50ME Commando

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'Layforce'

Three UK based Army Commando units, Nos. 7, 8, and 11 Commandos, were initially combined within 'Force Z' for operations initially envisaged against Rhodes in the Eastern Mediterranean.  Other elements of the Force included a number of men from No.3 Commando and the Canoe section of No.8 (Guards) Commando.  They sailed from the Isle of Arran on the 31st January 1941, and arrived at Suez on the 7th March.

'Middle East Depot Commando Training and Holding Unit'

The Middle East 'Depot Commando Training and Holding Unit' came into being mid December 1940 and was formally established at Geneifa beside the Great Bitter Lake under the command of Major D.W. Melville MC on 25 January 1941.
Its role was to provide training and reinforcements for 50, 51, and 52 Commandos who were all deployed at the time, and also as a Holding Unit for Commandos.
 

'Volunteers from Spain, 50 ME Commando'

The following is a list of Spanish volunteers who became prisoners of war in Crete 2 June 1941. They were originally attested into The Queen's Royal Regiment and attached No.50 Middle East Commando before their Commando was amalgamated with No.52 Middle East Commando to form 'D' Battalion of Layforce on deployment to Crete.
 
Sources
War Office, Prisoners of War Lists, WW2, 1943-1945. / National Archives file WO392/20.
*Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/34, 35, 45, and 69

50ME Commando

The Middle East Commando began to form at Geneifa in August 1940. No.50 Middle East Commando formed up in September 1940 and became fully operational in October. It included a detachment of 63 volunteers from Spain. A large number of these Spaniards would be among those captured in June 1941 at Crete.
No.50 Middle East Commando operations included Operation Abstention 25 to 28 February 1941 on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo (or Castellorizo). 

ADDICOTT, H.L.

Known as: 
Len
Trooper
322200
50ME Commando
Warwickshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Post war member of the Middle East Commando Historical Research Group (MECHRG).
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/54.
50 Me Cdo Casualty List 25th-28th Feb. 1941 in Crete - Ref. GRO2E/1188/69C / National Archives WO361/124.

ALBALADEJO, Alexander

Private
13808266
6100503
50ME Commando
Pioneer Corps
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Alexander Albaladejo, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941; found to have been wounded, captured and later transported to Stalag 344.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/30; WO417/34; and WO417/92.

ALVAREZ, Jose

Corporal
6100504
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Corporal Jose Alvarez, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/35..
Prisoners of War Lists, Second World War, 1943-1945. / National Archives file WO392/20.

ANDREWS, William

Sergeant
6397511
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.
Sergeant William Andrews was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been captured and transported to Stalag 383. Post war member of the Commando Association from Bow, London.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

ARCHER, C.D.

Private
4855929
50ME Commando
Leicestershire Regiment 2nd Bn.
Private Archer was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. 
 
Sources
Casualty Lists WO417/23.
50 Me Cdo Casualty List 25th-28th Feb. 1941 in Crete - Ref. GRO2E/1188/69C / National Archives WO 361/124.
 

BAIRD, John William

Trooper
295210
Middle East Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment
Trooper John Baird, Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/94 (1945).
German Record Cards of British PoWs / National Archives file WO416/15/108 (Stalag 3D).

BARNETT, William Henry

Fusilier
6459325
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier William Barnett was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been captured and transported to Stalag 3D.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

BARROSO, Montiano

Served as : 
Surname seen elsewhere as Banoso and Banosa
Lance Sergeant
6100505
50ME Commando
Queen's Royal Regiment

Lance Sergeant Montiano Barroso, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941; found to have been captured and later transported to Stalag 383.
 
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/35..

BATE, James Howard

Corporal
553100
50ME Commando
Queen's Own Yorkshire Dragoons, Royal Armoured Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal James Bate was reported missing presumed drowned whilst attempting to escape the enemy during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. 
He joined the Commando on 15 Ocotber 1940 and has no known grave. 
Son of James William and Minnie Jane Bate.

BEEDELL, Lawrence Henry

Known as: 
Harry
Trooper
326889
50ME Commando
Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Trooper 'Harry' Beedell, 50ME Commando and 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2nd June 1941 during operations in Crete, later discovered captured on 1st June.
Post war member of the Commando Association, employed in his early life as a Farm Baliff later as a Purser on cross channel ferries. Member of the Middle East Commando Historical Research Group (MECHRG).

