40RM Commando

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

Displaying 1 - 300 of 313

40 Commando RM

Formed on the 14th February 1942 as The Royal Marine Commando, Royal Marines. It was briefly re-designated as "A" Royal Marine Commando, Royal Marines, when a second RM Commando was raised, before being finally designated as No.40 Royal Marine Commando, Royal Marines. Notable actions during WW2 were at Dieppe, St Benere, Termoli, Anzio, and Comacchio.
  • 40RM Commando, and the slightly later formed 41RM Commando, would be the only RM Commando units to consist entirely of volunteers. All Army Commandos were volunteers.

40RM Commando

14 February 1942 initially designated as the 'Royal Marine Commando, Royal Marines'. Formation from volunteers commenced at North Barracks, Deal.
  • Commanding Officer Major (Acting Lt. Col.) J.P. Phillipps RM [more....].
  • Second in Command Captain (Acting Major) R.D. Houghton RM [more....]

40RM Commando - HMS Fidelity

HMS Fidelity was sunk by torpedoes during a U Boat attack (U435) on the 30th December 1942 off the Azores. The U-boat reported a large number of survivors on rafts and in the water. All drowned in the rough seas as the weather deteriorated. The only survivors were a few who had launched a motor boat from the ship before the attack.  Among the casualties were 53 members of 'T' Company 40 RM Commando who were on board. The letter 'T' was never used again by 40RM Commando for a Company.
 

40RM Commando - HMS Queen Emma

 
On 17th July 1943 HMS Queen Emma was in Augusta Harbour Sicily with 40 Royal Marine Commando on board when there was a bombing raid on the harbour. This caused numerous casualties and damage on board when concussion and shrapnel from a bomb caused a box of grenades to go off on the mess deck. 
 

Entry from the 40 RM Commando war diary

(Source: National Archive file ref ADM 202 / 87)
 

15 July 1943

1300hrs -arrive SYRACUSE harbour

AINSWORTH, Richard Harold

Marine (Acting Temporary Corporal)
CH/X3749
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Richard Ainsworth was awarded the British Empire Medal whilst an Acting T/ Corporal in 40 RM Commando, for gallantry in helping the wounded, in spite of his own injuries, when the ship in which he was serving, HMS Queen Emma, was attacked from the air.
 

ALEXANDER, John Moir

Marine John Moir Alexander 40 Commando
Marine
PO/X4237
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
 Marine John Alexander was reported missing presumed killed during operations at Dieppe, France. Son of Margaret Alexander he has no known grave [1][1a].
Extract from the Dundee Courier

ANDREWS, Charles

Marine
PLY/X.1674
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Charles Andrews was reported missing presumed died with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.
Son of Ted and Annie Andrews, of Tilehurst, Berkshire.
 
Sources
CWGC

ANGUS, David Charles

Captain
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Cross (MC)
Captain David Angus was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry, zeal and skill during the attack on Sarande and the seizure of the Island of Solta.
 
The death of Captain Angus MC of St. Ninian, Stirling, was announced in Commando Association newsletter 98 issued March 1994.
 
Source

ANSON, Harry Raymond Joseph

Marine
PO/X 100156
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Harry Anson was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/127.

APPLEBY, William Thompson

Marine
PLY/X 2597
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine William Appleby was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/127.

AYLETT, Basil McGonigle

Known as: 
Bob
Basil Aylett MM
Troop Sergeant Major
CH/X 1409
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Acting Sergeant Basil Aylett was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished service in operations with 40RM Commando leading to the capture of Termoli. He was wounded and upon recovery was posted to 45RM Commando and promoted Troop Sergeant Major of 'B' Troop. In this new role he received a Mention in Despatches for good service with the 21st Army Group.
 

BAIN, James Sydney

Acting Temporary Company Sergeant Major
PLY/X 746
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Company Sergeant Major James Bain died during operations at Sarande, Albania.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/127.
 

BARCLAY, David Lovat

Major
41RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Major David Barclay was killed during operations at Normandy on D Day [1].
 
Born in May 1920, Dave Barclay entered the Corps in September 1938. He served in H.M.S. Norfolk for over two years and was appointed to 40th RM Cdo., subsequently transferring to the 41st Cdo. [2].
 
Sources

BARRINGTON, William Henry

Marine
PLY/X 109107
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine William Barrington died in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations at Termoli.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/127.

BASHAM, Cyril Edward

Marine
PLY/X 3085
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Cyril Basham was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/127.

BATES, George Henry

Marine
EX/ 962
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine George Bates died during operations on the enemy held island of Brac, Yugoslavia.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/127.

BEADLE, Jeffrey Charles

Major
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Military Cross (MC)
Temporary Lieutenant Jeffrey Charles Beadle was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry, leadership and outstanding determination whilst serving in Commando operations in the Adriatic, June, 1944, specifically the attack on Brac Island [more....] [1].

BEAVEN, Harwood Frederick George

TSM Harwood Beaven MM
Troop Sergeant Major
PLY/X 458
40RM Commando
45RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Croix de Guerre (France)
Troop Sergeant Major Harwood Beaven was awarded the Military Medal for bravery and great devotion to duty whilst operating with the Allied Armies in North-West Europe.
  • ​1946/47 serving in a Commando Training team attached to the French Commando School in Algiers*.
  • 1948 awarded the Croix de Guerre with Silver Star by the French Government *.

BEESLEY, Jack

Sergeant
CH/X844
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Jack Beesley died during operations at Dieppe, France. Son of John Edwin Thomas Beesley and Gertrude Catherine Grace Beesley, of Fowey, Cornwall, England.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/127.
 

BEVAN, George Reginald

Marine
CH/X105473
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Marine George Reginald Bevan was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the combined attack on Dieppe.
Account By Lieutenant H.G. Loe regarding Marine Bevan

BISHOP, Arthur

Marine
PO/X 114618
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Buckinghamshire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Arthur Bishop died during operations in Sicily whilst aboard the HMS Queen Emma during an enemy air attack on the vessel. Buried at sea.

BLAKE, Albert Henry

Albert Henry Blake
Corporal
PO/X 4970
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Albert Blake died during operations in Italy. He is also listed in the personnel files of the S.O.E.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/127.

BLUCK, John Arthur

Marine
PO/X/117494
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine John Bluck died during operations in Italy (Anzio).

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/127.

BLUMSOM, George Richard

Corporal
CH/X 3155
40RM Commando
Royal Marines

Service History
11 July 1939 enlisted Royal Marines, London, aged 17 years
20 February 1942 posted the RM Commando (later designated 40RM Commando).
1 October 1942 promoted Lance Corporal.
18 June 1943 promoted Corporal.
4 September 1943 reverts to rank of Marine.
17 September 1943 promoted Lance Corporal. 

BONE, Percy James

Marine
PO/X 101277
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Percy Bone died during operations on the enemy held island of Brac, Yugoslavia.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/128.

BOOTHROYD, Geoffrey

Marine
PO/X 3189
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Geoffrey Boothroyd was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/128.

