No 3 Commando

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3 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. 

'Lofoten Islands - Operation Claymore'

Tuesday, March 4, 1941

Location

Lofoten Islands
Norway
68° 10' 0.012" N, 13° 45' 0" E

The Force consisted of Nos. 3 and 4 Commando, approximately 50 Royal Engineers, and a group from the Free Norwegian Forces. They were transported on board two converted ships, the Princess Beatrix and the Queen Emma, now loaded with LCA's or Landing Craft Assault vessels. Leaving from, and returning to Scapa Flow, they were escorted by 5 Royal Navy destroyers.

Report by Brigadier J.C.Haydon, D.S.O., O.B.E., Commanding Special Service Brigade [more....].

'Vaagso - Operation Archery'

Saturday, December 27, 1941

Location

Vaagso, Norway
Norway
62° 0' 10.2204" N, 5° 3' 52.9092" E

Vaagso Norway

A raid on Vaagso and Maaloy to destroy fish oil factories and sink enemy shipping.
No 3 Commando were supported by 1 and a half troops of No 2 Commando, and detachments from No.4 Commando and No.6 Commando, and some from the Royal Norwegian Army.

3 Commando at Sicily and Malati Bridge’

Type: Files
Author: Lieut. John Channon Erskine RE & No.3 Commando
Year of Publishing: 2015
Keywords: 3 commando bridge, lentini river, malati bridge, punta del malati, sicily
3 Commando Bridge.

On the 12th July 1943, two days after taking part in the invasion of Sicily,  No.3 Commando re-embarked on board the Prince Albert commando carrier at Syracuse to prepare for a second attack. This time they were tasked with taking and holding the Malati Bridge near Lentini, ten miles behind enemy lines and  five miles inland from the sea. They were to hold it until the arrival of the 50th Division.

ABRAHAM, George Henry

Known as: 
Ted
Private
5958457
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private George Abraham was wounded on 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the Bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).
  • 7 June 1944 wounded and missing during operations at Normandy, later found to be a prisoner of war.
  • Post war member of the Commando Association from Bideford, Devon.
 Sources

ABRAHAMS, John, C.

Served as : 
Alias of BAKER
Gunner
6471801
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner John Abrahams was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and Malati Bridge (3 Commando Bridge), later found to be a prisoner of war [1].
POW Records show surname Abrahams alongside an alias of Baker [2][3].
 
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/66.

ADDERLEY, Rex Alsager

Sapper
2093747
No 3 Commando
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sapper Rex Adderley was reported missing after operations at Dieppe, France, and was later presumed killed in action at sea. He has no known grave [1][2]
He enlisted into the Royal Engineers on 21 June 1939 and, after volunteering, was attached to No.3 Commando on 7 July 1940 [3].

ADDERTON, Victor

Victor Adderton MM 3 Commando
Private
4974035
No 3 Commando
Small Scale Raiding Force (62 Commando)
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Private Victor Adderton was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the combined attack on Dieppe [1][2]. 

AGNEW, R.

Lance Corporal
3311086
No 3 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment

Lance Corporal R. Agnew was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge), later found wounded.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/65 (2 entries).

AIREY, John

Private
5193361
No 3 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment
Private John Airey was reported missing 7 June 1944 during operations in Normandy later confirmed as a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/78 (1944) and WO417/93 (1945).
German Record Cards of British PoWs / National Archives file WO416/3/109 (Stalag 12A).

ALDERSON, John

Captain
113655
No 3 Commando
Seaforth Highlanders
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain John Alderson MC, OC 6 troop, died during the fighting at Leese, Germany.
Son of John Henry and Dorothy Alderson; husband of Diana Mary Alderson, of Harpenden, Hertfordshire.
1944 awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during which he was wounded in the knee. He later rejoined No.3 Commando.

ALLEN, John Duncan

John Duncan Allen 3 Commando
WO1 Regimental Sergeant Major
7880076
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
George Medal (GM)
Mentioned in Despatches
On the 9th July 1943 the then Sergeant John Duncan Allen was awarded the George Medal in recognition of conspicuous gallantry in carrying out hazardous work in a very brave manner. This was awarded for "saving a life in a rock climbing accident in Gibraltar" [1].

ANDERSON, Andrew Alexander

Private
3196988
No 3 Commando
King's Own Scottish Borderers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Andrew Anderson was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later confirmed killed in action. Son of Andrew and Euphemia Anderson, of Oxton, Berwickshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/49 (1942) and WO417/57 (1943).
 

ARMSTRONG, Robert

Private
3452445
No 3 Commando
Durham Light Infantry
Private Robert Armstrong was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the Bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). Later found to be prisoner of war. 
Post war member of the Commando Association from Largs, Ayrshire.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65 and WO417/66.

AYERS, Hubert David

Company Sergeant Major
2654315
No 3 Commando
Coldstream Guards
Hubert Ayers was attested into the Coldstream Guards on 9 December 1929. Trade on enlistment - Miller [1].
  • 9 December 1933 (Lance Corporal) disembarked at Southampton from Sudan [1a].
  • 10 April 1942 transferred to the Special Service Brigade [1].

BAILEY, Victor Robert

Victor Bailey 3 Commando
Lance Sergeant
5439410
No 3 Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry

Lance Sergeant Victor Bailey was wounded on 12 April 1945 (River Aller Crossing) during operations in Western Europe. 

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/91.
[Image] Sue Bowe (daughter).
 

BAKER, Fred

Lance Corporal
4923073
No 3 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Corporal Fred Baker, 1 troop,  died during operations at Agnone and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).

Sources
CWGC
ROH in Commando-Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2 by Brig Durnford-Slater.
 

BANKS, Ronald Douglas

Ronald Banks, Commando Group
Private
6351872 & 373245
No 3 Commando
Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Private Ronald Banks, attached to Commando Group, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the field [1]. 
  • 19 August 1942 (Private) No.3 Commando) was reported missing during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be a prisoner of war [2].

BARBER, Richard George Bruce

Richard Barber 3 Commando
Fusilier
6472223
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers

Served in 'D' Troop and later 3 Troop. Post war member of the Commando Association residing London.

Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 118 issued Feb.2004.
Register of Deaths 2002 Hammersmith and Fulham.
[Image] Anne Barber (daughter).
 

BARLOW, John Donking

John Donking Barlow 3 Commando
Driver (Acting Lance Corporal)
T/107701
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Served in 1 Troop. Commando service 8 June 1940 - 31 October 1945. Post war member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources
Commando Service Cerificate in Gallery.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 116 issued Feb.2003.
[Image] Paul (son) and Ann Barlow.

BARNES, Harold, S.

Sergeant
No 3 Commando
-
Member of the Commando Association, Died suddenly at his home in London. 
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 14 (1952).
Deaths Registered Edmonton, London Oct/Nov/Dec 1951.
 

BARNES, Reginald Arthur

Fusilier
6461913
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Fusilier Barnes was reported wounded and missing 7 June 1944 during operations at Normandy, France. Later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/81 and WO418/82.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.

BARRETT, Cyril Ernest

Private
5388318
No 3 Commando
Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Cyril Barrett was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later confirmed killed in action. He has no known grave. Son of Joseph and Ann S. Barrett, of Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire; husband of Margaret Barrett, of Oakville, Ontario, Canada. 
 
Sources
CWGC.

BARRETT, Edwin Charles

Private
5438535
No 3 Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Private Edwin Barrett was taken prisoner during operations at Dieppe and later transported to Stalag 344 Lamsdorf Poland..
 
Sources
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/52.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/20/227.
 

BARRINGTON, Derek, A.

Corporal (later Sergeant)
5440990
No 3 Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Corporal Derek Barrington was wounded on 27 December 1941 during operations at Vaagso, Norway [1].
In 1943 he was reported as prisoner of war during operations in Sicily [2][3][4].
Post war member of the Commando Association [5].

BARTHOLOMEW, Peter Ian

Known as: 
Barty
Peter Ian Bartholomew No 3 Commando
Lieutenant Colonel
73118
No 3 Commando
Somerset Light Infantry
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Peter Ian Bartholomew served in No 12 Commando until their disbandment when he moved to No 3 Commando. He participated in the D Day landings as Captain of 2 troop.  On the Commando's return to NW Europe from the UK in 1945, he took command of No 3 Commando with the rank of Acting Lieutenant Colonel. 

BECHERVAISE, Alexander Austin

Known as: 
Surname also seen spelt BERCHERVAISE
Signalman
2578129
No 3 Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Mentioned in Despatches
Signalman Alexander Bechervaise received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the combined attack on Dieppe.
 
Sources
London Gazettes Supp. 35729, page 4328
National Archives file WO373/93/851.

BEDDOWS, Herbert

Known as: 
Bert
Herbert Beddows 3 Commando
Private
5783477
No 3 Commando
Royal Norfolk Regiment

Private Herbert Beddows, 4 troop, was wounded and taken prisoner of war on 7 June 1944 during operations at Normandy, France. Post war member of the Commando Association.

BELL, Kenneth Sydney

Gunner
2082283
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Kenneth Bell was reported missing 6 June 1944 during operations at Normandy, France, later confirmed killed in action. Son of Joe and Elsie Bell, of Manchester; husband of Lillian May Bell, of Chorlton-upon-Medlock, Manchester.
 
Sources
CWGC

BENNETT, Bernard Elgar

Private
No 3 Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Birmingham.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 54 (1972).
England & Wales Government Probate Death Index, Probate date 24/1/1972 Birmingham.
 

