No 1 Commando

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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After Burma No.1 and No.5 Commandos were withdrawn to India to prepare for Operation ‘Zipper’ the invasion of Malaya.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 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 awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma [1].
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. 
 
Sources
CWGC

ALEXANDER, Charles Henry

Trooper
14241760
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Leicester City Police
Lance Corporal Charles Alexander was reported missing 2 March 1943 during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had volunteered as part of the Police Intakes to the Commandos.
In 1939 he was a Police Constable in Leicester residing at 7 The Cresent, Melton Mowbray.

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.
 
Sources
CWGC.
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/55.
RWF Enlistment Registers Ref 8613s RWF Museum.
 
Notes 

ALLUM, Edward Thomas

Gunner
11002459
No 12 Commando
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery

Gunner Edward Allum was attested into the Royal Artillery in 1939. After volunteering he served in both No.12 and No.1 Commando. 

Sources
Royal Artillery Attestations Register for 1939.
Commando Association Lost Legions List 1.
 

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
Commando Association newsletter 114.

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.

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
Corporal George Annetts 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 files WO417/58; WO417/59.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

ANSELL, Arthur James

Trooper
14241725
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Arthur James Ansell, warrant number 126925, joined the Metropolitan Police on 7 June 1938. Last posted to 'N' Division as a Constable.
1939 married and serving at the Police Station, 12A Holmes Road, Kentish Town, London.
1942 volunteered as part of the Police Intakes to the Commandos

ASHWORTH, James Kenyon

Private
No 1 Commando
West Sussex Constabulary
James Ashworth was a serving Police Officer from Sussex who volunteered for the Commandos. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at 116 The Gardens, Southwick, Sussex. Post war member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 98 issued March 1994.

AUSTIN, Selwyn Ronald

Selwyn Austin 1 Commando
Private
14241782
No 1 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment
Coventry City Police / Warwickshire Constabulary
Private Selwyn Austin was wounded 17 March 1943 during operations in North Africa.
Selwyn was a Coventry Police Constable who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intake that commenced July 1942. Post war member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources

BAGOT, Henry Hunter

Known as: 
Harry
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.
Henry was a serving Police Officer who volunteered for the commandos as part of the Police Intakes that commenced in 1942. He had joined the Manchester Police on 19 December 1940.
 
Sources

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.
He was a serving Police Officer who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. Herbert was the son of Albert and Harriet Baker, and husband of Beatrice Ellen Baker, of Handsworth, Birmingham.

BAKER, Kenneth Claude

Private
14241727
No 1 Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
West Sussex Constabulary
Private Kenneth Baker was wounded 23 February 1943 during operations in North Africa. He had volunteered for the Commandos from the Police as part of the Police Intakes of 1942 to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry.

BALE, John Henry

Known as: 
Jack
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].
1944 repatriated back to the UK [3].

BALL, Percy William

Lance Corporal
6482286
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.
 
Sources

BALL, Sydney Alonso

Gunner
917356
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Sydney 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.
 
Sources
CWGC.

BARDENS, John Henry

Gunner
14241811
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Plymouth City Police

Gunner John Bardens was reported missing 2 March 1943 during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war.
John  was a serving Police Officer from Plymouth who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the police Intakes that commenced in 1942.

BARNES, Ernest

Known as: 
Tag
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

BARNES, Norman Alfred George

Trooper
14241844
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Hampshire County Police
Died on active service
Trooper Norman Barnes died as a result of a grenade accident at Tabarka, North Africa [1][1a][2].
Extract from the No 1 Commando War Diary 6-8 December 1942
6 Dec.1942 - Unit returned to TABARKA (under troop arrangements) from Operation

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.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/59.
RA Casualty Cards.
 

BARTLETT, Brian, V.

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. 
1939 Police Constable residing at 44 Kensal Road, Bristol. 
1942 volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes.
1949/50 Honorary Secretary Bristol Branch of the Commando Association.

BATE, William H.

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.

BEAR, Dennis

Sgt Dennis Bear 1 Commando
Sergeant
14402581
No 1 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps

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.
 

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.
Post war member of the Commando Association from Southall.
 
Sources

BEATTIE, James Simpson

Corporal (later Second Lieutenant)
14241854
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
Corporal James Beattie was awarded the Military Medal in 1943 in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa [1].
Recommendation [1a]
"On 4th March 1943 at the battle of the Mine near Sedjenane the above mentioned N.C.O. was instrumental in saving the lives of a great number of his comrades.

