Layforce
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 578'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.
'Rommel HQ - Operation Flipper'
Friday, November 14, 1941
Location
Beda Littoria
Libya
32° 45' 59.0004" N, 21° 44' 30.0012" E
The raiding party landed 14 November. The attack on Rommel's HQ by units from Layforce took place 17 November. The raiding party included a group from No 11 Commando (see What Links Here above) led by Lt Col Keyes supported by others, including two from No 7 Cdo who had escaped from Crete, Sgt Fred Birch (No 7 Cdo & 51ME Cdo) and Cpl John Kerr (No 7 and 51ME Commando)
'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
11 Commando
This Commando was formed on 23rd June 1940 in Galashiels. After formation it marched from Galashiels to Ayr and then on to the Isle of Arran for amphibious training.
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).
No.50 Middle East Commando operations included Operation Abstention 25 to 28 February 1941 on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo (or Castellorizo).
52ME Commando
The Middle East Commando began to form at Geneifa in August 1940.
No.52 ME Commando formed up on 2 November 1940.
Nos. 50 and 52 ME Commando merged to form 'D' Bn. Layforce at Geneifa on 28 March 1941.
'D' Bn. Layforce Operations included the rearguard action on Crete.
Between September and December 1941 decisions were being made to disband them and create a new Commando.
Reformed in January 1942 as Squadrons of a new Middle East Commando operating primarily with the 8th Army in North Africa.
7 Commando
The first troops of this Commando formed up in several locations. ‘A’ Troop in Gamblingay under Capt. Wylie R.E. while the H.Q. Staff came together in Billericay Essex. A small party of ‘B’ Troop formed in St. Albans and the remainder in Newmarket under Capt G March Phillips who was later to command No.62 Commando.
8 Commando
The Commando was formed on the 23rd June 1940 reaching full strength in September at Burnham on Crouch, Essex. Mostly made up of members of the various Guards Brigades, it became unofficially known as No 8 (Guards) Commando.
A document about Layforce
Type: Booklet
Year of Publishing: 2013
Keywords: Layforce, No 7 Commando, No 8 Commando, No 11 Commando, 50 ME Commando, 52 ME Commando
ABDALE, Edward
Corporal
2656404
52ME Commando
Coldstream Guards
Private Edward Abdale was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to have been wounded and taken prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/54.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 383).
ABLEWHITE, C.A.
Private
4803670
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Lincolnshire Regiment
Private Abelwhite was wounded 9 June 1941 during operations at the Litani River in Syria [1].
Wounded a second time on 15 December 1941 during operations in the Western Desert [2].
Wounded a second time on 15 December 1941 during operations in the Western Desert [2].
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
ABRAHAMS, Arthur Thomas
Private
5949273
No 7 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private Arthur Abrahams 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 WO392/11 (Stalag 8B)..
ADAMS, Jack
Private
2758154
No 11 Commando
Black Watch
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Jack Adams died during operations at Litani River.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Perthshire Advertiser 19 July 1941 {Linked Content below].
[Image] The War Illustrated magazine.
ADAMS, W.T.
Company Quartermaster Sergeant (later Captain)
52ME Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association from Colchester, Essex
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 120.
ADAMS, William John
Sergeant
5828073
No 7 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Sergeant William Adams was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Member of the Commando Association from Lowestoft, Suffolk.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
ADAMSON, Alexander Naismith
Lance Corporal
2754001
ME Commando Depot
52ME Commando
Black Watch
Lance Corporal Alexander Adamson, Depot Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association from Glasgow.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27, WO417/96
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27, WO417/96
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
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.
AINSLIE, William Robson Milne
Lance Corporal
329331
No 11 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
3rd Cavalry Training Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal William Ainslie, 2 troop, died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/30.
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/30.
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.
ALLARDICE, William Dallas
Private
2879652
Middle East Commando
London Scottish The Gordon Highlanders
Mentioned in Despatches
Private William Allardice received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during his escape from captivity as a prisoner of war.
Recommendation
ALLEN, Ronald
Driver I/C
2591915
No 7 Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Driver Ronald Allen was reported missing believed a prisoner of war on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete. Later imprisoned at Stalag 4A and Stalag 4B.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
ALLOTT, Richard Knowles Brian
Lieutenant (Temporary Captain)(later Major)
77673
No 8 Commando
SBS
Middlesex Regiment
Military Cross (MC)
Mentioned in Despatches
Temporary Captain Richard Allott was awarded the Military Cross [1] whilst attached to the S.B.S. after his service with No. 8 Commando, Layforce, and the 1st Special Service Regiment [2][2a] ended.
Recommendation
ALMONDS, John Edward
Known as:
Gentleman Jim
Sergeant (later Second Lieutenant )
2655648
No 8 Commando
SAS
Coldstream Guards
Bristol Police Force
Military Medal (MM)
Bar to the Military Medal
John Almonds, a Reservist of the Coldstream Guards, joined the Bristol Police Force in 1936. In December 1939 he was a Police Constable, married, and residing at 15 York Street, Bristol, when re-called to his Regiment [1][1a].
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.
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.
ANDERSON, John Clover
Sergeant
No 11 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Served in 8 Troop. Post war member of the Commando Association from Inverness.
Sources
Commando Association newsletter 79 (1984).
[Image 1] Collection of Gordon Edmiston No.11 Cdo. courtesy of his son David.
[Image 2] Cropped from troop image in 11 Commando Gallery.
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.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
ASHLEY-COOPER, Anthony John Percy Hugh Michael
Captain
71380
'Layforce'
Life Guards
28.03.1941 Captain, 'A' Company, 'D' Bn., Layforce at Geneifa.
01.06.1941 prisoner of war Crete.
Sources
52 Middle East Commando War Diary (List of Officers 'D' Bn Layforce).
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/2 and WO417/9.
ASTBURY, Albert Ernest
Sergeant
918259
No 6 Commando
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Albert Astbury, No.6 Commando, died during operations in Germany [1]. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in fighting at the River Aller crossing.
Son of Thomas and Elizabeth Astbury, of West Hartlepool, Co. Durham.
ATKIN, Ernest
Lance Corporal
7896888
No 7 Commando
Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)
Lance Corporal Ernest Atkin was reported missing in April 1941 during operations in Cyrenaica (Bardia Raid), later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Hull.
BAILLIE, Alexander Charles
Lance Corporal
2885492
No 11 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Alexander Baillie died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
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).
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).
BAKER, Kenneth
Corporal
5618955
No 8 Commando
Independent Companies and Special Service Battalions
Devonshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Kenneth Baker was killed in action during operations in Libya with Layforce.
Sources
CWGC.
British Army Casualties List / National Archives file WO 417/35.
BALLANTYNE, Alexander A.
Lance Corporal
2934334
No 11 Commando
Special Service Detachment 2
Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Lance Corporal Alexander Ballantyne was wounded 9 June 1941 during operations with No.11 Commando at Litani River, Syria. After recovering he was assigned from the Commando to Middle East Detachment 2, later redesignated 2nd Special Service Detachment (SSD 2) and was killed in Burma. He has no known grave. Son of Matthew C. and Margaret C. Ballantyne, of Edinburgh.
BANWELL, Keith Demer
Known as:
Tex
Sergeant
5498293
22290927
52ME Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Parachute Regiment
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Later joined the Long Range Desert Group (SAS) [1][4].
25 September 1944 reported missing believed prisoner of war at Arnhem whilst serving in the 10th Bn. Parachute Regiment, Army Air Corps [2].
Post war member of the Commando Association [3][4].
BARBOUR, Alexander, E.
Private
5956234
No 7 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private Alexander Barbour 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 WO417/30.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/30.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/18/68.
BARNARD, John William
Private
6143343
No 7 Commando
East Surrey Regiment
Private John Barnard was reported missing 20 April 1941 during operations at Cyrenaica (Bardia), later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/24 and WO417/29.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/21 (Camp 59) and WO392/11 (Stalag 4F)..
BARNETT, Edgar Albert
Lance Bombardier
933008
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Lance Bombardier Edgar Barnett was reported missing 20 April 1941 during operations in Cyrenaica (Bardia raid), later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
RA Attestations Register for 1939.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/24, WO417/27, WO417/91.
