died during operations at Kangaw.
BALL, Sydney Alonso
No 1 Commando
Gunner Sydney Ball died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
BARNES, Ernest
No 1 Commando
Bombardier Ernest Barnes, known as 'Tag' and from Sheffield, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Burma [1].
Recommendation
"On the 31st January 1945 at Hill 170 near Kangaw Bdr. Barnes was an NCO in No. 1 Platoon ordered to counter attack on the right flank. The leading section of his Platoon came under intense MG fire and grenades, the Officer and Platoon Sgt. being hit immediately.
BARNES, Norman Alfred George
No 1 Commando
Trooper Norman Barnes died of wounds in North Africa [1]. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
Extract from the No 1 Commando War Diary 6-8 December 1942
6 Dec.1942 - Unit returned to TABARKA (under troop arrangements) from Operation
7 Dec.1942 - 1000 hrs, Church Service held in Market Hall in memory of officers and men killed on Operation; 1400 hrs, Arms and equipment check
BARTER, George
No 1 Commando
Gunner George Barter died during operations in North Africa.
BEANEY, John George Arthur
No 1 Commando
Gunner John Beaney died during operations at Kangaw.
Extract from the Middlesex Chronicle - Saturday 17 February 1945
BEAR, Dennis
No 1 Commando
The death of Sergeant Dennis Bear (1 Cdo) of Feniscowles, Nr. Blackburn, Lancs, was announced in Commando Association newsletter 82 issued March 1986.
Sources
Commando Association newsletter 82.
Burma Star Association membership list.
BEATTIE, James Simpson
No 1 Commando
Corporal James Beattie was awarded the MM in 1943 in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa [1]. He later went to O.C.T.U. and on the 1st April 1944 he was commissioned Second Lieutenant [2].
In 1967 the then Chief Superintendent Beattie, Edinburgh City Police, was awarded the Q.P.M. [3].
In 1978 he was appointed O.B.E. whilst Deputy Chief Constable, Lothian and Borders Police [4].
Sources
BEATTY, Brian, H.
No 1 Commando
Commando Basic Training Centre
Sources
Commando Association newsletter 118.
Commando Association Lost Legions List 1.
BEECH, James Frederick
No 1 Commando
Private James Beech, HQ 3 Special Service (Commando) Bde., reported initially by the War Office to have died a prisoner of war in Japanese hands, died in Poona Hospital, India, a victim of infantile paralysis. [1+2]
On the 31st January 1945 he is listed as being wounded whilst with No 5 Commando. [3]
BENNION, Thomas James
No 1 Commando
Corporal Thomas Bennion died of wounds received during operations at Kangaw.
BENSLEY, James
RM Reserve
Corporal James Bensley, a Royal Marines Reservist with the R.M.F.V.R. (Tyne), died [1] in a parachute training exercise at Poole, Dorset [2]. A former Gunner in No.1 Commando during WW2 [2], James Bensley had left the Army and was married with a child, residing at Isobella Street, Newcastle, and working as a clerk with the Ministry of Pensions [3]. A Coroner later recorded a verdict of accidental death [4].
Sources
[1] AFM ROH.
BENTLEY, Donald
No 1 Commando
Private Donald Bentley died during operations in North Africa.
BISHOP, R.C.
No 1 Commando
Private R.C. Bishop was one of the commando contingent embarked on Motor Launch ML 306 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942. Wounded and taken prisoner he was later imprisoned at Stalag 344 Lamsdorf, Poland.
Sources
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-1945 / National Archives file WO417/43.
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/1.
St Nazaire Society website.
BLEAKLEY, Charles
No 1 Commando
Fusilier Charles Bleakley was accidentally killed by gunshot wound (instantaneous) at Bunarkaig, Achnacarry. He was seen after death by Capt. J.E. Symondson RAMC, the Medical Officer at the Commando Basic Training Centre (CBTC).
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty List / National Archives file WO417/52.
Register of Deaths in the district of Kilmallie via www.scotlandspeople.gov.uk.
BOWMAN, Thomas Horne
No 12 Commando
No 1 Commando
Lieutenant Thomas Bowman served in No.12 Commando ( Para Troop) and then No.1 Commando 6 Troop in the Far East.
Post war he had a business in Camberley Surrey and was also an actor. He had a role in the "My Fair Lady" New York Broadway Revival which ran from March 25, 1976 to February 20, 1977.
- His death was announced to members in Commando Association newsletter 105 issued September 1997 " Lt. Thomas Horne (Tom) Bowman (12 & 1 Cdo.) of New York, U.S.A."
Sources
BOYCE, James Wesley R.
No 1 Commando
Private James Boyce, 4 Troop, died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. He received a posthumous Mention in Despatches in recognition of his gallant and distinguished service.
BRADFORD, John Meller
No 1 Commando
Captain John Bradford from Swansea died [1] during operations at Bizerte Tunisia. He received a MiD for "gallant and distinguished services in North Africa."
BRAY, Thomas Garland
No 1 Commando
10 May 1939 enlisted.
Former trade on enlistment: Miner.
3 Sept. 1939 date service reckons from.
2 May 1940 No.2 Independent Company.
10 May 1940 embarked for N.W.E.F. (Norway) (Scissors Force).
11 June 1940 return to UK.
9 Nov. 1940 'A' Coy., No.1 Special Service Bn.
9 Feb. 1941 promoted War Substantive Corporal.
BUCHANAN, Thomas Malloch
No 1 Commando
Private Thomas Buchanan, 4 troop, was wounded on the 31st January 1945 during the battle for Hill 170 at Kangaw.