BENNETT, Jack

Private
No 3 Commando
Served in HQ Troop. Post war member of the Commando Association from Caerphilly.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 68 (1979).
Memorial Paver at Alrewas.
 

BENNETT, Maurice, W.J.

Known as: 
Bill
Maurice bennett, 3 Commando
Gunner
849443
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Mentioned in Despatches
Gunner Maurice Bennett, 3 Troop, received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during his successful escape from captivity on 7 July 1944 having been taken prisoner of war at Amfreville, Normandy, on 27 June 1944 [1][1a][1b].

BENNETT, W.R.

Private
14766624
No 3 Commando
Lincolnshire Regiment
Private Bennett was wounded 21 January 1945 during operations in Western Europe.
Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Torcross, Birmingham.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.
Commando Association Lost Legions List 2.
 

BIAGI, Carlo Alexander

Lieutenant
14686313
330166
No 3 Commando
47RM Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Served in both No.3 Commando and 47RM Commando [1].
9 September 1944 commissioned Second Lieutenant, South Lancashire Regiment [2].
29 November 1945 War Substantive Lieutenant posted Parachute Regiment [3].
Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Maybole, Ayrshire [1].

BINNIE, John

Lance Corporal
6482283
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Lance Corporal John Binnie volunteered for the Commandos from the Metropolitan Police.
5 October 1943 wounded during operations at Termoli, Italy.
June 1944 wounded during operations at Normandy, France. 
John Binnie, warrant number 127353 joined the Metropolitan Police on 21 Nov 1938.

BIRD, A.H.H.

Private
4914763
No 3 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment

Private Bird was wounded twice during operations in France - 6 June 1944 and 17 August 1944.

Sources
Casualties Lists / National Archives file WO417/77 (June) and WO417/81 (August).
List of Casualties June 1944 in the No. 3 Commando War Diary, appendix E.1.

BISHOP, Frederick Walter

Fusilier
14317282
No 3 Commando
Royal Scots Fusiliers
Glasgow City Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Frederick Bishop died during operations at Agnone and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). Son of Frederick Walter and Mabel Bishop, of Glasgow.

BLAND, C.J.

Private
4077794
No 3 Commando
South Wales Borderers

Private C.J. Bland was wounded during operations in North West Europe. Post war member of the Commando Association from Brecon, South Wales.

Source
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/77.
Commando Association Lost Legion List 2.
 

BLAND, George

Private
No 3 Commando
-

Post war member of the Commando Association from Huddersfield.

Source
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 75 issued September 1982.
 

BOYCE, John Douglas

Private
5952406
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Boyce was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on ML 262.
Son of William and Elizabeth Ann Boyce, of Tonypandy, Glamorgan.
 
Sources
CWGC.

BOYLE, Francis

Corporal
3596510
No 3 Commando
Royal Irish Fusiliers
Killed in action or died of wounds

Corporal Francis Boyle died during operations at Agnone and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).

Sources
CWGC
ROH in Commando-Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2 by Brig Durnford-Slater.

BRADBURY, Cyril Thomas

Private
5956518
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private Cyril Bradbury was taken prisoner of war on 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe France. He died whilst a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/49 and WO417/52.

BRADLEY, Edgar William

Known as: 
Bill
Captain Edgar Bradley 3 Commando
Captain (later Major)
77384
No 3 Commando
Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers
Mentioned in Despatches
Temporary Captain Edgar William 'Bill' Bradley received a Mention in Despatches during operations at Vaagso in December 1941 [1].
  • 28 March 1942 particpated in Operation Chariot embarking for the raid on motor launch ML307. Evacuated back to the UK after the raid [2][3].

BRIDLE, Desmond George

Lance Corporal
14604360
No 3 Commando
Royal Scots
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Desmond Bridle, from South Harrow, was killed in action in Normandy, France, during operations near the Chateau d'Amfreville. Son of Arthur George and Bessie Bridle; husband of Winifred Gladys Bridle, of Wallington, Surrey.

BRIGGS, George William

WO2 Staff Sergeant Major
7887844
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Warrant Officer 2 (SSM) George Briggs died in the UK of wounds received at Normandy, France [1][1a][1b].

19 August 1942 (Lance Sergeant) wounded during operations at Dieppe, France [2].

BRINDLE, Thomas

Thomas Brindle 3 Commando
Guardsman
2720672
No 3 Commando
Irish Guards, 3rd Bn.

Guardsman Thomas Brindle, 3 Troop, was wounded 1 August 1944 during operations in Normandy. Post war member of the original Commando Association.

BRITTLEBANK, John

Bombardier
930882
No 3 Commando
No 8 Commando
SBS
Royal Artillery
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Bombardier John Brittlebank served in both No.3 and No.8 Commando before joining 1 Special Boat Section [1][2].  He was taken prisoner of war and later awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the Field [3][3a].
Recommendation

BROADBENT, Fred Stanley

Private
7266034
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Fred Broadbent was reported missing 19 August 1942, later confirmed killed in action during operations at Dieppe, France. Son of Fred and Lucy Ida Broadbent, of Lidget Green, Bradford, Yorkshire, England.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/49 (1942) and WO417/53 (1943).

BROMLEY, Jack

Lance Corporal Jack Bromley 3 Commando
Lance Corporal
4918214
No 3 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment

Lance Corporal Jack Bromley, 4 Troop, from Stoke, was wounded on 8 July 1944 during operations at Normandy, France.

BROSTER, John

Private
4132075
No 3 Commando
Cheshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Broster was killed in action during operations at Dieppe, France.
*Husband of Mrs Mary Broster of Curzon Road, Offerton, Stockport, and elder son of Mrs Broster of Greystoke Street. Father to a little daughter. Educated Banks Lane Council School. Employed as Head Clerk of a hat manufacturing firm. Member of Offerton Cricket Club and a keen fisherman
 

BROWN, Les, C.

Private
14566694
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private Brown was wounded 11 April 1945 during operations in Western Europe (River Aller crossing). He was one of the No.3 Commando replacements that joined the Commando in July 1944. Post war member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/91.

BROWN, Robert Frederick

Known as: 
Nosher
Lance Corporal (Acting Corporal)
3856668
No 3 Commando
Royal Engineers
Mentioned in Despatches
Corporal Robert Brown received a Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service after his capture on 29 March 1942 during Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire. One of the commando contingent who landed from ML 262 he was reported missing, later found to be a prisoner of war. 
Recommendation

BRYAN, John Robert

Private
5434487
No 3 Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Bryan was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later confirmed killed in action. Husband of Dorothy Bryan, of Birmingham, England. 
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/49 and WO417/56 (1943).

BRYANT, J.

Fusilier
6482239
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Service number in a batch allocated to many Metroplitan Police Officers who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the 1st Police Intake to the Commando Depot (CBTC) Achnacarry commencing 24 June 1942. 
Possibly identical to Police Constable Joseph H. Bryant, collar number H340, born 21/10/1918, single, and who in 1939 was residing at St Stephens Road, Poplar.
 

BUSWELL, Charles Norman

Lieutenant
228923
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Military Cross (MC)
Lieutenant Charles Buswell was commisioned into the Royal Artillery on 13 March 1942 [1]. After volunteering, he joined No. 3 Commando and took part in the invasion of Sicily on the 9th July 1943.

BUTLER, Brian Dear

Major
85295
No 3 Commando
East Surrey Regt
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Major Brian Butler MC died at Chateau d'Amfreville during severe mortaring of their HQ. Son of Joseph and Ellen S. Butler; husband of Hannah W. Butler, of Wimbledon, Surrey. M.A. 
Five others also died. Lt T.N. Skelly and three others were wounded.
  • Previously awarded the Military Cross for gallant and distinguished service on 4 October 1943 at Termoli, Italy.

BUTLER, Eric Henry Dunn

Eric Butler 3 Commando
Lance Sergeant (later Flight Lieutenant)
5048390 and 292938
503358 (RAF)
No 3 Commando
North Staffordshire Regiment
Worcestershire Regiment
Royal Air Force Regiment
Lance Sergeant Eric Butler, No.3 Commando, took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942. Embarking on ML307, he was wounded and evacuated back to the UK [1][5].
  • 11 September 1943 commissioned Second Lieutenant, Worcestershire Regiment [2].

CADDIS, James

Fusilier
3128842
No 3 Commando
Royal Scots Fusiliers

Fusilier James Caddis was reported missing during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be a prisoner of war.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/52.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/53/431.
 

CAMPBELL, Leslie

Known as: 
Jock
Guardsman
2697390
No 3 Commando
Scots Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds

Guardsman Leslie 'Jock' Campbell, 3 troop, died during operations at Normandy on D Day [1]. The grave where he was first buried is shown in a film taken at Pegasus Bridge on the 28th July 1944 and now on the IWM website [view film]. [2].

CAMPBELL, Thomas

Gunner
14317288
No 3 Commando
Small Scale Raiding Force (62 Commando)
Royal Artillery
Hamilton Burgh Police
Thomas Campbell from Blantyre was a Hamilton Burgh Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry. Commando service included No.3 Commando and 62 Commando (S.S.R.F.).
Post war member of the Commando Association.

CARDOZO, Edward Albert

Private
14203544
No 3 Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Edward Cardozo was reported missing 6 June 1944 during operations at Normandy, later presumed killed in action. Son of Joseph and Emmie Cardozo, of Clapton, London.
His brother Gunner Frederick Cardozo also served in No.3 Commando.
 
