'St. Nazaire - Operation Chariot'

Date commenced: 
Saturday, March 28, 1942
MGB 314
Units: 
2 Commando
1 Commando
3 Commando
4 Commando
5 Commando
9 Commando
12 Commando

St Nazaire, France

A Combined Operations raid on the dry dock at St Nazaire, France. The force consisted of Army Commandos led by No.2 Commando who were supported by small detachments from Nos 1, 3, 4, 5, 9 and 12 Commandos.
The Force embarked on craft manned by Royal Navy personnel. The Naval Force carrying the Army Commandos consisted of HMS Campbeltown which, packed with hidden explosives, rammed the dock gates after which the Commandos stormed ashore. HMS Campbeltown was followed by a fleet of 18 smaller vessels, most carrying commando demolition teams and their protection squads.
The Commandos succeeded in demolishing much of the infrastructure of the dock operating mechanism, and the undiscovered explosives on HMS Campbeltown later detonated causing severe damage to the dock and its gates.

Great gallantry was displayed by the raiders and there were many casualties amongst the Commando and Naval personnel. The following were awarded the Victoria Cross, the United Kingdom's highest gallantry award for bravery in the face of the enemy:

Linked content: 
2 Commando, St. Nazaire

‘Commando Roll of Honour St Nazaire’

On Wednesday 1st April 1942 a ceremonial funeral was held to inter the dead from both sides, in a field at Escoublac, near to the German Naval HQ. The prisoners were invited to send a party to attend. Lt. Hopwood, Sgt Colin Jones and Pte. Les Wheelan represented 5 Troop, No.2 Commando and the Liverpool Scottish. Some photos of individuals killed during the raid can be found in the Commando Units Albums. View the images of the funeral in our Gallery. [go to gallery]

 

No 2 Commando

Pte. M.D.Aird Pte. J.E.H. Gwynne RSM. A. Moss
Capt. D.L. Birney LSgt. P. Harkness Pte. A.W. Neal
LCpl. E.J. Bryan LSgt. M. Harrison LCpl. K.A. Paterson
Rfn. R.E.D. Burns LCpl. W. Hay Lieut. T.G.P. Peyton
LCpl. J. Coughlan LCpl. W.B. Heather Rfn. T.Y. Roach
Pte. H.P. Cunningham Sgt. S. Hempstead Gdsm. S. Robinson
Pte. T. Diamond Capt. E.S. Hodgson Cpl. W.A. Spaul
LCpl. J. Donaldson LCpl. G.H. Hudson Sgt. G. Taylor
Sgt. L.F. Eldridge 2/Lieut. M.  Jenkins Cpl. R.M. Tomsett
Cpl. N.L. Fisher Pte. F. Kelly Lieut. J.E. Vanderwerve
LCpl. H.F. Fowler Gdsm. J.F. Lewis Gdsm. G.W. Walton
LCpl. A.E. Garratt Fus. A.J. Lucy Lieut. P. Walton
LSgt. W. Gibson LCpl.H. Mather Fus. R.S.Woodman
Fus. L.G.W. Goss Pte. J. Maylott
 
Gdsm. W.E. Grose Pte. T. McCormack  

No 1 Commando

Sgt. T.F. Durrant
Cpl. F. Llewellyn
Pte. E.C. Tomblin
 

No. 3 Commando  

Lieut.  M. Woodcock
Pte. J.D. Boyce
 

No. 4 Commando

Capt. H.H. Pennington
L/Cpl. R.B.J. Borgman
Spr. G. Coulson
 

No. 5 Commando

Lieut. C.J.  Smalley
Lieut. R.J.G. Burtinshaw
Sgt. R. Beveridge
Sgt. W. Ferguson
Sgt. G.E. Ide
L/Sgt. B.L.  Johnson
L/Cpl. G.S. Stokes
 

No. 9 Commando

L/Sgt. R.E. Jameson
Cpl. J. Deans
L/Cpl. L. Burgess
L/Cpl. R. Duncan
Pte. J. Shenton
 

No. 12 Commando

Cpl. A.H. Blount
Cpl. S.E. Chetwynd
Cpl. H.H.  Jones.
 

Special Service Brigade HQ

Lieut. (T/Capt) W.H. Pritchard
 
 
Displaying 1 - 67 of 67

AIRD, Michael Derrick

Michael Aird 2 Commando
Private
3772603
No 2 Commando
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Michael Aird, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268 and has no known grave.

BEVERIDGE, Robert

Sergeant
4534228
No 5 Commando
West Yorkshire Regiment (Prince of Wales's Own)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Robert Beveridge, from Leeds, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He was one of the commando contingent who had embarked for the raid on HMS Campbeltown.

BIRNEY, David Leslie

David Birney 2 Commando
Captain
75991
No 2 Commando
Rifle Brigade
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain David Birney, Officer Commanding 2 troop, died of wounds after Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire which took place on 28 March 1942*. He was commanding an assault group that had embarked on Motor Launch ML 447. 

BLOUNT, Arthur Harvey

Corporal
3972221
No 12 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Arthur Blount was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. Arthur was part of a demolition team who embarked for the raid on HMS Campbeltown. Son of Charles George Blount, and of Annie Blount, of Morden, Surrey.