-
Dec 1941 - Nov. 1942 Argyll Home Guard aged 17.
BUNT, R.M.
No 1 Commando
Private R.M. Bunt received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa.
Sources
London Gazette 36180, page 4227.
Commando Association Lost Legion List 2.
BUTLER, Ronald Herbert
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant Ronald Butler was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services during Operation Chariot, the raid on St. Nazaire. He was one of the Commando contingent on board HMS Campbeltown and was a prisoner of war after the raid.
Recommendation
"On 28 March 1942 during the Commando raid at St Nazaire France.
CAMBLIN, Cecil
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant Cecil Camblin died during operations at Bizerte Tunisia.
CANN, John Henry
No 1 Commando
John Henry “Aga” Cann, born c1908 son of George (Boarding House keeper) and Emma Cann of St Josephs, Swansea. Married Cardiff 1936. Attested 5.7.1926 into the Welch Regt Regulars at Swansea for 7 years with the Colours and 5 years Reserve service. Age: 18 years 208 days. Trade: Tin worker. Long Service and Good Conduct Medal awarded without gratuity under Army Order of 31 December 1945. (Source: Mark Collins)
Wounded in North Africa 8.11.1942 when serving as RSM of No 1 Commando.
CARREL, Ian Vincent
No 1 Commando
Ian Vincent Carrel, Captain in No. 1 Commando, received a MiD in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Burma [1]. He was appointed C.B.E. on the 7th June 1974 whilst Senior Technical Adviser, Ministry of Defence [2].
The death of Major Ian Vincent Carrel, CBE. (1 Cdo) of Old Oxted, Surrey, was announced in Commando Association newsletter 66 issued March 1978.
Sources
[1] London Gazettes Supp. 37730, page 4698.
CHAMBERLAIN, W.W.R.J.
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant Bill Chamberlain was one of the commando contingent embarked on HMS Campbeltown for Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire 28 March 1942. Reported missing after the raid, found to have been wounded, taken prisoner, and later transported to Stalag 344 Lamsdorf, Poland.
Sources
St Nazaire website.
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/49.
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/1 and 11.
CHAPPELL, Ernest Lionel Desmond
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant Ernest Chappell, known as Des, was one of the commando contingent who embarked on Motor Launch ML 306 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942. Wounded and taken prisoner he was subsequently transported to Stalag 383 at Hohenfels Germany.
Sources
St Nazaire Society website.
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/48.
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/1.
CLAY, Fred Henry
No 1 Commando
Gunner Fred Clay died during operations at Kangaw.
COKER, James Thomas
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal James Coker, 6 Troop, was awarded the MM in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma..
COLEMAN, Charles Jack
No 1 Commando
Charles Jack Coleman served in No. 1 Commando and 1 Commando Brigade*.
- 19 November 1939 commissioned Second Lieutenant, Welch Regiment [1].
- 25 August 1947 (Welch Regiment) (2nd Lt. ) (War Subs. Lt.) promoted Captain, Royal Scots Fusiliers [2].
- 1 April 1952 (Royal Scots Fusiliers) awarded the Territorial Efficiency Decoration [3].
- 1 May 1952 promoted Acting Major [4].
- 31 October 1954 (Major) (Royal Scots Fusiliers) to King's Regiment [5].
COLEMAN, Harold James
No 1 Commando
Troop Sergeant Major Harold Coleman died in Caernarvonshire and Anglesey Infirmary as a result of injuries received whilst rock climbing.
RSM Cann and three TSM's were amongst those in attendance at his funeral.
(Source: National Archives WO 218/ 49, No 1 Cdo War Diary Jan-Dec 1943.)
COMAN, William Joseph
No 1 Commando
Private William Coman died during operations at Myebon.
COWAP, Dalton Hayton
No 1 Commando
Captain Dalton Hayton Cowap MC, known as George [1], served in 4 troop, and was wounded during operations at Myebon in January 1945 [2]. In 1943 whilst a Lieutenant in No 1 Commando he had been awarded the M.C. in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa [3].
On the 16th April 1947 he relinquished his commission and was granted the honorary rank of Captain [4].
Post war he lived in Rhodesia (Zimbabwe.) [1].
CRAIG, Samuel
No 1 Commando
Fusilier Samuel Craig died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
CROFT, James Herbert
No 1 Commando
Captain Sir James Croft died as a result of an accident.
Sources
CWGC.
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45.
CROWE, James
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant James Crowe was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the Arakan Burma on the 23rd November 1944.
Sources
London Gazette 36994, page 1546.
National Archives file WO373/36/306.
DAVIDSON, Douglas Malcolm
No 1 Commando
Captain Douglas Davidson MC died of wounds sustained on the 14th March whilst leading a patrol and being engaged by the enemy. The location for the entry recorded in the War Diary shows Sidi es Siah. (Source: No 1 Commando War Diary March 1943.)
He was awarded the MC for his gallantry in North Africa. (Source: London Gazette Supplement 35987, page 1846.)
DAVIES, Thomas Alfred
No 1 Commando
Private Thomas Davies died during operations in North Africa.
DAVIES, Verdun George
No 1 Commando
Private Verdun Davies died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
DAWSON, John Joseph Yelverton
No 1 Commando
Captain John Dawson, M.B., R.A.M.C., Medical Officer attached to No.1 Commando, was awarded the M.C., [1] during operations in the Arakan, Burma.
Citation
DEARDEN, Henry Graham
No 1 Commando
Private Henry Dearden died during operations at Kangaw, Burma.
Sources
CWGC.
[Image] War Illustrated Magazine.