Sources
CWGC.

CARDOZO, Frederick

Gunner
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Post war member of the Commando Association. Brother of Private Edward Cardozo, No.3 Commando who was killed in action 6 June 1944.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 102 (March 1996).
Post from family on CVA Forum in his name.
 

CARLISLE, Alan

Known as: 
Ginger
Alan Carlisle 3 Commando
Lance Corporal
6344509
No 3 Commando
Queens Own Royal West Kent
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Alan Carlisle, 4 Troop, died during operations at Vaagso, Norway. He was buried at sea after a service on board HMS Kenya.
  • Enlisted 1937; deployed to France 1939; volunteered for Commandos after Dunkirk; joined No.3 Commando and took part in the Lofoten Islands raid in March 1941.
  • See Linked Content below for more.

CARTER, Donald, A.

Fusilier
6482271
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Private Donald Carter was wounded 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy (Operation Devon). 

1939 - Metropolitan Police Constable residing at the Police Section House, King David Lane, London E1. Volunteered for the Commandos as part of the 1st Police Intake of 1942.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/69.

CARTER, Thomas

Gunner
1491335
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Died on war service
Died in the UK
Gunner Thomas Carter from Yorkshire drowned in a boating accident at Largs. He has no known grave. Son of William and Lucy Carter, of Scotton, Yorkshire.
Extract from the Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer
Published Saturday 6 June 1942

CASSIDY, Maurice Francis

Known as: 
Michael
Sergeant
824949
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Royal Fusiliers

Sergeant Cassidy was wounded 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). He was initially attested into the Royal Artillery before transferring to the Royal Fusiliers and volunteering for No.3 Commando.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65.
Royal Artillery Attestation Register.

CATTERALL, James

Private
3390037
No 3 Commando
Border Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private James Catterall died of wounds during operations at Termoli. Son of Thomas A. and Ellen A. Catterall; husband of Elsie Catterall, of Livesey, Lancashire.

Sources
CWGC.

Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
ROH in Commando-Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2 by Brig Durnford-Slater.

CESAR, Maurice

Corporal
5808 FNFL 41
No 10 Commando
Free French Forces

Corporal Maurice Cesar, No.10 Inter Allied Commando (French) attached No.3 Commando, was captured 19 August 1942 during Operation Jubilee at Dieppe, France. He later escaped from captivity. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Cambridgeshire.

CHAPMAN, Kenneth Harold

Private
5958297
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Private Kenneth Chapman was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services during operations at Termoli, Italy, between the 3rd and 6th October 1943 [1][2].
Recommendation

CHILD, Kenneth, A.

Known as: 
Ken
Private
5958548
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private Ken Child was wounded on 14 July 1943 during operations in Sicily.
 
Sources
Casulaty Lists / National Archives file WO417/67.
Funeral notice in the Luton News, June 30, 2021.
 

CHILLINGWORTH, Albert Edward

Known as: 
Bertie
Private
6297203
No 3 Commando
The Buffs (Royal East Kent Regiment)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Albert Chillingworth died in the UK of wounds inflicted during operations at Normandy.
 
  • Enlisted 4 November 1940.
  • Posted Commando Depot 12 October 1942. 
  • Joined No 3 Commando 11 November 1942.
Sources
CWGC
Extract from service record in gallery entry.

CHITTY, Wyndham Roland, G.P.

Known as: 
William
Lance Sergeant
6844883
No 3 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
West Sussex Constabulary
Lance Sergeant Wyndham Chitty, known as William, was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to have been wounded and taken prisoner of war [1][1a][1b]. In 1944 Lance Sergeant Chitty was repatriated back to the UK because of his injuries [2][2a].

CHRISTOPHER, Robert William

Corporal Robert Christopher
Corporal
5990123
1 Special Service (Commando) Brigade
3 Special Service (Commando) Brigade
Hertfordshire Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal Robert Christopher, HQ 1 Commando Brigade, was awarded the Military Medal (Periodic) [1] in recognition of gallant and distinguished services over a prolonged period during operations at Agnone in Sicily, Bova Marina and Termoli, and at Amfreville, Normandy [2].

CHURCHER, George

George Churcher 3 Commando
Lance Sergeant
6897997
No 3 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
Lance Sergeant George Churcher, 5 Troop, was reported missing on 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to have been wounded and a prisoner of war.

CHURCHILL, John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming (Lt Col)

Known as: 
Mad Jack
Lieutenant Colonel
34657
No 2 Commando
No 3 Commando
No 5 Commando
Manchester Regiment
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Bar to the Distinguished Service Order
Military Cross (MC)

After a brief spell as 2i/c No 5 Commando, the then Major John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming Churchill (later affectionately known by some as Mad Jack) moved to 2i/c No 3 Commando. Wounded during Operation Archery at Vaagso 27 December 1941.

CLARK, Sidney Charles

Private ( later Corporal )
5989664
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Private Sidney Clark was wounded on 27 December 1941 during operations at Vaagso, Norway [1].
In 1942 he was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the combined attack at Dieppe, France [2][3]
Recommendation
Yellow 2 Dieppe-18th-19th August, 1942.

CLARKE, Hilary Laurence

Fusilier
6482249
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Hilary Clarke was killed in action during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the Bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). Son of Ralph and Mahlah Anne Clarke, of Leicester; husband of Evelyn Alice Clarke. His brother Stanley William Clarke, RN, also died in the war.

CLARKE, Roy

Roy Clarke No 3 Commando
Private
14609249
No 3 Commando
The Loyal Regiment
Private Roy Clarke enlisted aged 18  with the Loyal Regiment on the 20th May 1943.  On the 21st Sept 1943 he was posted to the 2nd Battalion of the Loyal Regiment. From there on the 14th Feb 1944 he was posted to the Holding Commando. After his commando training he was attached to No 3 Commando with effect from 24th May 1944..
 

CLARKSON, Lawrence, S.

Lawrence Clarkson 3 Commando
Sergeant
558380
No 3 Commando
15th/19th The King's Royal Hussars
Sergeant Lawrence Clarkson, a Hull man, served with No.3 Commando from the early days of its formation. He had originally enlisted with the Hussars at Hull. He married Barbara Durston from Weymouth in 1944 whilst training there with his Commando.
 
Sources
Photo in gallery titled 'No. 3 Commando Sergeants Mess 1942'.

CLELLAND, Frank

Fusilier
3129351
No 3 Commando
Royal Scots Fusiliers

Fusilier Frank Clelland from Kirkconnel was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be a prisoner of war.

CLELLAND, John McDonald

Gunner
260642
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner John Clelland was reported missing, later presumed killed in action, during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). He has no known grave.
Son of Marjory Clelland, of Inverness.
 
Sources
CWGC.

CLEMENT, Robert Andrew

Lieutenant
88691
No 3 Commando
Royal Scots Fusiliers
Territorial Decoration (TD)
27.12.1941, Lieutenant, 2 Troop, Operation Archery, Vaagso, Norway [1]
19.08.1942, Lieutenant, Operation Jubilee, Dieppe, France, wounded and prisoner of war [2].
16.02.1966, Lieutenant, ceased to belong to the T.A. Reserve of Officers [3].

COAKER, Vernon

Vernon Coaker 3 Commando
Sergeant (Temporary Troop Sergeant Major)
5620234
No 3 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Troop Sergeant Major Vernon Coaker, 3 troop, died during operations at Le Plein, Normandy, France. Son of Edwin and Doris Coaker, of Cheldon, Devon. [1][2][3][4]
Extract from No.3 Commando War Diary Appendix 'A' No.2
Part of a report by Capt. K.D. Ponsford OC 3 Troop.

COFFIN, Roland

Private
5510151
No 3 Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Roland Coffin died during operations at Normandy, France, in the Chateau d'Amfreville area. Son of Harold and Edith Coffin, of Yenston, Somerset.

Sources
CWGC.
Commando, Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2, author Brig Durnford-Slater.
 

COGGINS, Ernest Dennis

Private
5955773
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private Ernest Dennis Coggins was reported missing on 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe France, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association from Bristol. 
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/52.
Prisoners of War  / National Archives file WO392/1.

COLBERT, Thomas

Lance Corporal
5338884
No 3 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Thomas Colbert died during operations at Linne, Germany.
 
An entry in the War Diary states "1502 hrs; 10 shells (88mm) on Area LINNE from brg 40 degrees 749861  LCpl COLBERT wounded in 6 tp area when delivering mail - died on way to hospital."
 
Sources
CWGC

COLLINS, Clive Eric

Sergeant
5499772
No 3 Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Sergeant Clive Collins received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the combined attack on Dieppe 18/19 August 1942 [1].
Recommendation

CONNOLLY, William Andrew

Lance Sergeant
6139725
No 3 Commando
East Surrey Regiment
Lance Sergeant William Connolly was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/52.
German Record Cards of British POW's / National Archives file WO416/74/335.

CONYARD, James

Gunner
6015602
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner James Conyard died during operations at Cassibile, Sicily.
 
Sources
CWGC.
ROH in Commando-Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2 by Brig Durnford-Slater.
 

COOPER, Dennis

Dennis Cooper 4 Commando
Dennis Cooper 4 Commando veteran
Private
14776166
No 4 Commando
Royal Norfolk Regiment
Lincolnshire Regiment
Served in 1 Troop No.4 Commando at Flushing, Walcheren (Operation Infatuate). Also served in No.3 Commando. Member of the Commando Association. Emigrated to Australia returning many years later.
 