BORGMAN, Robert Bernard John

Lance Corporal
7911119
No 4 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Robert Borgman was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268 and has no known grave.

BOYCE, John Douglas

Private
5952406
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Boyce was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on ML 262.
Son of William and Elizabeth Ann Boyce, of Tonypandy, Glamorgan.
 
Sources

BRYAN, Edward Joseph

Bryan 2 Commando
Lance Corporal
3775300
No 2 Commando
King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Edward Bryan, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He has no known grave.
Son of Adam and Mary Bryan; husband of D. M. Bryan.

BURGESS, Leslie

Lance Corporal
1877628
No 9 Commando
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Leslie Burgess was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268 and has no known grave.

BURNS, Ronald Edward David

Ronald Edward D. Burns 2 Commando
Rifleman
6895664
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps (11th Bn)
(1st Bn. Queen's Westminsters)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Rifleman Ronald Burns, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on ML 268. Son of Edward and Alice Janet Burns, of Brockley, London.
 

BURTINSHAW, Robert James Glover

Lieutenant
89395
No 5 Commando
Cheshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Robert Burtinshaw was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. Mentioned in Despatches (posthumous) for gallant and distinguished service.

CHETWYND, Samuel Ernest

Corporal
4977274
No 12 Commando
Sherwood Forresters (Notts and Derby Regiment)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Samuel Chetwynd was reported missing 28 March 1942 after operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 457 as part of Captain Pritchard's Demolition Control Party and has no known grave. Son of Mr. and Mrs.

COUGHLAN, John

John Coughlan 2 Commando
Lance Corporal
3781807
No 2 Commando
King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal John Coughlan, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He has no known grave.

COULSON, Garnett

Sapper
1881715
No 4 Commando
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sapper Garnett Coulson was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He embarked for the raid on ML 268 and has no known grave. Son of Garnett and Faith Coulson, of Romford, Essex.
Service

CUNNINGHAM, Henry Peter

Henry Cunningham 2 Commando
Private
3781746
No 2 Commando
King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Henry Cunningham, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He embarked for the raid on ML 267 and has no known grave. Son of John and Margaret Cunningham, of Old Swan, Liverpool.

DEANS, James

Corporal
2079518
No 9 Commando
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal James Deans was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, confirmed 14 months later as killed in action on that date. He embarked for the raid on ML 457 and was the husband of Mrs A. Deans, 4 Albert Street, Paisley.

DIAMOND, Thomas

Private
3779240
No 2 Commando
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Thomas Diamond, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. 

DONALDSON, John

Lance Corporal John Donaldson 2 Commando
Lance Corporal
2884838
No 2 Commando
London Scottish The Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal John Donaldson, 3 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed died of wounds. He has no known grave. Son of William Donaldson and of Jessie Donaldson (nee Hunter); husband of Anne Donaldson (nee Smith), of Dundee.

DUNCAN, Ronald

Lance Corporal
2032723
No 9 Commando
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Ronald Duncan was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. Son of James W. Duncan and Elisabeth R. Duncan, of Aberdeen. They were formally notified of his death on 2 April 1943.

ELDRIDGE, Leonard Frederick

Leonard Eldridge 2 Commando
Sergeant
6461633
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Leonard Eldridge, 2 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on Motor Launch ML 447 and has no known grave.

FERGUSON, William

Sergeant
1426074
No 5 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant William Ferguson was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action.

FISHER, Norman Lucas

Corporal
6896443
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps (11th Bn)
(1st Bn. Queen's Westminsters)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Norman Fisher, 6 troop, died on 25 April 1942 of wounds received on 28 March 1942 during Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. He was one of the commando contingent on motor launch ML 192 and had initially been reported as missing in action until his death was confirmed.

FOWLER, Henry Francis

Lance Corporal
6019554
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Henry Fowler, 2 Troop, died on 24 January 1943 of wounds received during Operation Chariot in March 1942. Son of Thomas Francis and Elizabeth Fowler, of Canning Town; husband of Alice Ada Fowler, of Canning Town [1][2][3][4].

GARRATT, Arthur Ernest

Lance Corporal
5338655
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Arthur Garratt, 2 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. Embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 447. Son of Matilda Garratt, of Islington, London.
 
Sources

GOSS, Leonard George William

Fusilier
6459167
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Leonard Goss, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 192 and has no known grave. Son of Leonard Butcher Goss and L. Goss, of Brixton, London.
 

GROSE, William Ernest

Guardsman
2617390
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds
Guardsman William Grose, 2 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 447 and has no known grave. Son of Ernest Albert Grose, and of Agnes Grose, of Welling, Kent.

GWYNNE, John Edward Herbert

Private
2929834
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish, Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Gwynne, 5 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action [1][1a]. Embarked for the raid on HMS Campbeltown and received a posthumous Mention in Despatches [2][3].

HARKNESS, Peter

Lance Sergeant
2879689
No 2 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Peter Harkness was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. Son of Peter and Catherine Ann Harkness.