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.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
BARR, Edward
Corporal
3325427
No 11 Commando
SBS
Highland Light Infantry (City of Glasgow Regiment)
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal Edward Barr was attached to No.11 Commando until joining No.1 Special Boat Section in the Middle East. He was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the Middle East on 9/10 June 1942 [1][2][3].
Recommendation
BARRAND, Peter Charles
Lance Corporal
6971182
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Rifle Brigade
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Peter Barrand was reported missing presumed killed during operations in the Western Desert. Son of Oscar A. and Grace Barrand, of Selsey, Sussex [1][2].
Peter is believed to have drowned off the coast of Libya after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ [3].
Sources
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..
BARWICK, Arthur
Private
5504046
No 7 Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Private Barwick was reported missing during operations at Crete on 2 June 1941, later found to be a prisoner of war.
BATEMAN, Sidney Gordon
Bombardier
930701
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Bombardier Sidney Bateman 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 from Bedfordshire.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/30.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/30.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
BEASLEY, Frederick
Corporal
3532735
No 7 Commando
Manchester Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Frederick Beasley was initially reported missing presumed prisoner of war, later confirmed killed in action during operations in Crete as part of Layforce.
Son of Frederick and Matilda Beasley, of Salford, Lancashire.
Son of Frederick and Matilda Beasley, of Salford, Lancashire.
Sources
CWGC.
British Army Casualty Lists 1939-45.
BEATTIE, Alexander
Corporal
2886105
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Gordon Highlanders
Corporal Alexander Beattie was taken prisoner of war on 21 November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ.
BEAUMONT, William Blair
Private
2756409
52ME Commando
Black Watch
Died on war service
Private William Beaumont, 52 Middle East Commando ('D' Bn., Layforce), died in Germany whilst a prisoner of war. He had been reported missing on 1 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Son of Alex and Margaret Pearce Beaumont, of Cardenden, Fife.
Sources
CWGC.
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).
BENNETT, Robert
Known as:
Bob
Lance Sergeant (later Warrant Officer 1)
2617533
22528123
No 8 Commando
SAS
Grenadier Guards
Military Medal (MM)
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Lance Sergeant Robert Bennett joined 'L' Detachment, S.A.S. Brigade on the disbandment of No.8 Commando. He was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the December 1941 S.A.S. raid on Tamet areodrome. He had participated in five previous operations [1][2][3].
BERRY, Donald
Sergeant
3443124
No 7 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Sergeant Donald Berry was reported wounded and a prisoner of war 20 April 1941 during operations at Cyrenaica (Bardia raid).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/24, WO417/25, and WO417/31.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1 (Stalag 18A), WO392/21 (Camp 65).
BERTIE, James John William
Known as:
Jim
Corporal
2989781
No 11 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal James Bertie was reported missing 9 June 1941 during operations at Litani River, Syria, later confirmed as died of wounds. Son of James and Isabella Taylor Bertie; husband of Elizabeth Brown Bertie, of Edinburgh.
Sources
CWGC.
BEST, George
Private
2883741
No 11 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private George Best died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of Samuel and Matilda Best, of Walthamstow, Essex.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
BIRCH, Frederick
Known as:
Fred
Corporal (Acting Sergeant)
2931860
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
51ME Commando
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Sergeant Frederick Birch served in No.7 Commando taking part in operations at Bardia and Crete before moving to 51 Middle East Commando. He was attached to 'C' Bn Layforce for Operation Flipper after which he was taken prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/36, WO417/37, and WO417/96.
BIRD, Raymond Douglas
Private
5828120
No 7 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Private Raymond Bird, aged 21 and from Fleetwood, Lowestoft, was reported missing 20 April 1941 (Bardia raid) later found to be a prisoner of war.
Source
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives WO417/24.
Prisoners of War Lists / National Archives file WO392/1 and WO392/21.
BLAIR, David Arthur
Captain (later Major)
73177
No 11 Commando
Seaforth Highlanders
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Military Cross (MC)
Captain David Blair was the O.C. No. 11 Commando 6 troop. Appointed M.B.E. (Military Division) 7th April 1944 [1].
Recommendation
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.
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.
BOGLE, James
Known as:
Jim
Private
2888381
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Gordon Highlanders
Private James Bogle was reported missing 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ, later found to be a prisoner of war. After his release in 1945 he served two years in Germany in the Scottish Rifles*.
BOLLAND, Stanley
Guardsman
2696934
No 8 Commando
SAS
Scots Guards 2nd Bn
Killed in action or died of wounds
Guardsman Stanley Bolland was serving with "L" Detachment, S.A.S. Bde., Special Air Service Regiment, A.A.C. at the time of his death, having previously served in No.
BOND, Edward Alfred
Second Lieutenant
170240
'Layforce'
Sherwood Foresters
28.03.1941 Geneifa, Second Lieutenant 'A' Company of 'D' Bn Layforce
---.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.
German Record Cards of British PoWs / National Archives file WO416/34/355 (Oflag 10C).
BOOKER, Clifford
Lance Corporal
5729301
No 7 Commando
Dorsetshire Regiment
Lance Corporal Clifford Booker was reported wounded and a prisoner of war 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete [1][2]. He had been captured on 29 May 1941 [3].
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/32.
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/32.
[2] 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].
BOULTON, David
Bombardier (later Lieutenant)
269318
No 11 Commando
Royal Artillery and Durham Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant David Boulton died serving with the Durham Light Infantry during the Battle of Lingevres.
BOWEN, Alfred Leighton
Known as:
Leighton
Trooper
318358
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
North Somerset Yeomanry
1938 joined the North Somerset Yeomanry rank Trooper.
20 February 1940 arrive in Palestine with his Regiment.
March 1940 injury to knee from horse kick.
August 1940 posted to Air Defence Operations Room at Haifa *.
5 January 1941 posted back to North Somerset Yeomanry.
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.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
BOYLE, Richard
Captain (later Temporary Major)
64612
'Layforce'
Black Watch
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Major Richard Boyle MC, 1st Battalion Black Watch, died during operations at the River Rhine crossing [1][1a].
Layforce
-
28.03.1941, Captain, Commander 'D' Company, 'D' Bn. Layforce at Geneifa [2].
BRADLEY, John Stanton
Guardsman
2659428
52ME Commando
Coldstream Guards
Guardsman John Bradley, a Journalist born in Margate Kent, was attested into the Coldstream Guards on 23 October 1939 aged 26. Reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been taken prisoner of war and transported to Stalag 344 in Poland.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/34.
BRADLEY, John, R.
Private
4752870
No 7 Commando
York and Lancaster Regiment
Private John Bradley was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had been captured on 29 May 1941.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27, WO417/33 and WO417/93.
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 and WO392/11.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27, WO417/33 and WO417/93.
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 and WO392/11.
BRADY, J.
Signalman
2332471
No 11 Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Signalman J. Brady was wounded 9 June 1941 during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
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.
BREWITT, John
Private
7619486
No 8 Commando
Royal Army Ordnance Corps
Died on active service
Private John Brewitt died as a result of an accident.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/24.
BRISTOW, William Frederick
Gunner
927388
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Died whilst a prisoner of war
Gunner William Bristow died from an intestinal obstruction at Salonica Greece whilst a Prisoner of War. He had been taken prisoner during operations at Crete on 2 June 1941.
Sources
CWGC.
German Record Cards of British POWs / WO416/42/342.
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.
BROOK, Harold
Known as:
Ginger
Lance Corporal
2615070
No 8 Commando
SAS
Grenadier Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Harold Brook died [1] during operations in France with 1st Special Air Service Regiment having left the Commandos. He was reported as missing in action during Operation Houndforce [2].
BROUGH, William Gordon
Known as:
Jimmy
Lance Sergeant
2695138
No 8 Commando
SAS
Scots Guards 2nd Bn
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Sergeant William Brough, formerly No.8 Commando and known as Jimmy, was awarded the Military Medal whilst serving with the Special Air Service Brigade in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the field.
See more on this entry in our Forum [view].
BROWN, Jack
Trooper
326038
Middle East Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Armoured Corps Yorkshire Hussars
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Jack Brown, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
BROWN, Leslie Jock
Corporal
5437777
SAS
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
51ME Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Leslie Brown had previously served in the Commandos before joining 'B' Squadron of the 1st Special Air Service. He died when his jeep patrol was attacked whilst en route to harass the enemy in Southern Tunisia.
