JONES, Colin

Rank: 
Sergeant
Unit / Base: 
2 Commando
4 Independent Company
Regiment/Corps: 
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Service: 
Army
Number: 
2931662
P.O.W. number: 
18725
Honours & Awards: 
Born: 
Sunday, April 25, 1920
Birthplace: 
Liverpool
Died : 
Tuesday, February 14, 1978
Place died: 
Liverpool
LSgt. Colin Jones MM 2 Commando
Colin Jones from Fazakerley, Liverpool, enlisted 3 May 1939, formerly employed as a Clerk. Sergeant Jones, 5 troop, was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished service during Operation Chariot at St Nazaire.
Recommendation
"On 28 March 1942, during the Commando Raid at St. Nazaire, France. Sgt Jones was a member of an assault group. Despite the fact that he was wounded during the run-in of HMS Campbeltown, he refused to be evacuated and after disembarking took part in the attack on enemy gun positions. 
His courage and personal bravery in this action were outstanding. Though handicapped by his wounds, his effective fire with an LMG was instrumental in keeping the enemy subjugated round the point of re-embarkation. 
Whilst manning the LMG he received further wounds, but without regard for himself continued to engage the enemy. When it had become apparent that re-embarkation was impossible, he continued in the street fighting until, through lack of ammunition and weak through loss of blood, he was taken prisoner. His high example throughout the whole action was an inspiration to all who had the privilege to see him."
  • The death of Sgt. Colin Jones MM, of Huyton nr. Liverpool, was announced in Commando Association newsletter 67 issued September 1978.
Sources
London Gazette 37162, page 3493.
Award Recommendations / National Archives file WO373/46/280.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/43.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/200/68.
WW11 Liberated POW Questionnaires 1945-6 / National Archives file WO344 Directorate of Mil. Int.
St Nazaire Society website.
 

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