BENTLEY, W

Lance Corporal
6398076
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.

Lance Corporal Bentley was was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war 

BLACKBURN, Thomas

Trooper
321988
50ME Commando
Cheshire Yeomanry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Thomas Blackburn was reported missing presumed drowned during operations on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave.
Report by Tpr Weston

BLAKE, D.L.

Corporal
295168
Middle East Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment
Corporal Blake, Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/30, and WO417/93 (1945).
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
 

BLASCO, Vicente

Lance Corporal
6100545
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Lance Corporal Vicente Blasco, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/35..
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

BOAST, E.A.

Corporal
6457716
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.

Corporal Boast was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

BORWICK, Michael George

Temporary Captain (later Lieutenant Colonel)
64017
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Scots Greys, Royal Armoured Corps
Mentioned in Despatches
Deputy Lieutenant (DL)
  • 25 February 1941, Kastelorizzo, Captain, 50 Middle East Commando, engaged in Operation Abstention [1].
  • 28 March 1941, Geneifa, Captain, 'C' Company, 'D' Bn., Layforce [2].

BOYLE, Peter, J.

Fusilier
6458472
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier Peter Boyle was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

BRAVO, Jose

Private
6100551
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Jose Bravo, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

BRITTAIN, E.

Private
4746370
'Layforce'
York and Lancaster Regiment

Private Brittain, attached to 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. 

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/26 and WO417/91.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1.

BROWN, J.

Lance Corporal
305201
50ME Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment
Lance Corporal J. Brown was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war in Italian hands [1][1a][1b]. 
  • 1944 reported no longer a prisoner of war [2].

Sources
[1] Casualty Lists WO417/23.

BULLEN, John

Private
6398836
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.
Private John Bullen was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

BUSBY, John Henry

Corporal
4743550
'Layforce'
York and Lancaster Regiment 2nd Bn.
Died on war service

Corporal John Busby from Hull was reported in the Casualty Lists as attached to 'D' Bn Layforce [1] at the time of his death through illness in the Middle East [2][3].

CARMONA, Miguel

Private
6100553
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Miguel Carmona, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

CASTELLANO, Francisco

Private
6100507
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Francisco Castellano, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34..
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

CEVANTES, Santiago

Private
6100546
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Santiago Cevantes, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, WO417/42, and WO417/95.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

CHAPMAN, Alfred James

Lance Corporal
875020
50ME Commando
British Military Mission 204
Royal Artillery
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
1937 attested into the Royal Artillery [1].
27 March 1938 transferred to Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment [1].
29 May 1941 wounded during operations in Crete whilst attached to Layforce [2].
50 Middle East Commando [3].
204 Military Mission to China [3].

CHIVERS, Frederick, J.

Lance Corporal
5107918
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Lance Corporal Frederick Chivers was reported missing on 2nd June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4A).

CLETO, Sanchez

Private
6100554
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Sanchez Cleto, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/20.

COCHRANE, Archibald Leman

Known as: 
Archie
Captain
136278
'Layforce'
Royal Army Medical Corps
Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Professor Archibald Cochrane, CBE, MB, FRCP, was the Medical Officer of 'D' Bn. Layforce (50 and 52 Middle East Commandos). He was taken prisoner of war during operations at Crete continuing his work as a Doctor in the prison camps.
  • 1 November 1945 appoined M.B.E. (Military Division) in recognition of gallant and distinguished service whilst a Prisoner of War.

COLLINS, R.

Sergeant
2928399
50ME Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Sergeant Collins was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. 
 
Sources
Casualty Lists WO417/23.
50 Me Cdo Casualty List 25th-28th Feb. 1941 in Crete - Ref. GRO2E/1188/69C / National Archives WO361/124.
 

COOK, Frank, B.

Fusilier
6458666
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier Frank Cook was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war from 1 June 1941. 
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 (army no. amended in WO417/29.)
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

CORDA, Francisco

Known as: 
seen elsewhere as JORDA or FORDA
Lance Corporal
6100521
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Spanish volunteer who served in 'D' Bn., Layforce. Reported missing on 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been taken prisoner of war and transported to Stalag 21A at Thorn, Poland.
 
