No 1 Commando

Commando Veterans Archive Header

There may be content on individuals that is not listed here. If you do not find a name use the different Search options within the Site. Contact the Archive to have a name included.

Displaying 1 - 300 of 410

1 / 5 Commando

After Burma No.1 and No.5 Commandos were withdrawn to India to prepare for Operation ‘Zipper’ the invasion of Malaya. Zipper being abandoned after the cessation of hostilities both Commando units were re-deployed to Hong Kong on policing duties.
Because of the loss of men through demobilisation,  No.1 Commando was merged early 1946 with No.5 Commando to form No.1/5 Commando which was itself later disbanded.

Gallery images [No.1/5 Commando]
 

1 Commando

History of the Unit

1 Commando
  • 13 June 1940 first formed with personnel from No's 6 & 8 Independent Companies as No.11 Independent Company.
  • 14 June 1940 re-designated No.1 Commando.
  • 27 July 1940 absorbed into No.1 Special Service Battalion.
  • 5 March 1941 Dartmouth reformed as No.1 Commando.

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.

Operation Chopper

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

Document from John Mewett,  transcribed by Elaine Southworth-Davies. Source: National Archives  WO 218/81. 
Note: 12 Troop is thought to have been a short lived merger due to numbers of 1 and 2 Troops.
[Source: Henry Brown OBE.]
 
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 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, 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 Cdo Bde Third Jungle Book issue 9

Type: Booklet
Author: Maj. I.V. Carrell & Lt. G. Sheath (RM)
Year of Publishing: 2015
Keywords: jungle book, 3 commando brigade, no 1 commando, no 5 commando, 42rm commando, 44rm commando
Download

One of a series of the Magazine of the Third Commando Brigade produced and published between 1944 and 1946 for issue to those serving in the Brigade. In a No 1 Commando Newsletter dated 27th Feb 1944 it mentions about the new Brigade Magazine being published. It states that "From this unit Lieut. J.R. Turpin is publishing advisor, and Lieut. A.J. Davies is Art Director on the publishing staff."

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

ABBOTT, Leslie William

Sergeant (later Major QM)
14315624
485395
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Sergeant Leslie Abbott served in No.1 Commando. Post war he was commissioned and was serving in 5 Regiment, Royal Artillery in the 1970's [1][1a].
  • 15 June 1974 (Captain QM) appointed M.B.E. (Military Division) [2].

ABBS, F.V.

Gunner
2083611
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery

Gunner Abbs, 3 Troop, was wounded on 31 January 1945 during operations in Burma. 

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

AIRD, William

Private
3194769
No 1 Commando
King's Own Scottish Borderers
Military Medal (MM)
Private William Aird, 5 Troop, was wounded during operations in Burma and subsequently awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service [1][2][3].
Recommendation

AITKEN, J.E.

Rifleman (Acting Lance Corporal)
3249930
No 1 Commando
Cameronians

Lance Corporal Aitken, 4 Troop, was wounded 31 January 1945 during operations at Hill 170, Kangaw, Burma.

ALDRIDGE, William Reginald

Lance Sergeant
5830857
No 1 Commando
Cambridgeshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant William Aldridge died in North Africa. He has no known grave. Son of Walter William and Florence Phoebe Aldridge, of Smethwick, Staffordshire. Posthumous Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service in North Africa. 
 

ALEXANDER, Charles Henry

Trooper
14241760
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Leicester City Police
Charles Henry Alexander was a Melton Mowbray Police Constable residing in 1939 at 7 The Cresent, Melton Mowbray. He volunteered for the commandos enlisting 19 July 1942 joining the 2nd Police Intake at the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre).

ALEXANDER, John MacAlister

Fusilier
4194689
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier John Alexander died during operations in North Africa. Son of Thomas and Margaret Alexander, of Leighton, Montgomeryshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/55.

ALLEN, Edward Patrick

Edward Allen MM 1 Commando
Private
14627308
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Military Medal (MM)
Private Edward Allen, from Swansea, was wounded during operations in Burma, and later awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service [1][2][3].
Recommendation

ALLUM, Frank Edmund

Frank Edmund Allum
Gunner
914187
No 12 Commando
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Frank Allum was attested into the Royal Artillery in 1939. He was wounded May 1940 in France serving with 145 Field Regiment RA. Volunteering for the Commandos he served in both No.12 and No.1 Commando.
 
Sources

ANDERSON, Barrie Sherwill Norman

Trooper
14241781
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Staffordshire County Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
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 of wounds in captivity on 12 January 1943 in Italy. Son of Gibert Norman Anderson, and of Stella Christine Anderson, of Walton, Stafford.

ANDREWS, Alfred Archley

Fusilier
14604353
No 1 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Alfred Andrews died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Son of George Andrews, and of Dora E. Andrews, of South Harrow, Middlesex. He volunteered for the Commandos whilst serving in the Police.
  • 12.10.1936 joined the Metropolitan Police, warrant number 125297.

ANDREWS, Ronald

Gunner
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Also served No.1/5 Commando. Post war member of the Commando Association from Liverpool.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 118 (2004).
 

ANNETTS, George Henry

Corporal
4075165
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
George Henry Annetts enlisted 19 July 1939, civil occupation Miner. He later volunteered for the Commandos. Corporal Annetts was reported missing 2 March 1943 during operations at Tunis, North Africa, later confirmed a prisoner of war. Liberated May 1945.

ANSELL, Arthur James

Trooper
14241725
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Ansell was reported wounded and missing on 4 March 1943 during operations in North Africa, later presumed died of wounds. He has no known grave. Son of Alfred and May Ansell; husband of Eileen Dora Ansell, of Finchley, Middlesex.

ASHWORTH, James Kenyon

Private
14241726
No 1 Commando
East Surrey Regiment
West Sussex Constabulary
James Ashworth, a Police Constable from Sussex, volunteered for the Commandos in 1942 joining the 2nd Police Intake to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry. In 1939 he was residing at 116 The Gardens, Southwick, Sussex.

AUSTIN, Selwyn Ronald

Selwyn Austin 1 Commando
Private
14241782
No 1 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment
Coventry City Police / Warwickshire Constabulary
Selwyn Ronald Austin was a Coventry Police Constable who volunteered for the Commandos joining the 2nd Police Intake to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre) at Achnacarry, that commenced in July 1942.

BAGOT, Henry Hunter

Trooper
14241647
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Manchester Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Henry Bagot died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia. He has no known grave. Son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Bagot, of Manchester.

BAKER, Albert

Albert baker No.1 Commando
Lance Sergeant
2614133
No 1 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Bradford City Police
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Albert Baker D.C.M., died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Son of Albert and Annie Baker, of Stanningley, Leeds, Yorkshire.