HARRISON, Maurice

Lance Sergeant
6896247
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps (11th Bn)
(1st Bn. Queen's Westminsters)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Maurice Harrison, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 192.
Son of Samuel G. and Maud A. Harrison, of Streatham, London.
 

HAY, William

Lance Corporal
325315
No 2 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Lanarkshire Yeomanry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal William Hay was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. Son of Thomas and Margaret Hay, of Carluke, Lanarkshire.

HEATHER, William Bernard

Lance Corporal
6400817
No 2 Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal William Heather, 2 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 447 and has no known grave. Son of William and Harriette Heather.
 

HEMPSTEAD, Stanley

Sergeant
6014969
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Stanley Hempstead, 2 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 262. Son of Frank Hempstead and Marion (nee Barnard).

HODGSON, Eric Stewart

Captain
75234
No 2 Commando
Hertfordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Eric Hodgson, Officer Commanding 1 troop, was reported missing believed killed 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He was in charge of the commandos on motor launch ML 446 and has no known grave.

HUDSON, George Herbert

Lance Corporal
6896827
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps (11th Bn)
(1st Bn. Queen's Westminsters)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal George Hudson, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action.  He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268.
 
Sources
CWGC.

IDE, George Edward

Sergeant
2321335
No 5 Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant George Ide was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on HMS Campbeltown. 
Son of Herbert Edward and Edith Ann Ide, of Romford, Essex; husband of O. M. Ide.
 

JAMESON, Robert Evan

Lance Sergeant
821516
No 9 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Robert Evan Jameson, from Virginia, County Cavan, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on HMS Campbeltown and has no known grave.
 
Sources

JOHNSON, Bertie Lawrence

Lance Sergeant
3531584
No 5 Commando
Manchester Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Bertie Johnson was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. Embarked for the raid on HMS Campbeltown.
Son of Mr. and Mrs. Bertie Lawrence Johnson, of Stockport, Cheshire.
 

JONES, Harri Havard

Corporal
3962759
No 12 Commando
Welch Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Harri Havard Jones was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. Corporal Jones was part of a demolition team who embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268. He has no known grave.

KELLY, Francis

Private
4467369
No 2 Commando
Border Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Francis Kelly, from Dovecot, Liverpool, was reported missing on 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later presumed died of wounds. Son of Joseph and Mary Kelly, of Liverpool.

LEWIS, John Frederick

Guardsman
2617158
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds
Guardsman John Lewis, 2 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 447 and has no known grave.

LLEWELLYN, Fred

Corporal Fred Llewellyn 1 Commando
Corporal
4036505
No 1 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Fred Llewellyn was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He was part of a demolition team who embarked for the raid on Motor Launch ML 306.

Son of Tom and Elizabeth Llewellyn, of Worcester.

LUCY, Albert James

Fusilier
6461459
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Albert Lucy, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 192.
Son of Albert Edward and Lily Minnie Lucy, of Kentish Town, London.
 

MATHER, Harry

Lance Corporal
3656822
No 2 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Harry Mather, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He had embarked for the raid on ML 268. Son of Charles Baron Mather and Mary Elizabeth Mather, of Bolton, Lancashire.
 

MAYLOTT, Jesse

Jesse Maylott 2 Commando
Private
3654748
No 2 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Jesse Maylott, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He has no known grave. Son of Jesse Maylott, and of Alice Maylott, of Orford, Warrington, Lancashire.

MCCORMACK, Thomas

Thomas McCormack
Tom McCormack 2 Commando
Private
2930404
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Thomas McCormack, 5 troop No 2 Commando, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later confirmed as having died on 11 April 1942 of wounds received during the raid.

MOSS, Alan

WO1 Regimental Sergeant Major
2930992
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Regimental Sergeant Major Alan Moss, HQ 2 Commando, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea after being shot. He embarked for the raid on Motor Launch ML 267 and received a posthumous Mention in Despatches.

NEAL, Alfred William

Private
7349551
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Alfred Neal, RAMC attached No.2 Commando, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. Embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 447 and has no known grave.

PATERSON, Kenneth Albert

Lance Corporal
5442424
No 2 Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Kenneth Paterson was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He has no known grave. Son of Albert Edward and Henrietta Jane Paterson, of Bristol.

PENNINGTON, Harold Hammond

Capt Pennington 4 Commando
Captain
130871
2192204
No 4 Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Captain Harold Pennington was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268.
B.A. (Oxon.), Kitchener Scholar, and Rugby Football Blue (1937).

PEYTON, Thomas Grenville Pitt

Lieutenant
112912
No 2 Commando
No 5 Independent Company
Kings Royal Rifle Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Thomas Peyton, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He has no known grave. Son of Ivor Eliot Peyton and Dorothy Helen Peyton, of Englemere Wood, Berkshire.

PRITCHARD, William Henry

Captain William Pritchard RE
Lieutenant (Temporary Captain)
76488
Special Service Brigade
No 2 Commando
Royal Engineers
Military Cross (MC)
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain William Pritchard MC was reported missing 28 March 1942 after the St. Nazaire raid (Operation Chariot), later confirmed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 457.