BOSTOCK, Stanley

Staff Sergeant
7385103
40RM Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Staff Sergeant Stanley Bostock was awarded the B.E.M. (Military Division) in the 1946 New Years Honours [1].  Also served with 40 and 41RM Commandos [2][3a].
Mentioned in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy [3][3a].

Brac - Operation Flounced

Wednesday, May 31, 1944

Location

Island of Brac, formerly Yugoslavia
Croatia
43° 18' 17.6076" N, 16° 39' 9.756" E
  • Lieutenant Colonel J.M.T.F. Churchill, D.S.O., M.C. embarked from Vis as the Commanding Officer of a Force consisting of 43RM Commando, some commandos from 2 Special Service Brigade HQ, the Raiding Support Regiment, a company of the 2nd Highland Light Infantry, and 111 Field Regiment R.A. This was a diversionary attack on the German Garrison of Brac to draw off German Forces who were launching an offensive against the Yugo-Slav National Army of Liberation in Bosnia.

BRADLEY, William Joseph

Marine William Joseph Bradley
Marine
PLY/X 3580
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine William Bradley was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/128.

BRADSHAW, Leslie Charles

Marine Les Bradshaw
Marine
PLY/X105411
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Marine Leslie Bradshaw, 10 Platoon, 'X' Coy, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the combined attack on Dieppe. He later served in 30 Commando.
Recommendation
Operation Jubilee (Dieppe Area) 19th August 1942.

BREEN, Terence Edward

Marine
CHX105010
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Marine Terence Breen was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the combined attack on Dieppe on 19 August 1942 [1][2].  
Recommendation

BREMNER, Alexander

Alexander Bremner 40RM Commando
Marine
CH/X 104278
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Alexander Bremner died during operations in Italy (Lake Comacchio).

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/128.

[Image] The War Illustrated magazine.

BRISTOWE, Frank Hilary

Frank Bristowe 40 Commando
Captain
40RM Commando
40 Cdo. RM
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Lieutenant Frank Bristowe served with 40 RM Commando from 1944 [1].
  • 1951 (Captain) (40 Commando RM) received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Malaya [2].
Sources
[1] Navy Lists - see linked content below.

BROADHURST, Jeffrey

Jeffrey Broadhurst 40RM Commando
Sergeant
PO/X110093
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Sergeant Jeffrey Broadhurst served in 'Q' Troop of 40RM Commando and for a short period at the end of his service in 45RM Commando ending when they embarked for the Far East in January 1946.
RM Service Certificate
20.01.1942 enlisted and posted Depot RM Lympstone.
10.03.1942 - 15.09.1943 RM Division.

BROCKBANK, Maurice Chester

Captain
45RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Maurice Brockbank, 'C' troop, died during operations at the River Aller in the vicinity of the village of Hademstorf. He had previously received a Mention in Despatches whilst with 40RM Commando for "outstanding service while operating with the Allied Armies in Italy."
 
Sources 
CWGC.

BROWN, Jack

Marine
PLY/X 109374
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Jack Brown died during operations at Italy (Anzio). He has no known grave. Son of John and Alice Beatrice Brown, of Blurton, Staffordshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/128.
 

BROWN, Stephen Thomas Frederick

Marine
PLY/X 111140
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Stephen Brown died of wounds at the 97th General Hospital, near Bone, North Africa. He was originally buried in Borgel Cemetery (Military Plot),  but was re interred at Medjez-el-Bab Cemetery on 17 August 1944.
 
Sources
CWGC.

BROWNBRIDGE, Robert William

Marine
CH/X 1085
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Robert Brownbridge was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of  'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed. In 1940 he was Mentioned in Despatches for courage and devotion to duty during the withdrawals from Boulogne and Calais.
 
Sources
CWGC.

BRYCE, William

Marine
PLY/X 107517
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine William Bryce died of wounds at the 2nd Field Hospital which was located at Otok, on Vis Island, Yugoslavia.  Seven days before his death his Commando were engaged in Operation Flounced, an attack on the enemy held island of Brac.

BURFITT, Henry Thomas

Marine
CH/X 110667
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Henry Burfitt died during operations at Termoli, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers Of Reports Of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/128.
 

BUSTARD, Leslie Mears

Marine
PO/X 113418
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Leslie Bustard died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers Of Reports Of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/128.

CALDER, Harry Watt

Cpl. Harry Calder DCM 40RM Commando
Harry Calder report in Dundee Courier 16th October 1953
Private
14421247
40RM Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)

Private Harry Calder, RAMC attached to 40 RM Commando, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his outstanding gallantry during operations at Lake Comacchio. [1]

CALLOW, Arthur John

Marine
PLY/X3413
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Arthur Callow died during operations at Dieppe, France.
Son of Alfred John and Eliza Callow, of Palmers Green, Middlesex.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/128.
 
Notes

CAPES, Edward Albert

Lance Corporal
CH/X 103413
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Died on active service
Lance Corporal Edward Capes died in Italy from injuries sustained as a result of a grenade accident.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers Of Reports Of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/128.
 
Notes
Bari War Cemetery

CATTERALL, John

Marine
PO/X108069
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine John Catterall died during operations at Dieppe, France. Son of Thomas and Elizabeth Catterall; husband of Phyllis Catterall, of Grimsbury, Banbury, Oxfordshire.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/128.
 

CHAPMAN, Charles Clarence

Marine
EX/ 1169
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Charles Chapman was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed. 

Son of Clarence Walter and Irene May Chapman; husband of Joan Ellen Chapman, of Reading, Berkshire.

CHIVERALL, Richard Sydney

Lieutenant
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Richard Chiverall died during operations in Italy.
 
Notes
At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in Operation Ferdy at Vibo Valentia, known at the time as Porto San Venere.
 

COCKITT, Herbert

Marine
PLY/X 104331
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Herbert Cockitt died during operations at Anzio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers Of Reports Of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/129.

COLBY, Gordon David

Lance Corporal
CH/X 112755
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Corporal Gordon Colby died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/129.

COMYN, Alan Douglas

Captain
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Alan Comyn, commissioned September 1937, died on the 19th August 1942 during operations at Dieppe, France. Husband of Lydia Anne Comyn, of Wychling, Kent.
 
Sources
CWGC.
London Gazette 34434.
 

CONVERY, John James

Marine (acting T/Sergeant)
PLY/X 1394
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Sergeant John Convery, 'Q' Troop, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal [1] for gallant and distinguished services in operations leading to the capture of Termoli.
Recommendation
Termoli 3/10/43.

COOMBES, Peter Lonsdale

Peter Coombes 40 Commando
Marine
CH/X110269
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Peter Coombes died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/129.

[Image] Gillian Buck, daughter of Mne. James Major 40RM.

COOPER, Brian Arthur

Lieutenant
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lieutenant Brian Arthur Cooper died during operations at Termoli, Italy. Son of Albert Edward Valentine and Ethel Celia Cooper, of Croydon, Surrey.

Sources

CWGC.

COOPER, Charles

Sergeant (Temporary)
PLY/X 104215
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Temporary Corporal Charles Cooper received a Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service while operating with the Army in Italy in 1944 [1].