DICKSON, George
No 1 Commando
Gunner George Dickson died during operations at Kangaw.
DOCKERILL, Arthur Henry
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant Arthur Dockerill was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal [1] for his gallantry during the raid at St Nazaire. Part of a demolition team on board HMS Campbeltown led by Lieutenant Chant [2], he was later imprisoned in Stalag 344 at Lamsdorf , Poland [3].
Sources
[1] London Gazette 37162, page 3493.
[2] National Archives file WO 373/46/270.
[3] Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/1.
DOWNEY, John Joseph
No 1 Commando
Warrant Officer 2 John Downey was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during operations at Kangaw, Burma [1]. He was wounded during the operation [2].
- Attested into the Royal Artillery 25 April 1936 [3].
Recommendation
DRISCOLL, Leonard Henry Pritchard
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal Leonard Driscoll died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
DUFFY, William
No 1 Commando
Private William Duffy died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
DUMIGAN, James
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal James Dumigan from Belfast died during operations at Kangaw.
DURRANT VC, Recommended by the Enemy
Type: Booklet
Year of Publishing: 2016
Keywords: durrant, vc, Victoria cross, commando, chariot, st nazaire
An article about Sergeant Thomas Frank Durrant VC, No 1 Commando, which was published in the Victoria Cross Society Journal in March 2005. ©RJMewett.
Follow this link to learn more about all the Commandos awarded the Victoria Cross
DURRANT, Sgt. Thomas Frank, VC
No 1 Commando
Sergeant Thomas Frank Durrant died during Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire. He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross.
War Office 19th June 1945
For great gallantry, skill and devotion to duty when in charge of a Lewis gun in H.M. Motor Launch ML 306 in the St. Nazaire raid on the 28th March, 1942.
EATON, George Oliver
No 1 Commando
Private George Eaton died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
EDWARDS, Elwyn
No 1 Commando
Fusilier Elwyn Edwards, 5 troop, died during operations at Luc Sur Mer on the French coast.
Sources
CWGC
ETZDORF, Roderick Rudiger Otto Ulrich von
No 1 Commando
Rudiger von Etzdorf, a refugee to the UK from Germany, was granted exemption from internment on 9 January 1940. His occupation was recorded as a Student and his residence as 47 Chester Road, SW1 [1].
He enlisted in the Royal Pioneer Corps serving under the alias of Roderick Ellerman. Later he joined No.1 Commando becoming a Sergeant in their Intelligence Section [1a][4][6].
EVANS, Clifford Gregory
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal Clifford Evans was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the Field [1].
Sources
[1] London Gazette 36785, page 5131 published 9 November 1944.
Additional references found
1941, POW - Escapers & evaders - MI9 reports - National Archives files WO208/3321 and WO208/5583.
EVANS, Cyril Denman
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal Cyril Evans died during operations at Luc Sur Mer on the French coast.
EVANS, E. Michael
No 1 Commando
Acting Lance Sergeant Evans took part in the raid at St. Nazaire on 28 March 1942. He embarked on Motor Launch ML 306 and was reported missing after the raid, but was subsequently found to have been taken prisoner. He was later transported to Stalag 357 at Fallingbostel, Germany.
Sources
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/3.
Prisoners War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO393/11.
St Nazaire Society website.
EVANS, Robert John
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant Robert Evans died during operations in North Africa.
FITZSIMMONS, James
No 1 Commando
Private James Fitzsimmons died during operations at Kangaw.
GARDNER, James Willis
No 1 Commando
Temporary Captain Gardner received a Mention In Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa. During his 2 years of service in the Far East he served as Adminstration Officer for No.1 Commando, and as Acting Major in 3 Commando Brigade HQ in the role of Quartermaster General. He was appointed M.B.E. (Military Division) in recognition of his gallant and distinguished service. Resided in Rome post war.
GEORGE, Herbert Alexander
No 1 Commando
Private Herbert George died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
GOODWIN, Charles Gordon
No 1 Commando
Corporal Charles Goodwin died as a result of an accident.
GRAVES, Leslie Peter
No 1 Commando
Gunner Leslie Graves died during operations at Kangaw.
GROVES, Fernley William Thomas
No 1 Commando
Private Fernely Groves died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
HALSE-HEARNE, William Edward
No 1 Commando
Lieutenant William Halse-Hearne died during operations at Maungdaw.
Sources
CWGC
HAMILTON, James
No 1 Commando
Sapper James Hamilton died during operations in North Africa.
HARRIS, Douglas Ewart
No 1 Commando
Douglas Ewart Harris served in the ranks of No. 1 Commando. He was selected for Officer training and was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the South Wales Borderers on 21 July 1944.
- Awarded the Military Cross [1] in recognition of his gallant and distinguished service during operations in April 1945 with the 2/5th Bn. The Queen's Royal at Lake Comacchio, Italy [2]. He left the Army on 18 October 1950.
Sources
[1] London Gazette Supp. 37235, page 4268.
HARVEY, Reginald
No 1 Commando
Private Reginald Harvey died during operations in North Africa.
HIGHAM, Walter
No 1 Commando
Gunner Walter Higham, 5 Troop, received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Styal, Cheshire.
Sources
London Gazette 37425, page 381 dated 10 January 1946.
Image of Roll of 5 Troop No 1 Commando in Gallery with last 2 digits of service number after surname.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 48 issued March 1969.
HITCHCOCK, George Albert
No 1 Commando
Gunner George Hitchcock died from gun shot wounds during a live ammunition firing exercise at Trincomalee, Ceylon.