Sources
Commando Association newsletters 14 (1952), 47 (1968), 68 (1979), 65 (1977), 78 (1984), and 85 (1987).

COOPER, George William

Gunner
5256462
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner George Cooper died during operations at Dieppe, France. Son of Frederick and Mary Cooper; husband of Rose Doris Cooper, of Poplar, London, England.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/64.
RA Casualty Cards 1939-1947.
The 1939 Register covering Poplar.

COOPER, John Stanley

Lance Sergeant
No 3 Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association from Middlewich, Cheshire. He was an Officer of an Army Cadet Force unit in Chester until the 1970's.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 119.
Commando Association newsletters 36 (1963) and 51 (1970).
 

CORK, Alfred James

Sergeant
5614500
No 3 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Sergeant Alfred Cork died during operations at Vaagso.

Sources
CWGC.
ROH in Commando-Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2 by Brig Durnford-Slater.

CORRY, Samuel David

Captain
119736
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Samuel Corry died during operations at Dieppe, France. He had been previously Mentioned in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service against the enemy at Vaagso, Norway. Son of Samuel Corry and of Anna Corry (nee Stoupe), of Bangor, Co. Down, Northern Ireland. M.B.
 
Sources
CWGC.

COTTERELL, Leslie

Private
5114173
No 3 Commando
Royal Warwickshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Leslie Cotterell died during operations at Normandy, France.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/77.
 

COUGHLIN, Charles John

Charles Coughlin 3 Commando
Trooper
7022513
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Royal Ulster Rifles
Trooper Charles Coughlin from Stockwell was wounded 1 August 1944 during operations in Normandy, France, returning to the Commando after treatment. 
  • 26 July 1945 married Pearl Primrose Fairhall at St Andrews Church, Worthing.
  • Post war member of the Commando Association.
Sources

COULSON, Albert

Private
5891321
No 3 Commando
Northamptonshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Albert Coulson was reported wounded and missing during operations at Normandy, France, later presumed died of wounds. He has no known grave. Son of Thomas and Mary Coulson; husband of Nellie Elizabeth May Coulson, of High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.

COX, Jack, A.

Known as: 
Jack
Jack Cox 12 and 3 Commando
Corporal (Acting Sergeant)
6215811
No 12 Commando
No 3 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
Corporal Jack Cox was wounded on 11 April 1945 during operations in Western Europe. On this date No.3 Commando were in action at the River Aller near the town of Essel. He had previously served in No.12 Commando. Post war member of the Commando Association.

1976 serving as a Police Sergeant at Saltney, just over the Welsh Border from Chester.

CRAFT, Alfred James

Lance Corporal
5950610
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Corporal Alfred Craft MM was killed in action during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge) [1][1a].
A veteran of the Vaagso raid in Norway, Alfred had later been awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the combined attack at Dieppe, France [2][3].

CULLEN, James Kennedy

Private
2761938
No 3 Commando
Black Watch
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private James Cullen was reported missing 14 July 1943 later presumed killed in action during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). He has no known grave.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/81.
ROH in Commando-Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2 by Brig Durnford-Slater.

CULLING, William

Lance Sergeant
6010289
No 3 Commando
Essex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant William Culling, 2 troop, was killed in action during operations at Vaagso, Norway.
Son of Charles and Johanna Culling; husband of Agnes Culling, of Largs, Ayrshire.
 

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/36.

CUMMINGS, John

Lieutenant
77341
No 3 Commando
King's Own Royal Regiment
Lieutenant John Cummings was reported missing 13 September 1943 after being seriously wounded and taken prisoner of war during operations in Italy. After recovery from his wounds he was repatriated to the UK the following year.
Extract from Commando Association newsletter 82

CUNNINGHAM, James

Driver (later Sergeant)
T/61556
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps (Liverpool)
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Driver James Cunningham was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the combined attack on Dieppe [1].  In May 1944 he was serving in the No. 3 Commando MT section (Motor Transport) [2].
Recommendation
"18th-19th August 1942, Yellow 2, Dieppe.

CURRAH, J.

Private
5258675
No 3 Commando
Worcestershire Regiment

Private Currah was wounded on 27 December 1941 during operations at Vaagso, Norway.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/36.

CURTIS, John Leslie

Private
7625966
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Ordnance Corps

Private John Curtis, No.3 Commando, was wounded 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France [1]
17 June 1943 (Private) (R.A.O.C.) wounded at sea [2].
Post war member of the Commando Association from Plympton, Devon. They record final rank attained as LCpl. [3].
 
Sources

DARTS, Frederick Joshua

Known as: 
Freddy
Sgt. Frederick Darts DCM No 3 Commando
Sergeant
5949117
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)

Sergeant Frederick Darts was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the field during operations in Sicily [1]
Taken prisoner during the Sicily operations he was later transported to Stalag XVIIIA at Wolfsberg (Kärnten) [2]. Post war member of the Commando Association [3].

DAVIDSON, Daniel

Known as: 
Danny
Fusilier
14282602
No 3 Commando
Royal Scots Fusiliers
Fusilier Davidson was wounded 1944 during operations in North West Europe.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/81.
Plaque at the Commando Memorial, Spean Bridge.
 

DAVIS, Stanley George

Private
5511236
No 3 Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Stanley Davis was killed in action during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65.
ROH in Commando-Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2 by Brig Durnford-Slater.
 

DAVISON, John Cyril

Known as: 
Jack
Corporal (later Lieutenant)
14241659
326323
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
East Lancashire Regiment
Birkenhead Police Force
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal John Davison, No 3 Commando, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during operations at Bova Marina, Italy, between 28 August and 5 September 1943. [1][1a].

DAW, Herbert Frank

Corporal
14241846
No 3 Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
Lance Corporal Herbert Daw was was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and Malati Bridge (3 Commando Bridge), later found to be a prisoner of war.
Extract from Commando Association newsletter 68.

DAWNAY, Guy Nicholas

Lieutenant (later Major)
73131
No 3 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Lieutenant Guy Dawnay was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be a prisoner of war.

Released from captivity in 1945 he remained in military service with the South Wales Borderers until 1967, final rank attained Major.

DAY, James Henry

Lance Bombardier
826112
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Bombardier James Day died during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).
1933 attested into the Royal Artillery. 10 January 1936 posted Army Reserve.
 

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65 ( 2 records).
RA Attestation Register 1933.

DAY, William, C.

Lance Corporal
1875966
No 3 Commando
Royal Engineers
Lance Corporal William Day took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire. Embarking on motor launch ML262 he was taken prisoner after the raid and transported to Stalag 344 at Lamsdorf, Poland.
 
Sources
British Army Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/11.

DE LA TORRE, Luis Eric Rupert

Known as: 
Eric
Luis Eric de la Torre 3 Commando
Lance Corporal
7611796
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Ordnance Corps
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Lance Corporal Eric de la Torre took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. Embarked on motor launch ML262, taken prisoner after the raid, and transported to Stalag 344 at Lamsdorf, Poland [1][2].
  • Post war honorary Secretary of the St. Nazaire Society for many years [2]

DEAN, Ronald Cyril

Known as: 
Dixie
Guardsman
2623256
No 3 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds

Guardsman Ronald 'Dixie' Dean, 3 troop, was killed in action during operations at Normandy on D Day.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/77.
Stan Scott (3 Cdo).
 

DENHAM, Joah Selwyn

Known as: 
Joe
Lieutenant Denham MM
Captain
14241763
329309
No 3 Commando
Sherwood Forresters
Lincolnshire Constabulary
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal Joah Denham was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished service during operations at Cape Spartivento, Italy, between 27 August and 5 September 1943 [1][2]
30 August 1944 granted an Immediate Emergency Commission as Second Lieutenant [3].

DENNIS, Thomas Gerald

Thomas Gerald Dennis 3 Commando
Lance Sergeant
14241660
No 3 Commando
Cheshire Regiment
Wortley Police Leeds and Liverpool Police
Lance Sergeant Thomas Dennis served in 6 troop and was one of the No.3 Commando boxing team, weightclass heavyweight.
Wounded during operations at Lentini, Sicily on 20 August 1943 and again in June 1944 at Amfreville, Normandy, he was medically discharged as a result in February 1945.

DENT, John

John Dent 3 Commando
Sergeant
No 3 Commando
Durham Light Infantry
Served in 6 Troop. Post war Police Officer residing Bishop Auckland, County Durham. Member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources
Commando association Lost Legion List 4.
Commando Association newsletter 43 (1966).
[Image 2010] CVA Gallery / Pete Dunlop.
 

DICKASON, Samuel Edgar

Company Sergeant Major
No 3 Commando
No 8 Commando
East Surrey Regiment
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Company Sergeant Major Samuel Dickason served in No. 8 and No.3 Commando [1].
  • 13 June 1970 appointed M.B.E. (Civil Division) whilst Chief Office Clerk, House of Commons Library [2].
Sources
[1] Commando Association newsletters 83, 87, 108.

DICKINSON, John, L.

Known as: 
Jack
Lance Corporal
14241642
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Yorkshire Constabulary
Lance Corporal John Dickinson was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations in Sicily, later found to be a prisoner of war.

