ARNOLD, David James

Rank: 
Sergeant
Unit / Base: 
'45 Commando RM'
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Marines
Service: 
Royal Navy
Number: 
RM 15389
Born: 
Wednesday, September 29, 1937
Died : 
Friday, August 7, 1964
Killed in action or died of wounds
Age: 
26
Cemetery/Memorial: 
Local Roll of Honour: 
Sergeant David Arnold died during operations in Aden [1].
Obituary in the Globe and Laurel [2]
"Sergeant David Arnold was killed during night operations on 7th August 1964. He was serving in 2 Troop 'X' Company 45 Commando in the Dhala area which has recently become the centre of intense dissident activity.
Sergeant Arnold's considerable ability as a practical swimmer canoeist was immediately noticeable during his initial qualifying course. He quickly established a name as a racing canoeist in civilian competition and won two open Wessex Canoe Championships in 1961 and six class 6A events in 1962. Last year he won the Leamington River Race in class 2 and the open Devizes to Westminster Race.
Although a very high class canoeist he did not hold himself aloof from less able followers of the sport. He was always ready to coach, or pair up, often with a complete novice just to take part in competition.
He was a most likeable man who will be greatly missed in the Swimmer Canoeist Branch. With his death the Sergeants' Messes have lost a popular and friendly mess-mate and the Corps a splendid leader. In the time of their sorrow our heartfelt condolences go out to Mrs Arnold and her two little children."
  • Commemorated on the Special Boat Service Memorial, Poole, and the National Memorial Arboretum. 
Sources
[1] AFM ROH
[2] Obituary in the Royal Marines Globe and Laurel magazine October 1964 edition.
 
Primary Roll of Honour: 

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