BEECH, James Frederick

Private
14404860
No 1 Commando
3 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 [1][1a]][2].
  • 31 January 1945 wounded whilst attached to No 5 Commando [3].
Sources
[1] CWGC

BENNETT, Richard, Albury

Known as: 
Dick
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
London Gazette 36944, page 979.

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.
He was a serving Police Officer who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing in Stoke on Trent.

BENSLEY, James

Known as: 
Brother Ben
James Bensley
Corporal
RMV 202718
RM Reserve
Royal Marines
Died in the UK
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].

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].
14 September 1942 No.1 Commando (from the Police Intakes who volunteered that year) [2].

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
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

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
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

BISHOP, Ronald, C.

Private
5627758
No 1 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Private Ronald Bishop was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked on ML 306.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/43.
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/1.

BLEAKLEY, Charles

Fusilier
4208516
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Died on war service
Died in the UK
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

Known as: 
Bill
Lance Corporal (later Captain)
14241729
321576
No 5 Commando
No 1 Commando
Essex Regiment
South Street Police Station Romford

William Booth volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable at South Street Police Station in Romford.  He served in both Nos.1 and 5 Commandos leaving on being posted to O.C.T.U. Commissioned Second Lieutenant, Essex Regiment, on 10 June 1944. Post war member of the Commando Association who record his rank as L/Cpl (later Capt).

BOWMAN, Thomas Horne

Known as: 
Tom
Lieutenant
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.

BOYCE, James Wesley R.

Known as: 
Ginger
James Boyce 1 Commando
Private
5828291
No 1 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
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.
 

BOYES, Robert Paul

Company Sergeant Major
-
No 1 Commando
Hartlepool, Birmingham, Mid Anglia, and North Yorkshire
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Queen's Police Medal
Robert Paul Boyes volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942. 
Served with No.1 Commando, final rank Company Sergeant Major.
9 October 1939 serving Police Constable residing Welldeck Gardens, Hartlepool.
Post war rejoined the Police remaining in service for over 34 years.

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 [1][1a].

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.
In 1943 he escaped captivity via Switzerland eventually returning to the UK in 1944. 

BUCHANAN, Thomas Malloch

Thomas Malloch Buchanan 1 Commando
Private
14416348
No 1 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Died in service
Private Thomas Buchanan, 4 troop, was wounded on the 31st January 1945 during the battle for Hill 170 at Kangaw, Burma.
Service
  • Dec.1941 - Nov. 1942 Argyll Home Guard aged 17.
  • Jan. 1943 enlisted 8th Bn. Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. 
  • 31 May 1943 commenced commando training at Achnacarry.

BUCKLEY, Thomas Harry

Private
3535581
No 1 Commando
Manchester Regiment
Private Thomas Buckley was wounded 4 March 1943 during operations in North Africa.
 
Sources
Casualty lists / National Archives file WO417/58.
Photo of a plaque in the CVA Gallery.
CVA Gallery photo of the No1 Commando Winchester Reunion Programme - Obituaries.

BUNSTON, Maurice Walter

Known as: 
Sam
Private
No 1 Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association from Fivehead, Taunton, Somerset.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 66 (1978).
England & Wales Government Probate Death Index, Winchester Registry.
Registers of Deaths, Yeovil District.
 

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.
Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Small Heath, Birmingham.
 

BURDEN, Stanley Percival

Fusilier
No 1 Commando
Served in the HQ Troop. Post war member of the Commando Association from Exeter, Devon.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 114 issued March 2002.
Image of No1 Commando News Letter 27 Feb 1944 in No.1 Cdo. Gallery.
Register of Deaths in Devon in 2001.

BURKE, Patrick Oliver

Private
7265212
No 1 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Private Patrick Burke, R.A.M.C. attached No.1 Commando, was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association (Leicester) with whom they lost contact.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/56 and WO417/93.

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.
Recommendation

CALDICOTT, Albert Walter

Albert Caldicott 1 Commando
Private
13021639
No 1 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
Served 5 troop. Married Joyce Gibbons in 1950 and they had 2 daughters. Joyce died in 2000. Post war member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources
Nominal Roll of 5 Troop in gallery.
Commando Association Lost Legion List 3.