ROACH, Thomas Ypres

Rifleman
6849064
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps (11th Bn)
(1st Bn. Queen's Westminsters)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Rifleman Thomas Roach, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 177. Son of Lewis and Winifred Roach, of Caerau, Bridgend, Glamorgan.
 
Sources

ROBINSON, Sydney

Guardsman
2619196
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds
Guardsman Sydney Robinson, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268 and has no known grave.
 

SHENTON, Joseph

Private
5046468
No 9 Commando
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Joseph Shenton was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268 and has no known grave.

SMALLEY, Christopher John

Christopher John Smalley 5 Commando
Lieutenant
92876
No 5 Commando
Manchester Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Christopher Smalley died during Operation Chariot at St Nazaire. Embarking on HMS Campbeltown he commanded a demolition party, Demolition Group 3A, whose task it was to destroy the Dry Dock Installations. Posthumously Mentioned in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service.

SPAUL, William Albert

Corporal
6088619
No 2 Commando
The Queen's Royal Regiment (West Surrey)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal William Spaul, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. Embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 192. Son of Albert Spaul, and of Isabel Spaul, of Aldershot, Hampshire.
 

STOKES, George Stanley

Lance Corporal
5186568
No 5 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal George Stokes was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. Embarked for the raid on HMS Campbeltown, part of Lt Burtinshaw's demolition party.

TAYLOR, Gerald

Sergeant
7598084
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Ordnance Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Gerald Taylor, HQ Reserve, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. Son of Bernard and Emma Lily Taylor, of Shiregreen, Sheffield.

TOMBLIN, Edward Charles

Private
6144878
No 1 Commando
East Surrey Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Edward Tomblin was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on Motor Launch ML 306.
Son of Frank and Mary Ellen Tomblin; husband of Eleanor Margaret Tomblin, of Wandsworth, London.

TOMSETT, Reginald Maurice

Corporal
6896917
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps (11th Bn)
(1st Bn. Queen's Westminsters)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Reginald Tomsett, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. Embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 192. Son of Maurice Jeffery Tomsett and Edith Sarah Tomsett, of Shirley, Croydon.
 

VANDERWERVE, John Edward

John Vanderwerve 2 Commando
Lieutenant
117921
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant John Vanderwerve, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He was officer in charge of a protection squad for a demolition team embarked on motor launch ML 306.

WALTON, George William

Guardsman
2618526
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds
Guardsman George Walton, 2 troop, was reported missing on 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 447. Son of George William and Doris Olive Walton, of New Mills, Derbyshire.

WALTON, Philip

Lieut. Philip Walton No 2 Commando
Lieutenant
104117
No 2 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Philip Walton, 1 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire. Section Officer of a demolition team embarked on Motor Launch ML 457.
Son of C.P. and Evelyn Walton, of Bedford. B.A. (Cantab.): Christ's College.
 

WOODCOCK, Mark

Lieutenant
138278
No 3 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lieutenant Mark Woodcock was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He has no known grave. Son of Mr. and Mrs. G.A. Woodcock of Howbeck Road, Birkenhead.

WOODMAN, Robert Salonicka

Fusilier
6467448
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Robert Woodman, 6 troop, was reported missing on 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 192 and has no known grave. Son of Mrs. A. Woodman, of Battersea, London.
 

Nominal Roll Operation Chariot, St Nazaire

Operation Chariot, St Nazaire reunion
Operation Chariot, St Nazaire, France, 28/29 March 1942.
The photo above is from a reunion and is included in the Gallery.
Naval Personnel are listed are listed [here..].
The 267 Army Commandos who took part are listed below.
 
Displaying 1 - 70 of 267

AIRD, Michael Derrick

Michael Aird 2 Commando
Private
3772603
No 2 Commando
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Michael Aird, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268 and has no known grave.

ALDRED, Jack

Sergeant
1892443
No 2 Commando
Royal Engineers
Lance Corporal Jack Aldred, 4 Troop, was one of the Commando contingent emabarked on Motor Launch ML 443 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28March 1942. He was evacuated back to the UK after the raid [1].
Service [2]

AMOS, Richard Henry

Richard Henry Amos 2 Commando
Sergeant
5343009
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Private Richard Amos (1 Troop) was one of the Commando contingent embarked on Motor Launch ML 446 during Operation Chariot at St Nazaire.
Evacuated back to the UK he remained with No.2 Commando and by the end of the war held the rank of Sergeant. Wounded 1944.

ANDERTON, Harold

Guardsman
2620580
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards

Guardsman Harold Anderton, 1 Troop, was wounded 28 March 1942 during Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, and evacuated back to the UK. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 446. Post war member of the Commando Association.

ASHCROFT, Arthur

Arthur Ashcroft 2 Commando
Arthur Ashcroft 2 Commando
Private
2929623
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish, Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders
Private Arthur Ashcroft, 5 Troop, was one of the Commando contingent embarked on HMS Campbeltown for Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire 28 March 1942. He was assigned to Assault Party 3D under the command of Captain Donald Roy.

