HUDSPITH, John Charles Dumoutier

Rank: 
Temporary Lieutenant, Acting Temporary Captain
Unit / Base: 
43RM Commando
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Marines
Service: 
Royal Navy
Honours & Awards: 
Captain John Hudspith was awarded the Military Cross for leadership, gallantry and devotion to duty on 22/23 March 1944 during the attack on Jelsa, Hvar Island [1][1a]. Post war member of the Commando Association from Bramhope, Yorkshire [2].
Recommendation
"Attack on Jelsa, Hvar island, Yugoslavia.
22/23 March 1944.
During the night move by 43RM Cdo to surround Jelsa, Captain Hudspith was in command of a Tp of 35 men. This Tp met an enemy column, strength 150 approx., who were attempting to make their escape from the Town. At the time Captain Hudspith was uncertain whether this column was composed of Germans, or of Partisans, who were known to be on the island.
Accompanied by another officer he went forward to identify them. Immediately heavy MG fire was opened up by the enemy both from the front and flanks. Despte this fire Captain Hudspith rejoined his Tp., organised them, and led them forward to the attack. The enemy were routed leaving 5 dead, 4 prisoners, and their complete baggage train of 20 mules.
Captain Hudspith by his disregard for his own safety, personal example and prompt action, saved a situation which might well have seriously jeopardised the success of the whole operation " [1a].
 
Sources
[1] London Gazette 36583, page 3040.
[1a] National Archives file WO373/47/160.
[2] Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 115 (2002).
 

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