Service*
BRUCE, Charles
Sergeant
2758668
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Black Watch
Sergeant Charles Bruce, from Brechin, Angus, was reported missing 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ, later found to be a prisoner of war at Camp 59 in Italy from which he managed to escape back to allied lines after the Italian Armistice. Post war member of the Commando Association last residing in Australia.
BRYAN, Gerald Jackson
Captain
125189
No 11 Commando
No 9 Commando
Royal Engineers
Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG)
Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO)
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Military Cross (MC)
Lieutenant Gerald Jackson Bryan, RE, was awarded the Military Cross [1] for his gallantry during the battle of Litani River. He was seriously wounded (leg amputation) [2][2a].
BUCKLEY, Alfred, J.T.
Corporal
4856362
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Corporal Alfred Buckley 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.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
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.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
BULLOCK, Howard Ernest
Gunner
826260
No 11 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Howard Bullock from Worcestershire died in hospital at Ramleh of meningitis following gunshot wounds received during operations against the enemy in the Middle East.
Son of Roger Ernest and Rose Bullock, of Wollaston, Stourbridge, Worcestershire.
Sources
CWGC.
BUNN, Gerrard John Gunton
Lance Corporal
2655344
No 8 Commando
Coldstream Guards
Lance Corporal Gerrard Bunn was attested into the Coldstream Guards on 9 January 1932. He was wounded serving in No.8 Commando on 17 August 1941 during operations in Cyrenaica. He transferred to the Royal Corps of Signals on 29 June 1942.
BURFORD, Norman Alan
Corporal
5571232
No 7 Commando
Royal Engineers
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal Norman Burford was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the Field [1]. This occurred during No.7 Commando's rearguard action on Crete. On 2 June 1941 he was reported missing; found to have been taken prisoner and later transported to Stalag 383 [2][2a].
Sources
BURNS, George Robert
Sergeant
52ME Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association from Portsmouth.
Sources
Commando Association newsletter 101 (1995).
BURROWS, Charles William
Gunner
872276
No 11 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Charles Burrows from Beckenham, Kent, died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
RA Attestations Register for 1937.
RA Casualty Card.
BURTON, Kenneth Harwood
Sergeant
404001
No 11 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
3rd Cavalry Training Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Kenneth Burton died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
BURTON, William John
Temporary Captain
63868
'Layforce'
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
York and Lancaster Regiment
Military Cross (MC)
28 March 1941, Geneifa, 'C' Company Commander, 'D' Bn., Layforce.
June 1941 Prisoner of war during operations at Crete. Awarded the Military Cross for gallant and distinguished service in the Middle East.
Sources
52 Middle East Commando War Diary 28 March 1941.
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].
BUXTON, Leslie, J.
Lance Bombardier
5499823
No 8 Commando
Royal Artillery
Lance Bombardier Leslie Buxton was wounded 12 June 1941 during operations in Libya [1].
- 18 January 1943 reported missing during operations in Libya later found to be a prisoner of war [2][3].
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/26.
BYRNE, John Vincent
Known as:
Jack
Corporal later Company Sergeant Major
2060658
No 11 Commando
SAS
No 6 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
3 May 1940 wounded at Dunkirk France serving as a Private with 1st Bn. Gordon Highlanders, British Expeditionary Force [1].
Attached to and served with No.11 Commando 8 Troop (Layforce) until disbanded [5][7].
Joined 'L' Detachment Special Air Service 1941 attaining rank of Corporal [2][3][3a].
CAMPBELL, Hugh Alexander Henry
Gunner
891088
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Hugh Campbell was reported missing believed a prisoner of war on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete. Later imprisoned at Stalag 4A in Germany.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
Royal Artillery Attestations 1938.
CAMPBELL, Robin Francis
Lieutenant (Temporary Captain)
138704
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
General List
Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Temporary Captain Robin Campbell was attached to the raiding party for Operation Flipper, an attack on Rommel's HQ in November 1941. Wounded and taken prisoner, he was subsequently repatriated in 1943 because of his wounds. He relinquished his commission 31 December 1944 with the honorary rank of Captain..
CAMPBELL, Roderick
Gunner
1442866
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Roderick Campbell was reported missing believed a prisoner of war on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete. Later imprisoned at Stalag 4G in Germany.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
Royal Artillery Attestations 1938.
CAMPBELL, William
Private
2763471
No 11 Commando
Black Watch
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private William Campbell died during operations at Litani River.
Son of Robert and Marjory Campbell, of Janetstown, Caithness-shire.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
CANNON, Peter Macdermack
Gunner
919866
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Peter Cannon was reported missing believed a prisoner of war on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete. Later imprisoned at Stalag 4C in the Sudetenland.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
Royal Artillery Attestations 1939.
CANTLEY, William, J.
Corporal
1881409
No 7 Commando
Royal Engineers
Corporal William Cantley was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941, later found to be a prisoner of war.
- 4 October 1939 enlisted aged 33.
- 12 October 1940 attached No.7 Commando
- 11 November 1940 (short lived commando restructuring) 3 Special Service Battalion.
- 31 January 1941 attached 'Layforce' embarked UK for the Middle East.
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.
CARR, Richard Philip
Captain
90121
No 11 Commando
Royal Artillery
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Military Cross (MC)
Captain Richard Carr, 1 troop, was attached to the Commandos from the Royal Artillery. He was taken prisoner of war early in 1942 and, despite several escape attempts, remained in captivity for the remainder of the war. POW Camps Oflag 5 and Oflag 79.
CARR, Thomas
Corporal
5382064
No 7 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Corporal Thomas Carr, R.A.M.C. attached No.7 Commando, was reported missing during operations at Crete on 2 June 1941, later found to be a prisoner of war.
CASSIDY, Philip
Private
3312715
52ME Commando
Highland Light Infantry 2nd Bn.
Private Philip Cassidy was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/33.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/33.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
German Record Cards of British PoW's / National Archives file WO416/60/115.
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.
CAUDELL, Raymond Douglas
Lance Corporal
140951
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Army Service Corps
Lance Corporal Raymond Caudell from Hertfordshire was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28, WO417/30, and WO417/95.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4C).
CAWSEY, Francis William
Private
5499203
No 8 Commando
Somerset Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Francis Cawsey was first reported missing 29 April 1942 during operations in Burma, later corrected to missing presumed killed in action on or shortly after 13 May 1942. He is believed to have been attached from No 8 C
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.
CHADWICK, Norman Stanley
Lance Corporal
3655756
No 7 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Lance Corporal Norman Chadwick was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/30.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
German Record Cards of British PoW's / National Archives file WO416/61/292.
CHANTRELL, William
Private
7379892
No 11 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private William Chantrell died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of William H. and Sarah E. Chantrell, of Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
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].
CHAPMAN, Charles
Known as:
Charlie
Private
3658109
No 7 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Private Charles Chapman was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Member of the Commando Association last known residing Ancoats, Manchester.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/30 and WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/30 and WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
CHEESEMAN, H.A.
Known as:
Alfred
Private
6145046
No 7 Commando
East Surrey Regiment
Private Alfred Cheeseman 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 residing Ontario, Canada.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/29 and WO417/94.
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/29 and WO417/94.
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
CHEETHAM, Anthony
Known as:
Tony
Signalman
2578821
'Layforce'
Royal Corps of Signals
Signalman Anthony Cheetham was attached to Layforce from the 6th Cavalry Brigade Signals. He was reported missing in Crete 2 June 1941 later found to be a prisoner of war.
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Hilton, Natal, South Africa.
Sources
CHEYNE, John
Known as:
Jock
Sergeant
2876138
No 11 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant John Cheyne, 8 troop, was posted to 'L' Detachment, Special Air Service Brigade, on the 28th August 1941.
CHISHOLM, James Alexander
Known as:
Jim
Sergeant
2929812
No 11 Commando
Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Sergeant James Chisholm died during operations at Litani River.
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).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4A).
CLARK, P.
Private
2989810
No 11 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Private Clark was wounded 9 June 1941 during operations in Syria.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
CLAY, Alfred
Bombardier
815069
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Bombardier Alfred Clay was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941; found to have been captured and later transported to Stalag 383.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/11.
RA Attestation records.