DIGHTON, Derrick John

Derrick Dighton 3 Commando
Lance Sergeant
14205604
No 3 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Essex County Constabulary
Lance Sergeant Derrick Dighton, 4 Troop, was wounded on 24 January 1945 . At this time his Commando were engaged in operations at Maasbracht. Derrick was an Essex Police Officer who retired as a Chief Superintendent in 1982 having served at Romford, Bishops Stortford, Harwich, Kelvedon, Dunmow, Braintree, Chelmsford and Colchester. 
 
Sources

DIX, James Frederick

Known as: 
Jimmy
Jimmy Dix 3 Commando
Lance Sergeant (later CQMS)
5885246
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Lance Sergeant James Dix served in 4 Troop. He stayed on in the Army after the war. On 9 June 1949 he was a Sergeant in the Beds and Herts., and was awarded the B.E.M. (Military Division) in H.M. Birthday Honours list.
 
The death of L/Sgt (later CQMS) James Dix, B.E.M., of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, London, was announced in Commando Association newsletter 115.

DOBSON, Raymond Arthur

Captain
266547
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Mentioned in Despatches

Lieutenant Raymond Dobson, M.B., was commissioned Lieutenant in the R.A.M.C. on 20 March 1943 [1]. In 1945 he was twice Mentioned in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service in North West Europe [2]. Post war member of the Commando Association [3].

DODD, P.R.

Private
5255735
No 3 Commando
Worcestershire Regiment
Private Dodd was wounded 27 December 1941 during operations at Vaagso, Norway [1].

14 July 1943 wounded at Agnone Sicily and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge) [2].

DOLBY, William Arthur Watkins

Private
14241623
No 3 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
South Yorkshire Police
Private William Dolby was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the Bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge), later found to be a prisoner of war.
A serving Police Officer from Wombwell near Barnsley he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes.

DONNELLY, Terence Alfred

Captain (Temporary)
134132
No 3 Commando
1 Special Service (Commando) Brigade
Royal Norfolk Regiment
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Captain Terence Donnelly, General Staff Officer (GSO 111) 1st Special Service/Commando Brigade HQ [1], was appointed M.B.E. (Military Division) [2] in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the allied crossing of the River Rhine to capture Wesel.

DONOVAN, James

Private
5948105
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private James Donovan, No.1 Section of No.6 Troop, was reported missing on 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe France, later found to be a prisoner of war. 
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/52.
Prisoners of War  / National Archives file WO392/1.

DORSETT, Richard

Known as: 
Dicky
Private
6349636
No 3 Commando
Queens Own Royal West Kent
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Richard Dorsett, 1 troop, died on 13 June 1944 of wounds received on 12 June during operations at Normandy, France, in the area of Chateau d'Amfreville. Son of J. T. and June Dorsett, of Anerley, Kent.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417 and 79.

DOWLING, John

Known as: 
Johnny
Troop Sergeant Major
4458341
No 3 Commando
Durham Light Infantry
Military Medal (MM)

Corporal John Dowling was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished service, during which he was wounded, at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).  He was later wounded serving with 3 Troop on 7 June 1944 at Normandy, France.
Recommendation

DRAIN, Frederick, T.

Private
5949825
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment

Private Frederick Drain was reported missing after Operation Ambassador, a raid on Guernsey in July 1940. He was later found to have been taken prisoner of war and transported to Stalag 8B.

DRANSFIELD, Keith Charles

Private
4126461
No 3 Commando
Cheshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Keith Dransfield died at sea.  The exact circumstances of his death are not known. However a report in the Cheshire Observer 28 August 1943 notes him as missing believed drowned. This is supported by the Army Casualty Lists which list him initially as "At Sea - Missing 17 June 1943".

DRIVER, John

Fusilier
14241662
No 3 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Preston Borough Police
Fusilier John Driver was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the Bridge at Malati (3 Commando bridge), later found to be a prisoner of war.
A serving Police Officer from Preston he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was Police Constable 128 residing Linnet Street, Preston.
 

DRURY, Thomas

Trooper
14241624
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Dewsbury Police

Private Thomas Drury served in the HQ Troop Motor Transport Section. He was a serving Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing in Dewsbury.

DRYDEN, Derrick Stanley

Derrick Dryden 3 Commando
Private
14784275
No 3 Commando
Durham Light Infantry
Private Derrick Dryden was wounded on 24 March 1945 during operations at the crossing of the River Rhine at Wesel (Operation Widgeon).
Service
Enlisted Durham Light Infantry 15 June 1944.
Attached No.3 Commando 3 February 1945.
Released from military service 24 January 1948.
Commando Association membership no. 5956.

DUMPER, Dennis

Corporal
6139501
No 3 Commando
East Surrey Regiment

Corporal Dennis Dumper was reported missing after Operation Ambassador, a raid on Guernsey in July 1940, later found to be a prisoner of war.

DUNFORD, Edwin

Edwin Dunford 3 Commando
Pc Edwin Dunford post war
Trooper
14317743
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Dorset Constabulary
Edwin Dunford was a serving Police Officer from Dorset Constabulary who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes that commenced in 1942. Edwin joined the Dorset Constabulary on 1st April 1939. He was Police Constable 126 residing in Weymouth.

DUNGATE, Walter Henry

Sergeant Walter Dungate 3 Commando
Sergeant
816399
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Sergeant Walter Dungate was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be prisoner of war [1][1a].
  • Attested into the Royal Artillery in 1930 [2].
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/52.
[1a] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

DUNNE, Joseph

Private
3663641
No 3 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Joseph Dunne, 4 troop,  died during operations at Normandy in the Chateau d'Amfreville area.
 

DUNNE, Philip Russell Rendell

Temporary Captain
30978
No 3 Commando
No 8 Commando
2 Special Service (Commando) Brigade
Royal Horse Guards
Military Cross (MC)
Captain Philip Dunne, Special Service Bde. HQ., was awarded the Military Cross for gallant and distinguished service during the Salerno Landings.
Recommendation
Salerno Bay 9-16 September 1943

DURNFORD-SLATER, John Frederick

Brigadier
41090
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Bar to the Distinguished Service Order
Mentioned in Despatches

On the 28th June 1940 Captain J.F. Durnford-Slater was appointed Lieut. Colonel and ordered to raise and command No 3 Commando after volunteering for Special Service whilst Adjutant of the 23rd Medium and Heavy Training Regt., RA.

EARL, Dennis Victor

Private
14317744
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Wiltshire Regiment 2nd Bn.
Bristol Police Force
Trooper Dennis Earl was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations in Sicily, later found to be a prisoner of war.
A serving Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable, single, and residing at 37 Cotham Vale, Bristol.

EAST, Gerald Thomas

Corporal
6482238
No 4 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Corporal Gerald East, No.4 Commando, was wounded 6 June 1944 (remaining on duty) during operations at Normandy, France. Also served in No.3 Commando and 1 Commando Brigade.

EASTERBROOK, F.J.

Private
5619184
No 3 Commando
Devonshire Regiment

Private Easterbrook, from Sidmouth, was wounded 27 December 1941 during operations at Vaagso, Norway. He later took part in the Dieppe raid and post war was a member of the Commando Association.

EDWARDS, P.

Guardsman
2720703
No 3 Commando
Irish Guards

Guardsman Edwards was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, later found to be a prisoner of war imprisoned in Poland.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/52 and WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

EDWARDS, William

Private
3064804
No 3 Commando
Lowland Regiment
Died in service

Private William Edwards died of a pulmonary thrombosis at Ashludie Sanatorium, Monifieth.

Sources
CWGC.
1946 Register of Deaths in the district of Monifieth, Angus.
 

EGLETON, Sydney Oswald

Gunner
14317813
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery

Gunner Sydney Egleton was wounded 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65.

Commando Association Lost Legion List 4.

ELLIOTT, Thomas Wilson

Gunner
3598665
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Thomas Elliott was reported wounded and missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Post war member of the Commando Association from Cleveland.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/54.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

ELLIS, Arthur Alfred Burdon

Captain
191508
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Captain Arthur Ellis was reported missing 26 August 1943 during early Italian beach reconnaissance. Subsequently reported as dying of wounds whilst a prisoner of war in German hands.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/5 (3 reports).

EMMOTT, Harry

Harry Emmott 3 Commando
Company Sergeant Major
3446285
No 3 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Company Sergeant Major Harry Emmott was reported missing on 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe France, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association from Yatton, Avon.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/52.
Prisoners of War  / National Archives file WO392/1.

ETCHES, William Whitson

Known as: 
Bill
Col Bill Etches OBE MC
Lieutenant (later Colonel)
112866
No 3 Commando
Royal Warwickshire Regiment
Military Cross (MC)
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Mentioned in Despatches
Lieutenant William Etches, a veteran of the Lofoten and Vaagso raids in Norway 1941 (he received a Mention in Despatches during the latter) [1],  was awarded the Military Cross for his gallantry at St Nazaire in

EVANS, Arthur David Henry

Fusilier
4209975
No 3 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Arthur Evans, 5 troop, died during operations at Normandy, France.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/85.
 
Notes
He is identified in a photo of No 3 Commando 5 troop May 1944 in our archive gallery.

EVANS, Francis George

Private
5250055
No 3 Commando
Worcestershire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Francis Evans died during operations at Vaagso, Norway.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/36.
ROH in Commando-Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2 by Brig Durnford-Slater.

EVANS, Frank

Private
5617635
No 2 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Private Frank Evans took part in the raid at St. Nazaire on 28 March 1942. He embarked on motor launch ML262 and was reported missing after the raid, but was subsequently found to have been taken prisoner. He was transported to Stalag 344 at Lamsdorf, Poland. He had earlier also served at the S.T.C. and No.3 Commando*.
 