BAKER, George Horace

Gunner
6143891
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner George Baker died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. He has no known grave. Son of Horace Edward and Mary Ann Baker, of Kingston-on-Thames, Surrey.
 

BAKER, Herbert Valentine

Herbert Valentine Baker 1 Commando
Lance Corporal
14241761
No 1 Commando
Royal Warwickshire Regiment
Derbyshire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Herbert Baker died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Son of Albert and Harriet Baker, and husband of Beatrice Ellen Baker, of Handsworth, Birmingham. In 1939 Herbert Valentine Baker was a Police Constable, number 396, residing at 26 Slater Avenue, Derby.

BAKER, Kenneth Claude

Kenneth Claude Baker No.1 Commando
Private
14241727
No 1 Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
West Sussex Constabulary
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Private Kenneth Baker was seriously wounded 23 February 1943 during operations in North Africa and was medically discharged from the Army on 31August 1943.

BALE, John Henry

Private
14241608
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Newport Borough Police
Private John Bale was reported missing 2 December 1942 during operations in North Africa (Tunisia), later found to be a prisoner of war in Italy [1][1a].
1943 escaped from captivity to a neutral country [2][2a].

BALL, Percy William

Sergeant
6482288
No 1 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police (War Reserve)
Percy William Ball, a Meat Salesman from Fulham, London, was a Metropolitan Police War Reserve Constable who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the 1st Police Intake of 1942. After successfully completing his training he was attached to No.1 Commando and served with them in Burma.

BALL, Sydney Alonso

Also seen as: 
BALL , Sidney Alonzo
Gunner
917356
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Ball from Luton was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia, later presumed killed in action. He has no known grave. Son of Ernest and Alice Ball; husband of Freda Evelyn Ball, of Luton, Bedfordshire.

BARDENS, John Henry

Gunner
14241811
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Plymouth City Police

John Henry Bardens was a Police Officer from Plymouth who volunteered for the Commandos enlisting 6 June 1942 joining the 2nd Police Intake to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry.

BARNES, Ernest

Bombardier Ernest Tag Barnes
Tag Barnes 1 Commando
Acting Bombardier (later Sergeant)
4748087
No 1 Commando
York and Lancaster Regiment / Royal Artillery
Military Medal (MM)
Bombardier Ernest Barnes was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Burma [1].
Recommendation

BARTER, George

Gunner
943492
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner George Barter died during operations in North Africa. He has no known grave. 
Son of Llewellyn Barter, and of Mabel Barter, of Surbiton, Surrey.
 
Sources
CWGC.

BARTLETT, Brian Viner

Trooper
14241812
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Bristol City Police
Trooper Brian Bartlett, No.1 Commando, was wounded 17 March 1943 during operations in North Africa. Also served at Commando Group HQ. 
Sept. 1939 Police Constable residing at 44 Kensal Road, Bristol. 

BATE, William Horace

William Horace Bate 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant
5830863
No 1 Commando
Suffolk Regiment

Private William Bate was wounded on 8 November 1942 during operations in North Africa. He remained with No.1 Commando and was promoted Corporal in February 1944 and by 1945 was Lance Sergeant. Released from service 18 February 1946.

BATE, William, H.

Lance Sergeant
5830863
No 1 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Private Bate was wounded 8 November 1942 during operations in North Africa. Later deployed overseas with No.1 Commando for operations in Burma. 2 February 1944 promoted Lance Corporal. Post war member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources

BEARNE, Robert Stanley

Lance Sergeant
14604358
No 1 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Robert Stanley Bearne was a Metropolitan Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos joining HM Armed Forces on 19 May 1943.
In 1939 he was a Police Officer serving at the Police Station, Walworth Road, Southwark.

BEATTIE, James Simpson

James Beattie 1 Commando
Corporal (later Second Lieutenant)
14241854 and 314128
No 1 Commando
Royal Scots
Edinburgh City Police
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Military Medal (MM)
Queen's Police Medal (QPM)
Corporal James Beattie was awarded the Military Medal in 1943 in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa [1].
Recommendation [1a]

BEECH, James Frederick

Private
14404860
No 1 Commando
No 5 Commando
1 Special Service (Commando) Brigade
Royal Sussex Regiment
Died on war service
Private James Beech, HQ 3 Commando Brigade, died in Poona Hospital India after contracting polio. Son of Frederick William Thomas Beech and Elvina Beech, of Brighton, Sussex. [1][1a]][2].

BENNETT, Richard, Albury

Lieutenant
2724105
339560
No 1 Commando
1/5 Commando
Oxford and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry
Posted from the ranks to Officer Cadet Training Unit.
16 December 1974 commissioned Second Lieutenant.
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Kwa Zulu, Natal, South Africa.
 
Sources

BENNION, Thomas James

Corporal
14241783
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Stoke on Trent City Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Thomas Bennion died of wounds received during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Son of James Owen Bennion and Florence Mary Bennion, of Baldwin's Gate, Staffordshire. In 1939 Thomas Bennion was a Police Constable residing in Stoke on Trent.

BENSLEY, James

James Bensley
Corporal
RMV202718 & 2056319
RM Reserve
Royal Marines
Died in the UK
Corporal James Bensley, a Royal Marines Reservist with the R.M.F.V.R. (Tyne), died during a parachute training exercise at Poole, Dorset [1][2]. James served in the Royal Artillery and No.1 Commando during the war with active service in Burma.

BENTLEY, Charles

Fusilier
14241648
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Cheshire Constabulary
1939 Charles Bentley was a Police Civilian Clerk residing in Goostrey, Cheshire [1].
15 January 1940 joined Cheshire Constabulary as a Police Officer [1a].

BENTLEY, Donald

Private
14241762
No 1 Commando
Lincolnshire Regiment
Lincolnshire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Donald Bentley died during operations in North Africa. Son of Greenwood and Mary Elizabeth Bentley, of Carlton-Le-Moorland, Lincolnshire.

BERRY, James Arthur

James Arthur Berry 1 Commando
Private
14241649
No 1 Commando
Cheshire Regiment
Cheshire County Constabulary
20 February 1939 joined Cheshire Constabulary - Police Constable 256 residing at 113 West Street, Crewe. 1942 volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. 
4 March 1943 reported missing in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war.

BERRY, L.

Lance Corporal
2579764
No 1 Commando
Royal Corps of Signals

Lance Corporal Berry, 5 Troop, was wounded on 23 January 1945 during operations in Burma.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

BETTY, Arthur John

Private (later Captain)
14241813 and 35447
No 1 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment
Gloucestershire Constabulary
Private Arthur Betty was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations in North Africa later found to be a prisoner of war in Italian hands. In 1944 he is reported no longer a prisoner of war [1][1a].