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.
CLIFFORD, Bernard Edward
Guardsman
2048715
Middle East Commando
Coldstream Guards
Guardsman Bernard Clifford was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been taken prisoner of war. On 26 October 1943 he was repatriated to the UK. Discharged from the service as permanently unfit 23 January 1944.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27, WO417/31, and WO417/68.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27, WO417/31, and WO417/68.
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.
COHEN, Aaron Harry
Known as:
Ike
Private
2760335
No 11 Commando
Black Watch
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Aaron Cohen died during operations at Litani River.
Son of Atme Cohen, of Manchester.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
COLCLOUGH, G.D.
Private
5726964
No 7 Commando
SBS
Dorsetshire Regiment
Private Colclough was reported missing 16 September 1942* during operations in the Middle East later confirmed as a prisoner of war in Italian hands [1].
1943 reported escaped and in a neutral country [1][2].
1944 his return to the UK is confirmed [1][2].
COLEMAN, Nicholas John
Lance Corporal
2656171
52ME Commando
Coldstream Guards
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Corporal Nicholas Coleman, M.M., was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been captured and transported to Stalag 4B in Germany [1][2].
- A Labourer from West Hartlepool he was attested on 21 October 1933 aged 18 years 11 months [3].
COLGROVE, Frederick
Known as:
Fred
Private
5953029
No 7 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private Fred Colgrove was reported missing on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete. Later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association residing in Dalston, London E8.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
COLLINGWOOD, Fred
Private
4454318
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Wiltshire Regiment
Private Fred Collingwood was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4C).
COLVIN, Felix Beale
Lieutenant Colonel
78288
No 7 Commando
Dorsetshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Acting Lieutenant Colonel Felix Beale Colvin was Commanding Officer of No.7 Commando until taken sick during operations on Crete. Major Wylie was appointed by Laycock to take his place [1].
Lt. Col. Colvin was taken prisoner of war and subsequently received a Mention in Despatches for his actions whilst in captivity [2][3].
COODE, Donald Alastair
Lieutenant
91438
No 11 Commando
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Donald Coode, 1 troop, died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of Donald and Alexa Coode, of Juniper Green, Midlothian.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/2.
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.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 (army no. amended in WO417/29.)
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
COOK, George, M.
Lance Corporal
2754904
52ME Commando
Black Watch
Lance Corporal George Cook was reported missing 1 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.
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 WO416/75/194.
COOKE, John
Lance Bombardier
4690225
No 11 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Bombardier John Cooke from Pontefract died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of Arthur and Jane Ellen Cooke, of Pontefract, Yorkshire.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
RA Casualty Card.
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
RA Casualty Card.
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)
COTTAM, Walter William
Private
3769228
No 7 Commando
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Private Walter Cottam, 1st Bn., Liverpool Scottish, volunteered for the Commandos and was attached to No.7 Commando on 10 October 1940 [1][2].
31 January 1941 departed for the Middle East as 'A' Battalion of Layforce [2].
COULDREY, Edwin Robert
Bombardier
830703
No 8 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Bombardier Edwin Couldrey, Special Service Detachment*, was reported missing 18 August 1942, later confirmed as having died, during operations in Burma. Royal Artillery Casualty Cards record his death as a battle casualty. He has no known grave.
Sources
CWGC.
COUTTS, John Davies
Corporal
4746052
52ME Commando
York and Lancaster Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Bar to the Military Medal
Corporal John Coutts was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished service during his escape from a Prisoner of War Camp at Salonika, Greece [1][2].
COWIE, Aikman Duncan
Gunner
884272
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Bombardier Aikman Cowie was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941; found to have been captured and later transported to Stalag 4C.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/11.
RA Attestation records.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/11.
RA Attestation records.
COWPER, Alexander Bruce
Sapper
2077985
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sapper Alexander Cowper was killed in action during operations in Crete. He has no known grave. Son of James and Agnes Cowper of Wallsend, Newcastle Upon Tyne.
Service
15.05.1939 enlisted Royal Engineers.
21.10.1939 posted 232nd Field Company.
11.11.1940 attached 3 Special Service Battalion.
COX, Charles Frederick
Private
5950061
No 7 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Private Charles Cox 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 WO417/33.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4A).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/33.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4A).
CRAIG, James Cross
Lance Corporal
2763490
No 11 Commando
Black Watch
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal James Craig was reported missing 9 June 1941 during operations at Litani River, Syria, later confirmed to have died of wounds.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and 29.
CRAIG, Robert, P.
Private
3311330
52ME Commando
Highland Light Infantry 2nd Bn.
Private Robert Craig was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. In 1943 he is reported repatriated and no longer a prisoner.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27, WO417/33 and WO417/68.
CRAMPTON, Jack Barraclough
Lance Corporal
1892271
No 7 Commando
Royal Engineers
Died whilst a prisoner of war
Lance Corporal Jack Crampton, 3 Special Service Bn. died in Berlin as a prisoner of war. He had been reported missing, later found to have been taken prisoner in Crete on 2 June 1941.
Son of Fred and Beatrice Crampton, of Newton-le-Willows, Lancashire.
Son of Fred and Beatrice Crampton, of Newton-le-Willows, Lancashire.
Sources
CWGC.
CRAWFORD, Thomas, McG.
Private
2752178
ME Commando Depot
Black Watch
Private Thomas Crawford, Middle East Commando Depot, was reported missing on 2nd 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 WO392/11.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
CREW, John William
Known as:
Jack
Sergeant
5947714
No 4 Commando
No 7 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Sergeant John Crew, No.7 Commando, known as 'Jack', was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war from 1 June 1941. He had served in No.4 Commando prior to embarking with No.7 Commando for the Middle East. Post war member of the Commando Association from Harpenden.
Sources
Sources
CROOK, Roy Joseph
Known as:
Surname also seen as CROOKS
Sergeant
776642
52ME Commando
North Somerset Yeomanry
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Sergeant Roy Joseph Crook * was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the Middle East [1].
Recommendation
Crete
CROOKE, Alexander
Bombardier
6202077
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Bombardier Alexander Crooke 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 from Suffolk.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
CROSBIE, John
Private
3190340
No 7 Commando
King's Own Scottish Borderers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Crosbie died on or shortly after 26 May 1941 during operations in Crete [1][1a].
Extract from the Dumfries and Galloway Standard
Published Saturday 12 June 1943.
CROSS, Walter
Guardsman
2658849
52ME Commando
Coldstream Guards
Guardsman Walter Cross from Hull was reported wounded and missing on 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war [1][1a][3].
- Repatriated to the UK in 1944 [2] and medically discharged 25 December 1944 due to wounds resulting in the loss of his right eye and a fractured skull [3][3a].
CRUICKSHANKS, John
Sapper
1877778
No 7 Commando
Royal Engineers
Sapper John Cruickshanks was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28 and WO417/32.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/1.
CULLEN, John
Private
2756121
52ME Commando
Black Watch
Private John Cullen was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/34 and WO417/96.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/34 and WO417/96.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/84/355.
DARGUE, T.D.
Sergeant
4387897
No 7 Commando
Dorsetshire Regiment
Sergeant Dargue was reported wounded and prisoner of war 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 and WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
DAVIDSON, Alexander
Private
2888515
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Gordon Highlanders
Private Alexander Davidson was reported missing 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ, later found to be a prisoner of war.
DAVIDSON, Alexander
Known as:
Sandy
Lance Sergeant
2886121
No 11 Commando
SAS
Gordon Highlanders
Army Air Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Alexander Davidson died of wounds serving with 1 SAS having left the Commando. He had previously been attached to No.11 Commando since August 1940. He also served in the ME Commando and 1SSR.
Son of Alexander and Jemima Davidson, of Old Aberdeen; husband of Elsie Davidson.
Sources
CWGC.
DEAN, Frank
Acting Sergeant
2657630
'Layforce'
Coldstream Guards
Sergeant Frank Dean, attached Layforce, was reported a prisoner of war having been captured on 28 January 1942 at Benghazi.
Sources
Coldstream Guards Registers.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/42, WO417/94
DEAN, Horace
Private
5675816
No 7 Commando
Somerset Light Infantry
Private Horace Dean was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete. Later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/32.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/32.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/92/322.
DEAN, L.W.