COPSEY, David

Lieutenant
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
25 August 1942 Second Lieutenant Copsey RM reported for duty with 40RM Commando at Upper Chine School, Isle of Wight. Attached to 'A' Troop promoted Lieutenant.
40RM Commando attachment ended 27 December 1944.
Post war member of the Commando Association from Chichester.
 
Sources

CORNISH, Arthur Henry

Colour Sergeant
CH/X 1013
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Colour Sergeant Arthur Cornish died on board H.M.H.S. St. David. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations at Sicily.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/129.
Registers of Births in Kent Oct/Nov/Dec.1916.

CRAIG, John Henry

Marine
CH/X110791
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine John Craig died during operations at Anzio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/129.
Registers of Births - Newcastle on Tyne - July/Aug/Sept. 1920.
 

DAY, Albert Ernest

Marine
PLY/X 6
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Albert Day died during operations in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations to cross the River Garigliano.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/129.
 

DAY, Reginald

Marine
PO/X 106905
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Reginald Day died at the 66th British General Hospital, Italy. At the time of his death his Commando was engaged in operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/129.

DELAP, Peter

Captain
133538
40RM Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Military Cross (MC)
Captain Peter Delap, M.B. (R.A.M.C.), attached to 40RM Commando [1], was awarded the MC in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the field [2].
 
Sources

DENMARK, Robert Mclelland

Graves of Marines Wise, Porter, Denmark and Spencer
Marine
PO/X 109616
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Died on active service
Marine Robert Denmark was one of five commandos who died from injuries sustained in the accidental explosion of an ammunition truck in Sicily. He is buried in a collective grave with Marines Albert Wise, Ernest Porter, and Frank Spencer.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/129.

DEWICK, Holford Simpson

Dewick 40RM Commando
Marine
PO/X4736
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Marine Holford Dewick, aged 20 and from Clubmoor in Liverpool, was captured during operations at Dieppe, France.

Sources
RM Prisoners of War / National Archives file ADM201/111 (M&MN) and WO392/7 (Stalag 8C). 

DIMARCO, Paul

Colour Sergeant
PO/X 107388
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Colour Sergeant Paul DiMarco died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.
An account by Ron Perry of the action

DIXON, David George

Corporal
PLY/X 2699
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Corporal David Dixon was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/130.
Birth Registrations Apr/May/June 1921 - Neath.
 

DOWSON, Harry

Marine
EX/5685
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Harry Dowson died at 151 Field Ambulance during operations at Sicily.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/130.

DUERDEN, Alfred

Corporal
PLY/X 108140
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Alfred Duerden died during operations at Dieppe, France. Son of Charles and Frances Duerden; husband of Dorothy Duerden, of Shipley, Yorkshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/130.
 

DUTTON, Charles Llewellyn

Lieutenant
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lieutenant Charles Dutton died during operations on the island of Brac, Yugoslavia. 
Son of Charles Frederick and Dorothy Isabel Dutton, of Purley, Surrey.
His brother Lieutenant Derek Alan Dutton, No 6 Commando, also died in service 14 days later.

Sources
CWGC.
 

EADS, Peter

Peter Eads 40RM Commando
Sergeant
CH/X 109658
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Northampton County Police
Peter Eads from Dallington joined the Northampton Police in 1941 having previously been employed as an Audit Clerk for a firm of Chartered Accountants. 
On 7 September 1942 Pc Eads, collar number 80, along with five other Police Officers from the Northamptonshire and Northampton Borough Forces, left the Police joining the Royal Marines at Chatham.

EASTER, L.A.

Sergeant
PO/X3865
40RM Commando
46RM Commando
Royal Marines
Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Aston, Birmingham.
 
Sources
Commando Association Lost Legion List 4.
List of RM Commandos provided by RY (Former CA Sec and CBF).
 

EDWARDS, Maurice Albert

Marine
PO/X 4386
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Maurice Edwards was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/130.

EPHRAUMS, Michael Jarvis

Captain
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Michael Ephraums MC died during operations at Termoli, Italy. He had previously been awarded the M.C. [2] for gallant and distinguished service whilst commander of 'A' troop at the Pachino Peninsula on the 10th July 1943 [3].
 
Sources 
[1] CWGC

EVANS, George Albert

Marine
PO/X 108340
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine George Evans died of wounds inflicted during operations in Italy.
  • Mentioned in Despatches for outstanding service with the Allied Armies in Italy *.
Sources
CWGC.

EVERALL, Henry John

Corporal
PLY/X 2081
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Henry Everall died during operations at Dieppe, France.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/130.
 

FALLAS, Robert Scott

Lance Corporal
PO/X 4043
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Corporal Robert Fallas died at sea whilst aboard the HMS Queen Emma during an enemy air attack on the vessel in Sicily.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/130.

FANTHAM, Maurice

Mne Maurice Fantham 40RM Commando
Marine
PO/X 114817
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Birmingham City Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Maurice Fantham died in Italy on 13 October 1944 from wounds he had received 3 days earlier. A serving Police Officer he had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes.
He is amongst those named on the WW2 Birmingham City Police Memorial located at West Midlands Police HQ, Lloyd House, Colmore Circus, Queensway, Birmingham.

FARRELL, Robert

Marine
PO/X 2501
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Robert Farrell was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/130.

FINCH, Ernest Edward

Sergeant
PLY/X 106278
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Sergeant Ernest Finch died during operations in Italy.

Sources
[1] CWGC.
[2] Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/130.
[3] Registers of Births England Oct/Nov/Dec.1925.

Notes
Year of birth confirmed as 1925 by source [3].
 

FINLAYSON, Kenneth

Marine
40RM Commando
30 Commando Assault Unit
Royal Marines
Post war member of the Commando Association from Glasgow.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 98 (1994).
List of RM Commandos provided by Ron Youngman (CA Secretary and CBF).
 

FISHER, James

Corporal
CH/X 105359
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal James Fisher died during operations in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations to cross the River Garigliano.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/130.
 

FISHER, John Charles

Corporal
CH/X 103621
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal John Fisher died during operations in Sicily whilst aboard the HMS Queen Emma during an enemy air attack on the vessel. Son of Charles and Mildred Fisher, of Tottenham, Middlesex.
 
Source
CWGC.
 
Note: Awaits confirmation of whether served as RM Commando or RM (Ship Service).

FISK, George Ernest

Marine
PO/X 315
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine George Fisk was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/130.

FLETCHER, D.

Marine
PO/X112551
Special Service Brigade
Royal Marines

Served in 40RM Commando and/or 41RM Commando.

Sources
RM Prisoners of War / National Archives file ADM201/111 (41RM Cdo). 

Commando Association list of RM (40RM Cdo).

FOSTER, Ronald Thomas

Lance Corporal
CH/X 2825
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Corporal Ronald Foster died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/130.

FROST, Kenneth George

Known as: 
Freezer
Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant
PLY/X.475
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Quartermaster Sergeant Kenneth Frost was awarded the British Empire Medal for loyalty, efficiency and skill whilst serving in Corfu during the period of the disturbances in Greece, 1944 -1945.
  • Also served in 42 Commando. Post war member of the Commando Association
Sources
London Gazette 37387, page 6083.

