9 Commando

History of the Unit

No. 9 Commando was initially formed with No.11 Commando in July 1940 from Scottish Command. Their first commanding officer was Lt. Col. John Maclean 'Jack' Saegert, RE. Many original members of No.9 came from No’s 6 and 7 independent Companies which had been raised in April 1940. No.9 became part of the 2nd Special Service Battalion in the autumn of 1940.
The unit did not wear a cap badge as such but while serving in the 2nd Special Service Battalion they wore a black hackle in a khaki Balmoral hat. When the Special Service Battalions were re-organized in March 1941, the unit reverted to its 9 Commando title. Their H.Q. at this time was at Criccieth, North Wales. They retained the Balmoral and black hackle which was transferred to the green beret when the latter was adopted in 1942.
Operation Sunstar. The first operational raid by the Commando was on the nights of 22nd/23rd November 1941 on the French coast at Houlgate. A successful landing and evacuation was affected without loss. After this raid Lt Col R Tod assumed command of the unit. 
Operation Chariot. In March 1942 a small contingent of Commandos from No.9 took part in the famous St.Nazaire raid in support of No 2 Commando.
No.9 Commando were then called on to reinforce the garrison in Gibraltar during the lead up to the Torch landings in North Africa .The unit remained in Gibraltar until March 1943 after which it returned to the UK for refitting. After being posted to the Mediterranean and arriving there in November 1943 No 9 were in action again on the islands of Tremiti and Pianosa.
Operation Partridge. December 1943 in the river Garigliano area. 
On 20 January 1944 No.9 Commando landed at Anzio and then was promptly withdrawn on the 25th to be deployed to the area of Monte Ornito. The Commando suffered heavy losses during the bitter fighting at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito. 
2nd Anzio Landing - 3 March 1944 No.9 Commando were once again deployed to Anzio and it was here that Major Callf led 5 troop, now only half strength due to casualties at Monte Ornito, in a successful bayonet charge against a much larger force of German paratroopers.
Operation X - Anzio beachhead 19 March 1944 No.9 were tasked with clearing three Wadis about half a mile from the perimeter of the beachhead.
With his Commando strength severely depleted Lt Col. Tod reformed the Troops into three Squadrons. Fighting was brutal and often at close quarter. No.9 Commando had 73 casualties killed, wounded , or missing
After this No.9 Commando was withdrawn to Naples, and then onto Molfetta. The next few months were spent rebuilding the Commando from replacements sent from the UK already Commando trained, and when there no more available, from volunteers from Regiments operating in North Africa and the Central Mediterranean . These then had to undergo their training from the Commando training group that had been formed in Italy.
Other operations by No 9 included 'Operation Darlington 11’ May 1944, and Operation ‘Gradient’  August 1944. This latter operation featured men on bicycles attacking a garrison. The garrison did not exist so a local telephone exchange was ransacked instead !

Later No 9 Commando operated in Greece before returning to Italy for its last engagement at Commachio and Argenta in April 1945.
Once the the war ended a decision was made to disband all Army Commando units.


View:  Photos and history of the Marble Memorial at Mt. Ornito

View: Gallery images of No 9 Commando

Click/touch No 9 Commando below for additional content, or follow the links below it to specific content entries.

9 Commando Roll of Honour

Pte. J. ANDERSON
Pte. D.S. BALFOUR
Pte. J. BANKS
Pte. J. BANNON
Pte. J.G. BLACKIE
Pte. C.G. BROWN
Pte. J. BROWN
Pte. R.F. DICKIE
Pte. W.G. EDMONDS
Pte. H. FARMER
Pte. J. GELLATLY
Pte. J.F. GRIEVE
Pte. E.A. HUNT
Pte. R. JOHNSTONE
Pte. J.L. KEIL
Below is an A-Z view of the Roll of Honour with information about each of the Fallen. Displaying 1 - 102 of 102

ANDERSON, John

Private John Anderson 9 Commando
Private
3716829
No 9 Commando
Kings Own Royal Regiment (Lancaster)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Anderson was reported missing 3 February 1944, later presumed killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. 
 
Sources
CWGC.

BALFOUR, David Stewart

Private
2936087
No 9 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private David Balfour was killed in action during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of Andrew and Anne Balfour, of Amulree, Perthshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.

BALLS, David Gavin

Capt DG Balls 9 Commando
Captain
90724
No 9 Commando
Highland Light Infantry (City of Glasgow Regiment)
Killed in action or died of wounds

Captain David Balls was killed in action during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead. He has no known grave.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/6.
 

BANBURY, Frederick

Corporal
5678008
No 9 Commando
Queens Own Royal West Kent
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Frederick Banbury, 5 Troop, was killed in action during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy.
In 1939 Frederick was single and employed as a Shop Assistant, Men's Outfitters.

BANKS, John

Private
2884786
No 9 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Banks was killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of Thomas and Marda Banks, of Cambuslang, Lanarkshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.

BANNON, James

Private
2758223
No 9 Commando
Black Watch
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private James Bannon died during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of Patrick and Catherine Bannon, of Glasgow.
 
Sources
CWGC.

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. 

BEARDMORE, Thomas

RSM Tom Beardmore No 9 Commando
RSM Tom Beardmore No 9 Commando
WO1 Regimental Sergeant Major
5048331
No 9 Commando
North Staffordshire Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Regimental Sergeant Major Tom Beardsmore was killed in action during operations at Mount Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of Mr. and Mrs. George Beardmore; husband of W. E. Beardmore, of Woodhead, Cheadle, Staffordshire [1][2].

BILSBOROUGH, Walter

Lance Sergeant
327597
No 9 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Walter Bilsborough died of wounds received during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. Son of Charles and Maggie Bilsborough, of Preston, Lancashire. His name is on a Marble Roll of Honour located on Monte Ornito.
 
Sources
CWGC.

BISSET, George Davidson

Lt Bisset 9 Commando
Lieutenant
94549
No 9 Commando
Royal Engineers
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant George Bisset died of wounds whilst a Prisoner of War in German hands during operations in Italy. [1][2]. He received a posthumous Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the field [3].

BLACKHURST, John

Rifleman
6920686
No 9 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Rifleman John Blackhurst died of wounds during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead. He received a postumous Mention In Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Italy.
 
Sources

BLACKIE, James Gordon

Private
2880769
No 9 Commando
Gordon Highlanders 2nd Bn (London Scottish)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private James Blackie was reported missing on 3 February 1944, later presumed killed in action, during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave.
Son of James Gordon Blackie and Jessie Gordon Blackie.
 
Sources
CWGC.

BROWN, John

Private
4350290
No 9 Commando
The East Yorkshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private John Brown died during operations in the region of Lake Comacchio and Argenta, Italy.

BROWN, Reid

Lance Corporal
7044540
No 9 Commando
Royal Irish Fusiliers 1st Bn
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Reid Brown was killed in action during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy. He has no known grave. The previous month on 3 February 1944 he had been wounded remaining on duty with his Commando.

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.

BURT, William Charles

Lance Bombardier
2050861
No 9 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Bombardier William Burt died on 17 March 1944 in Italy from wounds inflicted on 30 December 1943. This date coincides with Operation Partridge. 
 
Sources
CWGC.

CAMPBELL, Kenneth Norman

Captain
75551
No 9 Commando
Highland Light Infantry (City of Glasgow Regiment) 5th Bn.
Died on war service
Died in the UK

Captain Kenneth Campbell, 4 troop,  died on the 9th September 1941 of injuries received in a m/c accident that occurred on the night of 5th September. A court of inquiry was held on the 11th September and his funeral took place on the 12th September 1941.

CHAMBERS, Alexander

Rifleman
3250016
No 9 Commando
Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Rifleman Alexander Chambers was reported missing 3 February 1944, later presumed killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. His name is on a marble roll of honour located on Monte Ornito.
 

CHANCELLOR, Wilfred Douglas

Lance Bombardier
2049911
No 9 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Bombardier Wilfred Chancellor was killed in action during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of William and Nellie Chancellor, of Balsall Heath, Birmingham.

CLARK, Francis William

Major
50979
No 9 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders 2nd Bn
Killed in action or died of wounds
Major Francis Clark was reported wounded and missing 3 February 1944, later presumed died of wounds during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave.

COLES, William James

Corporal
3910782
No 9 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Killed in action or died of wounds

Corporal William Coles was killed in action during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead. He has no known grave.

COUPE, Leonard

Lance Sergeant
894763
No 9 Commando
Royal Artillery
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Leonard Coupe died during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead. He received a posthumous Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Italy. Son of William and Martha Coupe; husband of A.

CRAIG, Albert John

WO2 Company Sergeant Major
2873976
No 9 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds

Company Sergeant Major Albert Craig died in Italy. His Commando were engaged in an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy. Son of John Craig, and of Helen Craig, of Huntly, Aberdeenshire.

CRAWFORD, Robert Allan

Lance Corporal
2934211
No 9 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Corporal Robert Crawford was killed in action during operations in Italy. The date of his death coincides with Operation Partridge.

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.

DICKIE, Robert Finn

Pte. RF Dickie 9 Commando
Private
2988081
No 9 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Robert Dickie died during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead. He has no known grave. Son of John Dickie, and of Margaret Finn Dickie, of Milton, Dunbartonshire; husband of Mary Suter Dickie.
 
Sources

DIMALOW, Philip Keith

Lieutenant
180304
No 9 Commando
Durham Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Philip Diimalow was reported missing, later presumed killed in action, during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of James Francis Dimalow and of Marjorie Dimalow (nee Fleming).

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.

DUNDAS, Duncan

Sergeant
2754382
No 9 Commando
Black Watch
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Sergeant Duncan Dundas was killed in action during operations in Italy. He has no known grave. Son of James and Isabella Dundas; husband of Sheila Henrietta Dundas, of Kirkcudbright. The date of his death coincides with Operation Partridge. 

EDEN, George William Joseph

Rifleman
6850527
No 9 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Rifleman George Eden, 5 Troop, was killed in action during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of James Thomas Eden and Mary Ann Eden, of Shoreditch, London.

EDMONDS, William George

Private
6348327
No 9 Commando
Queens Own Royal West Kent
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private William Edmonds was reported wounded and missing, later confirmed killed in action between the 3rd and 6th February, during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. His name is also on a Marble Roll of Honour located on Monte Ornito.
 

FARMER, Henry

Henry Farmer 9 Commando
Private
4350517
No 9 Commando
East Yorkshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Henry Farmer from Hull was reported missing later presumed killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of James Farmer, and of C.M. Farmer, of Hull. His name is on a Marble Roll of Honour located on Monte Ornito.

FORBES, Robert

Lance Bombardier
902786
No 9 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Bombardier Robert Forbes was reported missing later presumed killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. Son of Andrew Brodie Forbes and Margaret Forbes, of Edinburgh. He is named on a Marble Roll of Honour located on Monte Ornito.

GARDNER, James

James Gardner 9 Commando
Original grave of LCpl Jim Gardner 9 Commando
Lance Corporal
3535628
No 9 Commando
Manchester Regiment, 9th Bn.
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal James Gardner was killed in action during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy. Son of Fred and Jane Gardner.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/91.

GELLATLY, John

Pte. J. Gellatly 9 Commando
Private
3318356
No 9 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Gellatly was killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. His name is on a Marble Roll of Honour on Monte Ornito. Eldest son of John and Margaret Gellatly, of Concraigie, Perthshire.
 

GIBSON, James Lang

Captain
210963
No 9 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds

Captain James Gibson died of injuries received in a mine explosion at Anzio on the 24th June.

Sources
CWGC
No 9 Cdo War Diary, National Archives WO218/69.
Casualty List 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/6.

GREENSHIELDS, Thomas Cameron

Lieutenant
90992
No 9 Commando
Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Thomas Greenshields was killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. Son of George Johnson Greenshields, and of Eva Greenshields, of Glasgow. M.A., LL.B. Posthumous Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service.

GRIEVE, John Fletcher

Private
2933802
No 9 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Died on war service
Died in the UK

Private John Grieve was accidently killed by a mine on Portland Range whilst training. A Court of Inquiry was held on the 20th May and reconvened on the 29th May 1943. Pte Grieve had apparently previously served in No 6 Commando.

HOLMES, Leslie Thomas

Corporal
6897410
No 9 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds

Corporal Leslie Holmes was reported missing 19 March 1944 later presumed killed in action during operations in Italy. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead.

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

JOHNSTONE, Robert

Private
3189032
No 9 Commando
Kings Own Scottish Borderers 2nd Bn
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Robert Johnstone was reported missing 3 February 1944 at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy, later presumed killed in action. He has no known grave. His name is on a Marble Roll of Honour on Monte Ornito. Foster-son of Mrs. E.A. Kean of Castle Douglas in Kirkcudbrightshire.

KEIL, John Leslie

Private
2939369
No 9 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Keil was killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. Son of John and Elsie Keil, of Elgin, Morayshire; husband of Maureen Keil. His name is on a Marble Roll of Honour located on Monte Ornito.
 
Sources

KENNOWAY, George Cray

Private
2939370
No 9 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders 2nd Bn
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private George Cray Kennoway was reported missing, later presumed killed in action, during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. His name is on a Marble Roll of Honour located on Monte Ornito.
 