BIDDISCOMBE, Edward

Also seen as: 
BIDDESCOMBE, Edward
Lance Bombardier
14241845
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
??
Lance Bombardier Edward Biddiscombe, HQ Troop, was wounded on 31 January 1945 during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Post war member of the Commando Association from Upper Lydbrook, Gloucestershire.
 
Sources

BISHOP, Ronald Caldwell

Private
5627758
No 1 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Ronald Caldwell Bishop from Forest Hill, London, enlisted in June 1940. After volunteering for special service he was attached to No.1 Commando. Private Bishop was wounded 28 March 1942 and reported missing after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later confirmed a prisoner of war.

BLAIR, Thomas

Thomas Blair_1_and_12_Commando
Private
3392400
No 1 Commando
No 12 Commando
East Lancashire Regiment
No.12 and No.1 Commando. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Padiham, Burnley.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 94 (1992).

BLEAKLEY, Charles

Fusilier
4208516
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Died on war service
Fusilier Bleakley from Wigan was accidentally killed by a gunshot wound (instantaneous) at Bunarkaig, Achnacarry. Seen after death by Capt. J.E. Symondson RAMC, the Medical Officer at the Commando Basic Training Centre (CBTC). Son of Thomas and Emily Bleakley, of Higher Ince, Wigan.

BOOTH, William Martel

Lance Corporal (later Captain)
14241729 and 321576
No 5 Commando
No 1 Commando
Essex Regiment
Essex Constabulary

In 1939 William Booth was an Essex Constabulary Police Constable based at South Street Police Station, Romford. He volunteered for the Commandos in 1942 as part of the Police Intakes to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry.

BOWDEN, Cedric

Cedric Bowden No.1 Commando
Cedric Bowden, LCpl, No.1 Commando
Lance Corporal
14241814
No 1 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Plymouth City Police
Cedric Bowden was a Plymouth City Police Officer who volunteered for the commandos in 1942 joining the 2nd Police Intake at the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry. After completing the training he was attached to No.1 Commando.

BOYCE, James Wesley R.

James Boyce 1 Commando
Private
5828291
No 1 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private James Wesley Boyce, 4 Troop, died during the battle for Hill 170 at Kangaw, Burma. Posthumous Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service.
Son of Mr and Mrs Boyce of Bury St Edmunds; husband of Martha Bicker from Irvine.
 

BOYES, Robert Paul

Robert Paul Boyes No.1 Commando
Robert Paul Boyes (No.1 Cdo)
Company Sergeant Major
14241785
No 1 Commando
Royal Northumberland Fusiliers
Hartlepool Borough Police
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Queen's Police Medal (QPM)
Robert Paul Boyes volunteered for the Commandos as part of the 2nd Police Intake of 1942. 
Served with No.1 Commando, final rank Company Sergeant Major.
9 October 1939 serving Police Constable residing Welldeck Gardens, Hartlepool.

BRADFORD, John Meller

Captain
70669
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers, 2nd Bn. The Monmouthshire Regt.
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain John Bradford from Swansea died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia. Son of Ernest Meller Bradford and Ethel Mary Bradford.

BRENNAN, M.

Gunner
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Member of the Commando Association with whom they lost contact, last known residing Alveston, Derby.
 
Sources
Commando Association Lost Legion List 2 (1973).
 

BROWN, Bruce Ian Murray

Private
14241815
No 1 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Devon Constabulary
Bruce Ian Murray Brown was a Police Officer who volunteered for the commandos in 1942 joining the 2nd Police Intake at the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry. After completing his training he was attached to No.1 Commando.

BROWN, Gilbert

Lance Corporal
6482286
No 1 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Gilbert Brown was a Metropolitan Police Constable in 1939 residing at Gilmour Police Section House, Renfrew Road, Lambeth. He volunteered for the Commandos in 1942 and joined the 1st Police Intake to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), at Achnacarry.

BROWN, Henry

Henry Brown 1 Commando
Henry Brown Commando Association Secretary
Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant
No 1 Commando
No 2 Independent Company
Royal Army Service Corps
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Henry Brown was a Quartermaster RSM in No.1 Commando serving from their formation in 1940 to disbandment at the end of the war. Service included operations in North Africa and later in the Far East. Also served at Bodo, Norway May/June 1940 with No.2 Independent Company HQ.

BRUNT, Morris Raymond

Private
14241787
No 1 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Birmingham City Police
Private Morris Brunt was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war in Italian hands. He escaped in 1943 via Switzerland before returning to the UK in 1944. 

BUNT, Reginald Melford

Private
14241788
No 1 Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Birmingham City Police
Mentioned in Despatches
Private Reginald Bunt received a Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service in North Africa. He had volunteered for the Commandos from the Police as part of the Police Intakes of 1942. In 1939 he was a Police Constable at Digbeth Police Station, Birmingham.

BURDEN, Stanley Percival

Stan_Burden_1_Commando
Fusilier
6482242
No 1 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Stanley Percival Burden joined the Metropolitan Police Force on 31 May 1937 warrant number 126230. He entered the Armed Forces on 19 June 1942 after volunteering for the Commandos and was posted to the 1st Police Intake at the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry.

BURKE, Edmund

Private
14241861
No 1 Commando
Oxfordshire Constabulary
In 1939 Edmund Burke was a Police Constable based at the Police Station in Rectory Lane, Woodstock. He volunteered for the Commandos in 1942 joining the 2nd Police Intake at the Commando Depot (Commando Basic training Centre), Achnacarry.

BURKE, Patrick Oliver

Private
7265212
No 1 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Patrick Oliver Burke, a Hairdresser from Youghal, County Cork, enlisted 5 May 1939. Private Burke, R.A.M.C. attached No.1 Commando, was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia, later confirmed wounded 3 December 1942 and a prisoner of war.

BURNS, Norman

Norman Burns served in No.1 Commando
Corporal (later Lieutenant)
14241855 and 327944
No 1 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Aberdeenshire Constabulary
Norman Burns joined Aberdeenshire Constabulary in 1939 and was posted to Fraserburgh. In 1942 he volunteered for the Commandos and was part of the 2nd Police Intake to Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry.

BUTLER, Ronald Herbert

Ronald Butler 2 Commando
Lance Sergeant
5774300
No 1 Commando
Royal Norfolk Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
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.

CAMBLIN, Cecil

Cecil Camblin 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant
6977897
No 1 Commando
Royal Irish Fusiliers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Cecil Camblin was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia, later presumed killed in action. He has no known grave.
Extract from the Belfast Telegraph
18 November 1943

CANN, John Henry

WO1 Regimental Sergeant Major
3955333
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment

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.