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

Known as: 
Jack, nicknames of MiDad and Aga
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.  Long Service and Good Conduct Medal awarded without gratuity under Army Order of 31 December 1945.

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].
  • Post war member of the Commando Association from Old Oxted, Surrey [3]. 

CARTER, Albert George

Fusilier
6140785
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers

Fusilier Albert Carter was reported missing 2 March 1943 during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war. 

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/60.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1 (Stalag344), WO392/21 (Camp PG66).

Royal Welch Fusiliers Transfers In Register 1939.

CHAPPELL, Ernest Lionel Desmond

Known as: 
Des
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.

COKER, James Thomas

Private (later Lance Corporal)
14604363
No 1 Commando
Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment
Metropolitan Police
Military Medal (MM)
Private James Coker, 6 Troop, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma. He was a Metropolitan Police Constable who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was serving at Highgate Police Station, Archway Road, London.
Award Recommendation
Arakan 1945

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].
  • 25 August 1947 (Welch Regiment) (2nd Lt. ) (War Subs. Lt.) promoted Captain, Royal Scots Fusiliers [2].

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.
R.S.M. Cann [more....] and three T.S.M.'s were amongst those in attendance at his funeral. 
 

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.
 

COWAP, Dalton Hayton

Known as: 
George
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].  
1943 (Lieutenant, No 1 Commando) awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa [3].

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. He has no known grave.
 
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
12 Troop was a merging of 1 and 2 Troops whose numbers were depleted through casualties.
 

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.
 
Sources
London Gazette 36994, page 1546.
National Archives file WO373/36/306.
 

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.
Royal Artillery Attestation Register for 1941.
Commando Association Lost Legion List 4.
 

DAVIDSON, Douglas Malcolm

Known as: 
Granite
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. (Source: No 1 Commando War Diary March 1943.)
 

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.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/55 (1942) and WO417/74 (1944).
 

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. Reported missing after the raid, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Recommendation

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

DOUGHTY, William George

William Doughty 1 Commando
William George Doughty
Corporal
6209980
No 1 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
Post war member of the Commando Association from Coventry.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 56 (1973).
No.1 Cdo. photo gallery.
[Image 1] Cropped from the No.1 Cdo panorama photo in gallery.
[Image 2] John Doughty, son.

DOVEY, Albert Peter

Known as: 
Pete
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
Commando Association Lost Legion List 4.

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].
  • Attested into the Royal Artillery 25 April 1936 [3].
Recommendation

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.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/55 corrected by WO417/81.

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.
 

DURRANT, Sgt. Thomas Frank, VC

Sergeant
1874047
No 1 Commando
Royal Engineers
Victoria Cross (VC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Thomas Frank Durrant was killed in action during Operation Chariot 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.

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
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.

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.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/45.
[Image] Collection of Idris Jones, No.1 Commando.

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. Successfully making his way to Sweden he was later repatriated to the UK.

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.

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

EVANS, Earl Michael

Corporal (Acting Lance Sergeant)
3959724
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Acting Lance Sergeant Evans was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked on ML 306 for the raid.
Post war member of the Commando Association from Caerphilly.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/3.

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, Idris Lawrence

Known as: 
Frank
Private
885113
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Welch Regiment
1938 attested into the Royal Artillery [1].
17.03.1939 posted Welch Regiment [1].
02.12.1942 (No.1 Commando) prisoner of war during operations in North Africa [2][2a].
09.1943 arrived Switzerland after escaping Italian captivity [3].
1945 arrived back in the UK [3].

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.
 
Sources

FLEMING, John Samuel

Known as: 
Sam
John Samuel Fleming
Corporal
No 1 Commando
1/5 Commando
-

Post war member of the Commando Association from Birkenhead, Wirral, Merseyside.

Sources
Commando Association Lost Legions List 5.
Forum message re his passing.
[Image] Gil Fleming, son.
 

GARDNER, James Willis

Known as: 
First name also see as John
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. 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.

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.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/55 and WO417/68.68.
 

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)'.
 

GILLIES, Robert John Mills

Lieutenant
14408759
311235
No 1 Commando
1/5 Commando
Manchester Regiment

Commissioned from the ranks 29 February 1944. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Newton Steward, Wigtownshire.

Sources
London Gazette 36461, page 1660.
Commando Association Lost Legion List 5.
Commando Association newsletter 116 (2003).
 

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.

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
03.05.1939 enlisted Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders at Paisley.

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].