Sources

KINGSBURY, Harold Sidney

Sergeant
3186138
No 9 Commando
Border Regiment
Military Medal (MM)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant Harold Kingsbury MM was reported wounded and missing on 19 March 1944 during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, later presumed killed in action. He has no known grave. Son of Thomas Francis and Jane Kingsbury.

KITHER, Harry Thomas

Lt Kither 9 Commando
Captain
96760
No 9 Commando
Royal Artillery
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Harry Kither MC, from Longcot Shrivenham near Swindon, died during operations at Lake Comacchio and the Argenta Gap. He had been awarded the Military Cross "in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy."
 
Sources

LANE, Peter John

Peter Lane 9 Commando
Fusilier
864477
No 9 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Peter Lane was reported missing, later presumed killed in action, during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Ernest Lane; husband of Jane Lane, of North Kensington, London.

LODY, Anthony

Lance Corporal
T/10699839
No 9 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Corporal Anthony Lody died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.

MACINNES, Neil

WO1 Regimental Sergeant Major
2974803
No 9 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Died in service
Died in the UK
Neil Macinnes was the Regimental Sergeant Major of No 9 Commando at the time of his death. The No 9 Commando War Diary for January 10th 1942 records the following "2974803, R.S.M. McINNES N, died of self inflicted gunshot wound."
 
Sources

MACKENZIE, Ian Robert

Corporal
2933784
No 9 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Ian MacKenzie was killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. Son of Colin and Nellie MacKenzie; husband of Jessie Steele MacKenzie, of Forres, Morayshire. His name is on a Marble Roll of Honour located on Monte Ornito.
 

MATTHEWS, Leslie James

Pte LJ Matthews 9 Commando
Private
3391673
No 9 Commando
Border Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Leslie Matthews from Blackpool was reported missing presumed killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. His name is on a marble roll of honour on Monte Ornito.

MCGOWAN, Ronald Anthony

Private
14543790
No 9 Commando
King's Own Scottish Borderers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Ronald Anthony McGowan was reported missing later confirmed killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. Grandson of Patrick and Cathrine McGowan, of Craigneuk, Wishaw, Lanarkshire.

McKINNON, Alexander Edward Cunningham

Lance Sergeant
3132746
No 9 Commando
Royal Scots Fusiliers 2nd Bn
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Alexander McKinnon was killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. Son of John and Frances McKinnon; husband of Florence Janes McKinnon, of Kilmarnock, Ayrshire. His name is on a Marble Roll of Honour on Monte Ornito.
 

MESMER, Roy Alfred

Private
5783885
No 9 Commando
Royal Norfolk Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Roy Mesmer was killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. Son of William E. and Kate Mesmer, of Norwich. His name is on a marble roll of honour located on Monte Ornito.
 
Sources
CWGC.

MOIR, Bertram Wigton

Fusilier
3127401
No 9 Commando
Royal Scots Fusiliers
Killed in action or died of wounds

Fusilier Bertram Moir was reported wounded and missing 19 March 1944 during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy, later presumed killed in action. He has no known grave. Son of Bertram Wigton Moir and Mary Moir; husband of Ellen Moir, of Edinburgh.

MONK, Barrie Richard

Private
6213656
No 9 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Barrie Monk was reported missing presumed killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. His name is on the Marble Roll of Honour on Monte Ornito. Son of Harold and Ann Monk.
 
Sources
CWGC.

MORRIS, Howell Charles

Howell Charles Morris 9 Commando
Grave of Lieutenant Morris 9 Commando
Lieutenant
222124
No 9 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Howell Morris died 2 April 1945 during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy. Commissioned 19 December 1941. Son of Lt.-Col. Charles E. Morris and P. A. Morris, of Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire. 
 
Sources
CWGC.

NEILSON, Gilbert Reid

Private
2992493
No 9 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Gilbert Neilson was killed in action during a raid behind enemy lines in the area of the Garigliano River, Italy (Operation Partridge). He has no known grave. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Neilson, of Bearsden, Dunbartonshire.

NEWSON, John Arthur

Private
6349065
No 9 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Newson died during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of James Albert and Emma Charlotte Newson, of Bermondsey, London.
 
Sources
CWGC.

PARKIN, Ivor George

Ivor George Parkin 9 Commando
Gunner
2057623
No 9 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Ivor Parkin died of wounds during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy. Son of Frederick George and Winifred Gaina Parkin, of Shirley, Southampton.
 
Sources
CWGC.
RA Casualty Card.

PRESTAGE, Robert William

Gunner
6017232
No 9 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Robert Prestage was killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. Son of Robert Augustus and Hilda Alice Prestage, of Walthamstow, Essex. His name is on a Marble Roll of Honour located on Monte Ornito.
 
Sources

PRINGLE, Charles Taylor

Lance Corporal
4914347
No 9 Commando
Worcestershire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Charles Pringle died during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of Walter and Eleanor Pringle.
 
Sources
CWGC.

QUIGLEY, Thomas

Private
4388422
No 9 Commando
Royal Army Medical Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Thomas Quigley died during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of John and Mary Ann Quigley.

RICHARDSON, John

Sergeant
3603243
No 9 Commando
Border Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Sergeant John Richardson died of wounds during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty List 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/73.

ROLFE, Julian Dudley

Private
14416231
No 9 Commando
Gordon Highlanders 6th Bn.
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Julian Rolfe died during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead. He has no known grave.  Mentioned in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service in Italy. Son of Hubert Dudley Rolfe and Ada Ethel Rolfe.

ROSS, Robert Sharp

Robert Ross 9 Commando
Private
2985617
No 9 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Robert Ross was killed in action during operations in Italy, and has no known grave. Son of William Brown Ross and Catherine Ross, of Camelon, Falkirk, Stirlingshire.
 
Sources
CWGC.

SCOTT, Michael

Lieutenant
117892
No 9 Commando
Black Watch
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Michael Scott died of wounds during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty List 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/6.

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.

SMITH, George Alfred

Constable George Alfred Smith
George Alfred Smith 9 Commando
Private
14241717
No 9 Commando
Black Watch
North Riding of Yorkshire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private George Smith was killed in action during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy, and has no known grave. Son of George Henry and Alice Smith; husband of Elsie Smith, of Middlesbrough, Yorkshire. 

STARLING, Horace Edwin

Lieutenant
180800
No 9 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Horace Starling died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.
 
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty List 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/8.
 

STOREY, Percy Ronald

Lance Corporal
6465386
No 9 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Percy Storey, 5 Troop, was killed in action during operations to clear the enemy from the Wadis in the beachhead area at Anzio. Son of John George and Sarah Jane Storey; husband of Agnes Johnstone Storey, of Rothesay, Isle of Bute. [1][2][3][5]

STUART, John

John Stuart 9 Commando
Private
2825409
No 9 Commando
Seaforth Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Stuart from Ballindalloch was reported missing during operations at Monte Ornito, Italy, later presumed killed in action. He has no known grave. His name is among others on a Marble Roll of Honour erected on Monte Ornito post war by veterans.

SUTTON, John Robert

Private
2181475
No 9 Commando
The King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Sutton died during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of Thomas John and Emma Sutton.
 
Sources
CWGC.

TAIT, John

Lance Corporal
4469403
No 9 Commando
Durham Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal John Tait was killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. Son of John and Isabella Tait, of Berwick-on-Tweed. His name is on a marble roll of honour located on Monte Ornito.
 
Sources

TANNER, John Andrew

Corporal
14241755
No 9 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
City of London Police
Killed in action or died of wounds

Corporal John Tanner was killed in action on 15 April 1945 during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy. The previous year on 20 March 1944 he was wounded (recovered) during operations in Italy. 

TATLER, John

Private
4925885
No 9 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John Tatler, 5 Troop, died of wounds during operations to clear the enemy from Wadis at Anzio, Italy. He was one of three No.9 Commandos from 5 Troop who died after their second landing at Anzio. Son of George Henry and Annie Tatler, of Stoke-on-Trent.
 

THOMSON, Donald

Private
2933811
No 9 Commando
No 6 Independent Company
Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Died on war service
Died in the UK
Private Donald Thomson died from a gunshot wound. Court of Enquiry returned a verdict of accidental death. Casualty List records his Unit as No.6 independent Company [see notes].
 
Sources
CWGC.

TUDOR, William John

Private
14241701
No 9 Commando
Kings Own Scottish Borderers
Cheshire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private William Tudor was killed in action during operations at the Anzio beachhead, Italy.
Son of John J. and Emma A. Tudor, of Clive, Shropshire [1][2][3].
Previously wounded 30 December 1943 (Operation Partridge), Italy [4].

TURNER, Henry

Gunner
1476334
No 9 Commando
Royal Artillery
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Henry Turner died during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. His name is on a Marble Roll of Honour on Monte Ornito.

URQUHART, Robert Rose

Pte Robert Urquhart 9 Commando
Private
2991922
No 9 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Robert Urquhart, 5 troop, died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy [1][3][4].
  • 3 March 1944 wounded during operations at Anzio [2][5] [see Linked Content below].
  • Evacuated as casualty to the UK [4][5]

VODDEN, John

Rfn. John Vodden 9 Commando
Rifleman
6969151
No 9 Commando
Rifle Brigade
Killed in action or died of wounds
Rifleman John Vodden was reported missing 3 February 1944 during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy, later confirmed killed in action. He has no known grave. Son of Arthur O. J. and Margaret Vodden, of Winton, Hampshire.

WADE, Leonard Alfred

Lance Sergeant
2881130
No 9 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Leonard Wade was killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of Mrs. M. Wade of Hullbridge, Essex. His name is amongst others on a Marble Roll of Honour on Monte Ornito itself.

WATKINSON, Thomas

Corporal
3911661
No 9 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Corporal Thomas Watkinson died during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. He has no known grave. Son of Henry and Margaret Watkinson, of Liverpool; husband of Winefred (Wyn) Watkinson, of Knotty Ash, Liverpool. His name is on a Marble Roll of Honour on Monte Ornito. 

WATSON, Alexander Grant

Alexander Watson 9 Commando
Private
3311891
No 9 Commando
Highland Light Infantry (City of Glasgow Regiment)
Died on war service
Died in the UK
Private Alexander Watson from Glasgow died in Dumfries Royal Infirmary as a result of a collision with a lorry whilst riding a pedal cycle on the Kirkcudbrig

WATTS, Albert

Dvr Albert Watts 9 Commando
Served as : 
POWER, Thomas
Driver
T/269038
No 9 Commando
Royal Army Service Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Driver Albert Watts, from Manchester, died during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy.
 

WHITE, Alan McKaig

Lance Corporal
2881012
No 9 Commando
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private Robert Sherwin was killed in action during operations in Italy. The date of his death coincides with Operation Partridge. He has no known grave. Son of Stanley Adison White and Mildred Eugenie Meta White, of Pinner, Middlesex.

WHITEFIELD, James

Lance Corporal
3249581
No 9 Commando
Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal James Whitefield was reported missing 3 February 1944, later confirmed killed in action during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. Son of John and Sarah Whitefield, of Biggar, Lanarkshire. His name is on a Marble Roll of Honour located on Monte Ornito.

WHITWORTH, William

Private
14409959
No 9 Commando
Welch Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private William Whitworth was killed in action during operations to clear the enemy from the Wadis in the beachhead area at Anzio. Son of Herbert and Eva Whitworth, of Chadderton, Lancashire.
 
Sources
CWGC

WILDGOOSE, William Eric

William Wildgoose 9 Commando
Private
4132967
No 9 Commando
Cheshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private William Wildgoose died during operations at Monte Ornito and Monte Faito, Italy. Son of Ernest and Mary Wildgoose, of Colyhurst, Manchester. His name is on a marble roll of honour located on Monte Ornito.

WILSON, George

Lance Sergeant
2983410
No 9 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds

Lance Sergeant George Wilson was killed in action during operations in Italy. The date of his death coincides with Operation Partridge.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/70.

WILSON, Reginald

Private
4922164
No 9 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
Died on active service

Private Reginald Wilson was accidentally killed during operations in Italy. 

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives file WO417/78.

WINFIELD, William

Corporal
6470649
No 9 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds

Corporal William Winfield died during an operation against German forces in the wadis near the Anzio beachhead.

WRIGHT, George Alexander

Corporal
3325200
No 9 Commando
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal George Wright died on 14 April of wounds received on 13 April during operations at Lake Comacchio, Italy. Son of Thomas and Annie Victoria Wright; husband of Holly Isobel Rutherford Wright, of Tweedmouth, Northumberland.
 
Sources
CWGC.

9 Commando Nominal Roll

In 1946 the Army Council decided that the Army Commandos were to be disbanded and no provision was allowed or made for any depository or office which would have at least contained a complete Roster of Names of the men who served in the various units. 

For historical & research purposes, we have tried to compile the names of all No.9 Commando volunteers which were obtained from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Lists of Casualties, the No 9 Commando War Diary, papers from the National Archives and further research by members of the CVA and various other resources. In preparing this list, we acknowledge that it is very likely there are omissions.

Note: Where a service number is shown on our nominal rolls and no source is shown in the end column, it should be treated as possible but not confirmed. Contact the Archive if you suspect an error.

No 9 Commando Nominal A - C

Commando Veterans Archive Nominal Roll for No.9 Commando.
© Commando Veterans Archive 2016. All Rights Reserved. No Reproduction Permitted.
 