GANNER, James Maurice

Marine
PLY/X 104839
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine James Ganner died during operations at Anzio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/131.

GEE, Donald Percy

Marine
EX/1172
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Donald Gee died during operations against the enemy held Dalmatian island of Brac, Yugoslavia (now Croatia).

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/131.

GOODYER-KETTLEY, Frederick Rex

Marine
PLY/X 3095
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Frederick Goodyer-Kettley was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/131.

GORMAN, James John Thomas

Marine (Acting Temporary Corporal)
Ch/X 100536
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal James Gorman was awarded the Military Medal for courage, leadership and resource in operations which led to the crossing of the Garigliano River in the face of determined opposition from the enemy.
Recommendation
22 January 1944 Crossing of the Garigliano.

GORRIE, William Young

Marine
CH/X 105950
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine William Gorrie died in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations at Lake Comacchio.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/131.

GOTTS, Eric William

Marine
PO/X 2274
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Eric Gotts died during operations at Dieppe, France. Son of William Edward Gotts, and of Gertrude Gotts, of Suffield, Norfolk, England.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/131.
 

GREY, Thomas Patrick

Corporal
EX/ 3408
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Thomas Grey died during operations in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations to cross the River Garigliano.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/131.
 

GRIFFIN, Patrick

Marine
CH/X112120
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Patrick Griffin died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/131.

GUINAN, Harry William

Marine
CH/X 3353
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Died on war service

Marine Harry Guinan died at the Military Hospital, Parkhurst, Isle of Wight.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/131.

HADFIELD, Robert William

Marine
PLY/X 4097
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Died on active service
Marine Robert Hadfield died of injuries sustained as a result of a grenade accident in Italy.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/131.
 

HAMSTEAD, Edward Oliver

Marine
CH/X 104537
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Edward Hamstead died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy. He had earlier received a Mention in Despatches for outstanding service while operating with the Allied Armies in Italy, rank shown as Marine (Acting Temporary Corporal)*.
 
Sources
CWGC.

HANLON, Walter

Walter Hanlon 40RM Commando
Marine
EX/1715
40RM Commando
Royal Marines

Marine Walter Hanlon from Hartlepool, reported missing after the Dieppe raid, was later found to be a prisoner of war in Stalag 344, Poland. Post war member of the Commando Association.

HARRIS, Sidney Bertram

Known as: 
Red
Corporal
CH/X105299
40RM Commando
30 Commando Assault Unit
Royal Marines

Post war member of the Commando Association from Cranham, Essex.

Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 110 (2000).

List of RM Commandos provided by Ron Youngman (Secretary CA and CBF).

HARVEY, Leslie George

Lance Corporal
PLY/X 3864
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Corporal Leslie Harvey died during operations on the enemy held island of Brac, Yugoslavia.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/131.

HARWOOD, Frederick Charles William

Colour Sergeant
PLY/X 2685
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Colour Sergeant Frederick Harwood died during operations at Dieppe, France. Son of Arthur and Grace Harwood; husband of Dorothy May Harwood, of Fishguard, Pembrokeshire, Wales.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/131.
 

HASTINGS, Frank Reginald

Lance Corporal
PLY/X 100676
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Frank Hastings died during operations in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations to cross the River Garigliano.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/131.

HAWKINS, Kenneth Scott

Corporal (Acting Temporary Company Sergeant Major)
CH/X 1120
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Acting Company Sergeant Major Kenneth Hawkins was awarded the Military Medal for leadership, gallantry and devotion to duty during operations at the crossing of the Garigliano River, Italy, on 22 January 1944 [1][2].  He later became prisoner of war and was transported to Germany [3].
Recommendation

HAYS, Robert Griffen

Marine
PO/X 113795
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Robert Hays died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy. Son of Francis and Elizabeth Griffen Hays, of Barrmill, Ayrshire.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/131.

HEATH, Albert Stuart

Corporal
CH/X 1967
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Corporal Albert Heath died at Rouen, France after the Dieppe raid. Son of Charles and Annie Heath; husband Of Glenoes Dorothy Heath, of Wandsworth, London.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/132.

HEBDEN, Richard

Marine
PO/X.4047
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Richard Hebden was reported missing presumed died with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.
Son of John Edward and Mary Hebden, of Liverpool.
 
Sources
CWGC.

HELLINGS, Peter William Craddock

Lieutenant General
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB)
Distinguished Service Cross (DSC)
Military Cross (MC)
Deputy Lieutenant (DL)
Mentioned in Despatches
On the 6th September 1940 it was announced that Lieutenant Peter Hellings RM had been awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for courage and devotion to duty during the withdrawals from Boulogne and Calais [1]

HENDERSON, Alfred Walter

Sergeant
CH/X.1123
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Alfred Henderson was reported missing presumed died along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.
Son of Richard and Ada Louisa Henderson; husband of Evelyn Violet Henderson, of Kentish Town, London.
 
Sources

HERD, Alexander Frederick

Marine
EX/ 3189
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Alexander Herd was reported missing presumed died with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.
Son of Alexander and Rose Herd, of Ipswich, Suffolk; husband of Queenie Gwendoline Herd, of Ipswich.
 
Sources
CWGC.

HERYET, George William

Corporal
CH/X 2855
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Corporal George Heryet died during operations in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations to cross the River Garigliano.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/132.

HEWSON, William Bertram

Marine
PO/X.2397
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine William Hewson was reported missing presumed died with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.
Son of George T. and Amelia A. Hewson, of Eastney, Hampshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.

HILDRETH, Harry Lowe

Marine
PO/X 104141
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Harry Hildreth was reported missing presumed died with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed. Son of Harry and Jenny Hildreth, of Tow Law, Co. Durham.
 
Sources
CWGC

HILL, Bertram Peter

Lieutenant
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lieutenant Bertram Hill died during operations in the Dalmatian Islands. His death is reported on the Naval History website as being caused by an explosion. 

HILL, Henry William

Henry William Hill 40RM Commando
Sergeant
EX/5515
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Henry Hill, a veteran of the Dieppe raid, died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy. He received a Mention in Despatches for "gallant and distinguished service while operating with the Army in Italy." Son of Henry William and Mary Alice Hill; husband of Annie Hill, of Normanton, Derbyshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.

HILL, Reginald Hemming

Marine
PLY/X 3235
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Reginald Hill died along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed and sunk. He had been married for less than 10 weeks. Son of Alfred and Eveline Hill; husband of Nellie Hill, of Buckby Wharf, Northants.
 
Sources
CWGC.

HOOK, Ross Sydney

Chaplain (later Bishop)
40RM Commando
43RM Commando
Military Cross (MC)
Reverend Ross Sydney Wood was awarded the Military Cross (periodic) [1][2] in recognition of gallant and distinguished service with 40RM Commando from April 1944 [3] and later wiith 43RM Commando [2].
Recommendation

HOPE, William Morgan

Temporary Sergeant
PLY/X 110136
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Sergeant William Hope was awarded the Military Medal [1] for gallantry, leadership, and  outstanding determination during Operation Impact [more....] in Italy on 11/12th April 1945. The award recommendation concludes with the following words "Throughout the entire action this S.N.C.O.