Notes/Sources
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/10 shows surname as CORDA (Stalag 21A)

CROSSAN, William George

Trooper
410677
50ME Commando
Royal Dragoons, Royal Armoured Corps
Trooper William Crossan was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later reported prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists WO417/23 and WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1, WO392/11, WO392/21.

DAWES, Ernest William

Private
4911348
50ME Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Ernest Dawes died during operations on the Greek island of Kastellorizo. 

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/23.

50 Me Cdo Casualty List 25th-28th Feb. 1941 in Crete - Ref. GRO2E/1188/69C / National Archives WO361/124.
The Middle East Commandos, author Charles Messenger.

DENNIS, V.L.

Private
5951155
50ME Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment 1st Bn
Private Dennis, 50 Middle East Commando, was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo [1][2]. 
  • 21 November 1941 (1st Bn. Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment) wounded Western Desert [3].

Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/23.

DIAZ, J.

Corporal
6100509
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Corporal J. Diaz, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 

DIAZ, Juan

Corporal
6100533
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Juan Diaz, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/39.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1, WO392/10, WO392/11, and WO392/20.

DOWLING, W.G.

Private
5500848
50ME Commando
Hampshire Regiment

Private W.G. Dowling was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war 

DREWITT, Glanville

Private
3959808
52ME Commando
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment

Private Glanville Drewitt, 52 Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. He also served in 50 Middle East Commando. Post war member of the Commando Association, London Branch.

EDWARDS, Harry

Fusilier
6458488
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.

Fusilier Harry Edwards was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. 

ENGLAND, Leslie Frank

Trooper
552907
50ME Commando
Life Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds

Trooper Leslie England was reported missing later presumed killed in action during operations on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave. Son of Arthur England and of Mary Ann England, of Cheylesmore, Coventry [1][1a][1b]. 
26 October 1932 attested into the Royal Tank Corps [2]. 

FAJARDO, Joaquin

Private
6100512
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Joaquin Fajardo, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941; found to have been captured and later transported to Stalag 4C. Liberated in 1945.

FARMER, H.

Private
4746551
50ME Commando
York and Lancaster Regiment 2nd Bn.

Private Farmer was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo (Operation Abstention), later found to be a prisoner of war. 

FELLOWES, Hubert, H.

Corporal
5497866
50ME Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Corporal Hubert Fellowes was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 383).

FILMER, Ronald

Corporal
7343128
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.
Corporal Ronald Filmer was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war from 1 June 1941.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/120/167.

FOX-DAVIES, Harley Edmond Fitzroy

Known as: 
Harry
Captain (Acting Major)
39436
50ME Commando
52ME Commando
Durham Light Infantry
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Attached from the Durham Light Infantry to MI (R) Military Intelligence in July 1940 to assist with the setting up of Commando units in the Middle East.*
  • Second in Command of No.50 Middle East Commando July 1940*.
  • Commanding Officer No.52 Middle East Commando November 1940. Left the Commando shortly afterwards due to illness*.

FRAILI, G.T.

Known as: 
Thomas
Private
6100513
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Fraili, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

FRANCO, T.

Private
6100511
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Franco, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

GALERA, Enrique

Corporal
6100518
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Corporal Enrique Galera, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
Prisoners of War Lists, Second World War, 1943-1945. / National Archives file WO392/10 and 20 (Stalag 8C).

GALORETTA, M. Luciano

Private
6100517
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Galoretta, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34 (shown as M.L. Galoretta).
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20 (shown as M. Galoretta).

GARCIA, John

Private
6100515
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private John Garcia, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/35.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

GERONINO, F.

Known as: 
also seen as JERONIMO, Francisco and WILLIAMS, Frank
Private
6100555
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, reported missing 2 June 1941 in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. In 1942 he was reported no longer a prisoner.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/45.
 
Notes

GOMEZ, Seraphin

Sergeant
6100516
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Sergeant Seraphin Gomez, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

GREENWOOD, Jack

Corporal
4745720
50ME Commando
York and Lancaster Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Jack Greenwood died during operations against the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He was initially reported missing believed drowned attempting to escape. His body was later found and identified.
 