Sources

EVANS, Goronwy Wyn

Sergeant
14241738
No 3 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Fusilier Goronwy Evans was wounded on 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone Sicily and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).
A serving Metropolitan Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he is listed as Police Constable 621E, single, and residing at the Police Section House at 53 Judd Street, Euston, London. 

EVANS, Gwilym

Private
14241612
No 3 Commando
Welch Regiment
Glamorgan County Police
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Gwilym Evans was reported missing 14 July 1943, later presumed killed in action, during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (later called 3 Commando Bridge).

EVANS, Leslie Daniel

Guardsman
14241613
No 3 Commando
Welsh Guards
Cardiff City Police
Guardsman Leslie Evans was a serving Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable at Bridge Street Police Station Cardiff. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Cardiff.
 
Sources
The 1939 Register covering Cardiff.

EVERETT, William, J.

Known as: 
Bill
Private
14241614
No 3 Commando
Welch Regiment
Cardiff City Police
Private William Everett was reported missing 14 July 1943 serving with No.3 Commando during operations in Sicily, later found to be a prisoner of war.
A serving Police Officer from Cardiff he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes and resumed his Police service after the war ended.
 
Sources

FAHY, Neville John

Lance Corporal
3606777
No 3 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Lance Corporal Neville Fahy was wounded 15 August 1944 during operations in France.
01.01.1960 (Inspector, Cyprus Police Force) awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division).
1965 serving as a Police Inspector, Nairobi Police.
Post war member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources

FARRELL, T.A.

Private
3973058
No 3 Commando
Welch Regiment
Wounded twice during operations with No.3 Commando.
14 July 1943 at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge) [1].
June 1944 at Normandy, France [2].
 
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65.

FEARON, John Joseph

Known as: 
Jack
Jack Fearon 3 Commando
Sergeant
2929494
No 3 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Pay Sergeant, No.3 Commando.
1956 Police Constable residing Wallasey, Cheshire.
 
Sources
Commando Association newsletter 23 (1956).
[Image] John Fearon, son.
 

FERGUSON, Bryan Gratney

Private
2761997
No 3 Commando
Black Watch
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Bryan Ferguson died in the UK of wounds inflicted on 5 October 1943 during operations in Italy.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/68 and WO417/72.
 

FERRIE, James, E.

Known as: 
Jim
Corporal
14317290
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Giffnock Glasgow ?
Corporal James Ferrie, 6 Troop, was wounded 11 April 1945 during operations at the River Aller. Post war member of the Commando Association from St. Johnstone, Renfrewshire.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/91.
Commando Association newsletter 49.

FINNIS, Leslie Thomas

Known as: 
Tubby
Leslie Finnis 4 Commando
Green beret of Leslie Finnis 4 Commando
Corporal
6297984
No 4 Commando
No 3 Commando
The Buffs (Royal East Kent Regiment)
Army Air Corps
Mentioned in Despatches
Leslie Finnis was wounded 6 June 1944 during operations at Normandy, France. He was hit by several bullets in his legs and abdomen as he exited the landing craft onto Sword Beach. He also received burns from a phosphorous grenade. 
Mentioned in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in NW Europe.

FIRTH, John, A.

Sergeant
4042476
No 3 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry

Sergeant John Firth was wounded on 12 April 1945 during operations in Western Europe [1].
On this date his Commando were in action at the River Aller near the town of Essel [2].
Post war member of the Commando Association [3].

FISHER, Douglas Morton

Private
2888970
No 3 Commando
Gordon Highlanders, 2nd Bn The London Scottish
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Douglas Fisher was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later confirmed killed in action. Son of Lionel Fisher, and of Winifred Fisher, of Felpham, Sussex, England.

FLETCHER, John Harold

Known as: 
Harry
Lance Corporal
14241626
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Yorkshire
Trooper John Fletcher was wounded 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy. He had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Officer residing at 77 Cusworth Lane, Doncaster.
Post war for many years Secretary of the Yorkshire Branch of the Commando Association who recorded his final rank as Lance Corporal.
 

FLOYD, William Gerald

Corporal
5434679
No 3 Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal William Floyd died during operations at Termoli, Italy. Son of James Percival and Winifred Floyd.
  • 19 August 1942 wounded during operations at Dieppe, France.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68 (1943).

FLYNN, John

Corporal (later Sergeant)
3192275
No 4 Commando
King's Own Scottish Borderers
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Corporal John Flynn, a radio operator with 'B' troop, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the combined attack on Dieppe on 19 August 1942 [1]

FOWLE, Charles

Gunner
785908
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds

Gunner Charles Fowle died during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). He has no known grave. Son of Albert Bertie and Isabella Rose Fowle; husband of Elizabeth Maud Hylde Patricia Fowle, of Whilborough, Devon.

FOY, Thomas

Private
6352123
No 3 Commando
Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment

Private Thomas Foy was reported missing on 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be a prisoner of war.

FRASER, John George

Sergeant
2694???
No 3 Commando
Scots Guards
City of London Police
In 1939 John Fraser was a City of London Police Constable, warrant number 9267, single, serving at Bishopsgate Police Station. Post war resumed his Police Service in the City of London. In 1962 he was employed in the Recruiting Office for the City of London Police. Member of the Commando Association residing Chaldon, Surrey.
 
Sources

FRY, William Charles

Private
14241823
No 3 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment
Bristol Police Gloucestershire
Private William Fry was reported missing 14 July 1943, later found to be a prisoner of war,  during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the Bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). 
He volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a probationary Police Constable with Bristol Police residing in Somerset Street, Bristol.
 
Sources

FYSON, George Alwyne

Corporal
5340675
No 3 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Corporal George Fyson received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in successful combined operations against the enemy at Vaagso and Maaloy.
Recommendation

GALE, William S.

Sergeant
14241795
No 3 Commando
Dorsetshire Regiment
Birmingham City Police

Private William Gale was wounded on 13 July 1943 during operations at Agnone Sicily and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).
A serving Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable at Edward Road Police Station Birmingham.

GARRETT, William John Stanley

Acting Sergeant
14241740
No 3 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
City of London Police
Sergeant William Garrett was wounded 11 April 1945 during operations in Western Europe.

William was a City of London Police Officer, warrant number 9330, who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes that commenced in 1942. Post war member of the Commando Association.

GEEAR, Edward James

Known as: 
Paddy
Edward Geear 3 Commando
Lance Sergeant
6344312
No 3 Commando
Queens Own Royal West Kent
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Edward Geear, 4 troop, was killed in action during operations at Vaagso, Norway.

Husband of Eveline (nee Carter) and father of baby Patricia.

GERRARD, Thomas Cecil

Known as: 
Tom
Corporal
T/73322
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Thomas Gerrard was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later presumed killed in action. He has no known grave. Son of Joseph and Emily Mary Gerrard; husband of Vera G. Gerrard, of Cambridge.
 
Sources
CWGC.

GIBSON, David

David Gibson 3 Commando
Lance Corporal (later Staff Sergeant)
2992808
No 3 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
East Yorkshire Regiment
York and Lancaster Regiment
Died in service
Served in No.3 Commando 2 Troop. Member of the Commando Association.
1 December 1945 posted East Yorkshire Regiment.
1955 attended a summer camp of 149 (WR) Infantry Bde., (TA) at Leyburn, Yorks.
1962 died from injuries sustained in a road accident whilst serving with the York and Lancaster Regiment.
 
Sources

GILES, John Frederick

Captain
68678
No 3 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment, Royal Tank Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Captain John Giles, 3 troop, died during operations at Vaagso. He had served with No 3 Commando since their first raid on Guernsey.

John Giles received his first commission into the Gloucestershire Regiment and won the heavy-weight boxing championship of the Army Southern Command. He also played rugby for Clifton Rugby Football Club.

GILL, John Henry

Private
5957538
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private John Gill was reported missing on 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe France, later found to be a prisoner of war. 
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/52.
Prisoners of War  / National Archives file WO392/1.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/138/340.

GILL, L.M. (Len)

Corporal
14241615
No 3 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Newport Borough Police
Private Len Gill was wounded 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). Final rank attained - Corporal.
Len Gill was a Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes that commenced in 1942. Post war resumed service in Newport Borough Police.
Rank on retirement - Police Sergeant.

GODDARD, Alfred

Private
14241765
No 3 Commando
Sherwood Forresters
Grimsby Borough Lincolnshire
Private Alfred Goddard was wounded 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). He volunteered for the Commandos in 1942 as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at David Street, Grimsby, Lincs.
 
Sources

GOOD, A.

Lance Corporal
6297658
No 3 Commando
The Buffs (Royal East Kent Regiment)

Lance Corporal Good was wounded on 28 June 1944 during operations at Normandy, France. 

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/79.

GORDON, Eric Bernhardt

Eric Gordon 3 Commando
Company Sergeant Major (later RSM)
6341738
No 3 Commando
Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment
Company Sergeant Major Eric Gordon was wounded 11 June 1944 (remaining on duty) during operations at Normandy, France.
He had been attached to No.3 Commando since at least March 1941 taking part in most of their operations including with 4 Troop during Operation Claymore, the Lofoten raid.