Rifleman
6897356
No 11 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
Rifleman Dean was wounded 9 June 1941 during operations in Syria.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
DENHOLM, Robert
Trooper
403856
52ME Commando
Yorkshire Dragoons, Royal Armoured Corps
Trooper Robert Denholm from Inveresk was reported missing during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. He was a Reservist who was called up at the outbreak of war.
Sources
Casualty lists / National Archives files WO417/24, WO417/31, WO417/94.
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.
DIBB, Edgar
Corporal
746439
No 11 Commando
Black Watch
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Edgar Dibb died during operations at Litani River.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
DICKERSON, Leslie John
Private
7349578
No 7 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Private Leslie Dickerson, R.A.M.C. attached No.7 Commando, was reported missing during operations at Crete on 2 June 1941 and later found to be a prisoner of war at Stalag 4B.
DINSDALE, Henry
Private
4750212
No 11 Commando
York and Lancaster Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Henry Dinsdale died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of Henry and Esther Dinsdale; husband of Doris Dinsdale, of Bradford, Yorkshire.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/36.
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/36.
DOVE, George
Private
4976786
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Sherwood Forresters
Private George Dove was wounded on 9 June 1941 during operations at the Litani River in Syria.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
[Image] CVA Gallery.
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.
DRONGIN, Anthony
Regimental Sergeant Major
2695218
No 8 Commando
SAS
Scots Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds
Regimental Sergeant Major Anthony Drongin of No 8 Commando gave up his rank to join L Detachment SAS when 8 Commando was disbanded. He served as a Corporal and is reported to have died of wounds inflicted during SAS operations near Benghazi.
DRORI, Avishalom
Corporal
PAL/14538
51ME Commando
Pioneer Corps
Corporal Avishalom Druri was Jewish and from Palestine. He volunteered for the British Army and was first posted to the Pioneer Corps before being attached to 51 Middle East Commando. He later joined 'C' Battalion Layforce (No.11 Commando) and was taken prisoner of war during the raid on Rommel's HQ (Operation Flipper).
DUFFY, Joseph Aloysius
Private
3318385
No 11 Commando
SAS
Seaforth Highlanders
Died on war service
Private Joseph Duffy joined L Detachment, SAS, from No 11 Commando on the 28th August 1941 and was accidentally killed in training due to a parachute failure, along with his friend and fellow Seaforth Highlander, Private Kenneth Warburton. Location given as East side of the Great Bitter Lake. The pair became the Regiment's first casualties.
DUGUID, William, D.
Lance Corporal
3251304
No 7 Commando
Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)
Lance Corporal William Duguid was reported missing during operations at Crete on 2 June 1941, later found to be a prisoner of war.
DUNCAN, George Ian Alistair
Lieutenant (Temporary Captain)
132481
No 11 Commando
SBS
Black Watch
Military Cross (MC)
Bar to the Military Cross
Mentioned in Despatches
Lieutenant George Duncan served No 11 Commando and Layforce before moving to the Special Boat Section as a Temporary Captain. He was awarded the Military Cross
DURAND, Montague Ongley De Beauvoir
Second Lieutenant
244790
No 7 Commando
West Yorkshire Regiment (Prince of Wales's Own)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Second Lieutenant Montague Durand was killed in action during operations in the Western Desert. He had been commissioned Second Lieutenant on 24 May 1942.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/4.
EARDLEY, Albert William
Lance Corporal
2072050
No 11 Commando
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Albert Eardley died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of Mr and Mrs L. Eardley of Burslem, Stoke on Trent.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
RE Enlistment Register for 1939 (enlisted 26 April 1939)..
RE Casualty Card.
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
RE Enlistment Register for 1939 (enlisted 26 April 1939)..
RE Casualty Card.
EATON-HALL, John Henry
Lieutenant (later Major)
138376
52ME Commando
North Somerset Yeomanry
Warwickshire Yeomanry
27.07.1940 commissioned Second Lieutenant, North Somerset Yeomanry [1].
13.03.1943 Lieutenant Warwickshire Yeomanry [2].
Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Hastings, Sussex. Final rank shown as Major [3].
EDMISTON, Gordon
Known as:
Commando Joe (whilst in the Scots Greys)
Corporal (later Captain)
2886140
302399
No 11 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Royal Scots Greys
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Military Cross (MC)
Gordon Edmiston enlisted in the Gordon Highlanders joining them in Aberdeen on 16 May 1940. Volunteered for No.11 Commando in August 1940. Served with 8 Troop in operations in the Middle East as part of Layforce until their early disbandment after which he joined the Long Range Desert Group. In 1943 he was commissioned into the Royal Scots Greys. Awarded the Military Cross in 1944.
EDNEY, Frank Leslie
Private
6205420
No 7 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
Private Frank Edney was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Member of the Commando Association.
1973 Inspector in Charge of the Commonwealth Police for the State of Tasmania.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28 and WO417/29.
EDSALL, Keith Valentine
Trooper
7912260
No 8 Commando
SBS
Royal Armoured Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Keith Edsall was killed in action during operations in the Western desert.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/36.
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.
ELLINGHAM, John Robert
Private
5933349
No 7 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Private John Ellingham was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
ELSE, John
Sergeant
5624579
No 7 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Died on war service
Sergeant John Else was accidentally killed in India.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/59.
Notes
ELY, H.P.
Lance Corporal
3191999
No 7 Commando
Kings Own Scottish Borderers
Lance Corporal Ely was reported missing on 20 April 1941 during operations at Cyrenaica (Bardia raid). Later found to be a prisoner of war in Italy. In 1943 he was reported no longer a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/24, WO417/26, and WO417/69.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/21.
EMMS, Cyril Deeley
Bombardier
805557
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Bombardier Cyril Emms died during operations in Crete. He has no known grave. Husband of D. R. Emms, of Hobbs Wall, Somerset.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/62.
ETHELSTONE, Harry
Private
5670462
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
Somerset Light Infantry
Private Harry Ethelstone was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Originally shown on Casualty Lists as No.7 Commando attached 'A Bn., Layforce this was amended to No.8 Commando attached 'A' Bn., Layforce.
EVANS, T.W.
Private
3960772
No 7 Commando
Wiltshire Regiment
Private Evans was reported missing 20 April 1941 during operations in Cyrenaica, later found to be a prisoner of war.
- 10 September 1943 escaped from captivity.
Sources
Casualties Lists / National Archives file WO417/24 and WO417/26.
EVERITT, Harry, C.
Lance Corporal
1866574
No 7 Commando
Royal Engineers
Lance Corporal Harry Everitt, a veteran of Dunkirk, was reported missing 20 April 1941 (Bardia raid) during operations at Cyrenaica, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Registers of Royal Engineers 1900-1949.
Casualty Lists / National Archives WO417/15, WO417/19, WO417/24, and WO417/26.
FAIRBRIDGE, A.F.H.
Fusilier
3452795
No 4 Commando
No 7 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Fusilier Fairbridge served in No.4 Commando before embarking with Layforce for the Middle East. He was reported missing during operations at Cyrenaica on 20 April 1941 (Bardia Raid) later found to be a prisoner of war.
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.
FARMILOE, William Arthur
Known as:
Robin
Captain
96878
No 11 Commando
Rifle Brigade
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain William Farmiloe, also known as Robin, Officer commanding 3 Troop, died during operations at Litani River.
View our gallery entry here Captain Farmiloe.
Notes
FARRINGTON, John Beddell
Private (Acting Lance Corporal)
5111475
No 4 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Warwickshire Regiment
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Lance Corporal John Farrington was reported missing on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete with Layforce. He was held as a prisoner in both Germany and Poland, and later awarded the British Empire Medal (Military Division) for his numerous escapes from different camps.
Citation
FASSAM, Joseph William
Lance Bombardier
874242
No 8 Commando
Middle East Commando
SAS
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Bombardier Joseph Fassam died during operations at Termoli Italy with the Special Raiding Squadron having left the Commando.
Service
No. 8 Commando;
4 Special Service Battalion;
'B' Battalion Layforce;
Royal Artillery;
Middle East Commando, 'A' Squadron;
1st SAS;
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).
FENTON, David
Acting Lance Sergeant
2754192
ME Commando Depot
Black Watch
Lance Sergeant David Fenton, attached Middle East Commando Depot, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
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.