Sources
CWGC.

HACKETT, Harry

Gunner
876593
50ME Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Harry Hackett, 50 Middle East Commando, was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo [1][2]. 
  •  Enlisted RA 1937 [3].
  • 23 March 1943 (64 Medium Regiment RA) wounded Tunisia [4].

HARDING, John Aubrey, D.H.

Lance Corporal
6457903
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Lance Corporal John Harding was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
German Record Cards of British PoW's / National Archives file WO416/162/90.

HARRISON, Charles, F.

Corporal
4856341
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Corporal Harrison, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/29.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

HARTLEY, Christopher Lancelot

Corporal
6846173
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
9th Bn. King's Royal Rifle Corps (Rangers)

Corporal Christopher Hartley was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/32, and WO417/102.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 383).
German Record Cards of British PoWs / National Archives file WO416/166/41 (Stalag 3D).

HARVEY, C.

Signalman (Lance Corporal)
407138
50ME Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Cheshire Yeomanry

Lance Corporal C. Harvey was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war in Italian hands [1][1a]. 
1943 unit and rank amended to Signalman, Royal Corps of Signals [2][2a].
1944 reported no longer a prisoner of war [3].

HERAS, Bravlio

Known as: 
First name also seen as Braulio
Private
13808248
6100520
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Pioneer Corps
Queen's Royal Regiment
Died on war service
Private Bravlio Heras, a Spanish volunteer in 50 Middle East Commando ('D' Bn., Layforce), died whilst a prisoner of war having been captured during operations in Crete on 2 June 1941. He is believed to have been killed by Russian fire at Stalag 4C and has no known grave.
 
Sources
CWGC.

HERMON, Kenneth Edward

Captain
65941
'Layforce'
Durham Light Infantry
28.03.1941 Geneifa, Commanding 'A' Company of 'D' Bn Layforce
04.06.1941 prisoner of war Crete. 
 
Sources
52 Middle East Commando War Diary 28/3/1941 (List of 'D' Bn Layforce Officers).
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/2.

HEWITT, W.

Sergeant
4858688
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment

Sergeant Hewitt, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete. Later found to have been captured and transported to Stalag 383.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.

HIDALGO, Joseph

Private
6100557
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Joseph Hidalgo, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/95.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

HODGSON, Albert

Lance Corporal
3597591
50ME Commando
Coldstream Guards
Lance Corporal Albert Hodgson was reported missing on 2nd June 1941 during operations in Crete; later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 and 11.

HOLLINGSHEAD, Robert, W.

Corporal
6459214
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Corporal Robert Hollingshead was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war from 1 June 1941.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4A) and WO392/11 (Stalag 11B).

IRWIN, Thomas

Private
7885134
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Private Thomas Irwin, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4A).

JARY, James, W.

Trooper
327237
50ME Commando
Nottinghamshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Trooper James Jary was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later reported prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists WO417/23 and WO417/94.

JOHNSON, William Edward

Lance Corporal
4858135
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Lance Corporal William Johnson, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4D).

JOHNSTONE, Robert

Fusilier
6457594
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier Robert Johnstone was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4A).

JONES, Albert, G.W.

Fusilier
6458420
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier Albert Jones was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4A).
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11 (Stalag 4G).

JONES, William

Trooper
4124972
50ME Commando
Royal Dragoons, Royal Armoured Corps

Trooper William Jones was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war.

LAKER, Jesse, A.

Trooper
410608
50ME Commando
Royal Armoured Corps

Trooper Jesse Laker was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in the Middle East, later found to be a prisoner of war. On this date his Commando were engaged in operations in Crete.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National archives files WO417/42, WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1 and WO392/11 (Stalag 4G).

LILLO, Julian

Private
6100558
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Julian Lillo, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/95.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

LINSDELL, R.

Private
6399310
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.

Private R. Linsdell was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later reported no longer missing.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/34.

LLORET, Carlos

Private
6100522
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Carlos Lloret, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/95.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

LOCKINGTON, Arthur

Trooper
324447
50ME Commando
British Military Mission 204
Royal Armoured Corps
Died on war service
Trooper Arthur Lockington, assigned from the Commando to Middle East Detachment 2, later redesignated 2nd Special Service Detachment (SSD 2), died in Burma. He has no known grave.
 