CARREL, Ian Vincent

Ian Vincent Carrel, 1 Commando
Captain (later Major)
156172
No 1 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
Mentioned in Despatches
Captain Ian Vincent Carrel received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma [1].  
  • 7 June 1974  Senior Technical Adviser, Ministry of Defence, appointed C.B.E. (Civil Division) [2].

CHAPPELL, Ernest Lionel Desmond

Des Chappell 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant
4198350
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers

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.

CLAY, Fred Henry

Gunner
6206246
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Fred Clay died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Son of Frederick Henry and May Ethel Clay, of Ponder's End, Enfield, Middlesex.
 

COKER, James Thomas

Private (later Lance Corporal)
14604363
No 1 Commando
Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment
Metropolitan Police
Military Medal (MM)
In 1939 James Coker was a Metropolitan Police Constable serving at Highgate Police Station, Archway Road, London. He later volunteered for the Commandos and after his training at the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry, was attached to 6 Troop of No.1 Commando in 1943.

COLEMAN, Charles Jack

Lieutenant (later Major)
105582
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Territorial Decoration (TD)
Charles Jack Coleman served in No. 1 Commando and 1 Commando Brigade*.
  • 19 November 1939 commissioned Second Lieutenant, Welch Regiment [1].

COLEMAN, Harold James

Troop Sergeant Major
3957677
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Died on war service
Troop Sergeant Major Harold Coleman died in Caernarvonshire and Anglesey Infirmary as a result of injuries received whilst rock climbing. Son of Mary Coleman; husband of G. V. Coleman, of Riverside, Cardiff.

COOPER, C.

Private
No 1 Commando
-
Member of the Commando Association with whom they lost contact, last known residing Aberdeen.
 
Sources
Commando Association Lost Legion List 3.
 

COUNSELL, Harold Pettit

Gunner (later Lance Sergeant)
866743
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Harold Counsell was attested into the Royal Artillery in 1937. During WW2 he volunteered for the Commandos and was wounded on 15 January 1945 during operations in Burma. Post war member of the Commando Association from Beckenham, Kent.
 
Sources

COWAP, Dalton Hayton

Captain
180592
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Military Cross (MC)
Captain Dalton Hayton 'George' Cowap MC, 4 Troop, was wounded during operations at Myebon in January, and reported as dangerously ill on the 19th January 1945 [1][1a][2].  

CRAIG, Samuel

Fusilier
1500685
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Samuel Craig was attested into the Royal Artillery in 1938 and transferred to the Royal Welch Fusiliers on 4 October 1939, later volunteering for the Commandos. He was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia, later presumed killed in action.

CRELLIN, P.S.

Private
No 1 Commando
1 Troop. Member of the Commando Association last known residing Isle of Man.
 
Sources
Commando Association Lost Legion List 3.
No.1 Commando newsletter 27/2/44.
 

CREWE, Frank Harold

Lieutenant
312403
No 1 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
Lieutenant Frank Crewe, 3 Troop, was wounded 31 January 1946 during operations at Hill 170, Kangaw, Burma. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Market Drayton, Salop.
 
Sources

CROFT, James Herbert

Captain
38190
No 1 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
Died on war service
Captain Sir James Croft died as a result of an accident. 11th Baronet and son of Sir Herbert Archer Croft, 10th Baronet, and Lady Croft (nee Parr), of Sway, Hampshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.

CROSS, D.W.

Private
3974792
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Private Cross, 12 Troop, was wounded on 28 January 1945 during operations in Burma.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.
 
Notes

CROWE, James

Jim Crowe MM 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant
313358
No 1 Commando
Seaforth Highlanders
Military Medal (MM)
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.
Recommendation 

CROXFORD, -

Private
No 1 Commando
3 Troop.
 
Sources
No1 Commando News Letter-27 Feb 1944-page 2 in gallery.
Collection of owner Eddy Fitzgerald, No1 Commando, courtesy of his daughter Teresa.
 

CUNNINGHAM, Stephen

Private
14604367
No 1 Commando
Seaforth Highlanders
Metropolitan Police
Private Stephen Cunningham, 6 Troop, was wounded 31 January 1945 during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Post war member of the Burma Star Association residing Upper Norwood, South London.

CURRAN, Richard

Private
No 1 Commando

1 Troop. Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Netherton, Liverpool.
 
Sources
No1 Commando News Letter-27 Feb 1944 in Gallery.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 99 (1994).

DAVEY, Arthur Amos

Gunner
11259984
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Arthur Davey (Jnr), 3 Troop, was wounded on 23 January 1945 during operations in Burma. Post war member of the Commando Association from Birmingham.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

DAVIDSON, Douglas Malcolm

Capt.D.M. Davidson MC
Captain
105288
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
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.

DAVIES, Alan John

Captain
224659
No 1 Commando
No 5 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
Commissioned 31 January 1942. Member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources 
London Gazette 35448, p649.
Commando Association newsletter 45 (1967) and 102 (1996).
 

DAVIES, Thomas Alfred

Private
4033757
No 1 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Thomas Davies was reported missing presumed died of wounds during operations in North Africa. He has no known grave.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists /National Archives files WO417/75.
 

DAVIES, Verdun George

Private
4080355
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Verdun Davies was reported missing 6 December 1942, later presumed killed in action, during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia. He has no known grave. Son of Edgar John and Margret Davies.
 
Sources
CWGC.

DAVIES, W.

Fusilier
No 12 Commando
No 1 Commando

Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Cefn Mawr, nr. Wrexham.
 
Sources
Commando Association Lost Legion List 4.

DEARDEN, Henry Graham

Henry Dearden 1 Commando
Private
3191706
No 1 Commando
Kings Own Scottish Borderers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Henry Dearden died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Husband of Josephine Dearden, of Glasgow.
 
Sources
CWGC.
[Image] War Illustrated Magazine.
 

DICKSON, George

Gunner
1446673
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner George Dickson died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Son of Douglas and Mary Dickson; husband of Margaret Robertson Dickson, of Broughty Ferry, Angus.
 

DOCKERILL, Arthur Henry

Lance Sergeant
940903
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Lance Sergeant Arthur Dockerill was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for gallantry during the raid at St Nazaire on 28 March 1942. He was part of a Lt. Chant's demolition team that embarked on board HMS Campbeltown.