HEWLETT, Sidney

Sidney Hewlett 1 Commando
Troop Sergeant Major
3907388
No 1 Commando
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.
 
Sources
Commando Service Certificate. 

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
London Gazette 37425, page 381 dated 10 January 1946.

HILL, Kenneth, G.

Lance Corporal
5679361
No 1 Commando
Somerset Light Infantry
Lance Corporal Kenneth Hill was reported missing 2 December 1942 during operations in Tunisia (Operation Bizerte), later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/59.
Priosners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 357) and WO392/21 (Camp 66).

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
London Gazette 37425, page 382.
Awards in 3 Cdo Bde Jungle Book issue 9.

HOOK, Maurice

Private, later Corporal
5830807
No 1 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches

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, Alfred John Arthur

Known as: 
Alf
Alf Hopkins 1 Commando
Alfred Hopkins
Private
5628330
No 1 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Private Alfred 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. Reported missing after the raid he was later found to have been wounded and taken prisoner *. 
  • 1944 reported "Wounded and Prisoner of War (Germany) now Repatriated" **.

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
CWGC.

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 services 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.

JENKINS, George William

Gunner
851702
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery

Gunner George Jenkins, 3 Troop, was wounded on 31 January 1945 during operations in Burma. Post war member of the Commando Association from Caerphilly.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.
RA Attestations Register 1935.
Commando Association newsletter 102 issued March 1996.

JONES, Hubert

Hubert Jones 1 Commando
Corporal
2073288
No 1 Commando
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

Captain John Garner Jones MC
Lieutenant (Temporary Captain)
92411
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Military Cross (MC)
Mentioned in Despatches
Captain John Garner Jones 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.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/54.
 

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.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1, WO392/21.

KEERY, William James

Corporal William Keery GM
Corporal
No 1 Commando
Metropolitan Police
George Medal (GM)
Corporal William James Keery G.M. served in No.1 Commando. A serving Metropolitan Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. Whilst serving as a Constable, aged 25yrs, he was awarded the George Medal for rescuing 7 persons trapped in a cellar at Queens Buildings Scovell Road at Lambeth, London, 15 October 1940.

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

Known as: 
Bill
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. Taken prisoner after the raid he was transported to Stalag 383 at Hohen Fels, Bavaria, Germany.
Recommendation

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. 
 
Sources
CWGC
National Achives ref  218/49 - No 1 Cdo War Diary entry for 1st Jan. 1943.
 

LARCHER, George Louis Jean

Known as: 
forenames also seen as Jean George Louis
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 M.C. in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma [1].
 
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.

LINES, Ronald James

Known as: 
Danny
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.
[Images] His nieces Marjorie Oxby and Jan Redmond.
 
Notes

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.
Service Record 
17 January 1940 enlisted King's Shopshire Light Infantry.

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.
Edward was a Metropolitan Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos joining HM Armed Forces on 19 May 1943.

LLOYD, Leonard

Private
4078866
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Leonard Lloyd was reported missing presumed killed, before later being confirmed as killed in action [1][1a].
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].

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.
 
Sources
CWGC
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/61.

LOGAN, Thomas Alex

Known as: 
Alex, Alec, or Sandy
Lance Corporal
14317297
No 1 Commando
??
Post war member of the Commando and Burma Star Associations [1][2][3].
1954 represented the British Police in the Shot Putt at the European Police Championships in Stockholm, and was one of the Scots at an international invitation scratch track and field event that year at the Highland Games, Murrayfield [2][2a][2b].

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
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/48, WO417/95.

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).
 

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
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/54.

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

Known as: 
Mawler
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).
[Images] His son John Mewett.
 

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
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.
[2] Royal Artillery Attestation Registers 1939.

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].
Mentioned in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service in North Africa [2].

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

Known as: 
Bob
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.

MULHOLLAND, William

Company Sergeant Major
No 1 Commando
Post war member of the Comando Association from Basingstoke. 
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 99 issued Sept. 1994.
Obituaries in the No.1 Commando Winchester Reunion Programme in Gallery.
 

NEISH, Douglas Alexander

Known as: 
Dougie
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.
Commando Association newsletters 8, 22, and  66 (1968)(details of award).

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
No.1 Commando War Diary - Hill 170 (Linked Content below).

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.

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.
Citation

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.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1, WO392/11.

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].
  • 15 September 1943 escaped from Camp PG53, Italy [3].