ASPDEN, Jack

Jack Aspden 9 Commando
Lance Bombardier (later Major)
318595 and 370978
No 9 Commando
Royal Artillery
Loyal Regiment
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Lance Bombardier Jack Aspden, aged 21 and from Preston, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war [1][2][2a][5].

AUKETT, Norman John

Norman Aukett 2 Commando
Corporal
2616306
No 2 Commando
Grenadier Guards
Norman Aukett, a former lorry driver from North Kensington, served in 2 Troop. Post war Norman and his wife Sheila resided in South Australia. Norman was an active member of the Commando Association returning for several reunions.

BARLING, Gilbert Michael

Captain Mike Barling RAMC and 2 Commando
Captain
99317
No 2 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Captain Gilbert Michael Barling M.B., R.A.M.C. was attached to No.2 Commando HQ on 2 August 1941.  In March 1942 he embarked on board motor launch ML 341 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire but en route transferred to ML 446.

BARRON, Robert James

Robert Barron 2 Commando and SOE
Robbie Barron 2 Commando and SOE
Sergeant (later Major)
2877629 & 253487
No 2 Commando
London Scottish The Gordon Highlanders
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Mentioned in Despatches
Sergeant Robert Barron, 1 troop, was one of the Commando contingent who participated in the St. Nazaire raid on ML 446. Evacuated back to the UK [1]. 
 
General Service [3].

BASSETT-WILSON, Paul Francis

Paul Bassett-Wilson MC
Captain
165718
No 9 Commando
No 12 Commando
Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Paul Bassett-Wilson MC died during operations with No.9 Commando at Lake Comacchio, Italy [1].
A former pupil of Stowe School and student at Trinity College [2], he had earlier served as a Lieutenant in No.12 Commando. 

BEARDSELL, John Clifford

John Clifford Beardsell
Rifleman (later Sergeant)
6912677
No 2 Commando
Rifle Brigade
Mentioned in Despatches
Rifleman John Beardsell, 3 Troop, embarked on board HMS Campbeltown for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. During the raid he was wounded by enemy fire whilst still on board. He was transferred to a motor launch and evacuated back to the UK [1][2][3].

BELL, William White

Acting Lance Corporal
6461342
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
William White Bell, a Civil Servant from Paisley, enlisted into the Armed Forces on 12 April 1939, later volunteering for the commandos. Lance Corporal Bell, No.2 Commando 6 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 during Operation Chariot at St.

BELLRINGER, Roy

Lance Sergeant
5342397
No 2 Commando
Commando Basic Training Centre
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Lance Sergeant Roy Bellringer served with 1 troop and took part in the raid at St Nazaire.  He was on board ML 446 and was evacuated back to the UK. In July 1942 he was part of the No 2 Commando Boxing Team.

BEVERIDGE, Robert

Sergeant
4534228
No 5 Commando
West Yorkshire Regiment (Prince of Wales's Own)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Robert Beveridge, from Leeds, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He was one of the commando contingent who had embarked for the raid on HMS Campbeltown.

BIRNEY, David Leslie

David Birney 2 Commando
Captain
75991
No 2 Commando
Rifle Brigade
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain David Birney, Officer Commanding 2 troop, died of wounds after Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire which took place on 28 March 1942*. He was commanding an assault group that had embarked on Motor Launch ML 447. 

BISHOP, Ivor, W.

Ivor Bishop 2 Commando
RSM Ivor Bishop 2 Commando
Regimental Sergeant Major
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Lance Corporal Ivor Bishop, 1 Troop,  was one of the Commando contingent who embarked on Motor Launch ML 446 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942.

BISHOP, Ronald Caldwell

Private
5627758
No 1 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Ronald Caldwell Bishop from Forest Hill, London, enlisted in June 1940. After volunteering for special service he was attached to No.1 Commando. Private Bishop was wounded 28 March 1942 and reported missing after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later confirmed a prisoner of war.

BLOUNT, Arthur Harvey

Corporal
3972221
No 12 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Arthur Blount was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. Arthur was part of a demolition team who embarked for the raid on HMS Campbeltown. Son of Charles George Blount, and of Annie Blount, of Morden, Surrey.

BLYTHE, William

Bill Blythe 2 Commando
Lance Corporal
2930644
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Lance Corporal William Blythe, 5 Troop, was one of the commando contingent embarked on Motor Launch ML 177 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire 28 March 1942.
Reported missing after the raid, later found to be a prisoner of war.

BONVIN, John Alexander

Birth name: 
BONVIN, Jean Alexandre
Lieutenant
109543
No 6 Commando
The Loyal Regiment (North Lancashire)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant John Bonvin was killed in action 26 February 1943 in the opening hours of the Battle for Steamroller Farm at El Arousa, Tunisia. 
  • 17 December 1939, Artist Rifles Cadet 163rd OCTU, commissioned Second Lieutenant, Loyal Regiment.

BORGMAN, Robert Bernard John

Lance Corporal
7911119
No 4 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Robert Borgman was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268 and has no known grave.

BOYCE, John Douglas

Private
5952406
No 3 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Boyce was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later presumed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on ML 262.
Son of William and Elizabeth Ann Boyce, of Tonypandy, Glamorgan.
 