DOCKERILL, Graham Dennis

Fusilier
6482233
Special Service Brigade
No 1 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Fusilier Graham Dockerill, HQ Special Service Brigade and No.1 Commando, was reported missing 4 March 1943 during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war. 
Police Service

DOVEY, Albert Peter

Pete Dovey 1 Commando
Private
No 1 Commando
Holding Operational Commando
British Empire Medal (BEM)
5 Troop, No.1 Commando. Post war chairman of the Lincoln Branch of the Commando Association. In June 1986 he was awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) for service to industry. Employed as a Chargehand, Sheet Metal Shop, Ruston Gas Turbines Ltd.
 
Sources

DOWNEY, John Joseph

Sgt John Downey MM 1 Commando
Warrant Officer Class 2
828326
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Military Medal (MM)
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].

DUFFY, William

William Duffy 1 Commando
Private
3778082
No 1 Commando
The King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private William Duffy from Liverpool died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia. He has no known grave. Husband of Nora Duffy. Educated at St Sylvesters Roman Catholic School. 
 
Sources
CWGC.

DUMIGAN, James

James Dumigan 1 Commando
Lance Corporal
6982426
No 1 Commando
Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal James Dumigan from Belfast died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Son of William James Dumigan and Christina Dumigan, of Belfast, Northern Ireland.
 

DURRANT, Thomas Frank, VC, (No.1 Cdo), Recommended by the Enemy

Type: Booklet
Author: Robert John Mewett
Year of Publishing: 2016
Keywords: durrant, vc, Victoria cross, commando, chariot, st nazaire
Download

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

EATON, George Oliver

Private
3777516
No 1 Commando
The King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private George Eaton was initially reported missing, later presumed to have died of wounds during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia. He has no known grave. Son of John and Emily Eaton; husband of Georgina Eaton, of Liverpool.
 
Sources

EDWARDS, Elwyn

Fusilier
4192899
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Elwyn Edwards, 5 troop, was killed in action during operations at Luc Sur Mer on the French coast. Nephew of Jane Hughes, of Clawddnewydd, Denbighshire, brother of Elizabeth McDonnell (nee Edwards), of Belfast.
 
Sources

EVANS, Clifford Gregory

Lance Corporal
4078187
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Corporal Clifford Evans was reported missing 4 March 1943 during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war. The following year he escaped at Munsterberg, Germany, from a working detachment out of Stalag VIIIA, Gorlitz.

EVANS, Cyril Denman

Lance Corporal
4080201
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Corporal Cyril Evans was killed in action during operations at Luc Sur Mer on the French coast. Son of John Edward and Agnes May Evans, of Ebbw Vale, Monmouthshire.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/47.

EVANS, Earl Michael

Corporal (Acting Lance Sergeant)
3959724
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Earl Michael Evans was a Coal Miner from South Wales who enlisted on 24 March 1938. Prior to volunteering for the Commandos he served in Palestine. Corporal (Acting Sergeant) Evans was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later confirmed a prisoner of war.

EVANS, Robert John

Lance Sergeant
4198289
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Died on active service
Lance Sergeant Robert Evans died as a result of an accident during operations in North Africa. Son of Robert and Hannah Evans, of Flint.
 
Sources
CWGC.

EVERITT, F.H.D.

Private
14207309
No 1 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment

Private Everitt, 3 Troop, was wounded on 23 January 1945 during operations in Burma.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

FARMER, Sydney Albert

Private
3969289
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
December 1942 prisoner of war in Italian hands during operations in North Africa.
1943 reported to be in a neutral country no longer a prisoner.
1944 reported back in the UK.
Post war member of the Commando Association from Wrexham.
 

FORD, Terence

Gunner
1123277
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Active service included North Africa. Discharged fom the Army 11 October 1943 (King's Regs Para 390 (xvi).
 
Sources
WW2 Medal Cards Index.
RA Attestation Register.

GARDNER, James Willis

Acting Major
162518
No 1 Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Mentioned in Despatches

Temporary Captain Gardner received a Mention In Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa.

GEORGE, Herbert Alexander

Private
3964607
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Herbert George was reported missing presumed died of wounds during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia. He has no known grave. Son of Michael and Sarah George; husband of Marjorie George, of Cardiff.
 
Sources
CWGC.

GILLIES, Andrew

Andrew Gillies 1 Commando
Lance Corporal
No 1 Commando
1/5 Commando
-
Post war member of the Commando Association from Edinburgh.

Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 110 (2000).
[Image] Cropped from photo in gallery titled 'Commando Association - Edinburgh Branch (4)'.

GRAY, Edward James

Private
5774940
Independent Companies and Special Service Battalions
No 1 Commando
Commando Basic Training Centre
Royal Norfolk Regiment
Extract from Service Record
19.05.1939 enlisted Royal Norfolk Regiment, civil occupation Gamekeeper, Cator Estate.
23.04.1940 volunteered for Special Service; posted No.8 Independent Company.

GROVES, Fernley William Thomas

Private
4038826
No 1 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Fernley Groves was reported missing on 6 December 1942, later presumed killed in action, during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia. He has no known grave. Son of George and Mary Groves, of Madeley, Shropshire.

HALL, Thomas

Thomas Hall 1 Commando
Private
4076248
No 2 Independent Company
No 1 Commando
Monmouthshire Regiment
South Wales Borderers
Private Thomas Hall was wounded 22 May 1940 during operations in Norway. Thomas had volunteered for No.2 independent Company and embarked with them for Norway as part of Scissors Force.

HAMILTON, James

Sapper
2983344
No 1 Commando
Royal Engineers
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sapper James Hamilton was reported wounded and missing 17 March 1943 during operations in North Africa, later presumed died of wounds. He has no known grave. Son of Alexander and Catherine Hamilton, of Thornliebank, Glasgow.
Service

HARRIS, Douglas Ewart

DouglasEwartHarrisMC
Private (later Lieutenant)
3968443 and 324910
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Military Cross (MC)
Douglas Ewart Harris served in the ranks of No. 1 Commando during operations in North Africa. He was selected for officer training and posted to the Officer Cadet Training Unit (O.C.T.U.).
21 July 1944 commissioned Second Lieutenant, South Wales Borderers [1].

HARVEY, Reginald

Private
5826853
No 1 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Reginald Harvey died during operations in North Africa. He has no known grave. Son of Walter and Ada Harvey, of Framlingham, Suffolk.
 
Sources
CWGC.
 

HEWLETT, Sidney

Sidney Hewlett 1 Commando
TSM Sidney Hewlett No.1 Commando
Troop Sergeant Major
3907388
No 1 Commando
CMWTC
Dorsetshire Regiment
Served in the Commandos from December 1940 - October 1945.
Wounded 1941 (full date not recorded).
Also served at the Commando Mountain Warfare Training Centre (CMWTC).
Post war member of the Commando Association from Kilwinning.
 