HOPPER, Norman Charles

Marine
PO/X117193
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Norman Hopper died during a raid on the Island of Brac, Yugoslavia. Initially buried with others on Brac near Nerezische, their remains were later reinterred in a collective grave at Belgrade War Cemetery.
Those buried with him are Marines Pickering and Tarrant of 40RM Commando, and Marines Brookes, Cooper, Hurst, Ivens, and Williamson of 43RM Commando.

HOUGHTON, Robert Dyer

Known as: 
Titch
Robert Houghton 40 Commando
Major General
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB)
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Military Cross (MC)
Deputy Lieutenant (DL)
Acting Major Robert Houghton, Second in Command of 40RM Command

HUBBARD, Geoffrey Robert

Marine
PO/X 116193
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Geoffrey Hubbard died during operations at Vibo-Valentia, southern Italy.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers Of Reports Of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/132.
 

HUMPHREYS, Harry

Marine
PLY/X.2458
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Harry Humphreys was reported missing presumed died with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed. Son of John W. and Lizzie Humphreys, of Leicester.
 
Sources
CWGC.

HUMPHRIES, Joseph

Marine
CH/X 103795
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Joseph Humphries was taken prisoner in the Dieppe Raid. He was one of a work party at Lamsdorf POW Camp who escaped and were shot. The headstone at his Grave states "Royal Marines" followed by "Commando".

HUNTINGTON-WHITELEY, Herbert Oliver

Herbert Oliver Huntington-Whiteley.
Captain
30 Commando Assault Unit
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Herbert Huntington-Whiteley died during operations at Le Havre, France. Also died on this day from his unit and buried at Sanvic was Marine Geoffrey Shaw.
  • May 1944 Mentioned in Despatches for "good services in operations in the Mediterranean".
Sources
CWGC.

HURST, Desmond

Corporal (Acting Temporary Sergeant)
PLY/X3469
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches

Acting Temporary Sergeant Desmond Hurst received a Mention in Despatches for services in Italy 1st April to 8th May 1945. 
 
Sources
London Gazette 37505, page 1441.
Forum message in his name posted by his nephew.

HURST, John

Marine
CH/X 112964
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine John Hurst died during operations in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations to cross the River Garigliano.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers Of Reports Of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/132.
 

HUTCHINSON, James

Marine James Hutchinson 40 Commando
Marine
CH/X 2331
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine James Hutchinson died along with the rest of  'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity was torpedoed and sunk.
 
Sources
CWGC.
[Image] Mark H. (via CVA forum message).
 

JACKSON, Thomas

Lance Corporal
CH/X 100733
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Thomas Jackson died during operations at Anzio, Italy.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/132.
 

JAGGARD, Peter

Marine
CH/X 111786
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Peter Jaggard died during operations in Italy.
 
Notes
At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in Operation Ferdy at Vibo Valentia, known at the time as Porto San Venere.
 

JAMES, George Henry

Lance Corporal
CH/X 110924
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal George James died at 214 Field Ambulance, Italy. At the time of his death his commando were engaged in operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/132.
 

JAMES, Russell Keith

Marine
PO/X 108891
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Russell James died along with the rest of  'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed and sunk.

JAY, Francis Hubert

Known as: 
Bert
Trooper
305985
40RM Commando
2 Special Service (Commando) Brigade
Royal Horse Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Francis Jay died during an enemy aerial attack against commandos based on the island of Vis. At the time of his death he was a signaller attached to 40RM Commando, 2 Special Service Brigade. Son of Harold George and Freda Rose Ellen Jay, and brother of Winnie, of Olton, Birmingham.

Sources
CWGC.

JEFFERS, Michael

Marine
PO/X 105426
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Michael Jeffers, from Fontenoy Street Liverpool, was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of  'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.
 
Sources
CWGC
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/132.

JOCKAM, George Frank Forbes

Marine
CH./X.111805
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Marine George Jockam* received a Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service while operating with the Army in Italy.
 
Sources
[1] London Gazette Supp. 36676, page 4010.
[2] The Light Blue Lanyard, author Maj. J.C.Beadle MBE, MC, RM.
 
Notes

JOHNSON, Ronald

Marine
CH/X 109807
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Ronald Johnson was killed during operations in Sicily whilst aboard the HMS Queen Emma during an enemy air attack on the vessel. 

JONES, John

Marine
CH/X 2429
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine John Jones died at 151 Light Field Ambulance, Syracuse, Sicily.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/132.

KENDRICK, Roy

Marine
CH/X 111228
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Died on active service
Marine Roy Kendrick died in Italy from injuries received as a result of a grenade accident.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/133.
 
Notes
Bari War Cemetery

KENNEY, Howard

Marine
PLY/X 101997
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Died on active service
Marine Howard Kenney died at the 98th General Hospital, Bari, Italy, from accidental stab wounds of the abdomen.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/133.
Births Registered in April, May, June 1922 in Blaby, Leicestershire.
 

KILBRIDE, Joseph

Corporal
EX/3726
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Joseph Kilbride died on board the Hospital Carrier St. David during operations at Sicily. 
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/133.
 
Notes

KINNEAR, Ernest Arthur

Sergeant Ernest Kinnear 40RM Commando
Sergeant (Acting Troop Sergeant Major)
PO/X 105560
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Sergeant Ernest Kinnear was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished service during operations in Italy at Lake Comacchio, and on the enemy held Dalmatian Island of Brac [1].
Recommendation
"(Ref. Map Italy 1/200,000. Sheet 12).

KLINCKE, Edward Sydney

Marine
CH/X 3417
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Edward Klincke died during operations in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations to cross the River Garigliano.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/133.

KRUTHOFFER, John Frederick Peter

Sergeant (later Lieutenant)
CH/X100186
40RM Commando
30 Commando Assault Unit
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Sergeant John Kruthoffer, a veteran of the Dieppe raid [1], received a Mention in Despatches for good service in operations in the Mediterranean in 1944 [2].
  • Commissioned towards the end of 1944 [3].
  • Post war member of the Commando Association from Leeds [4].
Sources

LAGOR, Reginald Arthur

Reginald Lagor 40RM Comamndo
Marine
PLY/X 3859
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Reginald Lagor from Leicester died along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed and sank.
Son of Frank William and Florence Hilda Lagor, of Leicester.
Educated at The Gateway School, Leicester.
Employed at the British United Shoe Machinery Company before military service.
 

LEONARD, Thomas

Marine
EX 3720
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Thomas Leonard died at the Civil Hospital, Corfu, Greece.  3 weeks before his death his Commando were engaged in a successful operation to liberate the island.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/133.
 

LITTLE, William Armstrong

Marine
CH/X 113276
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine William Little died in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/133.

LONGLAND, Norman Harry

Lieutenant
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Died on active service
Lieutenant Norman Longland died of illness during operations in Italy. 
 
Extract from the book 'The Light Blue Lanyard'
"Lt N.Longland, a replacement for Lt Laidlaw who had been wounded at Termoli, contracted Hepatitis, from which he failed to recover."
 
Sources

MACKINSTRY, John

Marine
EX/4156
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine John Mackinstry died during operations at Dieppe, France. 