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.
FINCH, John
Lance Corporal
1877787
No 7 Commando
Royal Engineers
Lance Corporal John Finch was reported missing 20 April 1941, later confirmed prisoner of war, during operations at Cyrenaica (Bardia raid).
Extract from the Aberdeen Evening Express
14 May 1941.
FLAHERTY, Robert Henry
Trooper
409352
No 8 Commando
52ME Commando
Special Service Detachment 2
Dragoons
Post war member of the Burma Star Association and the Commando Association residing in California, USA.
Sources
Addendum to Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 89 (1989).
Burma Star Association Membership application form.
FORD, Dennis
Captain (later Major)
124856
No 7 Commando
Black Watch
King's Own Royal Regiment
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Military Cross (MC)
Dennis Ford was commissioned Second Lieutenant on 9 March 1940 [1]. He served with No.7 Commando and later in the Far East [2][3][4].
- November 1946 announcement of his award of the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished service whilst engaged in Special Operations in South East Asia [3].
FOX, Joseph
Corporal
3653001
No 7 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Corporal Joseph Fox was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war from 1 June 1941.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/33.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Marlag and Milag).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/33.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Marlag and Milag).
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.
FRASER, Thomas Coupar
Private
2934226
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Thomas Fraser, 10 Troop, died during operations in the Western Desert. He had been one of the raiding party of Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ. Son of Leslie D. and Annie H. Fraser, of Parkhead, Glasgow.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/54.
FREEMAN, Fred Edward L.
Private
5830905
No 7 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Private Fred Freeman 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 WO392/1 (Stalag 4A).
FREEMAN, Thomas Louis
Private
5831031
No 7 Commando
Cambridge/Suffolk Regiment
Service Record
5 March 1940 enlisted Suffolk Regiment.
11 June 1940 posted 2nd Bn The Cambridgeshire Regiment.
25 October 1940 attached No.7 Commando.
11 June 1940 3 Special Service Battalion.
8 April 1941 'A' Battalion Layforce.
FROST, Terence Ernest Manitou
Known as:
Terry
Corporal
553904
50ME Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Terence Ernest Manitou Frost, better known as the renowned artist Sir Terry Frost, was born in Leamington Spa. In 1933 he joined the Territorial Army.
FURNIVAL, William Roy McGarry
Sergeant
2928615
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Sergeant William Roy McGarry Furnival was reported missing and later a prisoner of war 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Post war member of the Commando Association from Hampshire.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 and WO417/30.
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1 and WO392/11.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 and WO417/30.
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1 and WO392/11.
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).
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).
GALLAGHER, Denis
Private
2989639
No 11 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Denis Gallagher died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of Mrs Sarah Gallagher of Malden Street, Leyland, Lancashire.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/32.
GALLIER, Robert Allen
Gunner
1465403
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Artillery
Gunner Robert Gallier was reported missing believed to be a prisoner of war 2 June 1941 after operations at Crete. In 1942 it was reported he was no longer missing.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/42.
RA Attestations Register 1938.
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).
GANDER, D.
Corporal
554196
52ME Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment
Corporal Gander was wounded on 29 May 1941 during operations in Crete.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/26.
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.
GAYLARD, Albert Jack
Lance Corporal
5725267
No 7 Commando
Dorsetshire Regiment
Died on war service
Lance Corporal Albert Gaylard was reported missing in action 20 April 1941 during operations in Cyrenaica Libya, and later found to have been captured by the enemy [1][4]. He died during an air raid [2][3] whilst a prisoner of war in Camp PG78 Italy [4][5].
Sources
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.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/45.
Notes
GIBBS, William George
Gunner
879745
No 11 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner William Gibbs was killed in action during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of Mr and Mrs Gibbs of Conway Street, Everton.
Extract from the Liverpool Evening Express
24 July 1941
GILLINGHAM, Reginald John
Company Quartermaster Sergeant
543209
'Layforce'
Royal Armoured Corps
Company Quartermaster Sergeant Reginald Gillingham was reported missing presumed died during operations in Burma on 19 June 1942, his secondary unit recorded as 'B' Bn., Layforce on each of the casualty listings. He has no known grave. Son of Herbert James Gillingham and Lydia Gillingham; husband of Ida Martha Gillingham, of Ramsgate, Kent. [1][2].
GLITHEROE, G.E.
Corporal
4804364
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Lincolnshire Regiment
Corporal Glitheroe was wounded on 9 June 1941 during operations at the Litani River in Syria.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
GLYPTIS, G.
Sapper
1892369
No 7 Commando
Royal Engineers
Lance Corporal G. Glyptis was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941; found to have been captured and later transported to Stalag 344 in Poland.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28 and WO417/96.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/1.
GOLDEN, William James H.
Corporal
1881043
No 7 Commando
Royal Engineers
Corporal Golden was reported missing on 20 April 1941 during operations at Cyrenaica (Bardia raid), later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/24, WO417/27, WO417/55, and WO417/95.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1, WO392/11, and WO392/21.
GOLDSMITH, Ernest Edward William Frederick
Known as:
Joe
Lance Sergeant
6397316
No 3 Commando
No 8 Commando
Middle East Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Sergeant Ernest Edward William Frederick 'Joe' Goldsmith MM was awarded the Military Medal [1] during operations at Termoli having left the Commando, now serving in the Special Raiding Squadron (SRS) [2].
Recommendation
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.
GOODSIR, Georges Albert Jacques
Lance Bombardier
1467168
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Lance Bombardier Georges Albert Jacques Goodsir was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941; found to have been captured and later transported to Stalag 4C.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/11.
RA Attestation records.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/11.
RA Attestation records.
Probate Records Oxford.
GORNALL, James
Known as:
Jim
Gunner
3856286
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Artillery
Military Medal (MM)
Gunner James Gornall, 3 troop, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the field [1]. He took part in Operation Exporter at Litani River and was captured after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ. for which he would later be awarded the M.M. Imprisoned initially at Gavi Camp in Italy and later at Stalag 4 C.
GRAHAM, J.L.
Lance Corporal
3191535
No 7 Commando
King's Own Scottish Borderers
Lance Corporal J.L. Graham was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/34.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
GRAHAM, James
Lance Corporal
6981125
No 7 Commando
Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)
Lance Corporal James Graham was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
GRAY, John, B.
Lance Corporal
3132719
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Scots Fusiliers
Lance Corporal John Gray 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 and WO417/92.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 and WO392/11.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/147/352 (Dulag 183).
GREEN, John
Bombardier
849929
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Bombardier John Green was reported missing 20 April 1941 during operations in Cyrenaica (Bardia raid), later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
RA Attestations Register for 1935.
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/24, WO417/27, WO417/91.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1 (Stalag 344), WO392/21 (Camp 78).
GREEN, William Alfred
Private
5933643
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Suffolk Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private William Green was reported missing presumed died died during the period No 7 Commando, as part of Layforce, were engaged in a rearguard action whilst allied troops were evacuated from Crete. He has no known grave. Son of Harry and Anne Elizabeth Green, of March, Cambridgeshire.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/45.
GREENWOOD, Stephen
Trooper
7904241
No 7 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Died on war service
Trooper Stephen Greenwood died in 1945 whilst a prisoner of war after being captured at Crete on 2 June 1941, and then transported to Germany. He spent the rest of the war in Stalag 3D near Berlin. He died during a forced march West whilst still a POW, when they were fired on by a Russian tank at Waganitz.
Sources
GREIG, Robert
Corporal
2881454
No 11 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Robert Greig died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of Robert and Annie Greig, of Rickarton, Kincardineshire.
Extract from the Aberdeen Evening Express
18 July 1941
GRIFFIN, Thomas Basil
Known as:
Tommy
Lance Corporal
2989323
No 11 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Royal Army Service Corps
20 June 1940 enlisted A&SH and later volunteered for the Commandos.
Attached to No.11 Commando 7 Troop attaining the rank of Lance Corporal.
1 February 1941 embarked for the Middle East, 'C' Bn., Layforce.
9 June 1941 took part in Operation Exporter at Litani River, Syria.
GUNN, David
Private
2822381
No 11 Commando
Seaforth Highlanders
Military Medal (MM)
Private David Gunn was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished service in Libya January 1943 whilst serving with the Long Range Desert Group after leaving the Commando [1][1a].