HOLLIDAY, David James
No 1 Commando
Sergeant David Holliday received a Mention in Despatches for "gallant and distinguished service in North Africa."
Sources
London Gazette 36180 page 4226.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 57 issued September 1973.
HOLM, A.
No 1 Commando
Private Holm received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma. Post war member of the Commando Association with whom they lost contact, last known address in Denmark.
Sources
London Gazette 37425, page 382.
Awards in 3 Cdo Bde Jungle Book issue 9.
Commando Association Lost Legion List 6 issued March 1975.
HOOK, Maurice
No 1 Commando
Private Maurice Hook received a Mention in Despatches for "gallant and distinguished service in North Africa."
Sources
London Gazette 36180 page 4226.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 92 issued March 1991.
HOPKINS, A.J.
No 1 Commando
Private A.J. Hopkins was one of the commando contingent who embarked on motor launch ML 306 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire 28 March 1942 [1].
Reported missing after the raid he was later found to have been wounded and taken prisoner [2].
Casualty Lists of 1944 list him as "Previously reported wounded and Prisoner of War (Germany) now Repatriated" [3].
Sources
[1] St Nazaire Society website.
HORGAN, James John
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant James Horgan died during operations at Bizerte Tunisia.
HUMPHREYS, James
No 1 Commando
Private James Humphreys died of wounds during operations in North Africa. He received a posthumous MiD for gallant and distinguished services in North Africa.
Sources CWGC London Gazette Supplement 36180 page 4227.HUNTINGTON, John, Memories of No 12 and No 1 Commando
Type: Personal Papers
Year of Publishing: 2015
Keywords: Memories of Sgt John Huntington 'E' Troop No 12 Commando and 3 Troop No 1 Commando
Sgt John Huntington was in E Troop No 12 Commando and 3 Troop No 1 Commando.
This document is Johns memories as detailed in letter form over the course of 5 years to John Mewett. Unfortunately before the project was complete JH died but what was related makes for a very interesting first hand account of life in a commando unit.
IRVING, William Henry
No 1 Commando
Fusilier William Irving, from London, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services at Kangaw, Burma on the 23rd January 1945 [1].
Recommendation
JONES, Hubert
No 1 Commando
Corporal Hubert Jones died during operations at Kangaw.
JONES, Ivor
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal Ivor Jones died as a result of an accident.
JONES, John Garner
No 1 Commando
Captain John Garner Jones was awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Arakan, Burma [1].
Recommendation
JONES, Thomas
No 1 Commando
Private Thomas Jones died during operations in North Africa.
KEERY, William James
No 1 Commando
Corporal William James Keery G.M. served in No.1 Commando. He was one of the Police intakes into the Commandos.
Whilst serving as a Constable, aged 25yrs, in the Metropolitan Police he had been awarded the George Medal [1] for rescuing 7 persons trapped in a cellar at Queens Buildings Scovell Road at Lambeth, London, on 15 October 1940 [2].
Citation
KIAER, Eric Arnold
No 3 Commando
Lieutenant Eric Kiaer died [1] during the Normandy landings. He had previously been Mentioned in Despatches for "gallant and distinguished services in the field. [2]"
KING, Alfred William
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant Alfred King received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the Commando raid at St Nazaire on 28/29 March 1942. He embarked on board HMS Campbeltown.
KLONOWSKI, Theophilus Henry
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal Theophilius Klonowski, Signal Section, died when Captain Craven's troop engaged an enemy patrol at approximately 0600hrs during operations at Beja, North Africa.
Sources
CWGC
National Achives ref 218/49 - No 1 Cdo War Diary entry for 1st Jan. 1943.
KNOWLAND, George Arthur, Lieut, VC. A testament by Jack Cox.
A Letter to Harry Winch (No. 1 Cdo. 2 Troop) from Jack Cox (12 & 3 Cdos.) concerning Lt. George Knowland VC [see documents below], who was a section sergeant in No 3 Commando with the nickname 'Nobby', during the Battle for Termoli.
Source
KNOWLAND, George Arthur, Lieut. VC announcement in Gazettes
The London Gazette citation for the award of the Victoria Cross to Lt George Knowland of No 1 Commando 4 Troop
Hill 170 Kangaw Burma January 1945
Follow this link to learn more of about all the Commandos awarded the Victoria Cross
KNOWLAND, Lt. George Arthur, VC
No 1 Commando
Lieutenant George Arthur Knowland died during operations at Hill 170, Kangaw. He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross.
LANDER, Raymond Frederick
No 1 Commando
Sergeant Raymond Lander died during operations at Kangaw.
Sources
CWGC
LARCHER, George Louis Jean
No 1 Commando
Lieutenant George Larcher, Recce Corps attached to No.1 Commando, was awarded the M.C. in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma [1].
Recommendation
Arakan 1945
LEWIS, Frank
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant Frank Lewis died during operations at Bizerte Tunisia.
LINES, Ronald James
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal Ronald Lines , 6 troop, died during operations at Kangaw. More information is in the book Commando Diary written by his friend Tag Barnes.
Sources
CWGC
Issue 9 of the Third Jungle Book [view].
[Images] His nieces Marjorie Oxby and Jan Redmond.
LLEWELLYN, Fred
No 1 Commando
Corporal Fred Llewellyn died during Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. He was part of a demolition team who embarked for the raid on Motor Launch ML 306.
Service Record
17 January 1940 enlisted King's Shopshire Light Infantry.
27 April 1940 to No.9 Independent Company.
8 November 1940 to No.1 Special Service Battalion.
11 November 1940 promoted Lance Corporal
4 March 1941 to No.1 Commando.
5 May 1941 promoted Acting Corporal.
3 August 1941 granted war substantive rank of Corporal.
28 March 1942 killed in action.
LLOYD, Edmund John
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal Edmund Lloyd died during operations at Kangaw.