Notes
Click on highlighted surnames for more information.
CA followed by a number = entry in a Commando Association newsletter.
LL followed by a number = entry in Commando Association Lost Legion List.
CasList = National Archives Army Casualty Lists.
WO = War Office file at the National Archives.
PG = CVA Photo Gallery.
 
SURNAME
FORENAME
RANK
NUMBER
AWARD
ADDITIONAL
Abbott
J
Gnr
 
 
& 5 and 12 Cdos (LL1)
Ackroyd
Thomas, Daniel
Gdsm
2656563
 
Coldstream Gds; wounded 1/2/44 Italy CasLists WO417/72
Adcock
G
Pte
 
 
Gordon Hldrs
Agnew
H
Pte
 
 
A&SH
Alanach
R
Pte
2825410
 
Seaforths; 25Nov41 CasList WO417/36
Victor, Arthur
CSgt
974087
MiD
RA
Aldred
Albert
LBdr
 
 
RA; (CA113)
Jack
LCpl
2880907
 
Gordon Hldrs (London Scottish);
wounded Italy x2 CasLists
Allan
Jock
Bdr
 
 
RA
Allaway
M
Pte
 
 
& 4 Cdo; lka Mitcham (LL1)
Allen
J
Pte
3313201
 
HLI
Michael, Rhys, Harvey
Capt
76441
MC
Black Watch
Allen
S
Gnr
 
 
lka Bletchley (LL1)
Allwright
Ian, Donald, Bruce
Cpl 
249687
 
R. Scots; LG35767 2nd Lt 3/10/42; later Major (CA50)
John
Pte
3716829
 
KORR; kia
Andrews
F
Pte
4124984
 
S Staffs Regt; lka The Wirral (LL1)
Andrews
Frederick, G.
Pte
 
 
from Coventry (CA105)
Armitage
J.W.
Sgt
 
 
lka County Down, NI. (LL1)
Frank, D.
CSM
 
 
(and 12 Cdo - CA13)
Arthur
D
Fus
 
 
and 3 Cdo; lka Worthing (LL1)
Arthur
Hugh
 
 
 
(CA98)
Ashworth
G
Pte
 
 
(CA13)
Aspden
J. 'Jack'
Bdr
 
 
RA; & 4 Cdo; (CA19, 38, 116) ; Major in Malay Regt
Bacon
Raymond, William
Gnr
2252809
 
RA Attestation Register 1941; 
re-enlisted 1950-53
Baker
Edward
Dvr
 
 
RASC; from Sheffield (CA110)
David, Stewart
Pte
2936087
 
A&SH; kia
William, Campbell
Cpl
2884648
 
Gordons; wounded 3/2/44 CasList WO417/72
David, Gavin
Capt
99724
 
HLI; kia
Francis, William
Cpl
2874523
 
Gordon Hldrs; kia
Bamford
F
Sgt
 
 
lka Sheffield (LL1)
Frederick
Cpl
5678008
 
QORWK; kia
John
Pte
2884786
 
London Scottish, kia
Banks
Thomas, H.
Sgt
3317445
 
HLI; (CA114); wounded 1/2/44
CasList WO417/72
James
Pte
2758223
 
Black Watch; kia
Barnett
W
Dvr
4696289
 
RASC
Bartlett
R
Pte
6107435
 
Middlesex Regt
Harold
LSgt
3533801
MM
Manchester Regt
Paul, Francis
Capt
165718
MC
Inniskillings; kia
Bates
P.G.T.
Lt
 
 
RAC
William, Stanley
Capt
204528
MiD
R Signals
John, J.
Pte
3053903
 
R. Scots; wounded 3/2/44 Italy WO417/72; lka Edinburgh (LL1); 
Baxter
 
Cpl
 
 
 
Beadell
William, Charles
Gnr
 
RA Attestations 1938;
Nos.9 & 12 Cdos (LL1)
Beard
A
Spr
 
 
RE; Nos 6 & 9 Cdos (LL1)
Thomas
RSM
5048331
MiD
N Staffs Regt; kia
W
Pte
2822502
 
Seaforths; wounded Italy
3/2/44 CasLists WO417/72
Beech
Reginald, W. 'Reggie'
Pte
4039374
 
KSLI
Belasco
David, Moss
Pte
 
 
(CA106)
Bell
Thomas
Gnr
 
 
from Falkirk (CA88)
Bennell
W.H.
Pte
 
 
 
Bennett
W.H.C.
Pte
 
 
 
Bigwood
O
Dvr
T/108066
 
RASC;  died Feb 1953 (CA21)
Walter
LSgt
327597
 
RA; kia
Birkbeck
John, Edward, Hilbert, Blake
Capt
P/266374
 
RACD
George, Davidson
Lt
94549
MiD
RE; kia
Black
A. John
Sgt
 
 
 
John
Rfn
6920686
 
KRRC; kia
James, Gordon
Pte
2880769
 
London Scottish; kia
Blagdon
George, Graham
Gnr (A/LBdr)
812276
 
RA; wounded 19/3/44 Italy CasList WO417/74; (CA79)
Blake
W
Pte
 
 
 
Blyth
C
Gnr
6837862
 
RA
Blyth
D.A.
Gnr
 
 
RA
Bolton
Peter, H.
Major
295510
MBE
Seaforth Hldrs
Thomas
LCpl
 
MM
 
Botting
John, A.
Pte
 
 
(CA83) 9 & 3 Cdos
Bowley
Henry
Cfn
 
 
REME
John, Percy
Fus
6482228
Police
 
R. Fus; from Tottenham (CA112)
Bradshaw
 
Pte
 
 
wounded Apr'45 Op Roast (WD) WO218/87 Appdx F2.
Braithwaite
Denys
LCpl
 
 
From Wakefield.  Wife Irene.
Braithwaite
H
Cpl
4613732
 
DWR
Braithwaite
Harold
LSgt
 
 
and 12 Cdo; later Major (CA28), (CA57), (CA111)
Brand
George
Sgt
3061224
 
R.Scots; (CA107); wounded Italy
19/3/44 CasLists WO417/74
Branton
Kenneth, P.
LCpl
5257481
 
Worc Regt
Brawn
Douglas, A.
Pte
 
 
 
Brennan
F
Pte
3386504
 
East Lancs Regt
Bridle
J
Dvr
S/108262
 
RASC
Brierley
H
LSgt
3530324
 
Loyal Regt; wounded Italy 19/3/44 CasList WO417/73
Brindle
J
Dvr
 
 
 
Britton
S.H.
LCpl
14200752
 
SWB
Brown
A
Pte
 
Essex Regt
Charles, Gilbert
Pte
7358386
 
RAMC; Died.
Brown
D
Pte
3190489
 
KOSB
John
Pte
4350290
 
East Yorks Regt; kia
Brown
J.G.S.
Cpl
 
 
 
Reid
LCpl
7044540
 
R Irish Fusiliers; kia
W
LCpl
2934354
 
Cameron Hldrs
Gerald, Jackson
Lt
 
MC
 
Bryan
Henry, Joseph 
Sgt
3392351
 
E. Lancs Regt; 3/2/44 Italy
CasLists WO417/72 wounded  
Buchanan
George
Sgt
 
 
 
Buchanan-Allen
Donald, Roy
Capt
155094
 
RASC
Burgess
E
Fus
3526047
 
Lancs Fusiliers
Lesley
LCpl
 
RE; kia St Nazaire
John
Gnr
3654080
 
RA; (CA14); wounded
Italy CasList WO417/92
Burns
M
Spr
2193274
 
RE; wounded 3/2/44 Italy
CasList WO417/72
Burns
V
Gnr
911923
 
RA
William, Charles
LBdr
2050861
 
RA; kia
Bush
George, Lawrence
Sgt
 
 
 
Bush
P.J.
Lt
321587
 
Somerset Li
Howard, Herbert, Cosen
Cpl
 
MM (with SBS)
11Cdo and SBS
Butler
John
Cpl
14531039
 
RAMC
Butterworth
F
Fus
 
Lancs Fusiliers
Calderwood
Daniel
Cpl
 
 
 
Caldwell
D
Cpl
2823168
 
Seaforth Hldrs
Lesley, Stuart
Major
138421
MC*
Royal West Kent
Alexander, 'Alistair'
Pte
2984506
 
A&SH; Wounded Italy
Mar'44 CasList WO417/74
Cameron
Donald
 
 
 
 
Cameron
J
Pte
2753952
 
Black Watch
Ralph, Averne, Cyril
Capt
99223
MC
Cameron Hldrs
Campbell
George
LSgt
14359667
 
Buffs/Coldstream Gds
Campbell
James, Joseph
Gnr
 
 
RA
Kenneth, Norman
Capt
75551
 
HLI; died
Campbell
T.H.
Spr
 
 
 
Campbell-Mclean
W
Pte
 
 
 
Thomas, Whawell, 'Whay' 
LSgt
4978529
 
Sherwood Foresters
Cannon
G
Pte
 
Buffs
Capewell
P
Pte
 
Sherwood Foresters
Carey
D S
Bdr
 
 
 
Carlyle
D
Pte
2752333
 
Black Watch
Carrie
William Wilson
Capt
98149
 
Seaforth Hldrs
Carten
J
Pte
 
 
 
Carter
A.H.
Lt
 
 
R Sigs; CA24.
R
LCpl
 
 
lka Cleethorpes (LL3)
John 
RQMS
MiD
RA Attestations 1938
Cater
Tony
Capt
 
 
 
Caudrey
Douglas
Pte
 
London Scottish
Chadwick
M.R.
LCpl
 
 
 
Alexander
Rfn
3250016
 
Cameronian; kia
Chambers
H
Pte
 
 
lka Handsworth (LL4)
Wilfred, Douglas
Bdr
2049911
 
RA; kia
Chapman
R.T.
Lt
262290
 
Cheshire Regt
Chesney
W
Rfn
 
 
 
Chisholm
Ian, Mitchell
Fus
 
 
 
Chivers
Harold 
Fus
6981527
 
R.Inniskilling; (CA99); wounded Italy 3/2/44 CasLists WO417/72
Chorlton
Dudley, Kenneth
Pte
 
 
& 3 Cdo (CA79)
Clancy
J
Cpl
3055034
 
Royal Scots
Clark
D
Pte
14604362
 
A&SH
Francis, William
Major
50979
 
A&SH; kia
Clarke
E
Gnr
6460520
 
RA
Clarke
J
Gnr
 
 
 
Clay
Geoff
Cpl
5348758
 
R Berkshire Regt
Clemens
H
Pte
11051319
 
Royal Fusiliers
Clifton
J
Gnr
 
 
 
Climpson
Ernest, E.
Pte
7365682
 
RAMC; wounded 19/3/44
Italy CasList WO417/74
Cloke
S.M.
Lt
273981
 
R Hampshire Regt
Andrew, Rae
Capt
88299
MiD
Cameronian
Cochrane
W.H.
Gnr
 
 
RA
William, James
Cpl
3910782
 
SWB; kia 
Collins
A
Gnr
 
 
 
Colville
J
Pte
 
 
 
Connelly
P
Pte
2992429
 
A&SH
Leonard, W.
Cpl (Sgt)
6848656
 
KRRC; wounded x2 in Italy 3/2/44 and 19/3/44 CasLists; (CA90)
Cosgrove
Stephen
LCpl
3659918
 
S. Lancs Regt; wounded Italy 14/3/44 CasList WO417/73
Leonard
LSgt
894763
MiD
RA; kia
Cowell
J
Pte
 
 
 
Cowie
D
 
 
 
 
Cowie
E.L.
Pte
 
 
 
Coyne
J
Pte
2756595
 
Black Watch
Albert, John
CSM
2873976
 
Gordon Hldrs; kia
John
LCpl
 
MM,MiD
RAMC
Cran
H
Pte
3064877
 
Royal Scots
B.M.
Pte
3062044
 
R.Scots; wounded Italy
Robert, Alan
LCpl
2934211
 
QOCH; kia
Crofts
Frank
Gnr
 
RA Attestations 1938
A
Pte
 
 
lka Bristol (LL3)
H.G.
Pte
3909357
 
SWB; wounded Italy 19/3/44 CasLists WO417/73
Crowley
William, J.
Fus
 
 
from Worcestershire (CA98)
Cruickshank
Albert
A/Sgt
2038407
 
RE; wounded 3/2/44 Italy CasLists WO417/72; (CA86)
Cullen
Robert
 
 
 
 
 
Cunningham
John, Wellington
Capt
151582
 
Camerons; and CBTC; from Teignmouth (CA106)
Curran
R.R.
Bdr
 
 
RA; (LL4)

No 9 Commando Nominal D - H

Commando Veterans Archive Nominal Roll for No.9 Commando.
© Commando Veterans Archive 2016. All Rights Reserved. No Reproduction Permitted.
 