GORDON, James McCutcheon

Private
808003
No 3 Commando
Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment
Royal Artillery
Private James Gordon was first attested into the Royal Artillery in 1930 before re-enlisting into the Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment on 3 March 1931. 
  • 27 December 1941 serving in No.3 Commando, wounded during operations at Vaagso, Norway.
Sources
Royal Artillery Attestation Register 1930.

GRAHAM, Thomas

Private Thomas Graham No 3 Commando
Private
5946665
No 3 Commando
Queens Own Royal West Kent
Private Thomas Graham served in the TA between 1927 and 1929. He enlisted into the regular Army on 17 June 1929. Reported missing 22 May 1940 serving with his Regiment as part of the British Expeditionary Force in France, later successfully evacuated to the UK.
Commando Service

GRANT, James

Lance Sergeant
14241856
No 3 Commando
Black Watch
Moray and Nairn Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant James Grant died during operations at Amfreville, Normandy. Son of Peter and Beatrice Grant, of Rothes, Morayshire.

GRAY, Reginald Halliday

Lance Sergeant (later Second Lieutenant)
14241796
346807
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Worcestershire Regiment
Birmingham City Police
Lance Sergeant Reginald Gray was wounded on 8 June 1944 during operations in Normandy, France. Reginald was a serving Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intake of July 1942 and after passing his commando course was attached to No.3 Commando until wounded. After recuperating he was posted to O.C.T.U.

GREALEY, Thomas Louis

Known as: 
Lew
Private
14241742
No 3 Commando
East Lancashire Regiment
City of London Police
Thomas Grealey was a City of London Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes that commenced in 1942. He was wounded on 14 July 1943 during operations in Sicily at Agnone and Malati Bridge (3 Commando Bridge). 
In 1939 Thomas was a Police Constable, married, and residing at Ferndale Court, Lambeth. 

GREEN, Arthur Raymond

Private
4927475
No 3 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment

Private Arthur Green was wounded 7 June 1944 during operations in Normandy, France.

Sources
Casualties Lists / National Archives file WO417/77.
List of Casualties in the No. 3 Commando War Diary, appendix E.1.
 

GREEN, Edward

Gunner
6017168
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Edward Green was reported missing on 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge), later presumed killed in action. He has no known grave.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/66 (1943) and WO417/90 (1945).

GREENFIELD, Arthur Stephen

Lance Corporal
5435570
No 3 Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Lance Corporal Arthur Greenfield, No.1 Section of No.6 Troop, was taken prisoner during operations at Dieppe, France.
 
Sources
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/150/72.

GREENSMITH, S.

Private
14986579
No 3 Commando
Durham Light Infantry

Private S. Greensmith was wounded on 24 March 1945 (remaining on duty) during operations in Western Europe.

Sources
Casualty Records / National Archives file WO417/90.
Commando Association Lost Legion List 5.
 

GREER, J.C.

Lance Corporal
14241766
No 3 Commando
Black Watch
Scots Guards
??
Lance Corporal Greer, No.3 Commando, was wounded 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy [1].
  • 15 November 1944 (Guardsman) (Scots Guards) wounded in North West Europe [2].
  • Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Haxey, Doncaster [3].
Sources

GREIG, Charles

Private
14988470
No 3 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Died on war service
Private Charles Greig was accidentally killed in India. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission list his secondary unit as No. 3 Commando.  This Commando unit never served in that theatre of war.

GRIEVE, Garfield

Private Garfield Grieve
Private
3972169
No 3 Commando
Welch Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Garfield Grieve was killed in action on 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy. Son of William John and Sarah Jane Grieve, of Mill Hill, Blackburn, Lancashire.
  • 14 July 1943 wounded during operations at Sicily.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/65 and WO417/69.
CVA Forum message.

GRIEVE, J.

Acting Lance Bombardier
14241629
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
??
Lance Bombardier Grieve was wounded 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
 
Notes
Service number indicates possible Police Intake. Awaits verification.
 

GROSE, Reginald George

Fusilier
6482300
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
George Medal (GM)
Fusilier Reginald Grose G.M. was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations in Sicily, later found to be a prisoner of war. 
  • 1939 Police Constable residing at 162 Stanhope Street, Camden.
  • 27 June 1941 awarded the George Medal.
  • 1942 volunteered for the Commandos as part of the 1st Police Intake.
  • Post war rejoined the Metropolitan Police.

GROVE, Ronald

Ronald Grove 3 Commando
Troop Sergeant Major
7882436
No 3 Commando
Royal Tank Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Troop Sergeant Major Ronald Grove, 5 Troop, received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the Field.
Recommendation

GUNNINGHAM, William John

Lance Sergeant
T/135778
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant William Gunningham died during operations at Termoli, Italy. 

Son of William and Isabelle Gunningham, of Bristol; husband of Betty Louise Gunningham, of Henleaze, Bristol.

HABRON, Patrick Joseph

Known as: 
Paddy
Patrick Habron 3 Commando
Corporal
4544595
No 3 Commando
West Yorkshire Regiment
Corporal Patrick Habron was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/49, WO417/50, WO417/53 and WO417/94 (1945).

HACK, Ronald Roger Louis

Private
14317745
No 3 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment
Kingswood Police Station Gloucestershire
Private Ronald Hack, 6 Troop, was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations in Sicily at Agnone and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge), later found to have been captured and a prisoner of war [1][1a][1b][4].

HAILES, Stanley Brian

Known as: 
Stan
Lance Corporal Stan Hailes 3 Commando
Lance Corporal
4620600
No 3 Commando
Duke of Wellington's Regiment
Lance Corporal Stanley Hailes was one of the commando contingent who embarked on Motor Launch ML 307 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire on 28 March 1942.

HALL, James Michael

Lieutenant (later Honorary Major)
129664
No 3 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Mentioned in Despatches
Territorial Efficiency Medal
Lieutenant James Hall was reported wounded and dangerously ill on 27 December 1941 during Operation Archery at Vaagso, Norway [1]
  • 20 April 1940 commissioned Second Lieutenant, Lancashire Fusiliers [2].

HALLIDAY, Bernard Neil

Lance Corporal
14241743
No 3 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
Metropolitan Police
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Bernard Neil Halliday was a serving Metropolitan Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942. 
  • 02.01.1939 joined the Metropolitan Police.
  • 22.07.1942 military service commenced. After passing his commando course he was attached to No.3 Commando.

HALLS, Albert Richard

Corporal
5434768
No 3 Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal Albert Halls, No. 1 Section of 6 Troop, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during Operation Jubilee at Dieppe, France, during which he was taken prisoner of war.  Post war member of the Commando Association residing Deal, Kent.
Recommendation

HANNAN, Patrick Charles, R.

Private
6006035
No 3 Commando
East Surrey Regiment

Private Patrick Hannan was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/52.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

HANSEN, Thieda Donald

Lance Bombardier
842004
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Post war member of the Commando Association from Colchester. 
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 94 (1992).
Commando Association Lost Legions List 6.
RA Attestation Register 1934.
 
Notes

HANTON, John, R.

Private
14241857
No 3 Commando
Black Watch
Metropolitan Police or City of London Police
Private John Hanton was wounded on 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone Sicily and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).

A serving Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes that commenced in 1942. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing West Holland Park, London. Post war member of the Commando Association.

HARDING, Ernest Frank

Private
5618672
No 3 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Ernest Harding was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later confirmed killed in action. Son of Herman Henry and Ellen Emily Harding, of Budleigh Salterton, Devon, England.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/49 and WO417/57 (1943).

HARDING, Richard

Lance Corporal
7888531
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Richard Harding was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later confirmed killed in action. Son of George and Fanny Harding, of Leicester, England.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/49 (1942) and WO417/57 (1943).

HARDY, Daniel Charles Thomas

Private
6351445
No 3 Commando
Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment
Private Daniel Hardy was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge), later found to be a prisoner of war.
Post war emigrated to Australia.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/65 and 66.

HARDY, Eric Arthur

Gunner
14317814
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Eric Hardy was wounded twice during operations with No.3 Commando.
  • 14 July 1943 at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).
  • 6 June 1944 at Normandy, France.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65 (1943) and WO417/77 (1944).

HARRISON, Norman

Private
4922799
No 3 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Norman Harrison was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later confirmed killed in action. He has no known grave. Son of George Harrison, and of Amelia Alice Harrison, of Crossens, Southport, Lancashire.
 
Sources
CWGC.

HAWCUTT, T.F.

Known as: 
Taffy
Hawcutt 3 Commando
Lance Corporal
7893283
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
  • Motor Transport Section [1].
  • 14 July 1943 wounded during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge) [2].
  • 1 August 1944 wounded during operations at Normandy, France, remaining at duty [3][3a].
Sources

HAWLEY, Donald

Private
6353584
No 3 Commando
Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment
Private Donald Hawley was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and Malati bridge, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association from Longbridge, Birmingham.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/66 and WO417/96.

HAYES, Harry

Private
5331619
No 3 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Harry Hayes was killed in action during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65.
ROH in Commando-Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2 by Brig Durnford-Slater.

HAYWARD, Robert Latewood

Rifleman
6897474
No 3 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps (2nd Bn. Queen's Westminsters)
Killed in action or died of wounds

Rifleman Robert Hayward died on 13 June 1944 of wounds inflicted on 11 June 1944 during operations at Normandy, France.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/77 and WO417/78.
 