LLOYD, Leonard
No 1 Commando
Private Leonard Lloyd is buried in the UK. [1]
His name is recorded in the Programme for the Winchester Reunion of No 1 Commando . This entry lists his name under " Killed or died of wounds as a result of action on the occupied French coast" [2]
Additionally his name is listed on the Westminster Abbey Commando Roll of Honour database as killed in action. [3]
LOAKES, Stanley John
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal Stanley Loakes died from wounds inflicted during operations in Tunisia.
LOOKER, Ronald Arthur
No 1 Commando
Private Ronald Looker died of wounds inflicted at Kangaw.
LUCAS, Percy
No 1 Commando
Private Percy Lucas died in Secunderabad. His name is also recorded here Winchester Reunion of No 1 Commando .
MACADAMS, F. John
No 1 Commando
MALONEY, Daniel
No 12 Commando
No 1 Commando
Private Daniel Maloney, from Hulme Manchester, served with No. 12 Commando, and later No. 1 Commando 6 troop in the Far East. He is on a Casualty List of those wounded during the action on Hill 170 on 31st January 1945.
MASSEY, Walter Charles
No 1 Commando
Sergeant Walter Massey received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Southampton.
Sources
London Gazette 36180 page 4226.
Obituary in Commando Association newsletter 48 issued March 1969.
MCNEIL, John
No 1 Commando
Former Corporal John McNeil (1 Cdo) was killed by an explosion at the Waunyclun Colliery, Trimsaran, S. Wales. (Source: Commando Association newsletter 35.)
MEWETT, Robert
No 1 Commando
No 12 Commando
Pte Mewett served in No 12 Commando and later in Burma with No 1 Commando 4 troop.
MOORE, G.A.N.
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant G.A. Moore was reported missing during operations in North Africa 2 March 1943, found to have been taken prisoner and later transported to Stalag 4B.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/59.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
MORGAN, Harold Rees
No 1 Commando
Captain Harold Morgan from Llanelly died [1] during operations at Bizerte Tunisia. He received a MiD for "gallant and distinguished services in North Africa." [2].
Extract from the Liverpool Evening Express - Tuesday 22 December 1942
MORRIS, Matthew Frank
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant Matthew Morris MM died during operations at Kangaw. He is mentioned in this report about the battle. [view].
LSgt. Morris was awarded the MM, and his later MiD, in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa.
Sources
My Life in the Army
Note: If the viewer does not display within 5 seconds, refresh/reload this page.
NIAS, David
No 1 Commando
Lieutenant David Nias was the Intelligence Officer for No.1 Commando. He received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma. In February 1945 he took command of 5 Troop.
Sources
No.1 Commando War Diary - Hill 170 (Linked Content below).
London Gazette 37425, page 382.
Awards page Third Jungle Book (Linked Content below).
No.1 Commando War Diary February 1945 (Linked Content below).
NOTLEY, Gordon Leslie
No 1 Commando
Sergeant Gordon Notley was awarded the MM in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma.
OLVER, Leslie Cyril
No 1 Commando
Private Leslie Olver was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Arakan, Burma.
Citation
PATTERSON, Leslie Vincent
No 1 Commando
Private Leslie Patterson received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa [1].
- 29 July 1944 commissioned Second Lieutenant, Devonshire Regiment [2].
- 27 March 1946 reported dangerously ill died whilst attached to the Lincolnshire Regiment, 4th Bn. He died 4 days later on 31 March 1946 [3][4].
- Son of Frank Leslie and Estelle Louise Patterson, of Kingston, Jamaica [3].
Sources
PAWSON, Anthony
No 1 Commando
Private Anthony Pawson served in No. 1 Commando 4 troop in the Far East. He is on a Casualty List of those wounded during the action on Hill 170 on 31st January 1945.
PHILLIPS, Wilfrid Harold
No 1 Commando
Private Wifrid Phillips died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
PLLU, Andrew
No 1 Commando
Private Andrew Pllu died during operations at Kangaw.
POLLITT, Charles Jordan Bellingham
No 1 Commando
No 5 Commando
No 10 Independent Company
Charles Pollitt, then a Captain, embarked with No 10 Independent Company on their deployment to Freetown in April 1940. At the end of the year after No 10 Independent Company was disbanded he volunteered for and was posted to the Holding and Training Wing at what was then STC Achnacarry.
POWELL, Christopher William
No 1 Commando
Fusilier Christopher Powell died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
POWELL, Reginald, J.H.
No 1 Commando
Sergeant (later Troop Sergeant Major) Reginald Powell received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa.
Sources
London Gazette 36180, page 4227.
Photos in No.1 Commando gallery.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 87 issued September 1988.
RABBITT, Eric William
No 1 Commando
Gunner Eric Rabbitt was awarded the Military Medal [1] in in recognition of gallant and distinguished services at Alethangyaw, Arakan in Burma, on 12 November 1944.
Citation
RAFFERTY, Ronald George
No 1 Commando
Private Ronald Rafferty, No.1 Commando, was wounded in August 1944 in the Far East. He was taken to No.9 (Br) C.C.S. At the end of September he is recorded as being scheduled to be returned to his unit [1].
16 February 1945 Private Rafferty, 10th Bn., Gloucestershire Regiment, died of wounds in Burma [2][3].
Sources
[1] No.1 Commando War Diary / National Archives file WO218/63.