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, received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa (Algeria and Tunisia).
Left the Commando for officer training.
Died post war from injuries sustained in a jeep accident - Lieutenant, 4th Lincolns, B.A.O.R.

PAUL, Haydn Bertram

Gunner
14241751
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Metropolitan Police
Gunner Hadyn Paul was reported missing during operations in North Africa on 26 February 1943, later found to be a prisoner of war.
He was a serving Metropolitan Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing Gilmour House, Renfrew Road, Vauxhall.
 
Sources

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

Known as: 
Alf
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.
10.02.1944 inter troop transfer from No.1 Commando 3 Troop to 1 Troop.

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.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/70.
 

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.
 

PITMAN, Henry James

Known as: 
Harry
Pitman 1 Commando
Corporal
No 1 Commando
No 2 Independent Company
Post war member of the Commando Association from Cardiff, South Wales.
 
Sources
Commando Association newsletters 95 (1992) and obituaries in 118 (2004).
[Image] Cropped from image in Gallery titled 'Roy Halfpenny, Harry Pitman, and No.1 Cdo. comrades'.
 

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.

Known as: 
Pongo
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.
Photos in No.1 Commando gallery.

PRICE, David Elvet

Fusilier (later Lieutenant)
6482275
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]. 
21 May 1944 commissioned Second Lieutenant, Welch Regiment [3].

RABBITT, Eric William

Gunner
5884633
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Military Medal (MM)
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

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].
16 February 1945 Private Rafferty, 10th Bn., Gloucestershire Regiment, died of wounds in Burma [2][3].
 

Sources

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].  
  • 23 September 1943 (Warrant Officer 2, R.Q.M.S.) Mentioned in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa. [2]. 

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] 
  • 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] 

REGAN, John Leslie

Known as: 
Tim
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.
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.

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.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

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

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/59 and WO417/63.
 

RITCHIE, William Dunbar

William Dunbar Ritchie 1 Commando
Private
2185488
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private William Ritchie died on 19 March 1943 of wounds received on 27 February 1943 during operations in North Africa [more....].  Son of Robert and Susan D. Ritchie; husband of Mary Ritchie (nee McDonald), of Stirling [1][2].

ROBERTS, Edwin Albert

Edwin Albert Roberts
Sergeant (later Captain)
6482225 and 320954
Special Service Brigade
Royal Fusiliers
Somerset Light Infantry
Metropolitan Police
In 1939 Edwin Albert Roberts from Nunney, Somerset, joined the Metropolitan Police and was posted to Islington Police Station, 277 Upper Street, London N1 [1][2].
He volunteered for the Commandos in 1942 and was selected for the 1st Police Intake to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry [2].

ROBERTS, H.W.

Lance Sergeant
4033985
No 1 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry

Lance Sergeant Roberts, 3 Troop, was wounded on 28 January 1945 during operations in Burma.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

RODNEY, John Francis

Lieutenant
No 1 Commando
SBS
Mentioned in Despatches
Baron John Francis Rodney served as a Lieutenant in No.1 Commando HQ and also as an Operational Officer in HQ, 2 SBS. Post war member of both the Commando and Burma Star Associations.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 96 issued March 1993.

RUSCHKEWICZ, James R.

Ranger
36165787
US Rangers 1st Bn.
Died on war service
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. 

RUSDALE, Alfred Ernest

Alfred Ernest Rusdale 1 Commando
Bombardier
852223
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
Bombardier Alfred Rusdale, 6 Troop, was wounded 31 January 1945 during operations in Kangaw, Burma (Battle for Hill 170) [1][2].
July 1949 Metropolitan Police Constable transferred to Huntingdonshire Constabulary, St Neots Police Station [3][4]. Member of the Commando Association [4].
 
Sources

SALISBURY, Glyn

Corporal
4191846
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers

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.

SALTER, John, A.

Private, later Sergeant
5676395
No 1 Commando
Somerset Light Infantry
Mentioned in Despatches

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

Private
3969167
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Thomas Sando was reported missing 6 December 1942 in North Africa, later reported as dying of wounds the following day whilst a prisoner of war [1][1a].
At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
Extract from the Marylebone Mercury - Saturday 03 July 1943.