Recommendation
GUNN, Harper
Private
3319490
No 7 Commando
Highland Light Infantry
Private Harper Gunn was reported missing on 20 April 1941 during operations in the Middle East (Bardia raid), later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/24 and WO417/29.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1 and 11 (Stalag 344) and WO392/21 (Camp 78).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/24 and WO417/29.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1 and 11 (Stalag 344) and WO392/21 (Camp 78).
HAMILTON, Alexander
Driver
2576082
No 11 Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Killed in action or died of wounds
Driver Alexander Hamilton was killed in action during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of the late Private James Hamilton, RASC, killed in action 5 months earlier, and of Catherine Hamilton, of Stirling.
Extract from the Stirling Observer
"17 July 1941.
HAMILTON, Robert Scott
Private
3323516
No 11 Commando
Highland Light Infantry (City of Glasgow Regiment)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Robert Hamilton died of wounds during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of William and Ann H. Hamilton, of Glasgow.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/26.
HAMMOND, R.C.W.
Private
7347120
No 7 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Private Hammond, R.A.M.C. attached No.7 Commando, was reported as a prisoner of war during operations at Crete on 2 June 1941[1]. In 1943 he is recorded as repatriated and back in the UK [2].
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/34.
[2] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
HANBURY-TRACY, Richard Algernon Frederick
Known as:
Bones
Major
45143
No 8 Commando
Royal Horse Guards
Died on war service
Major Richard Hanbury-Tracy died at sea whilst No 8 Commando were part of Layforce.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/2.
Burke's Peerage online.
HANCOCK, Harry
Private
4748143
'Layforce'
Middle East Commando
British Military Mission 204
York and Lancaster Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Harry Hancock, 'C' Bn Layforce, was reported missing 9 June 1941 during operations at Litani River, Syria, later reported no longer missing. He went onto serve with the Middle East Commandos before being posted to Burma with the Special Service Detachment where he was again reported missing on 13 August 1942, later confirmed as killed in action.
HANNAH, James
Lance Corporal
3190809
No 7 Commando
Kings Own Scottish Borderers
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Corporal James Hannah, No. 7 Commando, was reported missing on 20 April 1941 during operations at Cyrenaica (Bardia raid), later found to be a prisoner of war in Italy. He escaped from captivity for which he was subsequently awarded the Military Medal.
Recommendation
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.
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.
HARLAND, Edwin
Private
2882955
No 11 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Edwin Harland died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of Edwin Scriven Harland and Annie Aline Harland, of Middlesbrough, Yorkshire.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
HARMER, Reginald
Known as:
Reg
Corporal
5570019
No 11 Commando
Wiltshire Regiment
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Corporal Reginald Harmer served in No. 11 Commando until it was disbanded. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal [1] in recognition of gallant and distinguished service on the 12th July 1943 with the 2nd Wiltshire Regiment during operations near Solarino, Sicily [2].
Sources
HARPER, Henry Joseph
Sergeant
5180531
No 7 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Sergeant Henry Harper was reported as a prisoner of war during operations at Crete 2 June 1941. In 1943 he was reported as repatriated to UK.
- 29 December 1930 enlisted into the Royal Tank Corps.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/68.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/11.
HARPER, Ian Rennie
Sergeant
1466969
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Sergeant Ian Harper was reported missing and a prisoner of war 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. In 1943 it was reported he was back in the UK no longer a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/34 and WO417/68.
RA Attestations Register 1938.
HARPER, Stanley Eric
Known as:
Eric
Sapper
1880061
No 7 Commando
Royal Engineers
Sapper Stanley Harper was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. he had previously served in No.4 Commando.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/30.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
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.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/29.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
HARRISON, Thomas
Gunner
1461853
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Thomas Harrison 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 and WO417/45.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/11 and WO392/21.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/45.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/11 and WO392/21.
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).
HAWKINS, Harold Ralph
Private
5503346
No 7 Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Private Harold Hawkins 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.
Sources
Casualty lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/30, and WO417/95.
HAYE, James
Private
2754870
52ME Commando
Black Watch
Private James Haye was reported missing on 2nd June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been captured and transported to Stalag 3D in Germany.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 (HAYE).
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (HAYE).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 (HAYE).
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (HAYE).
HAYWARD, Arthur, N.
Lance Corporal
5567812
No 7 Commando
Wiltshire Regiment
Lance Corporal Arthur Hayward 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 WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4C).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4C).
HEADLAND, Thomas Herbert
Lance Sergeant
2613699
No 8 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Died on active service
Lance Sergeant Thomas Headland died as a result of an accident during operations in Syria.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO 417/30.
HEARN, William Alec, V.
Private
5437280
SAS
Middle East Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Private William Hearn was reported missing 18 January 1943 in Libya [1] later confirmed as a prisoner of war since 15 January 1943 [2][3].
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/58 and WO417/91 (date missing and ME Cdo).
HEARN, William Herbert
Private
5625251
No 3 Commando
No 8 Commando
SAS
Devonshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private William Hearn died during operations at Termoli, Italy with the Special Raiding Squadron having left the Commando. A shell hit the truck that he was sitting in.
Service
No. 3 Commando 'A' Troop; No.8 Commando, 4 Special Service Battalion; 'B' Bn. Layforce; Middle East Commando; 1st SAS; Special Raiding Squadron.
HEBBLEWHITE, Arthur
Trooper
324112
52ME Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Trooper Arthur Hebblewhite 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 WO417/28, WO417/31.
HENRY, William
Gunner
1427602
ME Commando Depot
Royal Artillery
Gunner William Henry, Middle East Commando Depot, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28 and WO417/31.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1.
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.
HERD, James
Sapper
1986469
No 7 Commando
Royal Engineers
Sapper James Herd was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28 and WO417/32.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/11 and WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28 and WO417/32.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/11 and WO392/1.
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.
HIGGIN, Arthur
Private
4126259
'Layforce'
Cheshire Regiment
Private Arthur Higgin, HQ Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
HILDRETH, Sidney James
Lance Corporal
3657806
No 7 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Sidney Hildreth, formerly 7 Commando, was reported missing, later confirmed killed, whilst attached to 'L' Detachment SAS. He left the Commando to join the SAS on the 30th August 1941 and was fatally injured parachuting into the SAS first raid, Operation Squatter, an abortive attack against airfields at Tmimi and Gazala. He has no known grave.
HILL, Francis John
Trooper
324039
52ME Commando
Royal Armoured Corps Staffordshire Yeomanry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Francis Hill, 52 Middle East Commando ('D' Bn., Layforce) died during operations at Crete. He had served in the Commando since 13 January 1941.
Son of F. E. Hill and Jane Hill, of Winshill. Burton-on-Trent.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
HILL, Francis William Amey
Private
3959780
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Private Francis Hill was reported missing during operations at Crete on 2 June 1941 and later found to be a prisoner of war at Stalag 3D.
HINDMARSH, George Peel
Lance Corporal
2658432
52ME Commando
Coldstream Guards
Lance Corporal George Hindmarsh was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been captured and transported to Stalag 4D. Post war member of the Commando Association with whom they lost contact, last known residing Cyprus.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 and WO417/31..
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 and WO417/31..
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.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 and 11.
HOLBROOK, Alfred
Private
815569
No 7 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Royal Artillery
Private Alfred Holbrook was attested into the Royal Artillery in 1930 before transferring to the Royal Army Medical Corps on 29 September 1934 [1].
- 2 June 1941 (R.A.M.C. attached No.7 Commando) reported missing during operations at Crete and later found to be a prisoner of war at Stalag 4B [2][3].
Sources
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).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4A) and WO392/11 (Stalag 11B).
HORE, D.
Sergeant
5621917
Middle East Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Sergeant Hore was reported missing 14 September 1942 during operations in the Middle East (Tobruk), later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/58 and WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/11 and WO392/21.
HOROBIN, Gilbert, C.
Private
7632126
No 7 Commando
Royal Army Ordnance Corps
Private Gilbert Horobin was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete. Later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/31.
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 383).
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/31.
[2] Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 383).