[2] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/89.
[3] CWGC.
REDMAN, Joseph
No 1 Commando
Warrant Officer Class 1 Joseph Redman was appointed M.B. E. (Military Division) in the King's birthday honours list of June 1946 [1].
- 23 September 1943 (Warrant Officer 2, R.Q.M.S.) Mentioned in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa. [2].
Extract from the Biggleswade Chronicle - Friday 27 September 1946.
REED, Neville
No 1 Commando
SAS
Lance Sergeant Neville Reed served in No 1 Commando.
- Post war he was RSM of 22 Special Air Service Regiment in Malaya. [1]
- 28th May 1957 it was announced that he had received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of distinguished services with 22 SAS in Malaya for the period 1st July to 31st December, 1956. [2]
- By 1958 he was RSM at the Gunnery School, R.A.C. Centre, Lulworth Camp, Wareham, Dorset. [3]
REGAN, John Leslie
No 1 Commando
John Regan was attested into the Royal Artillery in 1938 [1].
1939 transferred to the Royal Welch Fusiliers [2].
Volunteered for Special Service.
1943 received a Mention in Despatches as a Sergeant (attached SS Troops) in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa [3][*].
REID, Ernest, E.
No 1 Commando
Acting Lance Corporal Ernest Reid, 3 Troop, was reported missing during operations in North Africa 2 March 1943, found to have been taken prisoner and later transported to Stalag 4DZ.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/59; WO417/60.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Commando Association Newsletter 76 issued March 1983.
REID, George
No 1 Commando
The exact circumstances of how Private George Reid met his death are not known to this archive. His name is recorded here Winchester Reunion of No 1 Commando . This entry in the event programme lists his name under " Killed in action in North Africa." However he is buried in the UK.
RITCHIE, William Dunbar
No 1 Commando
Private William Ritchie died during operations in North Africa.
ROAST, Stanley Albert
No 1 Commando
Gunner Stanley Roast, from Maryport, Cumberland, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services at Kangaw, Burma [1].
Recommendation
RODNEY, John Francis
No 1 Commando
SBS
Baron John Francis Rodney served as a Lieutenant in No.1 Commando and as an Operational Officer in HQ, 2 SBS.
Post war he was a member of both the Commando Association and the Burma Star Association.
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 96 issued March 1993.
Burma Star Association Membership List (includes MiD).
2SBS Establishment Feb.1944 - see Linked Content below.
ROGERS, George Montague
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal George Rogers died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
RUDMAN, James Thomas
No 1 Commando
Private James Rudman died in India.
RUSCHKEWICZ, James R.
Ranger James Ruschkewicz, US Rangers 1st Bn. 'C' Company, died in an accidental explosion of a landmine at Barry Rifle Range, near Dundee, during a training exercise.
- 33068148 Ranger Aaron M. Salkin, 'C' Company, was severely injured.
- The Rangers had been training with No 1 Commando under Lieut. Col. T. Trevor.
RUSHTON, Harold George
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal Harold Rushton died during operations at Kangaw.
SALISBURY, Glyn
No 1 Commando
Corporal Glyn Salisbury was one of the commando contingent embarked on Motor Launch ML 306 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942. Wounded and taken prisoner he was subsequently transported to Stalag 344 Lamsdorf, Poland.
Sources
St Nazaire Society website.
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/48.
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/11.
SALTER, John, A.
No 1 Commando
Private John Salter received a Mention in Despatches for "gallant and distinguished service in North Africa."
Sources
London Gazette 36180 page 4226.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 116 issued February 2003.
SANDO, Thomas
No 1 Commando
Private Thomas Sando died in North Africa [1]. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
Extract from the Marylebone Mercury - Saturday 03 July 1943
Commando Dies Of Wounds:- Private Thomas Sando, Welch Regiment, of No. 1 Commando, is reported to have died of wounds in Tunisia. He was the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Percy Sando. of 16 Rowan Road, Brentford, and late of Ealing Road, Brentford.[2]SCANTLEBURY, John
No 1 Commando
Troop Sergeant Major John Scantlebury, known as Jack, was awarded the M.M. in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa on the 23rd February 1943. This was during an enemy assault in force on the left flank of the Commando when the then Corporal Scantlebury was the No.2 of a M.M.G.
SCARAMANGA, George Ambrose
No 1 Commando
Whilst a Lieutenant in No. 1 Commando, George Scaramanga was awarded the Military Cross [1] in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Tunisia during Operation Bizerte [2].
The death of "Capt. (later Rev.) George Ambrose Scaramanga, MC. (1 Cdo) of Chippenham, Wilts." was announced in Commando Association newsletter 87 issued September 1988.
Sources
[1] London Gazette 35944, page 1300.
[2] National Archives file WO373/1/61.
SEMPLE, Robert William
No 1 Commando
Lieutenant Robert Semple received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the Field.
Sources
London Gazette 37425, page 383.
Burma Star Assn. Membership List.
No1 Commando Winchester Reunion Programme.
CA Newsletter 14 issued March 1952.
Notes
LG entry above shows rank as Lieutenant. All other sources above show rank as Captain.
SEYS, Robert William
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant Robert Seys died as a result of an accident.
Sources CWGC British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 National Archives WO417/49.SHARMAN, Sidney Charles
No 1 Commando
SHORT, Bert
No 1 Commando
Private Bert Short was awarded the Military Medal, announced in Gazettes on the 13th October 1939, for "gallant and distinguished service in recent operations."