Sources

BRADLEY, Richard

LSgt Richard Bradley MM 2 Commando
Lance Sergeant
5344190
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Sergeant Richard Bradley, 1 troop,  was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished services in the field relating to his successful escape in October 1943 after being wounded and captured during the raid at St Nazaire in March 1942.

BRETT, Gerrard

Lieutenant (later Captain)
126498
No 12 Commando
Royal Ulster Rifles
Military Cross (MC)
Lieutenant Brett was awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during Operation Chariot at St Nazaire 27/28 March 1942. Wounded on board HMS Campbeltown and later prisoner of war [1][1a][2][2a][4a].

BRIGHT, Gerald Kitchener

Lance Sergeant
4974182
No 5 Commando
Royal Tank Corps / Royal Armoured Corps
Gerald Kitchener Bright enlisted into the Army on 9 January 1935 former trade Carpentry. He served in India with the Royal Tank Corps, 9th Light Tank Company. After the formation of the Commandos in 1940 he volunteered for Special Service and joined No.5 Commando.

BROWN, James

Private
2988948
No 5 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Military Medal (MM)
Private James Brown was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished services in the field relating to his successful escape in October 1943 after being captured during Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942. 

BROWN, Louis Walter

Louis Walter (Ben) Brown 2 Commando
Sergeant
2929147
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Sergeant Louis Walter 'Ben' Brown, aged 24 and from Liverpool, served in 5 Troop and took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire on 28 March 1942.

BRUCE, James

Sergeant
5989540
No 2 Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
Sergeant James Bruce, 1 Troop, took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. Embarked on board motor launch ML446 he was wounded during the raid and evacuated back to the UK.
 
Sources

BRYAN, Edward Joseph

Bryan 2 Commando
Lance Corporal
3775300
No 2 Commando
King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Edward Bryan, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He has no known grave.
Son of Adam and Mary Bryan; husband of D. M. Bryan.

BURGESS, Leslie

Lance Corporal
1877628
No 9 Commando
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Leslie Burgess was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He had embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 268 and has no known grave.

BURN, Michael Clive

Capt. Burn MC 2 Commando
Captain
74087
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
Military Cross (MC)
Captain Michael Burn, 6 troop, was awarded the Military Cross  for gallant and distinguished service during Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942. He was in charge of the commando contingent on board motor launch ML 192.

BURNS, Ronald Edward David

Ronald Edward D. Burns 2 Commando
Rifleman
6895664
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps (11th Bn)
(1st Bn. Queen's Westminsters)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Rifleman Ronald Burns, 6 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on ML 268. Son of Edward and Alice Janet Burns, of Brockley, London.
 

BURTINSHAW, Robert James Glover

Lieutenant
89395
No 5 Commando
Cheshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Robert Burtinshaw was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. Mentioned in Despatches (posthumous) for gallant and distinguished service.

BUSHE, Patrick

Paddy Bushe 2 Commando
Rifleman
7014446
No 2 Commando
Royal Ulster Rifles
Patrick Bushe from Co. Tipperary, enlisted 12 November 1938, formerly employed as a Labourer. Rifleman Bushe, 6 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. Embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 177.

BUTLER, Eric Henry Dunn

Eric Butler 3 Commando
Lance Sergeant (later Flight Lieutenant)
5048390 and 292938
503358 (RAF)
No 3 Commando
North Staffordshire Regiment
South Staffordshire Regiment
Royal Air Force Regiment
Lance Sergeant Eric Butler, No.3 Commando, took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942. Embarking on ML307, he was wounded and evacuated back to the UK [1][5].

BUTLER, Ronald Herbert

Ronald Butler 2 Commando
Lance Sergeant
5774300
No 1 Commando
Royal Norfolk Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Lance Sergeant Ronald Butler was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services during Operation Chariot, the raid on St. Nazaire. He was one of the Commando contingent on board HMS Campbeltown and was a prisoner of war after the raid.

CALLAWAY, Thomas, Frederick

Thomas Callaway12 Commando
Corporal
5499065
No 12 Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Thomas Frederick Calaway from Southampton enlisted into the Armed Forces in October 1937. He volunteered for the Commandos during the war and joined No.12 Commando. Corporal Callaway was one of the commando contingent who embarked on HMS Campbeltown for Operation Chariot, the raid at St.

CARR, Francis Arthur

Sergeant
1867740
No 5 Commando
Royal Engineers
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Sergeant Francis Arthur Carr from New Cross, London, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his gallantry during Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire.

CARROLL, John Joseph

Fusilier
6469540
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Fusilier John Carroll, 3 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked on ML 177.
 
Sources

CHANT, Douglas

Private Douglas Chant 2 Commando
Douglas Chant 2 Cdo Boxing team
Private
5110274
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Private Douglas Chant, 2 Troop, was one of the commando contingent embarked on Motor Launch ML 307 for Operations Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire 28 March 1942. Evacuated back to the UK after the raid [1][1a].