HIDE, Frank

Sergeant
14610920
No 1 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Employed as a Carpenter and Joiner and voluntary fireman in Stevenage prior to his military service. Active service with No.1 Commando in Burma. Post war member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources
WW2 Medal Cards Index.

HIGHAM, Walter

Gunner
14526092
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Mentioned in Despatches
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

HILL, Kenneth Gerald

Lance Corporal
5679361
No 1 Commando
Somerset Light Infantry
Kenneth Gerald Hill was employed as a Grocer's Assistant with the Co-Op in Bristol before enlisting into the Somerset Light Infantry on 24 June 1940. He then volunteered for special service.

HITCHCOCK, George Albert

Gunner
2050295
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Died on active service
Gunner George Hitchcock died from gun shot wounds during a live ammunition firing exercise at Trincomalee, Ceylon. Son of George and Sarah Hitchcock; husband of Evelyn Hitchcock, of Woodlands, Doncaster, Yorkshire.

HOGG, James, G.

Driver
1949130
No 1 Commando
Royal Engineers
King's Own Scottish Borderers
Service timeline
04.02.1941 enlisted Royal Engineers.
31.05.1943 posted to Commando Depot from Royal Engineers.
10.07.1943 attached No.1 Commando.
11.11.1943 embarked with No.1 Commando for overseas service.

HOLLIDAY, David James

Sergeant, Troop Sergeant Major
2609192
No 1 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches

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.

Private
6300542
No 1 Commando
The Buffs (Royal East Kent Regiment)
Mentioned in Despatches
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

HOOK, Maurice

Private, later Corporal
5830807
No 1 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Private Maurice Hook was wounded 27 February 1943 during operations in North Africa. Mentioned in Despatches.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/58.
London Gazette 36180 page 4226.

HORGAN, James John

Lance Sergeant
5048951
No 1 Commando
The Monmouthshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant James Horgan died during operations at Bizerte Tunisia. He has no known grave. Husband of Lucretia Horgan, of Pontlottyn, Glamorgan.
 
Sources
CWGC.
 

HUGHES, Edward

Private
No 1 Commando
No 2 Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association from Brymbo near Wrexham.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 74 (1982).
 

HUMPHREYS, James

Private
3958742
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private James Humphreys died of wounds during operations in North Africa. He has no known grave. Husband of Dorothy M. Humphreys, of Dartmouth, Devon.
Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service in North Africa.
 
Sources

HUNTINGTON, John, Memories of No 12 and No 1 Commando

Type: Personal Papers
Author: John Mewett
Year of Publishing: 2015
Keywords: Memories of Sgt John Huntington 'E' Troop No 12 Commando and 3 Troop No 1 Commando
Download

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

Fus. William Irving MM 1 Commando
Fusilier
6471335
No 1 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London) Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Fusilier William Irving, HQ Troop, from London, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service at Kangaw, Burma on the 23rd January 1945.
Recommendation

JAMES, C.

Private
3915335
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers

Private James, 3 Troop, was wounded on 26 January 1945 during operations in Burma.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

JONES, Hubert

Hubert Jones 1 Commando
Corporal
2073288
No 1 Commando
No 2 Independent Company
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Hubert Jones, No.1 Commando, was killed in action during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Son of Benjamin Hubert and Gladys Jones, of Bishopston, Glamorgan.
  • 1 May 1939 enlisted Royal Engineers.

JONES, John Garner

Lieutenant (Temporary Captain)
92411
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Military Cross (MC)
Mentioned in Despatches
Captain John Garner Jones, 3 Troop, was awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Arakan, Burma [1]. He had served in the Commando since its formation [5].
Recommendation

JONES, Thomas

Private
3970706
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Thomas Jones died during operations in North Africa. Son of Thomas and Elizabeth June Jones; husband of Margaret H. Jones, of Kilwinning, Ayrshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.

JONES, W.D.

Private
3976195
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment

Private W.D. Jones, 5 Troop, was wounded on 23 January 1945 during operations in Burma. 

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

JONES, William

Lance Corporal
4195436
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers

Lance Corporal William Jones, 3 Troop, was wounded on 26 January 1945 during operations in Burma.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.
RWF Enlistment Register Book 18 for 1939.

JONES, William John Leonard

Lance Corporal (Acting Corporal)
4197298
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Corporal William Jones was reported missing 4 March 1943 during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association from Woking.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/63.

KEERY, William James

Corporal William Keery GM
Corporal (Lance Sergeant)
14604376
No 1 Commando
Sherwood Foresters
Metropolitan Police
George Medal (GM)
William James Keery from Derbyshire served in the Sherwood Foresters before the war until 20 October 1936 when he purchased his discharge. He joined the Metropolitan Police on 28 June 1937.

KIAER, Eric Arnold

Lieutenant
130209
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds

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

AlfredKing1Commando
Lance Sergeant
5774460
No 1 Commando
Norfolk Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
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.

KIRKLEY, A.W.

Sergeant
T/128368
No 1 Commando
2 February 1944 promoted Sergeant. Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Sutton Coldfield, Warwickshire.
 
Sources
No.1 Commando newsletter from India 13 February 1944.

KLONOWSKI, Theophilus Henry

Lance Corporal
5950896
No 1 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
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. Son of Theophilus John and Florence Ethel May Klonowski, of Watford, Hertfordshire.
 

KNOWLAND, Lt. George Arthur, VC

Grave of Lieut Knowland VC
Lieutenant
323566 & 578261
No 1 Commando
Royal Norfolk Regiment
Victoria Cross (VC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant George Arthur Knowland died during operations at Hill 170, Kangaw. Posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross. Son of Arthur Philip and Mary Elizabeth Knowland, of Catford, London; husband of Ruby Knowland.

LARCHER, George Louis Jean

Lieutenant (later Honorary Captain)
235098
No 1 Commando
Reconnaissance Corps, R.A.C.
Military Cross (MC)
Lieutenant George Larcher, Recce Corps attached to No.1 Commando, was awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma [1][2].
Recommendation
Arakan 1945

LEAVER, John Charles

Private
3962766
No 1 Commando
No 12 Commando
Welch Regiment

Private John Leaver, 5 Troop, was wounded on 23 January 1945 during operations in Burma. He previously served in No.12 Commando. Post war member of the Commando Association from Cardiff.

LEVINE, Harry

Trooper
4862696
Special Service Brigade
No 1 Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment

Trooper Harry Levine, HQ Special Service Brigade, was reported missing 4 March 1943 during operations in North Africa, later reported a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Grimsby.

LEWIS, Frank

Lance Sergeant
3960926
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Sergeant Frank Lewis died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia. He has no known grave. Son of John and Elizabeth Lewis, of Merthyr Tydfil, Glamorgan.