Son of Samuel G. Mackinstry and Agnes S. Mackinstry, of Greenock, Renfrewshire.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/133.

MACPHERSON, Michael Stuart

Captain
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Michael Macpherson, Officer Commanding 'Q' Troop, died during operations at Sarande, Albania. Son of Commander and Mrs. A.D.L. Macpherson of Stonehouse, Daventry.
Prior to commando service he was a Lieutenant in Mobile Naval Base Defence Organisation 1 (M.N.B.D.O.1) and in 1941 participated in the rearguard action to evacuate allied forces from Crete.
 

MAJOR, James Albert

Marine James Albert Major
Marine
CH/X111755
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Marine James Major was wounded 3 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy.
RM Service
06.10.1942 - 23.11.1942 Depot RM Lympstone.
24.11.1942 - 17.05.1943 RM Division.
18.05.1943 - 24.12.1944 40RM Commando.
25.12.1944 - 10.04.1945 Byrsa (shore base Naples).
11.04.1945 - 15.08.1945 St Angelo (shore base Malta).

MALCOLM, George

Acting Temporary Company Sergeant Major
PLY/X 639
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Company Sergeant Major George Malcolm died during operations in Italy to cross the River Garigliano. He had been recommended for the Military Medal for his gallantry on the day prior to his death.

MANNERS, James Calvert

Known as: 
Pops
Lieutenant Colonel
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Colonel James Manners DSO, Officer Commanding 40RM Commando, died during operations on the enemy held island of Brac, Yugoslavia. He had been Commanding Officer since just after the Dieppe raid and was appointed D.S.O. for gallant and distinguished services in operations leading to the capture of Termoli. *
 
Sources

MANT, Frederick Henry George

Company Sergeant Major
PO/X 1227
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Company Sergeant Major Frederick Mant died during operations in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations to cross the River Garigliano.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/134.
 

MARSH, Leslie George

Leslie George Marsh MC RM
Captain (later Brigadier)
40RM Commando
41 Ind. Cdo. RM
45 Cdo. RM
Royal Marines
Military Cross (MC)
Captain Leslie Marsh, a veteran of service with 40RM Commando in WW2, was awarded the Military Cross for gallant and distinguished service on 29 November 1950 in the Korean War during the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. He was wounded during this operation.
  • January 1945, Lieutenant, 40RM Commando 'Q' Troop.

MARTIN, Hugh Fortune

Quarter Master Sergeant (Regimental Sergeant Major)
CH.X.501
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Recommended for the Croix de Guerre after Dieppe.
Sources
40RM Commando War Diary - Dieppe statements / National Archives file ADM202/87.
Award (Foreign to British) / National Archives file WO373/185/417.
 

MATTERS, John Geoffrey

Temporary Lieutenant
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Lieutenant John Matters received two Mention in Despatches.
  • For courage, tenacity, and skill whilst serving with the Allied Armies in the Mediterranean [1].
  • For distinguished service whilst attached to the Allied Armies in the Mediterranean during the period 1st January to 31st March 1945 [2].
Sources

MATTHEWS, Frederick Gordon

Corporal
PO/X112579
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Frederick Matthews died during operations in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations to cross the River Garigliano.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/134.
 

MAUDE, Neil Stanley Eustace

Lieutenant Colonel (later Brigadier)
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Lieutenant Neil Maude joined the Royal Marine Commando*, Royal Marines, on 17 February 1942 from the Holding Battalion at Deal [1].
  • 17 December 1943 promoted Acting Major and second in command [2].

MAY, Joseph Coyne

Marine
CH/X 110762
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Joseph May died during operations in Sicily whilst aboard the HMS Queen Emma during an enemy air attack on the vessel.
 

McDONALD, Norman

Corporal
PO/X 4530
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Norman McDonald died during operations at Dieppe, France. He has no known grave.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/
Referred to in Dieppe Statement by Cpl Harvey in 40RM Commando War Diary.
 

MCKENNA, George

Corporal
EX 3363
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal George McKenna died in Corfu.  At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in policing operations there after recently liberating the island. He received a Mention in Despatches for "devotion to duty during operations in the Mediterranean theatre covering a period from 1st April to 10th September, 1944."
 
Sources

MOFFAT, Robert Tweedie

Robert Moffat 40RM Commando
Sergeant
PO/X 115392
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Manchester City Police
Robert Moffat was a serving Police Constable in the Manchester City Police (PC A172) who volunteered for the Commandos. He was part of the Police Intakes to the Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre) at Achnacarry.
RM Service and training commenced 1 September 1942.
Served with 40RM Commando from May 1943 and throughout the remainder of the war. 

MOLE, Geoffrey E.

Lance Corporal
6105340
40RM Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Corporal Geoffrey Mole, RAMC attached to 40RM Commando, died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

MOODY, Edwin John

Known as: 
Ted
Marine
CH/X 112355
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Edwin Moody died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/134.

MORGAN, Henry William

Lance Corporal
CH/X 1618
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Henry Morgan died during operations at Dieppe, France. He has no known grave. Son of William Frank and Annie Mary Morgan, of Cheam, Surrey.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Deaths -Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM/104/134.
 

MORGAN, Timothy Dennis

Known as: 
Dai
 Lt Col. Timothy Morgan © IWM (MH 30869
Lieutenant (later Lieutenant Colonel)
40RM Commando
Commando Basic Training Centre
Royal Marines
Military Cross (MC)
Temporary Lieutenant Timothy Morgan, 40RM Commando, was awarded the Military Cross for gallant and distinguished services whilst leading a patrol at Pizzo, Italy, near Vibo Valentia, in September 1943 [1].
Partial extract from the Obituary in the Globe and Laurel July/August 1992

MULLEN, A.

Marine Acting Corporal
PO/X105891
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Sources: RM Prisoners of War / National Archives file ADM201/111 and WO392/7. 
Notes: Possibly ident with Andrew Mullen,  22/11/1907 in Christchurch (WO416/265/206) / Possible photo in 40RM Commando gallery '9 Platoon 'X' Company, July 1942'.
 

MULVEY, Thomas

Marine
PO/X 105260
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Died on active service

Marine Thomas Mulvey was one of five commandos who died from injuries sustained in the accidental explosion of an ammunition truck in Sicily

MUSGROVE, Douglas James

Marine
PO/X4732
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Douglas Musgrove died during operations at Anzio, Italy.

Sources
[1] CWGC.
[2] Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/134.

Notes
Source [1] shows age 20;  Source [2] shows born 12.11.1922.
 

NASH, Alec

Marine
PLY/X 109509
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Alec Nash died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/134.
Births Registered April, May, June 1921 in Clutton, Somerset.

NASH, Thomas

Marine
CH/X 2218
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Thomas Nash died along with the rest of  'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed and sunk.

NEALE, Raymond

Temporary Lieutenant
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Lieutenant Raymond Neale received a Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service while operating with the Army in Italy.
 
Sources
[1] London Gazette 36676, page 4010.
[2] The Light Blue Lanyard, author Maj. J.C.Beadle MBE, MC, RM.
 