CHANT, Stuart Whitemore

Stuart Chant 5 Commando
Lieutenant (later Honorary Lieutenant Colonel)
105159
No 5 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Military Cross (MC)
Private (Cadet) Chant, Artists Rifles TA, granted an emergency commission 22 October 1939 rank Second Lieutenant having attended 163rd O.C.T.U. [1]. 
  • October 1940 volunteered for the Army Commandos; attached to No.5 Commando [2].

CHAPPELL, Ernest Lionel Desmond

Des Chappell 1 Commando
Lance Sergeant
4198350
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers

Lance Sergeant Ernest Chappell, known as Des, was one of the commando contingent who embarked on Motor Launch ML 306 for Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire 28 March 1942. Wounded and taken prisoner he was subsequently transported to Stalag 383 at Hohenfels Germany.

CHEETHAM, John Frederick

Jack Cheetham 2 Commando
Corporal
2930999
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Corporal John 'Jack' Cheetham, 5 Troop, was reported wounded and a prisoner of war on 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire. He had embarked on HMS Campbeltown. Post war resided Halewood, Merseyside.

CHETWYND, Samuel Ernest

Corporal
4977274
No 12 Commando
Sherwood Forresters (Notts and Derby Regiment)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Samuel Chetwynd was reported missing 28 March 1942 after operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later confirmed killed in action. He embarked for the raid on motor launch ML 457 as part of Captain Pritchard's Demolition Control Party and has no known grave. Son of Mr. and Mrs.

CHURCHER, George

George Churcher 3 Commando
Lance Sergeant
6897997
No 3 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
Lance Sergeant George Churcher, 5 Troop, was reported missing on 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to have been wounded and a prisoner of war.

CLIBBORN, William Cuthbert

Lieutenant William Clibborn 2 Commando
Lieutenant
90842
No 2 Commando
No 3 Independent Company
Essex Regiment
Lieutenant William Clibborn, 2 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later found to have been wounded and become a prisoner of war. He embarked on ML 447 for the raid.
 
Sources

COAKER, Vernon

Vernon Coaker 3 Commando
Sergeant (Temporary Troop Sergeant Major)
5620234
No 3 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Troop Sergeant Major Vernon Coaker, 3 troop, died during operations at Le Plein, Normandy, France. Son of Edwin and Doris Coaker, of Cheldon, Devon. [1][2][3][4]. 
Extract from No.3 Commando War Diary Appendix 'A' No.2

COBELLI, Dominic

Dominic Cobelli 2 Commando
Lance Corporal
5340537
No 2 Commando
Royal Berkshire Regiment
Lance Corporal Dominic Cobelli, 1 Troop, took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. He embarked on board motor launch ML446 and was evacuated back to the UK after the raid.
 
Sources
St Nazaire Society website.

COCKIN, Robert

Lance Corporal Robert Cockin 2 Commando
Robert Cockin 2 Commando
Lance Corporal
3654681
No 2 Commando
South Lancashire Regiment
Lance Corporal Robert Cockin, 4 Troop, aged 22 and from Stockton, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later found to have been wounded and taken prisoner of war. He embarked on Motor Launch ML 267 which was hit by enemy fire and sank.

COPLAND, William Oranmore

William Copland 2 Commando
Major
50169
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
South Lancashire Regiment
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Territorial Decoration (TD)
Major William Copland was second in command of No 2 Commando. He had previously served with No 4 Independent Company. Major Copland was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war.

COUGHLAN, John

John Coughlan 2 Commando
Lance Corporal
3781807
No 2 Commando
King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal John Coughlan, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He has no known grave.

COULSON, Garnett

Sapper
1881715
No 4 Commando
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sapper Garnett Coulson was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He embarked for the raid on ML 268 and has no known grave. Son of Garnett and Faith Coulson, of Romford, Essex.
Service

COX, Hugh Wilfred

Private Hugh Cox 2 Commando
Private
2931801
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Liverpool Scottish QOCH
Private Hugh Cox, 5 Troop, was one of the commando contingent on board HMS Campbeltown during Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazai

CRIPPIN, Ronald

RQMS Ron Crippin 2 Commando
Warrant Officer 2
S/136147
No 2 Commando
No 2 Independent Company
Royal Army Service Corps
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Ron Crippin, then a Corporal in the HQ troop, took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire.

CUDBY, John

Fus. John Cudby No.2 Commando 6 Troop
Fusilier
6468006
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers

Fusilier John Cudby, 6 Troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had embarked on ML177 for the raid. Post war member of the Commando Association from Workington.

CUNNINGHAM, Henry Peter

Henry Cunningham 2 Commando
Private
3781746
No 2 Commando
King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Henry Cunningham, 4 troop, was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St Nazaire, later presumed killed in action at sea. He embarked for the raid on ML 267 and has no known grave. Son of John and Margaret Cunningham, of Old Swan, Liverpool.

DAWSON, John William

John Dawson 2 Commando
Lance Sergeant
6465567
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Lance Corporal John Dawson, 6 Troop, took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. Embarked on motor launch ML156 he was evacuated back to the UK after the raid.
  • 29 July 1944 (Lance Sergeant) (No.2 Commando)  wounded during Operation Healing 2 at Spilje Albania.