Extract from Commando Association newsletter 35 issued September 1962 "Recently promoted W.O.1. and R.S.M. of No. 18 Coy. R.A.M.C. at Millbank Barracks, London, S.W.1, is ex Pte. Bert Short, M.M. of 1 Cdo."
Sources
London Gazettes Supp. 34709, page 6933.
Commando Association Newsletter 35.
SINCUP, Arnold William
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant Arnold Sincup was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Burma. He is mentioned in this report about the battle at Kangaw. [view].
Sources
London Gazette 37040, page 2079.
National Archives file WO 373/36/43.
SLAVIN, Gerrard
No 1 Commando
Private Gerrard Slavin died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
SMITH, James
No 1 Commando
Jimmy Smith served as a Sergeant Major in No. 1 Commando. He died in 1983.
Extract from CA Newsletter 31 of Sept. 1960.
"CSM Jimmy Smith, known to most members of No. 1 Commando as 'De Sevia the magician', is still appearing at variety theatres in most of the large cities and towns in this country."
SOUTHWORTH, John Charles Hughes
No 1 Commando
3rd July 1939 Enlisted in the TA South Wales Borderers (The Monmouthshire Regiment).
28th April 1940 Volunteered for and was posted to No.9 Independent Company;
10th November 1940 Posted to 'A' Coy., No.1 Special Service Bn.,
4th March 1941 Posted to No.1 Commando 4 troop.
Whilst Lance Sergeant of 4 troop John Southworth was awarded the MM for gallantry during operations at Sedjenane.
STEWART, James Constantine
No 1 Commando
Fusilier James Stewart was awarded the M.M. in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa [1] in December 1942 during Operation Bizerte [more....] [2].
Sources
[1] London Gazette Supp. 35944, page 1300.
[2] National Archives file WO373/1/71.
SUDLOW, Jack
No 1 Commando
Post war 1946, Constable in British South African Police in Rhodesia.
[Sources: Commando Association newsletters 3 and 46].
SUMMERHAYES, Charles
No 1 Commando
Private Charles Summerhayes died during operations in North Africa.
SUTHERLAND, Alexander
No 1 Commando
Private Alexander Sutherland died during operations in North Africa.
SWAYNE, Ronald Oliver Carless
No 1 Commando
Lieutenant Ronnie Swayne was awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished service on Motor Launch ML306 during the raid at St. Nazaire [1][2].
He was taken prisoner and later transported to Oflag 9A/H at Spangenberg bei Kassel, Germany [3][4].
He was taken prisoner and later transported to Oflag 9A/H at Spangenberg bei Kassel, Germany [3][4].
- 26 June 1979 conferred with the honour of knighthood [5].
- 1989 appointed Vice President of the Commando Association [6].
Sources
[1]London Gazette 37162, page 3493.
[2] St Nazaire Society.
[1]London Gazette 37162, page 3493.
[2] St Nazaire Society.
TAYLOR, Clifford
No 1 Commando
Private Clifford Taylor died during operations in North Africa.
TAYLOR, William Ronald
No 1 Commando
Fusilier William Taylor died of wounds inflicted at Kangaw.
Sources
CWGC
Issue 9 of the Third Jungle Book [view].
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/88.
Note: Rank shown as Lance Corporal in Casualty List record.
THIRKELL-WHITE, Derek John Plantaganet
No 1 Commando
Captain Derek Thirkell-White died during operations with the King's Own Regiment at Leros having left the Commando. He had earlier served with the Middle East Commando (redesignated as 1 Special Service Regiment) in July 1942.
Sources
War Office Casualty List 1402
ME Cdo Depot and 1 Special Service Regt. War Diary Nominal Roll of Officers July 4th 1942 ref. National Archives WO 218 / 159.
THOMPSON, Malcolm
No 1 Commando
Private Malcolm Thompson, 4 Troop, was from a family of nine brothers and five sisters residing in Lowestoft. Eight of the nine brothers served in WW2.
Malcolm served in the Tunisian Campaign and Burma with No.1 Commando and was a member of the original Commando Association after the war.
His brother George was killed in action serving with the Suffolk Regiment.
THORPE, J.
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal J. Thorpe received a Mention in Despatches for "gallant and distinguished service in North Africa."
Sources
London Gazette 36180 page 4226.
Notes
There is a name THORPE amongst many names of Commandos on the back of a captured japanese flag which is in the Gallery. The initials are either J or V and below the name is "Leighton Buzzard, Beds."
THURSBY, John Fortescue
No 1 Commando
Second Lieutenant John Thursby, 5 Troop, died after contracting Polio during his posting to the Far East with No.1 Commando.
His death is mentioned in the "Third Jungle Book" issue No.8 date Sep 1945, in the No.5 Troop Notes section, page 26. - "The sudden passing of Lieut. Thursby was a great blow to the Troop we offer our sincerest condolences to his family on their great loss"
Sources
CWGC.
Third Jungle Book issue 8 [see Linked Content below].
[Image] Loretto School ROH and Archive.
TOMBLIN, Edward Charles
No 1 Commando
Private Edward Tomblin died during Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. He was one of the commando contingent on Motor Launch ML 306.
Sources
CWGC
St Nazaire Society website.
TREVOR, Kenneth Rowland Swetenham (Lt Col )
No 1 Commando
Officer Commanding No 1 Commando 1943 - 1945.
Ken Trevor joined No 1 Commando in 1941. As Captain of 1 troop in 1942 he took part in a raid at St Cecily Plage and the later Operation Torch landings. He received a Mention in Despatches (MiD) in N. Africa. He took over command of No 1 Commando from his cousin Tom Trevor when the Commando sailed to India in 1943. During the campaign in Burma he was awarded the DSO for gallant and distinguished services.