NIGHTINGALE, Joseph

Marine
PO/X 105298
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Joseph Nightingale died during operations at Termoli, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/135.

NORTHERN, Samuel Bernard

Known as: 
Ginger
Marine
PO/X 101038
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Samuel Northern died during operations at Dieppe, France. Son of Thomas Bernard and Mary Elizabeth Northern, of Mansfield Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archivves file ADM/104/135.
 
Notes

NUNN, Sidney Donald

Marine
CH/X 100025
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Sidney Nunn died during operations in Sicily whilst aboard the HMS Queen Emma during an enemy air attack on the vessel.
 

Extract from a report in the Essex Newsman - Saturday 02 October 1943

O'BRIEN, John Patrick Joseph

Temporary Lieutenant (Acting Temporary Captain)
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Cross (MC)

Captain John O'Brien was awarded the Military Cross for courage, leadership and resource in operations which led to the crossing of the Garigliano River in the face of determined opposition, from the enemy.

Sources
London Gazette 36474, page 1777.
National Archives file WO 373/47/153.

O'CALLAGHAN, Frank John

Marine
CH/X 111626
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Frank O'Callaghan was killed [1] by a sniper while attached to 30 Commando AU during operations at Normandy. He had previously served with 40RM Commando [2].
 
Sources
[1] CWGC
[2] The book Attain by Surprise edited by David Nutting.

OCKWELL, Christopher Thomas

Marine
PO/X104971
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Christopher Ockwell died during operations in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations to cross the River Garigliano.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives files ADM 104/135.

ODENDAAL, Jacobus Russell

Corporal (Acting Temporary Sergeant)(later Captain)
PO.X.4187
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Acting Sergeant Jacobus Odendaal, 40RM Commando, was awarded the British Empire Medal (Military Division) for bravery in saving the life of two airmen when an aircraft crashed in a wood on the Isle of Wight [1][1a][Linked Content below].
  • 23 July 1943 listed as Lieutenant [2].

ORMAN, Peter William

Marine
PO/X 107304
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Peter Orman died during operations at Dieppe, France. Son of Albert Ernest and Agnes Emma Orman, of Totton, Hampshire, England.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives files ADM 104/135.

OVER, Derrick George

Lieutenant
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Derrick Over died during operations at Dieppe, France. Son of Dr. William Pigg Over, L.R.C.P., and Marian Josephine Over, of Godalming, Surrey, England.
 
Source
CWGC.
 

PAIN, Leonard James

Marine
CH/X 110765
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Leonard Pain died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives files ADM 104/135.

PALMER, Ernest Edward

Marine (Acting Temporary Corporal)
CH/X 103819
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal Ernest Palmer was awarded the M.M., for gallantry, zeal and skill during the attack on Sarande and the seizure of the Island of Solta.
 
Source
London Gazette Supp. 37013, page 1791.
 

PALMER, John

Marine
PLY/X 3323
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine John Palmer died along with the rest of  'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed and sunk.

PANTER, Howard Denis

Known as: 
Denis
Marine Howard Denis Panter
Marine
PO/X 107976
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Howard Denis Panter died along with the rest of  'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed and sunk.
 
Sources
CWGC.

PATRICK, Neil

Marine (Acting Temporary Corporal)
PLY/X103894
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal Neil Patrick was awarded the Military Medal for courage, leadership and resource in operations which led to the crossing of the Garigliano River in the face of determined enemy opposition [1][2]. On 8 September 1945 he was posted to 4 Commando Brigade [3].
Award recommendation

PEGRUM, John David George

Lieutenant John Pegrum 40RM Commando
Lieutenant
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant John Pegrum died 11 April 1945 during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.
Served in 'Q' Troop in Corfu, January 1945.
Son of George William Pegrum, and of Ethel May Pegrum, of Setch, Norfolk.

PICKERING, Alfred George

Marine
CH/X 111702
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Alfred Pickering died during a raid on the Island of Brac, Yugoslavia. Initially buried with others on Brac near Nerezische, their remains were later reinterred in a collective grave at Belgrade War Cemetery.
Those buried with him are Marines Hopper and Tarrant of 40RM Commando, and Marines Brookes, Cooper, Hurst, Ivens, and Williamson of 43RM Commando.

PINCHER, Ronald

Marine
PLY/X113394
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Ronald Pincher died during operations at Sarande, Albania.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/135.
 

PLATT, John Henry

Known as: 
Harry
Marine
EX/1240
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine John Platt from Manchester was reported missing presumed died during operations at Anzio, Italy. He has no known grave.

PORTER, Ernest William

Graves of Marines Wise, Porter, Denmark and Spencer
Marine
PLY/X 104940
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Died on active service
Marine Ernest Porter was one of five commandos who died from injuries sustained in the accidental explosion of an ammunition truck in Sicily. He is buried in a collective grave with three others, Marines Robert Denmark, Frank Spencer, and Albert Wise.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives files ADM 104/135.

POWELL, Wallace William Alfred

Marine
CH/X 3243
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Wallace Powell died during operations at Dieppe, France. Son of Ernest and Elizabeth Powell, of Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, England.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/135.
 

PRATT, George Stephen

Marine
CH/X3203
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine George Pratt died during operations at Sarande, Albania.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/135.

RHODES, William Henry

Marine
PO/21781
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine William Rhodes was reported missing presumed died during operations at Dieppe, France. He is remembered on Special Memorial 2.F.4. in the cemetery. 
Husband of Hilda May Rhodes, of Southsea, Hampshire.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/136.

ROBSON, Thomas

Marine
PLY/X2596
45RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Died in service
Marine Thomas Robson died of accidental drowning at Kowloon whilst deployed to Hong Kong. He was attached to HM Motor Fishing Vessel 1044 at the time. He had previously received a Mention in Despatches for "outstanding service while operating with the Allied Armies in Italy."
 
Sources
CWGC.

ROSS, John

John Ross 40 Commando
Marine
CH/X 110710
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine John Ross died during operations in Sicily whilst aboard the HMS Queen Emma during an enemy air attack on the vessel.
 

RUSSELL, Geoffrey Mellanby

Temporary Lieutenant Acting Temporary Captain
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Acting Temporary Captain Geoffrey Russell received a Mention in Despatches for services in Italy 1st April to 8th May 1945. 
 
Sources
London Gazette 37505, page 1441.
Navy Lists (see Linked Content below].
The Light Blue Lanyard, author Maj.J.C. Beadle MBE, MC.

SADLER, John

Marine
PLY/X.3867
43RM Commando
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Post war member of the Commando Association from Worthing, Sussex.
 
Sources
Commando Association newsletter 98 (1994).
List of RM Commandos provided by RY (former CA Sec and CBF).
 

SALAMAN, Hugh Lind

Marine
PLY/X 104581
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Hugh Salaman, from Paddington, was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of  'T' Company, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed.
 
Sources
CWGC
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/136.

SANKEY, Robert Woodall

Lieutenant Colonel Sankey RM
Lieutenant Colonel
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Distinguished Service Cross (DSC)
Mentioned in Despatches
Lieutenant Colonel Robert Sankey was appointed Officer Commanding 40 Royal Marine Commando on the 1st July 1944 after the death in June of Lieutenant Colonel  James C. Manners, DSO [more....] [1].
  • 1943 Commanding Officer 11th RM Bn. [2].