HEAD, Charles Searle

Charles Head 3 Commando
Captain (later Honorary Major)
74290
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Military Cross (MC)
Territorial Decoration (TD)
Acting Captain Charles Head was awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished service on the night of 13/14 July 1943, after landing at Agnone and during the advance to Malati, Sicily.
Recommendation

HEARN, William Herbert

Private
5625251
No 3 Commando
No 8 Commando
SAS
Devonshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private William Hearn died during operations at Termoli, Italy with the Special Raiding Squadron having left the Commando. A shell hit the truck that he was sitting in.
Service 
No. 3 Commando 'A' Troop; No.8 Commando, 4 Special Service Battalion; 'B' Bn. Layforce; Middle East Commando; 1st SAS; Special Raiding Squadron.
 

HENDERSON, Robert Smith Jamieson

Grave of Cpl Henderson 3 Commando
Corporal
2933867
No 3 Commando
Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds

Corporal Robert Henderson died during operations at Issel, Germany.

Sources
CWGC.
ROH in Commando-Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2 by Brig Durnford-Slater.

Notes
The image, shown here, of his original grave is located within our gallery.

HENDRY, William

William Hendry 3 Commando
Trooper
14241858
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Perth City Police
Trooper William Hendry was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone Sicily and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge), later found to be a prisoner of war [1][2]
30 March 1940 joined Perth City Police [3].
23 July 1942 volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes [3].

HERBERT, Roy George

Lieutenant
3384201 & 287391
No 3 Commando
Northamptonshire Regiment
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Military Medal (MM)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Roy George Herbert DCM, MM, died during operations in Normandy, France.
Son of David and Alice Herbert; husband of Janet Craig Herbert, of Plymouth [1].
Military Medal

HERN, Gordon

Private
14241862
No 3 Commando
Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry
Oxfordshire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Gordon Hern was reported missing on 27 August 1943 during early Italian beach reconnaissance, later presumed killed in action. He has no known grave.
Son of Charles Thomas Hern and Mildred Cicely Hern, of New Marston, Oxford.

HEWITT, John Lionel

Private
6353387
No 3 Commando
Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private John Hewitt died during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). Son of James and Nellie Hewitt, of Sparkbrook, Birmingham.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65.
ROH in Commando-Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2 by Brig Durnford-Slater.

HIGGINS, Walter

Gunner
4757790
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery

Gunner Walter Higgins was reported missing during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be a prisoner of war. 

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/52.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/176/117.
 

HILL, Eric Albert

Known as: 
Lofty
Corporal
-
No 3 Commando
Metropolitan Police
Corporal Eric Hill, 4 Troop, served at Sicily, Italy and North West Europe. He volunteered for the Commandos from the Police as part of the Police Intakes of 1942. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing in the Police Section House, Ambroseden Avenue, Westminster.

HILL, Harry Leslie

Known as: 
Leslie
Harry Les Hill 3 Commando
Lance Sergeant
14241797
No 3 Commando
Royal Warwickshire Regiment
Birmingham City Police
Harry Leslie Hill was wounded twice. The first was as a Private during operations in Sicily in 1943, the second as a Lance Sergeant at Normandy on D Day.
Harry was a Birmingham City Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos. In 1939 he was a Police Constable at the Police Station in Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham.

HILL, Reginald

Gunner
14317317
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
??
Gunner Reginald Hill was wounded 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). Post war member of the Commando Association from Stoke on Trent.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/66.

HILLERNS, Michael Guy

Lieutenant
172148
No 3 Commando
Devonshire Regiment & G.H.Q. Liaison Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Michael Hillerns, G.H.Q. Liaison Regiment (Phantom Patrol) attached No.3 Commando, died during operations at Dieppe, France. He has no known grave.
Son of Friedrich Franz Carl and Irene Hillerns; husband of Ann Mary Eleanor Hillerns, of Watford, Hertfordshire. M.A. (Cantab).
 
Sources
CWGC.

HILLS, Norman Kenneth Jack

Lance Bombardier
973024
5724390
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Dorset Regiment
Lance Bombardier Norman Hills, Royal Artillery attached to No.3 Commando, was reported missing on 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be prisoner of war [1][1a].
  • Attested into the Royal Artillery 1939. Formerly served in the Dorset Regiment under Army number 5724390 [2].
Sources

HILTON, Roger

Private
128866
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Private Roger Hilton was reported missing 19 August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/49, WO417/96.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

HINDE, Fred

Private
4542986
No 3 Commando
West Yorkshire Regiment (Prince of Wales's Own)
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Fred Hinde was reported missing 14 July 1943, later confirmed as killed in action, during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/67 (1943) and WO417/76 (1944).

HITCHCOCK, John Edward

Private
6351447
No 3 Commando
Queens Own Royal West Kent
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private John Hitchcock died during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). He has no known grave. Son of John and Rose Hitchcock, of Tottenham, Middlesex.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65.
ROH in Commando-Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2 by Brig Durnford-Slater.

HOBSON, A.J.H.

Sergeant
4612846
No 3 Commando
Duke of Wellington's Regiment

Sergeant A.J.H. Hobson was wounded on 27 December 1941 during operations at Vaagso, Norway.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/36.

Notes
May be ident with Sgt James Hobson, known as Darky, who served in No.3 Commando.

(Sources: CA Newsletters 50, 51, and 111).

HODGES, William Albert

Trooper
14241632
No 3 Commando
Yorkshire and Lancashire Regiment
Barnsley Borough Police Force
William Albert Hodges was a Barnsley Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos in 1942 as part of the Police Intakes to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry. After completing his training he was attached to No.3 Commando. 

HODGSON, George

Known as: 
Ginger
Lance Corporal
2764113
No 3 Commando
Black Watch
Military Medal (MM)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal George Hodgson MM, 3 troop, died during operations at Amfreville, Normandy.  
 
In his book Storm from the Sea, Brig Peter Young states " Whilst I was visiting 3 troop, a random shell mortally wounded LCpl Hodgson who did not live to wear the MM he had won on D Day."
 

HOLEHAN, Thomas

Guardsman
2664427
No 3 Commando
Coldstream Guards
Thomas Holehan, an engine cleaner from Leeds, was attested into the Coldstream Guards on 17 March 1941. He volunteered for Commando service and was attached to No.3 Commando.
On 17 June 1944 he was wounded during operations at Normandy France (mortar wound to his right knee) and as a result of his injuries he was medically discharged on 2 April 1945. Conduct exemplary.

HOLLAND, James

Lance Sergeant
No 3 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Barnsley Borough Police Force
James Holland was a Barnsley Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos and was likely part of the 1942 Police Intakes to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry. In 1939 he was a Police Constable, single, and residing at 1 Darley Terrace, Barnsley.

HOLMES, Kenneth Samuel, B.

Lance Corporal
14241824
No 3 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Devon Constabulary
Lance Corporal Kenneth Holmes, 6 troop, was wounded first on 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy, and again on 6 June 1944 at Normandy, France. [1][2]
1939 residing  Newton Abbott, Devon, employed as an apprentice at a Gents Outfitters and a part time ARP Warden [3].

HOOPER, Samuel, L.

Known as: 
Sam
Sam Hooper 3 Commando
Private
14241616
No 3 Commando
Welch Regiment
Cardiff City Police
Private Samuel Hooper, 5 troop, was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations in Sicily, later found to be a prisoner of war.
A serving Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes and post war resumed his service in Cardiff City Police.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/66.

HOOPER, William, J.

Known as: 
surname changed to TWEEDLY
Sergeant
T/6780558
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Sergeant William Hooper was wounded during operations in Sicily. Later changed his surname to Tweedly. Member of the Commando Association residing in Ontario.
Extract from Commando Association newsletter 10 (March 1950)

HOPSON, Donald Charles

Donald Charles Hopson
T/Major
87593
No 3 Commando
Lancashire Fusilers, Royal Armoured Corps
Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG)
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Military Cross (MC)
Mentioned in Despatches
Territorial Decoration (TD)
Second Lieutenant Donald Hopson was commissioned into the Lancashire Fusiliers which later converted to an armoured unit of the Royal Armoured Corps. He served in No 3 Commando and 1 Commando Brigade in both Italy and NW Europe . His last rank whilst in the Commando was Temporary Major.
 

HOUGH, Richard

Sergeant
14241669
No 3 Commando
Coldstream Guards
Liverpool City Police
Richard Hough volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing in Pilch Lane, Huyton with Roby, Liverpool.
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Liverpool.
 
Sources
The 1939 Register covering Birmingham.
Coldstream Guards Enlistment Registers.

HOUGHTON, Walter Roy Fairley

Guardsman
14241849
No 3 Commando
Scots Guards
Hampshire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Guardsman Walter Houghton died of wounds during operations in Sicily. Son of Walter and Esther Fairley Houghton, of Southampton.
Prior to military service Walter Roy Fairley Houghton was a Police Constable based at the Police Station, Old Milton Road, New Milton, Lymington, Hampshire.

HOWARD, Edward John

Private
14241744
No 3 Commando
East Surrey Regiment
Metropolitan Police (War Reserve)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Edward Howard was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge), later confirmed killed in action. He has no known grave.

HUBBARD, Sydney

CSM Sydney Hubbard 3 Commando
Company Sergeant Major
5255533
No 3 Commando
Worcestershire Regiment
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Company Sergeant Major Sydney Hubbard was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal [1] for his gallantry on numerous occasions whilst serving with No 3 Commando in France, Holland, and Germany. He had been a member of the Commando for 3 years [2].
 
His death was announced in Commando Association Newsletter 104 of March 1997.

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