Notes
Click on highlighted surnames for more information.
CA followed by a number = entry in a Commando Association newsletter.
LL followed by a number = entry in Commando Association Lost Legion List.
CasList = National Archives Army Casualty Lists.
WO = War Office file at the National Archives.
PG = CVA Photo Gallery.
OCTU = Officer Cadet Training Unit
 
SURNAME
FORENAME
RANK
NUMBER
AWARD
ADDITIONAL
Edward, John
Capt
173842
MC
RAMC
Dabb
Horace, Ernest
Lt
3965935 and 323544
 
enlisted 15/1/40 RWF; OCTU to Lincs Regt LG36673
Dagg
S.V.
Cpl
T/92529
 
RASC
Daley
E
Pte
858262
 
London Scottish
Samuel
LBdr
14322499
MM
RA
Davidson
Alexander 'Eck'
Pte
2758315
 
Black Watch; Italy 9/3/44 wounded CasList WO417/73
Davidson
Jock
Fus
3133213
 
R.Scots Fus; (PG)
Michael, Alfred, William
Capt
253496
MBE,MC, MiD
Northants. Regt.
Day
R
Fus
 
 
 
De Lapp
 
Capt
 
 
RAMC
Dean
F
Fus
3607581
 
R Inniskilling Fusiliers
James
Cpl
2079518
 
kia St Nazaire
Delaney
M
Fus
3458791
 
Lancs Fus; wounded Italy 15Apr45 CasList WO417/91; (LL4)
William, Henry
Pte
3860444
 
Border Regt; wounded 19/3/44 Italy CasList WO417/73; (CA89)
James
Pte
2985838
 
A&SH;CasList; Italy
wounded 30Dec43
J
Pte
2980471
 
HLI;  wounded 30/12/43 Italy
Dickens
G.A.
Pte
4913470
 
S. Staffs Regt; Italy  3/2/44 WO417/72
James, Sidney
Sgt
3889716
 
East Lancs Regt; kia
Robert, Finn
Pte
2988081
 
A&SH; kia
Phillip, Keith
Lt
180304
 
Durham LI; kia
Dixon
Frank, Ronald
 
 
 
 
Dobb
Ernest
Lt
 
 
 
Docker
E
CSM
 
 
and 12 Cdo. lka Somerset (LL4)
Dodd
G
Pte
 
 
 
Donnelly
James
Pte
3196664
 
KOSB
Dons-Madsen
Erik
LCpl
6299813
 
Buffs
Douglas
Graham
Pte
2985574
 
A&SH
Downing
J.D.
Pte
 
 
 
Drummond
Alexander
Gnr
 
 
 
Drury
George, F.
Act. CSM
2815839
 
Seaforths; wounded 3/2/44 Italy CasList WO4167/72; (CA85)
Duncan
C.J.
LCpl
 
 
 
Ronald
LCpl
2032723
 
RE; kia St Nazaire
Duncan
LSgt
2754382
 
Black Watch; kia
Dunlop
A
Pte
 
 
 
John, Michael
Lt Col
132780
MiD
8 Hussars; 1 SS Bde, 4 and 9 Cdos (CA59)
Durkin
J
Pte
3059066
 
Royal Scots
Dwyer
Timothy
Pte
3772173
 
Kings Own Royal Regt
Dyke
A
Rfn
14218283
 
KRRC; wounded Italy 3/2/44 WO417/72
Eames
William
Pte
 
 
 
Ebben
D
Pte
14736726
 
Somerset Li
George
Rfn
6850527
 
KRRC; kia
Edger
W
Pte
 
 
 
William, George
Pte
6348327
 
R West Kent Regt; kia
Elliot
Duncan
Pte
S/10673657
 
RASC
Ellis
E
Pte
5625296
 
Devonshire Regt
Espley
Victor, Clarence
Pte
902005
 
N Staffs 
Evans
Evan, Arthur
Pte
 
 
Welch Regt.
Evans
J.A.G.
Bdr
 
 
R Artillery
Fairell
E
Pte
14516303
 
A&SH
Henry
Pte
4350517
 
East Yorks; kia
Farmer
R
Pte
 
 
RWF
John, Kiel
Pte
2821551
MM
Seaforth Hldrs; wounded 30/12/43
Feedam
William, Henry
Pte
4038825
 
KSLI
Felle
T.H.
Fus
 
 
R Inniskilling Fus
Fenner
R
Pte
14736391
 
Ox & Bucks L I
Fenwick
E.C.
Pte
14801431
 
Gordons; wounded Italy 15Apr45 CasList WO417/91
Ferguson
Angus, Macleod
Capt
28736
CBE
Black Watch
Ferrey
Martin, C.
Capt
 
 
Cameronian
Fetigan
Stephen
Dvr
 
 
from Leyland, Lancs (CA120)
Finlay
David
Cpl
2757157
 
Black Watch, Piper
Fisher
Arnold
Pte
 
 
from Ripley, Derbyshire (CA92)
Peter, Hendry
Capt
268232
OBE
R Sigs; & 2CdoBde; later Lt Colonel
Forbes
Ian, M.
Rfn
 
 
 
Robert
LBdr
902786
 
RA; kia
Foreman
D
Pte
4546719
 
R Hampshire
Fortune
George, Thomas
LCpl
 
 
 
Foster
Robert
LCpl
 
 
from Blackpool (CA119)
Foster
Roy
 
 
 
 
Fountain
M
Pte
14736735
 
Somerset Li
Fowler
W.L.
LCpl
6913481
 
9th Bn.Rifle Bde; LL5; Italy wounded CasList WO417/91, 11Apr45
Foy
L
Fus
14209733
 
R. Fus; (LL9);wounded 11/3/45 Italy WO417/90
Frampton
E
Gnr
2857339
 
RA
Andrew
LCpl
2822034
 
Seaforths; (CA91);  3/2/44 wounded Italy
Galbraith
M
Pte
NS/8430
 
R Hampshire 
Gales
H.W.
LCpl
 
 
 
Gallacher
John, Joseph
Pte
2979485
 
A&SH
Gardiner
Frederick
Rfn
6848697
 
KRRC; 19Mar44; Italy CasList WO417/74 
James
LCpl
3535628
 
Manchester Regt; kia
Garrington
William, Thomas.
Gdsm
2658824
 
Coldstream Guards Record; Italy wounded CasList WO417/72
J
LCpl
2822297
 
Seaforths; wounded  Italy 1/2/44   WO417/72
Gaunt
J
Pte
 
 
R Berkshire Regt
John
Pte
3318356
 
A&SH; kia
Justin
Pte
 
 
from Bolton (CA112); xref Szarkow
James, Lang
Capt
 210963
 
RASC; kia
Gilbert
J.T.
Sgt
 
 
 
Gill
Albert, John
LBdr
875143
 
RA Attestations 1937
Charles, William
Capt
252038
 
RAMC; Medical Officer 1944/5.
Gingell
Harold, 'Jack'
 
 
 
 
Ginn
J.W.
LBdr
14382309
 
RA
Glancy
J
Cpl
3055034
 
Royal Scots
Glen
John
Pte
 
 
 
Glendinning
Bernard
Cpl
3450580
 
Lancs Fus; Italy 3/2/44 WO417/72; (CA53)
Goddard
I.P.
Pte
 
 
 
Goldie
Alexander
Bdr
 
RA
Goodwin
J
LCpl
280379
 
RASC
Gordon
Edward
LSgt
2873670
 
Gordon Hldrs
Gorman
G.P.
Cpl
 
 
(CA18)
Gorman
J
LSgt
3523913
 
Manchester Regt
Goss
R
Pte
2041718
 
London Scottish
Graham
L
Pte
14729560
 
Devonshire Regt
Grant
J.F.
RSM
 
 
 
Graves
Derek
Cpl
 
 
from Woking (CA68)
Graves
K
LSgt
2880938
 
London Scottish
Gray
Frederick, Charles 
Pte
14200811
 
Seaforth Hldrs
Gray
L.E.
Pte
5511428
 
QRR
Greenhill
L.J.
Pte
14734939 
 
SLI; Wounded 15Apr45 Italy CasList WO417/91.
Thomas, Cameron
Lt
90992
MiD
Cameronian; kia
John, Fletcher
Pte
2933802
 
QOCH; died training
J.H.
Pte
3065996
 
R.Scots; (LL5); Italy wounded 3 times
Griffin
G
Pte
 
 
 
Griffin
R
Dvr
 
 
 
Griffiths
B
Fus
3447600
 
Lancs Fusiliers
Griffiths
F
TSM
5045886
 
N Staffs.
Grigg
E.A.
Fus
6482231
Police
 
R. Fus; 19/3/44 CasList WO417/74
Grimwade
C
Pte
 
 
 
Guthrie
H.F.
LCpl
3135796
 
R Scots Fusiliers; (CA10)
John
Sgt
2758175
 
Black Watch; (CA107);  wounded Italy 19/3/44 
Halliday
A
Pte
14566087
 
East Yorks Regt
Hamerton
A
Rfn
 
KRRC
Hankinson
Walter
LSgt
4201450
 
RWF
Hanley
J.D.
Gnr
 
 
RA
Harris
 
Pte
 
R Artillery
Harvest
R.M.
Capt
 
 
Lincolnshire Regt
Harvey
Wilfred, 'Barney'
Capt
 
 
 
Hatcher
W
Gnr
 
 
 
Hawkins
W G
Pte
14736731
 
Somerset Li
Hay
J
LBdr
 
RA
Hayden
S.M.
Pte
5825818
 
Sussex Regt
Haydock
Gerald
LSgt
354082
 
RA
Ian, Hope
Fus
14701610
 
Lancs Fusiliers
Healey
Wilfred
Pte
 
 
 
Heath
G.A.
Rfn
5623162
 
KRRC
Helen
F
Gnr
11002011
 
RA
Henderson
G
Sgt
 
RE; wounded 3/2/44 Italy WO417/72
Henery
John
Pte
 
 
 
Herbert
H.J.
Pte
5186472
 
Glos Regt
Hespin
J
Pte
 
 
 
Hewitt
E
Spr
 
 
 
Higgs
E
Gnr
2037266
 
RA
Hilditch
E
Gnr
 
RA
Hill
Alex
Pte
2889064
 
Gordons; wounded Italy 2/4/45 CasList WO417/91
Hill
Colin, Clive
Capt
219245
 
R Irish Fusiliers
Hill
Victor, Lionel
Gnr
 
RA
Hissett
G.B.
Lt
94548
 
R Engineers
Hoare
J
Pte
 
Gordon Hldrs
J
Sgt
3446114
MM
Lancs Fusiliers
Hodson
R
Pte
4039407
 
KSLI; (LL6); wounded Italy CasList WO417/72
J
LCpl
3190005
 
KOSB; wounded Italy
Holland
J
Pte
 
KRRC
Holmes
A
Pte
 
Yorks & Lancs Regt
Leslie, Thomas
Cpl
6897410
 
KRRC; kia
Hood
J
Gdm
2665528
 
Coldstream Gds
Hooper
S
Pte
4920295
 
S. Staffs. Regt; 4/2/44 Italy  WO417/72
Leslie, William
LSgt
6213259
DCM
Middlesex Regt
Horn
Francis, Henry
Cpl
 
 
& 12 Cdo; from Hackney (CA120)
R
Pte
3535715
 
Mancs.Regt; 3Feb44   
CasList WO417/72
Horton
A.J.
Pte
 
 
 
Hudson
S.K.
Cpl
5550149
 
Hampshire Regt
Freddie
Cpl
3310694
 
Highland Li; from Rothesay (CA77); (PG)
George, William, S.
Sgt
7360074
MM
RAMC
Joseph, Wilfred
LSgt /
2Lieut
2002542
288589
 
RE/REME; St Nazaire; to OCTU 1943
Ernest, Arthur
Pte
6213166
 
Middlesex Regt; kia
Hunt
G
Cpl
4584646
 
KOYLI
H. 'Harry'
Pte
3535763
 
Mancs. Regt; wounded Italy 19/3/44 CasList WO417/73
H.
Cpl
3130410
 
R Scots Fusiliers; 3/2/44 wounded Italy CasList WO417/72
Hunter
Robert
Pte
2756942
 
Black Watch (LL6)
Hurren
Leonard
Rfn
7016165
 
R. Ulster Rifles; (CA73) 3/2/44 Italy WO417/72
Hyslop
Sam
Cpl
 
 
CA56, 67

No 9 Commando Nominal I - O

Commando Veterans Archive Nominal Roll for No.9 Commando.
© Commando Veterans Archive 2016. All Rights Reserved. No Reproduction Permitted.
 
Notes
Click on highlighted surnames for more information.
CA followed by a number = entry in a Commando Association newsletter.
LL followed by a number = entry in Commando Association Lost Legion List.
CasList = National Archives Army Casualty Lists.
WO = War Office file at the National Archives.
PG = CVA Photo Gallery.
 