TREVOR, Thomas Hoult (Lt Col)
No 1 Commando
No 2 Independent Company
Thomas Trevor was 2i/c of No 2 Independent Company when they sailed as part of Scissors Force (Operation Avonmouth) to take part in the Combined Operations raid on Norway. After this, with the disbandment of the Independent Companies, he joined the newly raised No 1 Commando.
TUCKER, Ivan Henry
No 1 Commando
Private Ivan Tucker died during operations at Kangaw.
Sources
CWGC
Cause of death recorded here Winchester Reunion of No 1 Commando .
Image: © Trinity Mirror / Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Friday 09 March 1945
British Newspaper Archive (website britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk); The British Library Board.
TUFFY, William
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal William Tuffy, Medical Section, received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma. He additionally received a Certificate of Gallantry. Post war member of the Commando Association from Irvine.
Sources
London Gazette 37425, page 385; errata in LG 38256, page 2270.
Awards in 3 Cdo Bde Jungle Book issue 9.
Sources
London Gazette 37425, page 385; errata in LG 38256, page 2270.
Awards in 3 Cdo Bde Jungle Book issue 9.
Commando Association newsletter 20.
TURNBULL, John Hugh Stephenson
No 1 Commando
Major John Turnbull MC and bar assumed command of No 1 Commando at Myebon on the 10th February 1945 after the departure of Lt. Col. K.R.S. Trevor [view]. [1].
He had been awarded the MC whilst a T/Captain in No 1 Commando in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa. [2].
WALLIS, Reginald
No 1 Commando
Corporal Reginald Wallis died during operations at Kangaw. He received a MiD in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa.
There is a photo that may be of him in the gallery HERE.
WARD, William G.
No 1 Commando
No 12 Commando
WATTS, Robert Edward
No 1 Commando
Private Robert Watts died during operations at Kangaw.
WEAVER, Edward Walter
No 1 Commando
Private Edward Weaver died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
WEBB, George Henry
No 1 Commando
Private George Webb was awarded the MM in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma.
The death of Pte. George H. Webb, M.M. (1 Cdo.) of Bromley, Kent, was announced in Commando Association newsletter 78 issued March 1984.
Sources
London Gazettes Supp. 37040, page 2080.
National Archives file WO 373/36/84.
London Gazettes Supp. 37040, page 2080.
National Archives file WO 373/36/84.
WEBBER, Ernest George William
No 1 Commando
Private Ernest Webber died in India as a result of an accident whilst swimming.
Extract from the No 1 Commando War Diary
Londa Astoli 12 May 1945.
Pte Webber (6 tp) who injured himself whilst swimming died in C.M.H. Belgaum.
13 May 1945, 1500hrs
13 May 1945, 1500hrs
Bearers and Firing party provided by 6 tp for the funeral of Pte. Webber at BELGAUM.
Sources
CWGC
No 1 Commando War Diary May 1945 National Archives file WO/218/81.
WEEKES, Sydney George Douglas
No 1 Commando
Fusilier Sydney Weekes died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
WEIGHT, Donald, E.
No 1 Commando
WESTCOTT, Samuel Charles
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal Samuel Westcott died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
WESTLEY, Stanley Charles
No 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant (later TSM) Stanley Westley received a Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service during operations in North Africa. He was wounded there on 3 March 1943. Post War member of the Burma Star Association.
Sources
London Gazette 36180, page 4226.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/58.
WHELAN, Jack
No 1 Commando
Private Jack Whelan was initially reported missing, later presumed to have died of wounds during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia. He has no known grave.
Sources
CWGC.
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/68.
WILES, Geoffrey Charles
No 1 Commando
Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant Geoffrey Wiles, No.1 Commando, was attested into the Royal Artillery in 1938. He received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa. Post war member of the Commando Association from Harlow Essex.
Sources
London Gazette 36180, page 4223.
RA Attestations 1938.
Commando Association newsletters 57 and 98.
[Image] CVA No.1 Commando Warrant Officers and Sgts photo.
WILLIAMS, Frank
No 1 Commando
Private Frank Williams died during operations in North Africa.
Extract from the No 1 Commando War Diary for 28 March 1943
Location: Djebel Choucha, Algeria.
1600 hrs - Own troops shelled by our artillery ( Capt.Davies O.C. group 1 and 5 0.R.s injured. 1 O.R killed ). [1]
Sources
CWGC
War Diary - 1 Commando,1943, National Archives file WO 218/49.
Notes
WILLIAMS, John Arthur
No 1 Commando
Corporal John Williams was recommended for the M.M., and the D.C.M., in recognition of gallant and distinguished services during two events in North Africa on the 2nd and 4th March 1943. He was No. 1 on a Bren gun team [1]. After consideration, the award he received was the M.M [1 +2].
Sources
[1] National Archives file WO373/1/161.
WILLIS-JONES, John
No 1 Commando
John Willis-Jones enlisted in the Welch Regiment in May 1939 before volunteering for the Commandos in 1940. He was attached to No.1 Commando as a Signalman and took part in their North African campaign. After promotion he served on the staff at the Commando Basic Training Centre, Achnacarry, as a Sergeant Instructor of Physical Training.
Sources
Commando Service Certificate.
Army Book 64 Service and Pay.
CVA Gallery Images.
WILSON, Graham Charles
No 1 Commando
Fusilier Graham Wilson died during operations at Kangaw.
YOUNG, James Alfred
No 1 Commando
Lance Corporal James Young died during operations at Kangaw. He is mentioned in this report about the battle. [view].
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