William Henry Hopkins enlisted into the Armed Forces on 13 July 1940 and later volunteered for the commandos. Corporal Hopkins, No.3 Commando, was reported missing 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy, later confirmed wounded the previous day and a prisoner of war. He escaped from outside a work camp at Blechhammer 26 December 1943 but was recaptured by the S.S. three days later. Post war released from service 5 July 1946.