SURNAME
FORENAME
RANK
NUMBER
AWARD
ADDITIONAL
G
Pte
2755031
 
Black Watch; (LL6); 
wounded Italy 19/3/44 
Ironside
W
Pte
2991756
 
A&SH; (LL6)
Irwin
Lucas, T.
Gnr
 
 
RA; from Lincs. (CA120)
Isaacson
R
Pte
 
 
lka Suffolk (LL6)
George
Fus
 
 
from Dawlish (CA103)
Ives
Leonard
Rfn
878121
 
RA to London Irish
H.C.
Sgt
4919445
MM
S Staffs Regt
Jackson
J
LCpl
14386124
 
Kings Own R.R.
Robert, Evan
LSgt
821516
 
Royal Artillery; kia St Nazaire
Jarrett
W
Gnr
 
 
RA; lka Australia (LL7)
Percy, Robert
CSM
790299
 
RA; wounded 3/2/44 (CA72)
Jewitt
Cressey (Jock)
Sgt
 
 
 
Johns
F
Pte
 
 
lka Earlsfield (LL7)
George, William, 'Geordie'
Pte
2886902
 
Gordons; 19/3/44 wounded Italy WO417/74
Guthrie
Pte
2888669
 
Gordons; (CA55); wounded 4/2/44 CasList WO417/72
A.
LCpl
2756972
 
Black Watch; wounded Italy 19/3/44  WO417/74
Johnstone
Geoffrey
Cpl
 
 
 
Robert
Pte
3189032
 
KOSB; kia
Jones
H
Spr
2033557
 
RE; wounded 3/2/44 Italy CasList WO417/72
Jones
John, Bertram, 'Jack'
Pte
5347501
 
S. Staffs (CA40)
Jones
Pte
3535712
 
HQ Tp/ xref. WO361/861/ Manchester Regt
Jones
W
Pte
2064853
 
London Scottish
Jones
William, Henry 'Mick'
Pte
 
 
from Sussex (CA113)
Jopling
Reginald, George
 
 
 
(CA91)
Kane
Cobber
 
 
 
 
Dennis, Roger
Pte
14286826
 
KSLI; died 1960 (CA32)
Kane
N.J.
Sgt
 
 
lka Tottenham (LL7)
Kay
R
Dvr
 
 
lka Salop (LL7)
Keane
W.F.
Sgt
 
 
lka Sale (LL7)
Keating
Thomas, Cameron
Pte
3133680
 
Black Watch
John, William
Pte
14729480
 
Somerset LI; wounded 18/4/45; (CA90)
John, Leslie
Pte
2939369
 
QOCH; kia
Brian, Bernard
Sgt
6482224
Police
 
Royal Fusiliers; from Barnet, Herts (CA78)
Kelso
James, 'Bunny'
Fus
 
 
 
Kennedy
Matthew, Durreen, 'Matt'
Major
52189
 
A&SH; (CA35)(CA71) and others
Kennedy
Thomas, Cameron
Pte
 
 
 
George, Cray
Pte
2939370
 
QOCH; kia
Kenny
Pte
 
 
lka Pontypool (LL7)
Kerr
D
Pte
2985681
 
A&SH; (LL7)
Kerry
H.E.
Gnr
 
 
 
Killoran
P
Spr
 
 
RE; lka Edinburgh (LL7)
Kilpatrick
Charles
Pte
 
 
 
Kindley
P.H.
Pte
6299896
 
Buffs
King
Andrew
Lcpl
 
 
 
Robert
LCpl
7357784
MM
RAMC
Kinghorn
David
Cpl
3191690
 
KOSB
Harold, Sidney
Sgt
3186138
MM
Border Regt; kia
Kirkby
A
Pte
 
Somerset LI
Kirkby
E
Dvr
T/3448340
 
RASC; wounded Italy; lka Heywood (LL7)
Kirwan
J
Fus
14447475
 
R Irish Fus.
Harry, Thomas
Capt
96760
MC
Royal Artillery; kia
Knight
W
Pte
6026253
 
East Surrey Regt
Knights
W
Pte
837334
 
Lancs Fus.
Knox
Alexander
LCpl
 
 
 
Kurth
Richard
Pte
 
 
died Australia (CA98)
James
Pte 'Piper'
2822834
 
Seaforths; CasLists; Italy wounded 30Dec43
Laird
Albert
Pte
2756972
 
Black Watch
Laming
F.A.
Pte
897518
 
Gordon Hldrs
Lamont
D
Pte
 
 
lka Caithness (LL7)
Lancaster
A.L.
LCpl
5773335
 
Norfolk Regt
Lancaster
D
Fus
3851627
 
Lancs Fus.
Lancaster
E
Pte
4123431
 
Cheshire Regt; wounded 3/2/44 Italy CasList WO417/72
Lancaster
Herbert
Sgt
 
 
 
Peter, John
Fus
864477
 
Royal Fusiliers; kia
Large
K
Cpl
4470275
 
KOYLI
Lawes
Ernest, Arthur
Pte
14727995
 
R. Sussex, 9Cdo, RMP
Lawrence
A
Pte
 
 
lka Wallasey (LL7)
Lawrence
A.E.F., 'Laurie'
Cpl
 
 
3 Tp; post war emigrated to Australia (CA71)
Lawson
F
Pte
14583024
 
KRRC
Lawson
J.G.
Sgt
 
 
 
Lawson
S
Pte
 
London Scottish
Lawson
S
Pte
 
Gordon Hldrs
Leech
J
Pte
3350754
 
Border Regt
Leith
G.B.
Gnr
 
 
RA; lka Battersea (LL7)
Lendhill
D
Pte
14623162
 
DWR
Lewis
Raymond, William
Pte
5732424
 
Worc. Regt
Lewis
W
Pte
 
SLI
Liddle
J.T.
Pte
3322832
 
Black Watch; (LL7)
Lidster
W
Pte
4748135
 
Lancs Fus.
Lindsay
J.L. (The Hon.)
Major
 
 
lka Taunton (LL7)
Lingard
D.N.
Gnr
 
 
RA; lka Hampshire (LL7)
Linge
Charles, Albert
Pte
871024
 
RA; 17/11/43 to E. Surrey Regt; 
Lloyd
A.E.
Pte
 
 
lka Yorkshire (LL8)
Anthony
LCpl
T/10699839
 
RASC; kia
Lofthouse
Cecil, Francis
Cpl later SQMS
 
 
(CA28, CA32, CA34);
(Obits)
Donald, Bayley
Lt
 
MC
 
Michael
Capt
97967
MC
A&SH
Lorimer
William, 'Bill'
 
 
 
(CA77)
Love
Herbert, C. (Bert)
Pte
 
 
 
Ken
LCpl
3606787
MiD
Border Regt
Loxton
H
Pte
 
Essex Regt
Lucas
Harry, Hillgrove
Capt
 
 
R Berkshire Regt
Lynch
W
Pte
4922528
 
Pioneer Corps
MacCormack
John, James
LSgt
 
 
 
Robert
Pte
2821492 
 
Seaforths; Wounded 15Apr45 Italy 
MacDonnell
J
Pte
14437475
 
East Surrey Regt
Neil
RSM
2974803
 
A&SH ; died in service
Alexander, Bowie
Pte
2822295
 
Seaforths;CasLists; Italy wounded 30Dec43
Mackenzie
George, Potts
Cpl
 
 
 
Mackenzie
John
 
 
 
 
Ian, Robert
Cpl
2933784
 
QOCH; kia
Mackenzie
Simon, J.
Sgt
 
 
 
Ian, Lawrence
Cpl
2091312
 
RE, PoW St Nazaire
Maclean
J
Sgt
7516695
 
RAMC
Macleod
Munro
Pte
 
 
 
Magee
P
Pte
2933752
 
Cameronian
Mailing
D
Pte
14447518
 
Hampshire Regt
Leslie, P.
Pte
 
 
from Selly Oak (CA120)
R
CSM
2986799
MiD
A&SH
Marsden
Thomas
Lt
268171
 
Loyal Regt
Marshall
W
Pte
3310326
 
Gordon Hldrs
Martin
J
Cpl
4200396
 
RWF
Mason
William
Pte
 
 
(LL8) (CA106)
Massey
J
Fus
 
 
lka Bury (LL8)
Matthews 
F.C.
Gnr
5192734
 
RA; wounded 15Apr45 Italy CasList WO417/91
Leslie, James
Pte
3391673
 
Border Regt; kia
Maughan
J.R.
Rev
 
 
RACD
Maughan
Robert, Mcpherson
Rfn
 
Rifle Brigade; (CA45); 3/2/44 CasLists WO417/72 Italy
Maxwell
P
Pte
 
 
&12 Cdo; lka Newcastle (LL8)
McAllister
Charles, Joseph
Cpl
3600264
 
Border Regt
McAllister
R
Pte
2987006
 
A&SH
McAllister
William, Hugh, C.
Gnr
842944
 
RA
McAulay
Duncan
Cpl
3324765
 
HLI; wounded 3/2/44 CasList WO417/72
Mcaulay
Finlay, Campbell
Pte
2986407
 
A&SH
McCall
J
Rfn
 
 
& 5 Cdo (LL8)
McCann
Bernard, James
Pte
3708880
 
RAC
McCartney
Alan
Fus
3135409
 
R Scots Fus.
McCormack
John, James
LSgt
7018621
 
R Ulster Rifles; &12 Cdo (PG)
McCreath
A
Pte
2985458
 
A&SH; lka Colchester (LL8)
McDermott
J
Cpl
2991503
 
A&SH
McDonald
D
LSgt
3317322
 
HLI
McDonald
J
Pte
2022699
 
Seaforth Hldrs
McDonald
J
Cpl
3604728
 
Border Regt
C.F.
Capt
112898
 
Cameronians; kia
McDouhagh
 
Pte
14733239
 
SLI
McEwan
W
Pte
2990926
 
A&SH; CasLists Italy 15/4/45 WO417/91
McFadyen
J
Pte
 
 
 
McGeoch
H
Pte
14748596
 
R Scots Fus.
McGill
G
L/Cpl
3323587
 
HLI
Ronald, Anthony
Pte
14543790
 
KOSB; kia
McGrath
J
Pte
 
 
 
McIver
Edward, Melville
A/Capt 
273196
 
RA; LL8; later Major
Alex
Pte
2951573 ?
 
from Girvan (CA68) (PG)
A.S.
CSM
2822652
 
Seaforth Hldrs
McKinlay
Peter
 
 
 
 
Alexander, E.C.
LSgt
3132746
 
R Scots Fusiliers; kia
Donald
Sgt
2927748
 
Cameron Hldrs; wounded Italy
McKinnon
Donald, Roy
Sgt
 
 
 
McLachlan
G
LCpl
7611488
 
REME
McLean
J
LCpl
2002719
 
R Engineers
McLean
J
Sgt
7516695
 
RAMC
James
Cpl
2932647
 
QOCH; wounded Italy
McLennan
Ronald, Leslie
LCpl
2032675
 
RWF
McLeod
M
Pte
2822845
 
Seaforth Hldrs
McLeod
Norman
Cpl
 
 
 
McMiles
John
Csm
3910393
 
SWB
McMinnis
Ernest
Cpl
325546
 
RA
McNeil
J
Capt
 
 
 
McNeil
R.J.
CSM
3189537
 
KOSB
George, M.F.
LSgt
2761028
MM
Black Watch
McWilliams
W
LCpl
3308864
 
HLI
Meadows
Alexander
Pte
 
 
 
Meakin
Frank
Gnr
 
 
RA
Meehan
Rowland, Thomas (Bobby)
LSgt
4922144
 
S Staffs Regt
Menage
Ernest, Frank
Sgt
 
 
CA77
Roy, Alfred
Pte
5783885
 
Norfolk Regt; kia
Metcalfe
Harry
Sgt
 
 
 
Middleton
Peter
Gnr
881646
 
RA
Miller
J.L.
LSgt
3600730
 
Border Regt; wounded 1/2/44 Italy WO417/72
Miller
M.J. (Dusty)
CSM
4911007
 
S Staffs Regt
Milligan
John
Pte
 
 
 
Mills
V.H. George
Major
51999
 
Essex Regt
Alan
SSgt
7586369
 
London Scottish; and 11 Cdo
Mitchell
J
Pte
2756938
 
Black Watch
Mitchell
James
LSgt
6348465
 
R West Kent Regt
Mitchell
R.W.
Pte
 
 
 
Bertram, Wigton
Fus
3127401
 
R Scots Fus; kia
Moir
J
Pte
2884011
 
Border Regt
F
Pte
2889360
 
Gordons; wounded 19/3/44 Italy
Barry, Richard
Pte
6213656
 
Middx Regt; kia
Moore
Edward, William
Cpl
2880907
 
Gordon Hldrs
Moore
William, White
Pte
14435092
 
R Inniskilling Fusiliers
A
LCpl
2888094
 
Gordons; wounded 19/3/44 Italy
Howell, Charles
Lt
222124
 
Royal Artillery; kia
Andrew, W.P.
Pte
2885380
 
Gordon Highlanders; kia
Morton
J.H.
Pte
6296553
 
Buffs
Muir
Jock
Rfn
14554594
 
Cameronian
Munro
Alexander
Cpl
 
RA
Munro
Andrew, C.
Lbdr
883783
 
RA
 
 
 
 
 
ameron Hldrs
Murray
Joseph, Elliot
Pte
3190120
 
KOSB; wounded Italy 3/2/44 CasLists WO417/72; (CA76)
Nation
Leonard, 'Len'
Fus
 
 
from Birmingham (CA101)(CA102)(CA103)
Needleman
Harry
Rfn
 
 
 
Neil
G
Pte
3328809
 
HLI
Gilbert, Reid
Pte
2992493
 
A&SH; kia
Neilson
V
Capt
 
 
 
John, Arthur
Pte
6349065
 
Middx. Regt; kia
Nimock
J
Gnr
979196
 
RA
Nisbet
 
Sgt
 
 
 
Nixon
A
 
 
 
 
Nixon
Joe, G.
Pte
2886863
 
Gordon Hldrs; wounded Italy 15/4/45 WO417/91
Norman
L.F.
Gnr
14498752
 
RA
Northover
Wilfred
LCpl
3448353
 
Lancs Fus;
Nothard
Ralph
Cfn
 
 
REME
Nottingham
R
Pte
10534436
 
REME
Nouch
W
Pte
 
Lincolnshire Regt
Oakley
Arthur, James
Pte
 
 
from Devon (CA 120)
O'Brien
J
Gnr
3450992
 
RA
Ogston
Frank
LCpl
 
 
(CA74)
Oliver
J.S.
Pte
2976074
 
A&SH; lka Dumbarton (LL9)
O'Neill
J H
Pte
 
 
 
Oram
Frank
Gnr
 
RA Attestion Register
P
LCpl
2884611
 
Gordons; wounded 19/3/44 Italy
Owen
K
Pte
14736770
 
SLI

No 9 Commando Nominal P - Z

Commando Veterans Archive Nominal Roll for No.9 Commando.
© Commando Veterans Archive 2016. All Rights Reserved. No Reproduction Permitted.
 