SCALLY, Austin

Private
3964285
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Private Austin Scally from Wigan was reported wounded and missing on 6 December 1942 during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Extract from the Liverpool Echo newspaper

SCANTLEBURY, John

Known as: 
Jack
TSM John 'Jack' Scantlebury MM
Troop Sergeant Major
6096409
No 1 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
16.05.1940 enlisted The Queen's Royal Regiment (West Surrey) [1].
25.10.1941 transferred to 10th Middlesex Regiment [1].

SCOTT, Walter

Private
No 1 Commando
-

Post war member of the Commando Association from St Helens, Lancashire.

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

SEMPLE, Robert William

Known as: 
Roy
Lieutenant
289675
No 1 Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
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.

SHARMAN, Sidney Charles

Sergeant
No 1 Commando
3 Special Service (Commando) Brigade
Also served 3 Special Service (Commando) Brigade. Post war member of the Commando Association from Littleover, Derbyshire.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 119.
 

SHORT, Bert

Private (later Warrant Officer Class 1)
7263761
No 1 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Military Medal (MM)
Private Bert Short was awarded the Military Medal, announced in Gazettes on the 13th October 1939, for "gallant and distinguished service in recent operations."
 

SIMPSON, William Lockhart Main

Known as: 
Bill
Lieutenant Bill Simpson 1 Commando
Lieutenant (later Major)
14442599
335339
No 1 Commando
Royal Scots
Army Air Corps TA
Lieutenant Bill Simpson served in No.1 Commando (3 Commando Brigade).
Joined the LDV (Home Guard) aged 14. Enlisted Royal Scots. 
23.11.1944 commissioned Second Lieutenant, Royal Scots (LG 36912 page 621). 
Volunteered for the Commandos after being commissioned.

SINCUP, Arnold William

Arnold Sincup MM 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant
4035009
No 1 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
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.

SLAVIN, Gerrard

Private
7942540
No 1 Commando
Welch Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Gerrard Slavin was reported missing believed wounded 6 December 1942 during operations in North Africa (Operation Bizerte), later presumed died of wounds. He has no known grave. Son of James Slavin, and of Annie Slavin (nee Ward), of Rosyth, Fife.
 
Sources
CWGC.

SMITH, Albert

Known as: 
Curly
Private
No 1 Commando
-

Post war member of the Commando Association from Tramorfa, Cardiff.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 85 (1987).

SMITH, James

Known as: 
Jimmy
Troop Sergeant Major
No 1 Commando
Served in 3 Troop.
Commando Association newsletter 31
"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."
 
Sources

SMITH, John Henry

Gunner
1797299
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery

Gunner John Henry Smith was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations in North Africa (Bizerte, Tunisia), later found to be a prisoner of war. 

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/55 and WO417/56.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1.
RA Attestations Register 1941.
 

SMITH, Kenneth, N.

Sergeant
4036459
No 1 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
Sergeant Kenneth Smith was reported wounded and a prisoner of war on 4 March 1943 during operations in North Africa. 
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/58, WO417/59, WO417/63.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1, WO392/21 (Italy).

Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 98 (March 1994).

SMITH, W.S.

Rifleman (Acting Lance Corporal)
14603190
No 1 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps

Lance Corporal W.S. Smith, 3 Troop, was wounded January 1945 during operations in Burma.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.
Linked Content below.

SOUTHWORTH, John Charles Hughes

CSM John Southworth MM 1 Commando
Company Sergeant Major
4079448
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Military Medal (MM)

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.

STEWART, James Constantine

Fusilier (later Second Lieutenant)
6970882 and 340072
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Military Medal (MM)
Fusilier James Stewart was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa in December 1942 [1][2].
Recommendation
Operation Bizerte 1st to 5th December 1942.

SWAYNE, Ronald Oliver Carless

Known as: 
Ronnie or Rocky
Lieutenant
94975
No 1 Commando
Herefordshire Regiment
Military Cross (MC)
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].

SWEENEY, Daniel

Private
5437882
No 1 Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry

Private Sweeney, 3 Troop, was wounded on 31 January 1945 during operations in Burma. 
Post war member of the Commando Association from Kilwinning. They record his last rank as Lance Corporal and that he also served in No.3 Commando.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

TAYLOR, William Ronald

Fusilier (Lance Corporal)
14604392
No 1 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier William Taylor died of wounds during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Son of William George Thomas Taylor and Lilian Josephine Taylor, of Walton-on-Thames, Surrey.
William was a Metropolitan Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos joining HM Armed Forces on 19 May 1943.