Sources
CWGC.

LOWENTHAL, M.J., or N.

Private
4131437
50ME Commando
Cheshire Regiment 1st Bn.

Private Lowenthal was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. 
 
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists WO417/23.
[2] 50 Me Cdo Casualty List 25th-28th Feb. 1941 in Crete - Ref. GRO2E/1188/69C / National Archives WO361/124.

LUMBRERA, Francisco

Known as: 
Surname also seen as LUMBRUA
Francesco Lumbrera 50ME Commando
Private
ME/13808250
6100524
'Layforce'
50ME Commando
Pioneer Corps
Queen's Royal Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Francisco Lumbrera*, 50 Middle East Commando, and from Spain, died whilst a prisoner of war having been captured during operations in Crete in 1941. He has no known grave. Believed killed by Russian fire at Stalag 4C Wistritz bei Teplitz,Germany. 
 
Source
CWGC.

LYONS, John, G.

Lance Corporal
2763806
50ME Commando
Black Watch
Lance Corporal John Lyons was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war
 
Sources
Casualty Lists WO417/23 and WO417/97.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4C) and WO392/21 (Campo 78).

MARIN, Basil

Sergeant
6100528
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Sergeant Basil Marin, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 1 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/37.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

MARINO, Angel

Known as: 
Surname also seen as MARIONO
Private
6100529
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Angel Marino, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing in Crete 2 June 1941 later found to be a prisoner of war.

MARSON, Kenneth

Private
4858831
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment 2nd Bn.

Private Kenneth Marson, 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/34 and WO417/94
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO3921/1 (Stalag 3D) and WO392/11 (Stalag 4G).

MARTINEY, Aurelio

Served as : 
surname also seen as MARTINEZ
Private
6100561
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Aurelio Martiney, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war

MARTINEZ, Francisco

Private
6100548
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Francisco Martinez, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/39.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

MARTINEZ, Pereira

Private
6100562
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Francisco Martinez, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1, WO392/10 and WO392/20.

MATHER, James Henry

Pte James Mather 50ME Commando
Private
3960750
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Died on war service
Private James Mather was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete and later found to be a prisoner of war [1]. He had been imprisoned at Stalag 4C, a prisoner of war camp at Wistritz bei Teplitz, Sudetenland ( part of former Czechoslovakia) [2a].

MCALLISTER, H.

Private
2932951
50ME Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders

Private McAllister was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Repatriated to the UK in 1943.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/34 and WO417/68.
 

MCCORMICK, John

Private
3711810
50ME Commando
King's Own Royal Regiment (Lancaster)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John McCormick was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941, later presumed killed in action, during operations against the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave. Son of Peter McCormick and of Annie McCormick, of Bolton, Lancashire.
 
Sources
CWGC.

McEWAN, Alexander

Trooper
321151
Middle East Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Trooper Alexander McEwan was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National archives files WO417/29 and WO417/30.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

MCGIBBON, Robert Lorne

Robert Lorne McGibbon 50ME Commando
Lieutenant (later Captain)
85719
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment 2nd Bn.
1939-1940 served in Palestine before joining No.50 Middle East Commando [1][1a].
28.03.1941 Lieutenant, 'B' Company, 'D' Bn., Layforce at Geneifa [2].
__.06.1941 Lieutenant*, reported wounded and prisoner of war in Crete [3][3a][3b].
26.08.1945 promoted Captain [4].

MEALOR, Joseph

Private
2928898
50ME Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Private Joseph Mealor, aged 26, was reported missing and later a prisoner of war 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete.

MENA, J

Private
6100526
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private J. Mena, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported as a prisoner of war in German hands (in Germany)  after operations in Crete 1941. In 1943 he is reported as repatriated to the UK.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/35 and WO417/69. 

MILLER, Ean Creighton

Known as: 
Ian
Second Lieutenant
137263
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
King's Royal Rifle Corps
22.06.1940 commissioned Second Lieutenant [1].
28.03.1941 Second Lieutenant, 'A' Company 'D' Bn. Layforce at Geneifa [1a].
25-28.05.1941 wounded during operations at Kastellorizzo [2][2a]. 
01.06.1941 prisoner of war during the rearguard action at Crete [2a][3][3a]. 
 