Notes
Click on highlighted surnames for more information.
CA followed by a number = entry in a Commando Association newsletter.
LL followed by a number = entry in Commando Association Lost Legion List.
CasList = National Archives Army Casualty Lists.
WO = War Office file at the National Archives.
PG = CVA Photo Gallery.
 
SURNAME
FORENAME
RANK
NUMBER
AWARD
ADDITIONAL
Pacitti
E
Gnr
 
 
RA
Packham
Cyril, Kenneth
Pte
 
RA Attestation 1941;  Dec'44 to London Scottish; 
Page
Frederick
Pte
3857192
 
Loyal Regt
Parker
F
Pte
11411624
 
Suffolk Regt
Parker
 
Lt
 
 
 
Ivor, George
Gnr
2057623
 
Royal Artillery; kia
Parry
William
Gnr
 
 
RA
Parsons
Eric
Pte
 
 
from Manchester (CA116)
Paterson
A
 
 
 
&12 Cdo; residing Rothesay 1948 (CA6)
Paterson
S
Gnr
3246569
 
RA (LL9)
T
Pte
2573711
 
Gordon Hldrs (London Scottish); wounded Italy
Patrick
George
LCpl
4977733
 
Sherwood Foresters
Patrick
H
Pte
3314888
 
Recce Corp
Pawley
J
Sgt
 
 
 
Payne
G
Pte
4039105
 
KSLI
Payne
H.R.
Pte
 
 
and 12 Cdo (LL9)
Payne
Len
Cpl
 
 
 
Pearch
Graham, E.
Lt
153577
 
RA
Peel
Derek, W.D.
Lt
277050
 
RA; CasLists WO417/9; (CA71)
Pendlebury
R
Pte
14731486
 
Wiltshire Regt
Penny
W
Pte
3595735
 
Border Regt
Perry
P
Pte
14422729
 
Cheshire Regt; wounded Italy 19/3/44 CasList WO417/73
Perry
 
Dvr
T/190634
 
RASC
Peters
W
Pte
14439899
 
QOCH
Phee
W
Pte
 
 
 
Piggott
J
Pte
14522775
 
KRRC
Pond
Leo, S.
LCpl
6298504
 
Buffs
John, Gowans
Pte
2991563
 
A&SH; 5 troop, wounded 3/2/44 Italy.
Porter
Anthony, H.
LCpl
 
 
 
Henry, William
LSgt
6215331
 
Middx. Regt; kia
Postles
George, Arthur
Pte
869446
 
RA Attestation 1937; (CA30)
Powell
George, Edward
Gnr
 
RA; 6 Tp (CA93)
Thomas
Dvr
 
 
see entry on link for WATTS
Prescott
Frank
 
 
 
 
Robert, William
Gnr
6217232
 
Royal Artillery; kia
Prime
Arthur
 
 
 
 
Charles, Taylor
LCpl
4914347
 
Worc. Regt; kia
Prior
G
Pte
4041897
 
Herefordshire Regt
Pritchard
J
Pte
 
 
 
Pullen
Harry, A.
Pte
14612025
 
Sussex Regt
Purdy
L
Pte
2880865
 
London Scottish
Quarrie
John, L., 'Jack'
RSM
 
BEM
 
Thomas
LCpl
4388422
 
RAMC; kia
Quinton
E.A.
LCpl
 
 
(LL9)
Ramsey
Norman, 'Ram'
Gnr
 
 
RA
Ramshaw
'Geordie'
Pte
 
 
 
Rankin
T
Pte
2937988
 
QOCH
Ray
F.G.
Pte
 
 
 
G
CSM
2881169
DCM
London Scottish
Redman
F
Pte
5345368
 
R Berkshire Regt
Reed
Thomas
LSgt
2992385
 
A&SH
Reeves
Frederick, Charles
Gnr
 
RA
Adam, 'Angus'
Cpl
3059487
MiD
Royal Scots
Reid
H.A.
Capt
 
 
R Artillery
Reid
John
Gnr
 
R Artillery
Renton
J
LCpl
3323640
 
Black Watch
Reynolds
R.A.W.
Pte
 
 
 
David
Sgt
2094564
MiD
RE; Op Chariot; wounded Italy 1943
Richards
R
Pte
6104565
 
and 12 Cdo (LL9)
John
Sgt
3603243
 
Border Regt; kia
Riddal
Douglas
Gnr
2838408
 
R Artillery
Roach
Thomas, H.
Gnr
 
 
R Artillery; post war residing Manchester (CA22) (CA57)
Robb
W.P.
CSM
3189966
 
KOSB
Roberts
F
LCpl
2929908
 
Cameron Hldrs
Roberts
John, Samuel
Cpl
3602054
 
Border Regt
Robinson
G.A.
Capt
188998
 
Buffs
Robson
Paul, W.
Rfn
 
 
from Winchester (CA98)
Robson
Sidney
Cpl
7265390
 
RAMC; from Co. Durham (CA69)
Julian, Dudley
Pte
14416231
MiD
Gordon Highlanders; kia
Rose
Edward, T.
Fus
 
 
 
Ross
L.V.
LCpl
 
 
 
Roderick
Pte
2928902
 
QOCH; wounded Italy
Robert, Sharp
Pte
2985617
 
A & SH; kia
Russell
Alfred, Cecil, 'Russ'
TSM
 
 
 
Ryan
 
Pte
4077120
 
SWB Mons Regt
Ryan 
Richard
Sgt
 
 
& 12 Cdo (CA63)
Sadler
Frederick, Lewis, 'Badgie'
Gnr
 
 
 
John, Mcclean
Lt Col
 
 
RE
Saxon
A
Pte
7373745
 
RAMC; wounded 3/2/44
Italy CasLists WO417/72
Andrew, Stewart
Pte
2938003
MM
Cameron Hldrs
Archibald, Wilson
CSM
3186390
 
KOSB; CA23); wounded Italy x2
Scott
D
Dvr
 
 
 
Michael
Lt
117892
 
Black Watch; kia
Scott
R
Pte
6216827
 
Kensington Regt
Sidney, H. 'Scotty'
Cpl
T/132588
 
RASC; wounded Italy
Clifford, F.
LSgt
14241831
Police
DCM
RAC
Searles
A
Sgt
4039629
 
KSLI
Seddon
S
Gnr
 
R Artillery
Shanks
David
LCpl
 
 
 
Sharp
J.O.
Rfn
6221474
 
R Berkshire Regt; & 6 Cdo (LL10)
Sharp
N.A.
Lt
 
 
 
Sharp
R
Gnr
8666000
 
R Artillery
Shaw
A
Pte
 
DWR
Ashley, George, 'Pat'
Dvr
T/106298
DCM, MM
RASC
Mark, 'Joe'.
Fus
 
 
(CA38)
Joseph
Pte
5046468
 
KSLI; kia St Nazaire
Robert, Deary
Pte
3533662
 
Manchester Regt; kia
Sherwood
D
Pte
5124652
 
Buffs
Herbert, J.
Cpl
2041795
 
RE; PoW St Nazaire
Shreiber
Herbert
 
 
 
French Foreign Legion
Shurey
L
Pte
 
N Staffs Regt
Stanley
Pte
14241696
Police
 
QOCH
Simcock
Sidney
Pte
3536256
 
Manchester Regt
Simms
R.J.
Pte
14750013
 
Glosters
Simpson
Alexander, J.
Sgt
2882335
 
Gordon Hldrs: wounded 2/4/45 Italy CasList WO417/91
Simpson
D
Pte
14410044
 
Sherwood Foresters
J. McK.
Pte
2820756
 
Seaforths;CasLists;Italy wounded 30Dec43
Simpson
John, Mccain
Pte
 
 
 
Simpson
T
Pte
3319965
 
HLI; wounded 4/3/44 Italy CasList WO417/74
Skeels
B
Rfn
7021181
 
Liverpool Irish
Slater
G.E.
Capt
 
 
Border Regt
Sleith
T.H. 'Tommy', or 'Paddy'
Dvr
T/106521
 
RASC
Albert, Kenneth
Cpl
14241644
Police
 
Leicestershire Regt; wounded 1/2/44 Italy WO417/72 
Norman, George
Pte
14508144
 
The Buffs 1st Bn; (CA 100)
Smith
Arthur
Tpr
14241776
 
RAC; (CA12)(CA18)
Smith
A
Sgt
3775834
 
The Kings Regt
Smith
Albert, Gordon
Sgt
 
 
(CA77)
Smith
C
Pte
11411039
 
Gordon Hldrs
Smith
D
Pte
2828814
 
Seaforth Hldrs; wounded Italy CasLists WO417/73
Edward,  'Smudger'
Cpl
6711580
 
Black Watch; (CA64); wounded 3/3/44 Italy WO417/73
Smith
F
Gnr
857819
 
RA
Smith
Frederick, George
 
 
 
 
George, Alfred
Pte
14241717
 
Black Watch; kia
Smith
J
LCpl
14605209
GC
A & SH
Smith
James, A.
Rfn
6847101
 
KRRC; lka Glasgow (CA93)
Smith
P
Gnr
4927322
 
R Artillery
Smith
Patrick
Cpl
 
 
possibly ident with entry in (CA21)
Smith
Peter
LSgt
3248156
 
Cameronian; (CA72)
Smith
R
Pte
5185614
 
Surrey Regt
Smith
S
Pte
S/113555
 
RASC
Smith
William, Edward
Bdr
 
 
RA; (CA80)
Sneal
K
Pte
14415556
 
R Berkshire Regt
Snell
Arthur
Sgt
 
 
 
Sober
Jerry
 
 
 
 
Somerville
Robert, 'Slim'
Bdr
 
RA; and 2 Cdo; from Bonnyrigg (CA103)
Sparrow
L
Pte
6344059
 
R West Kent Regt
Spittle
 
Lt
 
 
 
Sprague
 
Capt
 
 
 
Sproule
Noble, Goulding
 
 
 
 
William, Philip
Cpl
 
 
& 1Bde (CA82)
William, John
Pte
14241832 Police
 
RAC
E
Pte
4039477
 
KSLI; wounded 2/4/45 Italy
Stansfield
Stewart
Sgt
14241698
 
RA; from Garstang, Lancs.  (CA94)
Alfred, M.P.
Cpl
14241806
Police
 
Duke of Cornwalls LI; wounded 3/2/44 Italy CasList WO417/72
Horace, Edwin
Lt
 
RASC; kia
Charles, Emanuel
Sgt
 
RA; S.W.B. & 12 Cdo (PG); wounded x2 Italy
Steel
S
LCpl
7606706
 
RWF
Stephens
A., Spence
Pte
7665614
 
R Hampshire Regt
Stephens
S
LSgt
5336665
 
R Berkshire Regt
Stephenson
Matthew, J. aka  'Mattie'
Gnr
2085722
 
R Artillery
Sterling
Albert
Rfn
 
 
 
Stewart
D
Gnr
11403498
 
R Artillery
Stewart
G
Rfn
3247677
 
Cameronians; wounded 3/2/44 Italy CasLists WO417/72
Stirling
Albert
Rfn
 
 
R Ulster Rifles
Stirling
Robert, Kirkwood
CSM
 
 
 
Stockley
L ?
 