TENNICK, Maurice William

Corporal
14241719
No 12 Commando
No 1 Commando
Kings Own Scottish Borderers
Tynemouth Police
Corporal Maurice Tennick served in No.12 Commando and No.1 Commando. Promoted Corporal 2 February 1944.
Maurice was a serving Police Officer who volunteered as part of the Police Intakes to the Commandos. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at 50 Falstaff Road, Tynemouth.
Post war member of the Commando Association residing North Shields.
 

THOMPSON, Malcolm

Malcolm Thompson 1 Commando
Private
5826923
No 1 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
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. 

THOMSON, John, D.

Lance Corporal
14241720
No 1 Commando
Kings Own Scottish Borderers
Tynemouth Police

John Thomson was a serving Police Officer who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was Police Constable No.84 residing at the Police Billets, Albion Assembly Rooms, Norfolk Street, Tynemouth.

THORNTHWAITE, Norman

Private
No 1 Commando
1957 moved from Carlisle to be a Police Sergeant at Whitehaven, Cumbria.
Member of the Commando Association (Penrith).
 
Sources
Commando Association newsletter 17 (1953) and 24 (1957).
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 90 (March 1990).

THORPE, J.

Lance Corporal
5628253
No 1 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches

Lance Corporal J. Thorpe received a Mention in Despatches for "gallant and distinguished service in North Africa." 

Sources
London Gazette 36180 page 4226.

THURSBY, John Fortescue

John Thursby 1 Commando
Second Lieutenant
337612
No 1 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
Died on war service
Second Lieutenant John Thursby, 5 Troop, died after contracting polio during his posting to the Far East with No.1 Commando.
Extract  from the Third Jungle Book
"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.

TOMBLIN, Edward Charles

Private
6144878
No 1 Commando
East Surrey Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Edward Tomblin was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on Motor Launch ML 306.
Son of Frank and Mary Ellen Tomblin; husband of Eleanor Margaret Tomblin, of Wandsworth, London.
 
Sources
CWGC

TREVOR, Thomas Hoult (Lt Col)

Known as: 
Senior
Lieutenant Colonel
53563
No 1 Commando
No 2 Independent Company
Welch Regiment
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
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.
 

TUFFY, William

Known as: 
Bill
Lance Corporal
7370100
No 1 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Mentioned in Despatches
Lance Corporal William Tuffy, Medical Section, received a Mention in Despatches for 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.

TURNBULL, John Hugh Stephenson

Lieutenant Colonel John Turnbull MC 1 Commando
Major
72893
No 1 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Military Cross (MC)
Bar to the Military Cross
Mentioned in Despatches
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].
  • 1943 (Temporary Captain) awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa. [2].

WAKEFIELD, Raymond

Known as: 
Ray
Ray Wakefield 1 Commando
Private
No 12 Commando
No 1 Commando
King's Own Scottish Borderers (possibly)
Tynemouth Police
1939 employed as Police Constable No.81 residing in Norfolk Street Police Billet, Tynemouth.
Volunteered for the Commandos and served in both No.12 Commando and later in the Far East with No.1 Commando. Post war rejoined Police and in 1956 was promoted Sergeant at Whitley Bay Northumberland. Member of the Commando Association last known residing Bishopthorpe, York.

WALES, W.

Fusilier
No 1 Commando
-
Last known residing Liverpool.
 
Sources
Commando Association Lost Legion List 11.
 
Notes
Query ident to 4196440 Fus. Walter Wales (Royal Welch Fusiliers Enlistment Registers). Awaits verification.
 

WALLIS, Reginald

Corporal
5933005
No 1 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Reginald Wallis died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Son of William Edmond and Dora Emily Wallis. Previously received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa.
 

WARD, William G.

Private
5052724
No 12 Commando
No 1 Commando
North Staffordshire Regiment
Private William Ward, No1 Commando, was wounded 31 January 1945 during operations at Kangaw, Burma. He had previously served in No.12 Commando. Post war member of the Commando Association from Duston, Northampton.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.

WARE, Henry Arnold

Private
5510944
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery

Private Henry Ware, 3 Troop, was wounded on 31 January 1945 during operations in Burma. He had previously served in No.12 Commando. Post war member of the Commando Association from Bournemouth. They record his last rank attained as Sergeant.

WATERHOUSE, W.

Lance Sergeant
3392797
No 1 Commando
East Lancashire Regiment

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

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