MOTHERSOLE, H.

Trooper
319378
50ME Commando
Warwickshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps

Source: 50 Me Cdo Casualty List 25th-28th Feb. 1941 in Crete - Ref. GRO2E/1188/69C / National Archives WO361/124.

MUNRO, George

Sergeant
3323555
No 11 Commando
50ME Commando
SBS
Highland Light Infantry (City of Glasgow Regiment) 2nd Bn.
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant George Munro, a veteran of the Litani River raid, died during operations with the S.B.S., on the island of Samos after leaving the Commando.
Postings
Sep   1940 - volunteered for 11 Cdo.
Mar  1941- arrive Middle East - 'C' Bn Layforce
Aug  1941- 11 Cdo absorbed into ME Cdo

MURPHY, P.

Private
3314324
50ME Commando
Highland Light Infantry 2nd Bn.
Private P. Murphy was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo [1][2]. 
  • 2 June 1941 Crete reported missing, later found to be a prisoner of war [3][4].
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/23.

MURRAY, Alfred

Sergeant
408834
Middle East Commando
Royal Armoured Corps

Sergeant Alfred Murray was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/29 and WO417/30.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 383).
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/266/462 (Stalag 3D).
 

MYERS, R.D.

Sergeant
50ME Commando

Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing East Bolden, County Durham.

Sources
Commando Association Lost Legion List 9.

NAVARRETE, Francisco

Lance Corporal
6105530
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Lance Corporal Francisco Navarrete, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

NOBLE, Arthur Frederick

Private
6397720
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.
Private Arthur Noble was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. 
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4F).

NUNN, Robert Richard

Known as: 
forenames also seen as Richard Robert
Sergeant
6457784
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Sergeant Nunn was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war having been captured on 1 June 1941.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 344).

PATRICK, G.A., or J.

Private
4858786
50ME Commando
Leicestershire Regiment 2nd Bn.

Private Patrick was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. 
 
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists WO417/23.
[2] 50 Me Cdo Casualty List 25th-28th Feb. 1941 in Crete (War Office Oct 1941) Ref. GRO2E/1188/69C.

Notes
Source [1] initials G.A. Source [2] initial J.

PEMBERTON, Hugh

Hugh Pemberton 50 Middle East Commando
Private
2932594
50ME Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Hugh Pemberton was reported killed in action in the Western Desert.
Son of Ellen Pemberton, and stepson of Robert White, of Liverpool.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/34.
[Image] Report on his death in the Liverpool Evening Express 30 May 1942.
 

POLLARD, Jack Kenneth Verdon

Trooper
323901
50ME Commando
Cheshire Yeomanry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Jack Pollard was reported missing presumed drowned attempting to escape the enemy during operations on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave. Son of Frank and Clara Agnes Pollard, of Altrincham, Cheshire.
Member of the Salford Harriers before the war.
Report by Trooper Weston

POSTELLO, Rafael

Known as: 
Surname also seen as POSTILLO
Lance Corporal
6100531
'Layforce'
50ME Commando
Queen's Royal Regiment
Lance Corporal Rafael Postello was a Spanish volunteer who served in 'D' Bn., Layforce. He was reported missing on 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/20.
British Army Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.

POUCHER, William

Private
4856898
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Private William Poucher, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

ROBINSON, George Edgar

George Robinson 50 Middle East Commando
Trooper
408973
50ME Commando
Royal Scots Greys (2nd Dragoons), Royal Armoured Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper George Robinson was reported missing presumed drowned whilst attempting to escape the enemy during operations on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo.
He has no known grave. Son of George Edgar Robinson and of Jessie Robinson, of Dundee.
Report by Trooper Weston

ROSE, Stephen Murfin

Major (later Lieutenant Colonel)
67108
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Mentioned in Despatches
Captain Stephen Rose joined the Middle East Commando when it began to form at Geneifa in August 1940. He later became second in command of No.50 Middle East Commando [1]. 
28 March 1941 appointed second in command of 'D' Bn., Layforce when it was formed at Geneifa [2].