HOWIE, Robert Cullen
Lieutenant
154064
'Layforce'
General List
28 March 1941 Acting Quartermaster 'D' Bn Layforce HQ.
2 June 1941 (Lieutenant) prisoner of war Crete.
Sources
52 Middle East Commando War Diary 28 March 1941 ('D' Bn Layforce Officers).
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/2 and WO417/9.
HOWLAND, William John
Regimental Sergeant Major
6077878
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
28.03.1941 Regimental Sergeant Major of 'D' Bn. Layforce.
01.06.1941 prisoner of war Crete.
Sources
52 Middle East Commando War Diary 28 March 1941 (List of Oficers for 'D' Bn).
The book 'The Middle East Commandos' by Charles Messenger.
HOWLETT, Dennis Unwin
Private
6205094
No 7 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
Private Dennis Howlett was reported missing 20 April 1941 during operations in Cyrenaica (Bardia Raid), later found to be a prisoner of war.
HUGHES, Albert Edwin
Lance Corporal
5569217
No 11 Commando
Wiltshire Regiment
Died on war service
Lance Corporal Albert Hughes died in Egypt.
Son of Mrs. R. Newbury, of Maiden Bradley, Wiltshire.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty lists / National Archives file WO417/58.
Notes
HUMPHREY, Bert
Private
6402436
52ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.
Died on war service
Private Bert Humphrey, 52 Middle East Commando ('D' Bn., Layforce), died after the rearguard action that took place in Crete. He had been reported missing 2 June 1941 and was a prisoner of war. Son of Lilian Greenfield, of Brighton, Sussex.
Sources
[1] CWGC.
HURST, Ben
Private
3715891
No 11 Commando
King's Own Royal Regiment (Lancaster)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Ben Hurst was killed in action during operations at Litani River, Syria.
IBBETSON, Reginald Thomas
Lance Bombardier
914872
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Lance Bombardier Reginald Ibbetson was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941; found to have been captured and later transported to Stalag 357.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/11 (Stalag 357).
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/11 (Stalag 357).
IMPERATO, Robert Tony
Corporal
4034040
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Corporal Robert Imperato was reported missing during operations at Crete on 2 June 1941, later found to be a prisoner of war from 1 June 1941.
INGRAM, Eric Albert
Corporal
1878535
No 7 Commando
Royal Engineers
Corporal Eric Ingram was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
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).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4A).
IVERS, Henry Anderson
Sergeant
6457787
52ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Sergeant Henry Ivers was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
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 WO416/192/460 (Stalag 8B).
IVES, Edwin Isaac
Company Quartermaster Sergeant
2694795
'Layforce'
Scots Guards
16.04.1934 enlisted Scots Guards aged 18.
01.11.1940 attached 52 Middle East Commando
28.03.1941 Geneifa, Company Quartermaster Sergeant, 'D' Bn. Layforce.
02.06.1941 prisoner of war Crete.
02.06.1941 prisoner of war Crete.
15.04.1946 released to Royal Army Reserve Class 'Z'.
29.01.1948 rejoined the Colours from RAR to Scots Guards.
JAMIESON, John
Known as:
Jock
Private
2933872
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Private John Jamieson, 'B' Company of the 1st Bn., Liverpool Scottish, volunteered for the Commandos and was attached to No.7 Commando.
31 January 1941 departed for the Middle East as 'A' Battalion of Layforce.
2 June 1941 reported missing during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
JENKINS, Thomas
Private
3959786
52ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Private Thomas Jenkins was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
JOHNSON, Bernard William
Trooper
5106493
52ME Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Royal Corps of Signals
Trooper Bernard Johnson was first attested into the Royal Tank Corps in 1919. Having left he rejoined at the beginning of the war on 2 September 1939. He was reported wounded and prisoner of war 2 June 1941 during operations with No.7 Commando in Crete.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/33 and WO417/94.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/33 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).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4D).
JOHNSTON, Robert
Known as:
Jock
Corporal
2931826
No 11 Commando
Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Died on active service
Corporal Robert Johnston died of exhaustion and malaria whilst assigned from the Commando to Middle East Detachment 2, later redesignated 2nd Special Service Detachment (SSD 2), in Burma. He has no known grave.
- 9 June 1941 (Private) wounded during Operation Exporter at Litani River, Syria.
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, Charles Ernest
Trooper
554075
No 11 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps/Staffordshire Yeomanry
Died on war service
Trooper Charles Ernest Jones died in the Middle East as a result of an accident.
Son of Charles Henry and Annie Jones, of Wolverhampton.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/25.
Notes
JONES, G.
Private
4748200
No 11 Commando
York and Lancaster Regiment
Private G. Jones, 'C' Battalion of Layforce, was wounded 9 June 1941 during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Notes
No.11 Commando was designated as 'C' Bn. of Layforce.
JONES, Glyn Watkar
Gunner
1545477
No 7 Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Glyn Jones was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941; found to have been captured and later transported to Stalag 4C.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/28.
POW Lists / National Archives file WO392/11.
RA Attestation records.
JONES, Harold
Corporal
550620
No 11 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
3rd Cavalry Training Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Harold Jones died during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Son of William and Charlotte Jones, of Sale, Cheshire.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/30.
JONES, Richard Babington
Lieutenant (later Major)
124667
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
Staffordshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Royal Artillery
Territorial Efficiency Medal
09.03.1940 commissioned Second Lieutenant, Staffordshire Yeomanry [1].
01.11.1940 (Second Lieutenant) posted to 52 Middle East Commando at Geneifa [2].
28.03.1941 serving in 'D' Company, 52 Middle East Commando [2].
KEALY, Michael Robert Bayley
Temporary Major (later Honorary Lieutenant Colonel)
50892
No 8 Commando
Middle East Commando
SBS
Devonshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Served in No.8 Commando and Layforce [1].
July 1942 (Major) 1st Special Service Regiment [1a].
Commanded No.1 S.B.S. Middle East after departure of Major R.J. Courtney M.C. [2].
Returned to the UK 28 July 1943 [2].
KEARNEY, Joseph Francis
Known as:
Joe
Gunner
970050
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Artillery
Gunner Joe Kearney was attached to No.11 Commando 1 Troop from the 57th (Newfoundland) Heavy Regiment Royal Artillery. He was reported missing 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper in the Western Desert, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association residing in Newfoundland.
KEELING, Frederick, M.
Sergeant
52ME Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association from Abergele, Clwyd.
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 108 (1999).
KEITH, Douglas
Private
2882330
No 11 Commando
SAS
Gordon Highlanders
Died on war service
Private Douglas Keith, formerly 11 Commando, was posted to 'L' Detachment, Special Air Service Brigade, on the 28th August 1941, and was taken prisoner after Operation Squatter. He died whilst being transported on the Italian prison ship SS Sebastiano Venier, after it was was torpedoed by a British submarine.
KEMP, Idris John
Private
3959728
52ME Commando
Welch Regiment 1Bn.
Private Idris Kemp was reported missing in Greece later found to be a prisoner of war. In 1943 it was reported that he had been repatriated.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28 and WO417/69.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28 and WO417/69.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/206/311.
KENNEDY, James
Private
2758299
52ME Commando
Black Watch
Private James Kennedy was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/11.
German Record Cards of British POWs / National Archives file WO416/207/115.
KEYES, Lt Col. Geoffrey Charles Tasker, VC
Lieutenant Colonel
71081
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Scots Greys (2nd Dragoons), Royal Armoured Corps
Victoria Cross (VC)
Military Cross (MC)
Croix de Guerre (France)
Killed in action or died of wounds
KING, Ernest Taylor
Lance Corporal
4803483
No 11 Commando
Lincolnshire Regiment 6th Bn
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Ernest King was reported missing 9 June 1941 during operations at Litani River, Syria, later confirmed killed in action. He has no known grave. Son of Norman T. and May King, of Surfleet, Lincolnshire.
KING, Thomas, J.
Private
5191561
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Gloucestershire Regiment
Served: No.4 Commando; 3 Special Service Battalion; No.7 Commando; 'A' Bn., Layforce.
Private Thomas King was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
KINGHORN, Robert
Private
2884403
No 11 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Robert Kinghorn was killed in action during operations at Litani River, Syria.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
KINGON, Stuart Cowan
Acting Corporal
R/4866332
52ME Commando
Leicestershire Regiment
Corporal Stuart Kingon, 52 Middle East Commando, 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
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].
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.