 
 
9 Cdo 5tp image in gallery
Brice
Pte
 
 
(CA66)
Sidney
Cpl
14241808
Police
 
Leicestershire Regt
J.R.
Rfn
14220701
 
KRRC; wounded Italy 1/2/44 WO417/72
Percy, Ronald
LCpl
6465386
 
Royal Fusiliers; kia
Straughan
Joseph, Malcolm
Sgt
2876101
MM, MiD
Gordon Hldrs
Stringer
G
 
 
 
6 Tp (CA93)
John
Pte
2825409
 
Seaforth Hldrs; kia
Summers
H
Gnr
 
R Artillery
Suter
Cyril
Capt
 
 
 
Suttie
John, S
Pte
 
 
and 3 Cdo; resided Moffat; 1950s to Harare (CA5, CA27, CA81)
John, Robert
Pte
2181475
 
The King's Regt; kia
K.S.
Pte
14369254
 
East Yorkshire Regt; wounded Italy x2
Swindell
William 
Cpl
 
 
 
Justin
Fus
4204610
 
RWF; wounded 15/4/45; surname changed 1956 to Gibbs
John
LCpl
4469403
 
Durham LI; kia
John, Andrew
Cpl
14241755
Police
 
Middx. Regt; kia
John
Pte
4925885
 
S. Staffs. Regt; kia
Tavener
Eric, William
LSgt
 
RA; and 12 Cdo (CA112); wounded Italy 9Mar44 CasList WO417/73 
Taylor
R
Gnr
2991335
 
RA
Thomas
Gnr
930686
203871
 
RA; 15May41 to OCTU then Loyal Regt; final rank Captain
Alexander
LCpl
2886390
 
Gordon Highlanders; kia
Teasdale
J
Dvr
T/247173
 
RASC
Telfor
Edward
Pte
3190329
 
K O S B
Templeton
W.B.
Capt
91824
MiD
Cameron Hldrs
John, M., 'Jock'
Cpl
2820388
 
Seaforths; Italy wounded 30Dec43; plaque Spean Bridge
Thomas
A
Pte
3971770
 
Gordon Hldrs
Thomas
John, Stuart
Cfn
14368592
 
REME
Thomas
Leslie
Sgt
 
 
 
Thomas
R
Pte
 
Welch Regt
Thomas
 
Pte
2986417
 
A & SH
Thompson
A
Rfn
6970370
 
Rifle Bde
Thompson
H
Pte
4123741
 
Cheshire Regt
Thompson
W
LBdr
877450
 
R Artillery
Donald
Pte
2933811
 
QOCH; died in service
John
 LSgt
3190591
DCM
KOSB; wounded Italy 30/12/43; DCM 1944; wounded 15/4/45
Thurgar
F.P.
Pte
7013391 
 
Beds & Herts Regt; wounded 15Apr45 Italy  WO417/91
Tickell
A
Pte
2880843
 
London Scottish
Titchmarsh
F
Pte
2930666
 
London Scottish
Ronald, John, Frederick
Brig
32187
 
AS&H; Commanding Officer
Todd
J
Gnr
 
 
R Artillery
Toft
George
LCpl
33194973
 
KOSB
Tombleson
Raymond, J.
Pte
5782682
 
Norfolk Regt; from King's Lynn (CA120)
Tremayne
D
Gnr
 
 
 
Treptow
Ronald, Leslie
Pte
277696
 
RASC
Trigg
Eric, Albert
LSgt
14241836
 
Grenadier Gds
Trusler
Kenneth, Frank
Pte
 
 
 
William, John
Pte
14241701
 
KOSB; kia
Tulloch
Andy
Pte
2760016
 
Black Watch
Henry
Gnr
 
Royal Artillery; kia
Underwood
T
Fus
 
Lancs Fusiliers
Urquhart
G
Pte
2757847
 
Black Watch
Robert, Rose
Pte
2991922
 
A&SH; kia
Venables
N.D.C.
LCpl
3606906
 
Border Regt
Venter
H
Sgt
41109V
 
UDF
John
Rfn
6969151
 
Rifle Brigade; kia
Leonard, Alfred
LSgt
2881130
 
Gordon Highlanders; kia
Wade
Lou
Gnr
6088241
 
R Artillery
Wakeham
C
Cpl
2958126
 
Cameron Hldrs
Walker
A
Sig
2587945
 
Dec'42 escape evasion report WO208/4274
Walker
Henry, John
Cpl
 
 
 
Walker
J
LCpl
T/65291
 
RASC
Walker
Roy
Major
245107
MiD (LG37575)
R Artillery
W
Pte
2755230
 
Black Watch
Waller
H
Gnr
14558923
 
R Artillery
Wallis
L
Pte
 
 
 
Walsh
E
Pte
14756703
 
Wiltshire Regt
Walsh
Frank
CSM
2986730
MM
A & SH
Walsh
R
Pte
 
 
 
Walsham
A
Cpl
2002610
 
R Engineers
Ward
David
Pte
14422339
 
Seaforth Hldrs
Warde
S
Pte
3536278
 
Manchester Regt
Warden
D.G.
Pte
14411375
 
R Hampshire Regt
Wardle
S
Pte
 
 
 
Wares
M J
Pte
2822571
 
Seaforth Hldrs
Warren
L.T.G.
Dvr
T/6139709
 
RASC
Warren
W.H.
 
 
 
 
Warwicker
Wally
Pte
5180327
 
Glos Regt
Thomas
Cpl
3911661
 
South Wales Borderers; kia
Alexander, Grant
Pte
3311891
 
Highland LI; died in service
Watson
C.E.
Pte
 
 
 
Albert
Dvr
T/269038
 
RASC; kia
Waugh
William
LSgt
2991737
MM
A & SH
Weaver
T
Pte
14438941
 
Hamps. Regt; WO417/92 (entry deleted, cdo. service needs verifying).
Webb
J.J.
Pte
6148691
 
East Surrey Regt; wounded and POW Italy 3/2/44  WO417/73 & 88
Webber
Raymond, C.
Pte
 
 
later Sgt; from Taunton  (CA67)
Michael, Alfred
Capt
160948
 
OCTU 14Dec40/ Lancs Fus / AAC
Eric, Roy
Capt
 
MC
R Artillery
Westwick
Stanley
Cpl
 
 
 
Westwood
A.
Rfn
6898157
 
KRRC; wounded 3/2/44 Italy WO417/72
James, Howie
Sgt
3065655
MM
Royal Scots; and 12 Cdo; (CA90, CA105, CA106)
Wheeler
G.R.
Lt
271249
 
Glos Regt
Whipps
Les
Pte
5117631
 
S Staffs Regt
A.C.
Rfn
6215601
 
KRRC; 3/2/44 and 19/3/44 CasLists WO417/72 and 73
Alan, Mckaig
LCpl
2881012
 
Gordon Highlanders; kia
White
D
Gnr
4691433
 
R Artillery
White
J
Pte
 
Gordon Hldrs
White
J
Pte
 
N Staffs Regt
White
M
Pte
2992407
 
A & SH
White
R.F.
Lt
337997
 
KOSB
Whitefield
G
LSgt
 
 
 
James
LCpl
3249581
 
Cameronians; kia
Whitehead
Albert, E.
Pte
3602156
 
Border Regt; (CA32); 3/2/44 Italy CasList WO417/72
Whitehead
C
Pte
 
 
 
Whitehead
P.A.
Pte
 
 
 
Whitford
G
Gnr
 
 
 
Whitford
George
Gnr
 
 
R Artillery
Whittingham
George, H.
Rfn
 
 
emig Canada (Obits CA80)
William
Pte
14409959
 
Welch Regt; kia
Wickenden
J
Lbdr
 
 
R Artillery
Wigens
Claude
Gnr
 
RA; CBTC; 4 Cdo; 4Cdo Bde HQ
Wilcox
C
Gnr
 
R Artillery
Wilcox
J
Bdr
853977
 
R Artillery
William, Eric
Pte
4132967
 
Cheshire Regt; kia
Wilkes
Geoff
Pte
4206278
 
R Welch F
Wilkins
George, Rowland
Sgt
2881259
MM
London Scottish
Willbye
 
Pte
11420784
 
London Scottish
Francis, Arthur 
LSgt
14241758
Police
 
RAC: wounded 19/3/44 CasList WO417/73.
Williams
H
Gnr
14266279
 
R Artillery
Williamson
John, 'Jack'
Cpl
3133157
 
R Scots Fusiliers
Eric
Gnr
 
 
R Artillery
Wilson
Alex
 
 
 
 
Wilson
Alistair, D.
Lt
 
MiD
 
Wilson
George, 'Tug'
Sgt
2979257
 
A & SH
George
LSgt
2983410
 
A&SH; kia
Reginald
Pte
4922164
 
S. Staffs Regt; died in service
Wilson
William
Cpl
3190287
 
K O S B
William
Cpl
6470649
 
RAC; kia
Wood
G.G.
Gdm
 
 
and 12 Cdo; post war Kent Police (CA39)
Woodcock
J
Pte
3606977
 
Border Regt
Woodham
William
Pte
 
 
 
Woods
A., 'Timber'
Pte
14208410
 
Buffs
Woodward
Eugene, 'Yorkie'
Sgt
 
 
later Captain; resided New Zealand post war (CA98)
Worsley
J
LCpl
4196653
 
RWF
Wright
E
Pte
14648932
 
Green Howards
George, Alexander
Cpl
3325200
 
A&SH; died of wounds
Wright
Stanley, Arthur
Cpl.later Maj
243599
MC
CA88; Left Cdo to OCTU then MC ref. WO373/14/506
Wrigley
F.
Pte
5783509 Norfolk Regt
 
Wounded 15Apr45 Italy CasList WO417/91.
Wyatt
Albert
WO2
 
 
 
George
LCpl
2885417
 
Gordon Hldrs (London Scottish); wounded Italy x2
Young
Charles
Pte
3323693
 
Highland Li
Young
J
LCpl
3196594
 
KOSB; wounded 1/2/44 Italy CasList WO417/72
Young
J
Pte
 
London Scottish
Young
Ronald
Pte
S/124347
 
RASC
Young
Stuart
Pte
2992521
 
A&SH; (CA51); wounded Italy
15/4/45 CasList WO417/91

 

9 Commando, Overseas

    HISTORY OF No 9 COMMANDO - OVERSEAS  11 SEP 43 - 8 MAY 45

                         Author: John Batten No 9 Commando

                               (Original document  John Mewett . Transcribed by Jennie Barlow)

Once More Overseas

On the 11th of September 1943 No. 9 Commando, strength 27 officers and 427 ORs under the command of Lt-Col R.J.F. TOD, set sail from Liverpool, England to join No. 2 S.S. Bde in Italy. The Commando sailed in H.M.T. "Athlone Castle", the ship which had carried it back to U.K. from Gibraltar less than six months previously.  The ship's company gave the Commando a very fine welcome, and many old friends met again.  The ship was very crowded and little training was possible during the voyage.  The Commando was made responsible for the complete provost duties on board, and those duties kept it well employed.  The ship was dry but previous staff had considerably moistened matters.  The voyage was uneventful and the Commando disembarked safely at Algiers, N. Africa on the 27th of September.

The two main reasons why the Commando did not go direct to Italy were (a) the unsettled L of C in newly invaded Italy and (b) to allow the Commando to become acclimatised to hot climates.  The need for it was borne out by the numbers admitted to hospital suffering from dysentery.

Africa

The Commando were stationed in 'P' Reception Camp, 15 miles S.E. of Algiers. There it underwent the transformation from battle-dress to khaki drill, the intricacies of puttees, the correct measurements of shirt sleeves, hose tops, etc; the unveiling of knees, the battle with insects, the extra discipline required for the unit's health and hygiene. The yellow peril did not materialise, mepacrine did not affect the complexion, but had alarming effects on the bowels until it was warned how best to take it. By the time the unit had to move forward to Italy it was fully acclimatised for tropical countries.

The three weeks in Africa were use in mountain training, physical work and night training. Also the Commando was called on to provide personnel for P.W. escorts, dock fatigues, ammunition dump fatigues and guards for the B.O.D.  Everyone had given up hope of seeing Italy when the Commando eventually received its movement orders. The journey from Algiers to Bizerta was a new experience for the Commando, and a three and a half days train journey in horseboxes. Leaving Algiers on the 23rd of October, Bizerta was reached on the 26th. At Bizerta the Commando was accommodated in the Texas Transit Camp. Why it was called Texas was never discovered unless because of the oily sea of mud on which the camp floated. On the 30th of October the Commando embarked LCIs and sailed next day. The voyage was uneventful except for a few hours stay at St. Augusta, Sicily, where the Commando loosened cramped muscles with games and P.T. followed by baths.

Italy - At Last

The mainland of Italy finally came in sight and the Commando disembarked at Taranto on the 6th of November. Another train journey took the unit to Molfetta, 15 miles north of Bari on the Adriatic coast of Italy where it came under the command of No 2 S.S. Bde, comd. Brig T.B.L. CHURCHILL MC. Billets were found in a large school in the centre of the town. The Commando had only been in Molfetta three hours when the Germans welcomed it to Italy by dropping a bomb on the town which blew out all the windows in the billets. A week in Italy and the Commando was back into B.D. It was not mosquito cream that was required here but frostbites lotion.

It was intended to introduce the Commando to the battle at first by troop raids. Meanwhile, the unit settled down to training. The country with a 40 miles radius round Molfetta was one massive olive grove, which prohibited any kind of advanced training. Initially the unit concentrated on individual training consisting of officers TEWTs, NCOs cadres, range work and WT cadres.

The first troop operation was carried our by No. 2 Troop under the command of Capt. J. McNEIL. The task was to reconnoitre the islands of Tremiti and Piansoa 48 miles east of Termoli. The force embarked on a LCI(L) and an Italian M.T.B. at Termoli on the 15th of November. The islands were unoccupied and after searching them, the force returned to Italy.

A suitable area for troop training was found at Minervino, 56 miles from Molfetta, and it was intended that each troop in turn would undergo ten days intensive training there, commencing with 4 Tp. It so happened that it was the only troop to complete this training as, on the 1st Dec. the Commando was moved from Molfetta to Bacoli, 21 miles North of Naples on the coast. The reason for this move was that the weather in the Adriatic was now considered unsuitable for small landing craft. A two day train journey in horseboxes took us across Italy. At Bacoli the troops were billeted in a Castle, a part of which was an orphanage. HQ was in a building on the beach which on a calm day was licked gently by the sea, but in a storm its lower floor was awash. In fact, the Orderly Room was washed away one day.