ROUGH, Thomas

Private
4861701
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Private Thomas Rough, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.

German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/314/293.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

ROWLES, T.A.

Trooper
2045290
Middle East Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment

Trooper Rowles, Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/32, and WO417/93 (1945).
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

SADD, Albert Norman

Lance Sergeant
2323946
50ME Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Lance Sergeant Albert Sadd was reported missing on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/3, errata in WO417/54.
Prisoners of War Lists / National Archives file WO392/11.

SADDLER, Thomas

Trooper
548685
Middle East Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment

Trooper Thomas Saddler, Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/92 (1945).
German Record Cards of British PoWs / National Archives file WO416/317/443 (Stalag 4B).

SANCHEZ, Manuel

Private
6100534
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Manuel Sanchez, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/35.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

SHARMAN, Richard

Lance Sergeant
4910237
50ME Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Richard Sharman was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941, later presumed killed in action, during operations against the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave. Son of Lilian Licence, of Derby.
 
Sources
CWGC.

SHEEHY, Richard, W.

Lance Corporal
5884521
50ME Commando
Warwickshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Lance Corporal Richard Sheehy was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later reported a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists WO417/23  and WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1, WO392/11, WO392/21.

SHELTON, Leslie

Lance Corporal
4802003
50ME Commando
Royal Corps of Signals

Lance Corporal Leslie Shelton was reported missing during operations at Crete on 2 June 1941 and later found to be a prisoner of war.

SLADE, William Henry

Private
6088319
50ME Commando
Queen's Royal Regiment West Surrey
Private William Slade was reported missing and a prisoner of war 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Post war member of the Commando Association from Sussex.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/30.
Commando Association newsletters 101 and 116.
 

SMITH, Alexander

Known as: 
See notes below regarding NEWCOMBE
Private
4123499
50ME Commando
Cheshire Regiment 1st Bn.
Private Alexander Smith, 1st Bn. Cheshire Regiment attached 50 Middle East Commando, was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo [1][2]. 
  • 5 June 1942 (2nd Bn. Cheshire Regt.) reported prisoner of war Western Desert [3][4].

SMITH, John

Lance Corporal
295308
Middle East Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment
Lance Corporal John Smith, Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/32, WO417/94.

German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/335/54.

SMITH, Michael Arnold

Second Lieutenant
143725
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Second Lieutenant Michael Smith was reported wounded and missing between 25 and 28 February 1941, later presumed killed in action, during operations against the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave. Son of Harry Neville Smith and of Winifred Mary Smith, of Sutton, Surrey.
 
Sources
CWGC.

SQUIER, Herbert Cecil

Corporal
2564989
50ME Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Corporal Herbert Squier was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/29 and WO417/31 (Stalag 8A).
Prisoners of War Lists / National Archives file WO392/11.

STEVENS, A. Kenneth

Fusilier
6201511
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier Stevens was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4F).

German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/345/139.

STEVENSON, Joseph

Lance Corporal
4857910
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment 2nd Bn.
Lance Corporal Joseph Stevenson, 50 ME Commando attached 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association (Leeds Branch).
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.

STEWART, W.S.

Corporal
2754796
50ME Commando
Black Watch
Mentioned in Despatches
Corporal W.S. Stewart was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war in Italian hands [1][1a][1b]. 
1943 reported no longer a prisoner of war [2].

SUMMERFIELD, J.

Known as: 
possibly Charles J.
Corporal
3957938
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Corporal Summerfield was was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo [1][2]. 
  • 2 June 1941 Crete reported missing later found be a prisoner of war [3][4][5].
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists WO417/23.

SWINBURN, Arthur

Arthur Swinburn DCM
Warrant Officer 2 Company Sergeant Major
4855159
368088
50ME Commando
Leicestershire Regiment & Royal Pioneer Corps
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Arthur Swinburn enlisted into the Leicestershire Regiment on 24th November 1928 for 9 years, and then a further 3 years in Reserve, before volunteering for the Commandos in 1940 [1].

TALBOT, Dennis Gifford

Signalman
2324031
50ME Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Signalman Dennis Talbot was reported missing on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to have been captured 1 June 1941.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/29.
Prisoners of War Lists / National Archives file WO392/11.