Source

CWGC.

LINES, Ronald James

Lance Corporal Ronald Lines 1 Commando
Lance Corporal
3964660
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Ronald Lines , 6 troop, died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. 
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

LLEWELLYN, Fred

Corporal Fred Llewellyn 1 Commando
Corporal
4036505
No 1 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Fred Llewellyn was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He was part of a demolition team who embarked for the raid on Motor Launch ML 306.

Son of Tom and Elizabeth Llewellyn, of Worcester.

LLOYD, Edmund John

Lance Corporal
14604377
No 1 Commando
Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Edmund Lloyd was killed in action during operations at Kangaw, Burma. 
Son of Frederick Robert and Fanny Jane Lloyd; husband of Mona (Mollie) Dorothy Lloyd, of of Earl's Court, London.

LLOYD, Leonard

Private
4078866
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Leonard Lloyd was reported missing during a raid on the French coast later confirmed killed in action. Son of William and Edith May Lloyd, of Blaenavon [1][1a].

LOAKES, Stanley John

Lance Corporal
4038903
No 1 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Stanley Loakes was reported wounded and missing in Tunisia December 1942, later confirmed as dying of wounds whilst a prisoner of war. Son of Henry and May Loakes; husband of Irene Loakes, of Davyhulme, Urmston, Lancashire.
 
Sources

LOGAN, Thomas Alex

Lance Corporal
14317297
No 1 Commando
Yes
Policeman from Largs, Scotland, who volunteered for the Commandos being part of a Police Intake to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry. Post war member of the Commando and Burma Star Associations [1][2][3][4][5].

LOOKER, Ronald Arthur

Private
5384112
No 1 Commando
Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Ronald Looker died of wounds inflicted at Kangaw, Burma. He has no known grave. Son of Albert James Looker and Ada Edith Looker.

LOWMAN, John Vincent

John Lowman 1 Commando
Private
14988283
No 1 Commando
1/5 Commando
John Lowman was conscripted on 7 September 1943 aged 18 joining the Fleet Air Arm of the Royal Navy. He later volunteered for the Commandos and after passing his commando course at Achnacarry was posted to the Holding Operational Commando before embarking for active service in the Far East. Pri

LUCAS, Percy

Private
3768364
No 1 Commando
The King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Died on war service

Private Percy Lucas died in hospital in Secunderabad, India, whilst on active service in the Far Eastern theatre of operations. Son of Mrs Annie Fitzpatrick from Fazakerley, Liverpool. Married to Lina.

MACADAMS, Frederick John

Served as : 
MEACHER, Frederick John
Private
5498036
No 1 Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Private Frederick Meacher was reported missing 4 June 1942 (Operation Bristle) later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war changed surname to MACADAMS. Based at Hayling Island Ambulance Station in 1973.
 
Source

MACKENZIE, Hugh

Hugh Mackenzie 12 and 1 Commando
Private
2889297
No 12 Commando
No 1 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Hugh Mackenzie served in No.12 Commando from October 1941 and when it was disbanded he was attached to No.1 Commando embarking with them for operations in the Far East. Commando service ended on 18 October 1945 at the Holding Operational Commando.

MACKEY, David

Rifleman
No 1 Commando
1/5 Commando
-

Post war member of the Commando Association residing Liverpool.

Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 120 (2005).
 

MAINES, Hugh

Hugh Maines 1 Commando
Corporal
4197433
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
09.12.1939 enisted Royal Welch Fusiliers, trade on enlistment Seaman.
14.06.1940 volunteered and attached No.11 Independent Comapny.
28.07.1940 posted No.9 Independent Company.
10.11.1940 posted No.1 Special Service Battalion.

MAKIN, William Edward

Private
No 12 Commando
No 1 Commando
Trade in 1939 prior to enlistment Iron Foundry Labourer. Served in No.12 Commando and later No.1 Commando. April 1942 married Isabella Beddow. 1946 resided 4 Seville Street, Liverpool 5 with his wife Isabella. Member of the Commando Association from Kirkby, Liverpool.
 

MARSHALL, C.R.

Private
7690515
No 1 Commando
Lincolnshire Regiment

Private Marshall, 3 Troop, was wounded on 23 January 1945 during operations in Burma.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

MASSEY, Walter Charles

Sergeant
5770767
No 1 Commando
Royal Norfolk Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Sergeant Walter Massey was wounded 11 November 1942. 
Mentioned in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa. 
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Southampton.
 
Sources

MCNEIL, John

Corporal
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

Robert Mewett 1 Commando
Bob Mewett 1 Commando
Private
6460252
No 1 Commando
No 12 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
Private Robert Mewett served in No 12 Commando and later in Burma with No 1 Commando 4 troop. Post war member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 66 (1978).

MILFORD, Richard

Richard Milford 1 Commando
Gunner
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery

Gunner Richard Milford served in 5 Troop. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Toronto, Canada.

Sources
Images in CVA No.1 Commando Gallery.
Commando Association newsletter 11 (1950).

MOFFAT, Alexander Duncan

Private
920107
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
King's Shropshire Light Infantry

Private Alexander Moffat, No.1 Commando, was wounded on 28 January 1945 during operations in Burma [1].
1939 attested into the Royal Artillery [2].
15 December 1943 transferred to KSLI [2].
 
Sources

MOORE, George Arthur, N.

Lance Sergeant
5828374
No 1 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Lance Sergeant George Moore was reported missing during operations in North Africa 2 March 1943, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/59.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.

MORGAN, H.W.C.

Private
3970740
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment

Private Morgan was wounded on 23 January 1945 during operations in Burma. 

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

MORGAN, Harold Rees

Captain Harold Rees Morgan 1 Commando
Captain
88079
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Harold Morgan died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia. He has no known grave. Son of William Thomas Morgan and Margaret A. Morgan, of Llanelly, Carmarthenshire [1][1a].

MORRIS, Matthew Frank

Sergeant
1905889
No 1 Commando
Royal Engineers
Military Medal (MM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Matthew Morris MM, 6 Troop, died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. 
Son of Alfred H. Morris and Louisa Morris; husband of Maud Morris. of Station Town. Co. Durham.

MOULD, Robert Derek

Lance Sergeant
No 1 Commando
1/5 Commando
-

Post war member of the Commando Association from Damerham, Hampshire.

Sources
Commando Association newsletter 82 (1986).
No.1 Cdo. Winchester Reunion programme list of  Obituaries in Gallery.

NEISH, Douglas Alexander

Douglas Neish 1 Commando
Douggie Neish
Sergeant
No 1 Commando
1/5 Commando
Queen's Royal Regiment
Imperial Service Order (ISO)
30 December 1977 (Senior Superintendent, Preventive Service, Hong Kong), awarded the Imperial Service Order. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Hong Kong.
 