DAY, Stanley Ambrose

Capt Stanley Day MC 2 Commando
Captain
70873
No 2 Commando
No 4 Independent Company
Royal Corps of Signals
Military Cross (MC)
Captain Stanley Day, adjutant of No 2 Commando, was awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished services during Operation Chariot, the raid on St. Nazaire. Embarked with Lt. Col. Newman's HQ party on MGB 314. Prisoner of war after the raid.

DAY, William, C.

Lance Corporal
1875966
No 3 Commando
Royal Engineers
Lance Corporal William Day was reported missing 28 March 1942, later found to be a prisoner of war, after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire. Embarked for the raid on motor launch ML262.
 
Sources

DE JONGHE, Arthur Jules Charles Baudoin

Arthur de Jonghe 10 Commando
Arthur de Jonghe
Captain (later Major)
229494
1 Special Service (Commando) Brigade
No 10 Commando
General List
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Bronze Star Medal (USA)
Temporary Captain Vicomte Arthur de Jonghe, a French speaking Belgian national, took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire on 28 March 1942. He was a Liaison Officer embarked on board motor launch ML446 and was evacuated back to the UK after the operation [1]. 

DE LA TORRE, Luis Eric Rupert

Luis Eric de la Torre 3 Commando
Lance Corporal
7611796
No 3 Commando
Royal Army Ordnance Corps
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Lance Corporal Eric de la Torre took part in Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. Embarked on motor launch ML262, taken prisoner after the raid, and transported to Stalag 344 at Lamsdorf, Poland [1][2].

DEANS, James

Corporal
2079518
No 9 Commando
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal James Deans was reported missing 28 March 1942 after Operation Chariot at St. Nazaire, confirmed 14 months later as killed in action on that date. He embarked for the raid on ML 457 and was the husband of Mrs A. Deans, 4 Albert Street, Paisley.

DEERY, Stewart

Sergeant
6977293
No 12 Commando
Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers
Military Medal (MM)
Sergeant Stewart Deery, No.12 Commando, from County Tyrone, was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished service during Operation Chariot at St Nazaire.

Pages

'Operation Chariot' - Battle Summary 12

A booklet published in 1948 by the Tactical and Staff Duties Division (Historical Section), Naval Staff, Admiralty, SW1, covering aspects of the British Combined Operations raid at St Nazaire in March 1942 involving the Royal Navy and British Army Commandos.

Follow the link below to this (Battle Summary 12) and other Battle Summaries on the Royal Australian Navy website - World War 2 Naval Staff Histories Section

https://www.navy.gov.au/media-room/publications/wwii-naval-staff-histories

Linked Content: 
'St. Nazaire - Operation Chariot'

2 Commando, Operation Chariot Op Order 1

Type: Files
Author: Lt Col Augustus Charles Newman OC No 2 Commando, 22nd March 1942
Year of Publishing: 2015
Keywords: St Nazaire, Operation Chariot
Download
Units: 
2 Commando

LG report on Operation Chariot

The following link takes you to reports about the raid at St. Nazaire published in London Gazettes on Thursday 2nd October 1947.

https://www.thegazette.co.uk/London/issue/38086/

Title: Supplement to the London Gazette of Tuesday, the 3Oth of September, 1947.

Operation Chariot Joint Funeral image

Operation Chariot, St Nazaire, Joint Funeral

German naval officer shakes the hand of Lt Hopwood, 5 troop No.2 Commando, at the funeral for the dead of both sides which took place at Escoublac on Wednesday 1st April 1942. In the back row 3rd from the right is Lt Corran Purdon, No.12 Commando, who was later awarded the Military Cross. Photo courtesy of and © Bundesarchiv, Bild 101II-MW-3729-34/Foto: Kramer

Linked content: 
HOPWOOD, Howell Gaston Lloyd

Operation Chariot, St Nazaire Reunion image

Operation Chariot, St Nazaire reunion

Photo from the collection of Bill Lawson No 2 Cdo 1 troop and ML 457 on the raid, provided courtesy of Bill's Family. See more in the [Gallery....].

1st table
(side nearest to the camera from the left):
1. Les Wheelan (2Cdo 5tp); 2. nk; 3. ? Bill Hughes or Frank Sumner (2Cdo 5tp); 4. Pete Honey MM (2Cdo 5tp); 5. Harold 'aggs' Roberts (2Cdo 5tp); 6. nk; 7. Dick Wilcock (2Cdo 5tp);
 
1st table
(far side beginning with a RN chap):
1. nk RN; 2. nk; 3. Fred Holt (2Cdo 5tp);
 
2nd table back:
(side nearest to the camera from the left):
1. Bill Lawson (2 Cdo 1 tp);
 
Also in the photo are Lt Col Newman VC; Cmdr. Robert Ryder VC; Ron Chung (12 Cdo); Lt John Roderick MC(2Cdo); Capt. Dickie Hooper MC (2Cdo); 2/Lt. Bill 'tiger' Watson MC (2Cdo); Richard Bradley MM (2Cdo 1tp); Frank Goode (2Cdo 3tp).