SIMMONS, Ronald

Marine Ronald Simmons 40 Commando
Marine
CH/X2889
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Marine Ronald Simmons was taken prisoner of war during operations at Dieppe France on 19 August 1942. Before joining the Commando on its formation he had served on HMS Southampton engaged in North Sea Patrols and post war served in Palestine, rank Corporal.
 
Sources

SINGLETON, Ronald Barry

Ronald Barry Singleton 40 Commando
Marine
PO/X 107025
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Ronald Singleton died during operations at Dieppe, France. He has no known grave.
Mentioned in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the attack. 
Report in the Liverpool Echo newspaper

SMALE, Kenneth William Ridley

Lieutenant
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Cross (MC)
Lieutenant Kenneth Smale was awarded the Military Cross for bravery, endurance and inspiring devotion to duty whilst serving in Commando operations in the raid on Dieppe, 19th August, 1942, after which he was a prisoner of war in Germany, August 1942—May 1945.
 
Source
London Gazette  37387, page 6085.

SMITH, Harold

Temporary Sergeant
PO/X 105414
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Sergeant Harold Smith was awarded the Military Medal (periodic) [1] for gallant and distinguished service shown during operations in Italy at Anzio, Sarande, and Lake Comacchio, and on the enemy held Dalmatian Island of Brac [2]. He also received a Mention in Despatches for services in Italy, 1st April, 1945 to 8th May, 1945 [3].

SMITH, John Aubrey

Temporary Lieutenant
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Lieutenant John Aubrey Smith received a Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service while operating with the Army in Italy [1].
  • 1951 (Captain) Mentioned in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Malaya during the period 1st July to 31st December, 1951 [2].
Sources

SPENCER, Frank

Graves of Marines Wise, Porter, Denmark and Spencer
Marine
PLY/X 109442
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Died on active service

Marine Frank Spencer was one of five commandos who died from injuries sustained in the accidental explosion of an ammunition truck in Sicily. He is buried in a collective grave with Marines Robert Denmark, Ernest Porter, and Albert Wise.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/137.

STRONG, C.G.

Marine
PLY./X.109036
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Mentioned in Despatches
Marine Strong received a Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service while operating with the Army in Italy.
 
Sources
[1] London Gazette 36676, page 4010.
[2] The Light Blue Lanyard, author Maj. J.C.Beadle MBE, MC, RM.

SWAN, George

Known as: 
Ginger
George Swan 40 Commando
Company Sergeant Major
PO/X 3273
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Served in 'Q' Troop. Post war member of the Commando Association from Dagenham.
 
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 82 (1986).
[Image] Cropped from photo of 'Q' Troop in 40RM Cdo Gallery.

SWAN, Leslie Victor

Sergeant
CH/X2532
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Sergeant Leslie Swan died during operations in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations to cross the River Garigliano.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/137.

SWATTON, Vernon

Corporal
PO/X 2317
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Distinguished Service Medal (DSM)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Vernon Swatton, D.S.M., from Hythe, was reported missing presumed died, along with the rest of  'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed. In 1940 he had been awarded the Distinguished Service Medal whilst a Marine on HMS Nelson for gallantry and devotion to duty during operations in Norway.
 
Sources

SWIFT, Harold

Marine
PLY/X 112407
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Harold Swift died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/137.

TACK, Ronald Edward

Marine
CH/X105806
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Ronald Tack died during operations at Anzio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/137.

TARRANT, Kenneth Albert

Marine
PO/X 116866
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine Kenneth Tarrant died during a raid on the Island of Brac, Yugoslavia. Initially buried with others on Brac near Nerezische, their remains were later reinterred in a collective grave at Belgrade War Cemetery.
Those buried with him are Marines Hopper and Pickering of 40RM Commando, and Marines Brookes, Cooper, Hurst, Ivens, and Williamson of 43RM Commando.

THORP, Thomas Edward

Corporal
PLY/X 1309
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Thomas Thorp died during operations at Dieppe, France. He has no known grave. 
Son of Thomas Edward and Jane Thorp; husband of Edith Mary Thorp, of Gwennap, Cornwall.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers Of Reports Of Deaths: Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/138.
 

TOES, Frank

Corporal
PLY/X 2843
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Corporal Frank Toes died during operations at Termoli, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/138.
 

TOWERS, James

Marine
PLY/X105669
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine James Towers died during operations at Anzio, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/138.

TURRELL, John Edward

Marine
PO/X 103787
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds

Marine John Turrell died during operations at Termoli, Italy.

Sources
CWGC.
Registers of Reports of Deaths - Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM104/138.

TWIDALE, Thomas

Marine
EX/ 3870
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Thomas Twidale died along with the rest of 'T' Company 40RM Commando, when the ship they were on board, HMS Fidelity, was torpedoed and sunk. Son of Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Twidale, of Hull.
 
Sources
[1] CWGC.
[2] Registers Of Reports Of Deaths: Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/138.
 

TYMAN, Frederick Philip

Marine
CH/X113132
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)

Marine Frederick Tyman was awarded the Military Medal for courage, determination and resource in silencing a German mortar position single handed in an operation in Italy. He was later taken prisoner of war.

USHER, Frederick George

Fred Usher 40 RM Commando
Marine (acting T/Corporal)
CH/X 104066
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal Frederick Usher was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished services in operations leading to the capture of Termoli, Italy.
Recommendation
"Cpl. Usher was in command of a patrol ordered to the railway bridge 2 miles North of Termoli. He was informed by some Italians that the bridge was held by Germans. 

WAKELING, James Dennis

James Wakeling 43 and 40 Commando
Acting Temporary Major
40RM Commando
43RM Commando
Royal Marines
Military Cross (MC)
Major James Wakeling, 40RM Commando, was awarded the Military Cross for great courage and exemplary behaviour whilst carrying out commando operations under heavy enemy fire off the Yugoslavian coast [1][2].
Recommendation
"3/4 June 1944 Brac.

WALKER, Percy Edward

Marine
PO/X 2542
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Percy Walker died during operations at Dieppe, France. He has no known grave.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Registers Of Reports Of Deaths: Naval Ratings / National Archives file ADM 104/138.
 

WALLACE, J.

Private (Corporal)
3129799
40RM Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps

Private Wallace, R.A.M.C. attached to 40RM Commando, was wounded 9 October 1944 during operations in Albania. Post war member of the Commando Association who record his final rank attained as Corporal.

WARD, George

Marine
PO/X108379
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine George Ward died during operations in Italy.
 
Sources
CWGC.
The Green Beret by Hilary St George Saunders.
 
Notes

WEST, Wallace George

Corporal (Acting Temporary Company Sergeant )
PLY/X100645
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Acting Sergeant Wallace West was awarded the British Empire Medal (Military Division) for bravery in saving the life of two airmen when an aircraft crashed in a wood.
 
Sources
London Gazette 36001, page 2004 published 4 May 1943.
 
Notes

Pages


Ask Questions / Add Information / Add Photos

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