Sources
London Gazette 47418, page 23.

NIAS, David

Lieutenant (Temporary Captain)
74607
No 1 Commando
Royal Warwickshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
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

O'DELL, William Henry

Private
No 1 Commando
1/5 Commando
-
Post war member of the Commando Association from Tottenham, London.

Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 96 (1993).
No.1 Cdo. Winchester Reunion programme list of  Obituaries in Gallery.
 

O'DONNELL, John

Gunner
1806430
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery

Gunner John O'Donnell, 5 Troop, was wounded on 15 January 1945 during operations in Burma.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.
Royal Artillery Attestation Register for 1941.

OLIVER, Matthew Dudgeon

Later Major
6482278 and 321564
No 1 Commando
No 5 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Matthew Oliver was a Metropolitan Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos joining the Armed Forces on  24 June 1942. He was part of the 1st Police Intake to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry. Served in No.1 and No.5 Commando.

OLVER, Leslie Cyril

Private
6286823
No 1 Commando
The Buffs (Royal East Kent Regiment)
Military Medal (MM)
Private Leslie Olver was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Arakan, Burma.
Recommendation

PALMER, F.G.

Gunner
2963437
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Palmer was wounded 31 January 1945 during operations in Kangaw, Burma (Battle for Hill 170).
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO427/88.
 

PARKER, A.C.

Private
5679492
No 1 Commando
Somerset Light Infantry

Private Parker was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations in Tunisia (Operation Bizerte), later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/55, WO417/56.

PARSONS, Samuel

Fusilier
4192874
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Fusilier Samuel Parsons was wounded 8 November 1942 during operations in North Africa (Operation Torch) [1]. 
  • 2 March 1943 reported missing during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war in Italy [2][2a].

PATTERSON, Leslie Vincent

Leslie Patterson 1 Cdo
Leslie Patterson 1 Commando
Lance Corporal (later Lieutenant)
5627019
326055
No 1 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Lincolnshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Died in service
Lance Corporal Leslie Patterson, No.1 Commando, was Mentioned in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service in North Africa (Algeria and Tunisia). He was selected for officer training and left the commando.

PEARSON, George

Sergeant
No 1 Commando
Commando Basic Training Centre
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Irvine, Ayrshire.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 106 (1998).
 

PERKINS, George Reginald

George Reginald Perkins 1 Commando
Sergeant
871900
No 1 Commando
No 11 Independent Company
Royal Artillery
Mentioned in Despatches
Enlisted Royal Artillery. Volunteered for Special Service. Posted 11 Independent Company in 1940 before joining No.1 Commando. Served in the Motor Transport (MT) Section. Wounded 27 February 1943 Sedjenane, Tunisia.
Mentioned in Despatches, No.1 Commando, Burma.

PERRIN, Peter John

Private
No 1 Commando
1/5 Commando

Post war member of the Commando Association residing Calista, Western Australia.

Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 65 (1977).
Obituaries in the No.1 Commando Winchester Reunion Programme in gallery.
 

PERRY, Alfred Charles

Alfred Perry 1 Commando
Alf Perry 12 and 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant
1057916
No 1 Commando
No 12 Commando
Served in No.12 Commando and later with No.1 Commando. Post war member of the Commando Association from Lee, London.
Far East Service
05.02.1944 Corporal, No.1 Commando 3 Troop, promoted Lance Sergeant.

PHILLIPS, Wilfrid Harold

Private
4105154
No 1 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
The Herefordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Wilfrid Phillips was reported missing presumed killed in action during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia. He has no known grave. Son of Harold E. and Hariett Phillips, of Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.

PILLING, Harry

Harry Pilling 1 Commando
Company Sergeant Major
2619518
No 12 Commando
No 1 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Served in No.12 and No.1 Commandos. Active service in Norway, North Africa and Burma. 
 
Sources
CVA Photo Gallery.
 

PLLU, Andrew

Private
7942336
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Andrew Pllu died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Son of Cochrane and Mary Pllu, of Saltcoats, Ayrshire.
 

POLLITT, Charles Jordan Bellingham

Lt Colonel Charles Pollitt
Lieutenant Colonel
37725
No 1 Commando
No 5 Commando
No 10 Independent Company
Border Regiment
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Military Cross (MC)
Mentioned in Despatches
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, Reginald, J.H.

Troop Sergeant Major
3908241
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Mentioned in Despatches
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.

PRICE, David Elvet

Fusilier (later Lieutenant)
6482275 and 320917
No 1 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Welch Regiment
Metropolitan Police
1939 serving as Police Constable 'L296', Camberwell Police Station, London. Volunteered for the Commandos as part of the 1st Police Intake of 1942 [1][1a].
Fusilier, No.1 Commando Intelligence Section. To O.C.T.U.[2]. 

RAFFERTY, Ronald George

Private
5192138
No 1 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment
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].

REDMAN, Joseph

RSM Joseph Redman 1 Commando
R.Q.M.S. (later Regimental Sergeant Major)
5950322
No 1 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Mentioned in Despatches
Warrant Officer Class 1 Joseph Redman was appointed M.B. E. (Military Division) in the King's birthday honours list of June 1946 [1].  

REED, Neville

Lance Sergeant (later Major)
5827421
459426
No 1 Commando
SAS
3rd Carabiniers Prince of Wales's Dragoon Guards
Mentioned in Despatches
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Lance Sergeant Neville Reed served in No 1 Commando.
  • Post war he was RSM of 22 Special Air Service Regiment in Malaya. [1] 

REGAN, John Leslie

Lieutenant John Leslie Regan
Lieutenant
.1507949 and 315706
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery / Royal Welch Fusiliers / Royal Fusiliers
Mentioned in Despatches
John Regan was attested into the Royal Artillery in 1938 [1]. 
1939 transferred to the Royal Welch Fusiliers [2].
Volunteered for Special Service.

REID, Ernest, E.

Acting Lance Corporal
5627457
No 1 Commando
Devonshire Regiment

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.

REID, George

Private
3778097
No 1 Commando
The King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Died on war service

Private George Reid was wounded on 28 March 1943 during operations in North Africa. He died in the UK on 27 June 1943. Son of Frances and Robert Reid, of Birkenhead; husband of Dorothy Reid of Birkenhead.

Pages

Ask Questions / Add Information / Add Photos

Use the Archive Forum for research enquiries, or to add information or photos. [register now]. 
Read some frequently asked questions here [FAQ's].
Contact the Archive via the [contact form].
 
All content is researched and administered by the Commando Veterans Archive.