TAYLOR, Alfred George

Lance Corporal
3311847
50ME Commando
Highland Light Infantry (City of Glasgow Regiment) 2nd Bn.
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Alfred Taylor died during operations on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. Son of Alfred and Jessie Taylor, of Buckpool, Banffshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/23.

TAYLOR, George

Trooper
548993
50ME Commando
Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Royal Tank Corps
Trooper George Taylor was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later reported prisoner of war.
  • 5 January 1929 attested into the Royal Tank Corps serving additionally with the 8th Hussars and 9th Lancers.
Sources
Casualty Lists WO417/23 and WO417/94.

TAYLOR, Graham Cecil Gordon

Temporary Captain
74627
50ME Commando
Leicestershire Regiment
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Graham Taylor was reported missing presumed killed in action during operations in Crete. He has no known grave. Son of Colonel H. W. Taylor, O.B.E., and Mrs. E. M. Taylor, of St. Minver, Cornwall.

TAYLOR, Stanley Benjamin

Sergeant
2657671
50ME Commando
Coldstream Guards

Sergeant Stanley Taylor was reported missing on 2nd June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been captured and transported to Stalag 383 in Germany.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/29.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

THOMAS, Patrick, T.

Private
4074553
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Private Patrick Thomas was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later reported prisoner of war.
 
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists WO417/23, WO417/89, and WO417/94.
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 and WO392/21.

TORRALBO, Miguel

Private
6100538
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Miguel Torralbo, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/10 and WO392/20.

TRILL, Jaime

Private
6100540
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment

Private Jaime Trill, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/35.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1, WO392/11, WO392/10, and WO392/20.

TRUSTY, Robert

Private
4858686
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Private Robert Trusty, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/367/108.

TUNSTALL, Francis Barnard

Private
6400012
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Francis Tunstall was reported missing presumed drowned attempting to escape the enemy during operations on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave. Son of Sydney Charles and Alice Louise Tunstall; grandson of Alice Short, of Plymouth.
Report by Trooper Weston

TURNER, Edward

Known as: 
Ted
Corporal
5496525
50ME Commando
Hampshire Regiment

Corporal Turner was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been captured and transported to Stalag 344.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
 

VAUGHAN, John Henry

Known as: 
Jack
Trooper
305373
'Layforce'
Royal Horse Guards, Household Cavalry Regiment

Trooper John Henry 'Jack' Vaughan, 'D' Batallion Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.

WALKER, John

Corporal
50ME Commando

Post war member of the Commando Association from Market Harborough, Leics.

Sources
Commando Association newsletters 93 and obituaries in 101 (1995).

WESTON, Richard John

Trooper (later Lance Sergeant)
323119
50ME Commando
Cheshire Yeomanry / Durham Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Richard Weston, 9th Bn., Durham Light Infantry, was killed in action 16 July 1943 during operations at Sicily [1][1a]. 
25-28 May 1941 (Trooper, 50 ME Commando) Operation Abstention at Kastellorizzo [2].
22 March 1943 (Lance Corporal, 9th Bn., Durham Light Infantry) wounded Middle East [3].
 

WILLIAMS, Albert Ivor

Trooper
553121
Middle East Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment
Trooper Albert Williams, Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/30, and WO417/93 (1945).
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 and WO392/11 (Stalag 4G).

WILLIAMS, George James

Fusilier
6465623
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier George Williams was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/393/121 (Stalag 3D).

WILLIAMSON, Charles Edward Filling

Acting Lance Corporal
4855100
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Lance Corporal Charles Edward Filling Williamson, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

WILSON, Arthur

Trooper
409682
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Yorkshire Dragoons, Royal Armoured Corps
Trooper Arthur Wilson was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/31, WO417/32, WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO3921/1.

YOUNG, George Alan Dawson

Temporary Lieutenant Colonel
23734
52ME Commando
50ME Commando
Royal Engineers
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Mentioned in Despatches
Lieutenant Colonel George Alan Dawson Young R.E., was the Commanding Officer of 50 Middle East Commando until November 1940 when he assumed  command of 52 Middle East Commando after its former commanding officer, Harry Fox-Davies, was taken ill.

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