Into Battle

The Commando's long period of operational inactivity was now to come to a close, and in no mean manner. In the previous three years almost every operation planned for the Commando had been cancelled, in the next three months almost every one planned took place. The 5th Army's left flank had now reached the River Garigliano where it was held up by strongly entrenched enemy in the mountains North of the river and farther East at Cassino. These mountains completely dominated the Southern bank of the river to a depth of three miles. 10 Corps was on this left flank and as the Commandos now came under its command, it was decided that 9 Commando would carry out an amphibious raid on the North side of the Garigliano. The operation was called "Partridge".

The next weeks were spent in training for this operation. An area roughly similar to the ground on which we were to operate was found. Landing craft were made available for training and a full-scale rehearsal was carried out from the LSIs "Princess Beatrix" and "Royal Ulsterman". On almost every night some kind of night training was carried out. All Christmas festivities had to be postponed. On Christmas Eve the Signal Officer gained fresh popularity by holding a signal exercise, which necessitated troops HQs being represented. The skies poured down and most troop HQs had to wade along paths one foot deep in mud and water. 5TP HQ, on sheltering in a tent of an American Camp in an endeavour to regain communications , found itself in the middle of a Christmas party.  It was thus technically established that vino does not cause as much absorption as aqua. On Christmas Day the A.O., on returning from a visit to the 3rd Pn Rangers, U.S. Army Commandos, turned right, instead of left, into HQ and walked straight into the sea. The sea for the past week had been covered with a thick coat of oil. The guard managed to pull him out. It can be said he was well and truly oiled. The day before Op "Partridge" the M.O. received a Christmas present, a book "Death Tomorrow"!

The main hazard of the operation was the return across the Garigliano, a fast running river, a hundred yards wide. The CO's request for DUKWs was granted and training in these was carried out.

On the 29th Dec. operation "Partridge" took place. It started very badly, as the Navy landed the Commando 95 mins too late and 1000x away from the correct beach. Thus daylight found the Commando still on the enemy side of the river.  At the mouth of the river the main body of the unit returned by DUKWs, but 4 and 6 Tps had to cross the river 2700 yards up from the mouth by swimming and use of ropes. This they successfully achieved, bringing back their casualties. The bagpipes were very effectively used on this operation. When HQ had established itself at the mouth of the river most of the personnel made no attempt to dig themselves in. After one Jerry stonk, the C.O. says they dug so fast, he literally saw them sink into the ground.

After this successful operation, the Commando celebrated Christmas on New Year's Day.  On the 3rd of Jan 5 Tp carried out a patrol to the mouth of the Garigliano.

The first half of January was spent in preparation and training for future operations. Several operations were proposed by 5th Army, then scrapped. These included an attack from the sea on the German bastion at Gaeta, guerrilla warfare in the hills North of Rome, and the capture of Rome by 2 S.S. Bde alone.  All these different plans required the unit to change its type of training for each different role. One day a man trained carrying loads of 68 lbs, next day he was in light assault order. Finally it was decided that the Commando would take part in Operation "Shingle", the landings at Anzio. On the 20th Jan the landings were made, meeting very slight opposition. The Commando had never carried more ammunition and fired less. On the 25th Jan when the Commando was withdrawn from the beach-head and returned to Bacoli, it was wondered why the Commando should have been with withdrawn so early, the reason was soon known. On the 30th Jan the unit moved off on Operation "Ornito".

Operation "Ornito" took the Commando into the mountains North of the Garigliano over tracks, which even mules shunned to tread. The force was made up by 9 and 43 Commandos. Any propaganda the enemy were short of ammunition was quickly dispelled by the Commandos during this operation. Never had so much been dropped on so few. Although the final objective was considered untenable, Mt Ornito was secured and the Field Army were unable to make any further advances from there for three months.

The Commando returned to Bacoli. Up to date the unit had suffered 150 casualties, the C.O. was wounded, the 2i/c missing and Adjt, Capt. M.R.H. ALLEN, assumed temporary command of the Commando. It was impossible to maintain five rifle troops and the unit was reorganised into three squadrons. The C.O. returned from hospital and went to Bari to arrange the transfer of the Commando to the Adriatic for operations on the Dalmation coast of Jugoslavia. It was felt that an operation using the whole Commando was out of the question until reinforcements arrived. This complacency was rudely shattered by a cryptic signal on the night of Feb 27th from 5th Army HQ; warning the Commando to be prepared to embark for Anzio on Mar 1st. The C.O. was still in Bari and it was hoped a mistake had been made. Nonetheless, on the 1st March, the Commando, strength now 14 offrs and 255 ORs, embarked at Baia on two LCIs for Anzio.

Anzio Again

Anzio was not the same. The pleasant seaside town was now a shattered battlefield. A new phase was started for 9 Commando, living underground for a protracted period. Many ideas for post war housing could be seen in the various dugouts. The Command Post was a thing of beauty, heat and running water, (when it rained). Life was rather trying, you never knew where your next shell was coming from, the M.T. section had rather a hazardous time. All rations and stores had to be transported by them across tracks more resembling mud pitches, all the time subject to mortar and shell fire. In the innumerable wadis found in the sector in which the Commando was, one could never be sure if the enemy were in front or behind you. Even visiting forward Bn.HQs was a hazardous business.

During the first nine days in the beach-head, the Commando carried out 10 battle patrols, 5 Recce patrols, and 2 attacks of a troop strength, while each squadron had a short period in the line in a patrol and counter attack role. Much useful information was obtained. One prisoner captured by A Sqn. on the 36 U.S. Combat Engineers sector was the first from that sector since the beach-head was formed. On the 19th March, the Commando carried out an attack on an enemy held wadi. Originally, this attack was cancelled except for 9 Commando's part. The wadi battle will remain vividly in the memory of those taking part. It will be considered their longest 24 hours. Incidents flash to mind: the C.O. as No 2 on the Bren to Duggie Brown, the Officers' Mess Cook; Capt BASSETT-WILSON's "Hurry up or you will be too late to throw your grenades at the Germans"; when the I.O. was hit in the water-bottle, the C.O. greeted the gush of escaping water with "Good God, he has been hit in the bladder".

This battle was the first offensive action on the beach-head for a long time, and for days after it the Germans displayed great signs of nervousness.

On the 24th March the Command left Anzio. Dream of clean clothes, dry billets and baths awaiting at Bacoli were rudely shattered when the unit disembarked at Puzzoli. The unit station had been moved to the Adriatic coast of Italy. An unpleasant evening was spent in the former QM stores at Bacoli. Next day the Commando left Naples by train and crossed Italy in the middle of a snowstorm. On the 27th March the unit arrived at Molfetta.

A New Tree With The Same Roots

A phase in the Commando history of 9 Commando had come to an end. Of the unit that had sailed from Liverpool in Sept 1943, there were only 11 officers and 217 ORs left. The percentage of casualties suffered to date was: Officers 80%, ORs 62%. The Commando was about to be rebuilt. The following months were spent recruiting, training and reorganising. Owing to the great difficulties in training, recruiting and training areas, this was to be no easy task. Operational commitments had necessarily to be curtailed. A draft of 11 officers and 80 ORs arrived from the U.K. on 24th April. As no more drafts could be sent from U.K. on account of the forthcoming Western Invasion, recruiting had to be done locally and reinforcements could not come from the hard pressed infantry. Main sources of recruits for Special Services were the R.A. and R.A.S.C. While these men were of good calibre, they had first to be trained as infantrymen, then secondly as Commandos. Some of them had never seen any infantry weapons other than a rifle. Many trips across Italy were taken by officers, chiefly the 2 i/c, Major M.R.H. ALLEN MC, to interview volunteers. Major R.A.C. CAMERON MC even had to return to Anzio. One of the few occasions, if not the only time, volunteers for Commandos were interviewed under fire. Once the volunteers were accepted, there was a considerable delay before they finally reached the Commando. A training troop had to be formed to handle all new intake personnel. The training period started with intensive drill and W.T. periods. This was most essential to bring them up to required in discipline and in handling weapons. Once they were considered proficient, they were posted to troops where they underwent field training. It was decided to rebuild the Commando a troop at a time, commencing with 1 and 5 troops, and these troops were able to start troop training on 25th May. Once again, the training area had to be found outside of Molfetta. Minervino was unsuitable at the time, so bivouac camp was set up outside Monopoli, 45 miles from Molfetta, and the troops, as they were reformed, carried out training there. The heavy weapons troop found a suitable area at Altamura. On the 31st July the bivouac camp was moved further South to Crispiano, 12 miles from Taranto. The area here permitted two troops training together. At this camp one of 4 Tp went sick with an ulcerated stomach. To his Tp Leader's surprise, the sick report excused him boots. Capt. E.J. D'ARCY MC, the M.O., on being confronted with this said "Well the Army marches on its stomach, doesn't it?"

Balkans Through a Stereoscope

During this troop training period, HQ was kept busy planning operations and administering the widely scattered troops. Altogether, nine operations were planned and 27 movement order issued. Operationally the Commando was under command of Force 133, renamed Force 266, then 399. A planning staff was formed consisting of the C.O., Major CAMERON MC; and the I.O. The first operation "Independence", destruction of a radar station on Corfu, was cancelled in favour of "Landlubber I", an attack on a German garrison at Himara, Albania. Capt. BASSETT-WILSON, MC was dropped by parachute to make a reconnaissance. On his report, it was decided that the operation was unfeasible with the force available, and was accordingly postponed. Operation "Landlubber II" was planned to take place in the same area, it was to employ a troop in a guerrilla warfare role. Owing to enemy movements, this operation had to be cancelled.

Meanwhile under "A" Force, two troop operations "Darlington II" and "Pipsqueak" had been placed, and 2 and 4 troops carried them out on the 24th May and 14th June respectively. These operations were similar, and entailed the bringing off by sea of escaped PWs from behind the enemy's line. On "Pipsqueak" the landing craft beached so solidly that the entire troop had to swim to another craft. The Commando now came under the command of the newly formed Land Forces Adriatic. Planning continued unabated. Operation "Gradient", a troop raid on the Northern Adriatic islands of Lussin and Cherso, was the next to be planned. After any changes in the target, 5 troop carried out the operation successfully on 9th August.  No. 2 S.S. Bde returned to Italy on the 24th August from Vis, Yugoslavia, and the Commando once more came under command of L.F.A. Planning commenced for Brigade operation to capture the Dalmation island of Korcula. This was cancelled by A.F.H.Q. Finally operation "Aplomb" appeared and this was to be the planning staff's farewell to L.F.A. They, having looked at so many air photographs, were cross-eyed and had stereoscopic vision. Most of the Balkans was familiar to them through a stereoscope. In fact, when the I.O. flew from Greece to Italy some time later, he instantly recognised some familiar spots in Albania. The planning staff now appreciated that the really important decisions were not made in the Executive Planning Room, but in the bar of the Imperial, the British Officers' Club.

On the 15th August, the Commando moved to a staging camp 6 miles North of Taranto and underwent Commando training.

Greek Campaign

For operation "Aplomb" a force, to be know as 'Foxforce', was formed. It consisted of 9 Commando with under its command four patrols of S.B.S.; one patrol of L.R.D.G., and 75mm gun sec; 4.2" Mortar dets and 0.5 MG Sec R.S.R. Original object of the operations was to destroy a radar station on Kithera Island, South of the Peloponnese. Capt. BASETT-WILSON MC with a patrol of S.B.S. was dropped by parachute in Kithera. P.R. on the 9th Sept showed radar destroyed. The patrol reported the island evacuated by the Germans. The Navy decided to use Kithera as a forward base for Coastal Raiding Forces and Foxforce was to hold the naval base. On the 14th Sept the Force sailed from Taranto in LSI "Prince David" and on the evening of 15/16 Sept landed in Avlemon Bay, Kithera. The population gave the Force a terrific welcome. Next day the Navy decided that Kapsali would make a better anchorage, so all the stores had to be reloaded and shipped round to Kapsali. The ELAS at first appeared friendly and co-operative and their Ops round the island were made part of our defences. The Commando held a defensive perimeter round Kapsali Bay, living in odd buildings or bivouacs. The S.B.S. and L.R.D.G. patrols set off on recces of Poros, Aiyina and Salamis islands and Navplion in the Peloponnese. Operation "Manna", the landing of British forces at Piraieus, was planned to take place at the beginning of October. Foxforce's job on "Manna" was to knock out the C.D. guns on Aiyina.  HQ, while endeavouring to plan these future operations, was besieged by oppressed Greeks, naturalised British and American subjects, appeals for relief, etc. It also became apparent the ELAS were carrying out subversive activities. The Force was not able to deal with any of these problems because (a) its only job was the prosecution of the war against the Germans, (b) no staff or experience in these matters, and (c) no fixed policy was given by higher authorities. Foxforce HQ to be found from 9 Commando HQ and this placed a big strain on it. This was helped a bit by a C.A.O. and "G III" sent from L.F.A. One additional difficulty at first was the time. The Navy worked on Cairo time, Foxforce on Italian time and Greeks on local time. All different!

In the last week of September the Germans withdrew from the Peloponnese, leaving the Greek Security Bns behind. A naval recce party reported from the Peloponnese town of Kalamata that help was required from British troops to prevent bloodshed between the ELAS and the Security Bn at Tripoli. The latter had declared their willingness to surrender  to British troops. The C.O. immediately set off with a troop to Kalamata, where he managed to arrange the surrender of the Security Bn. They were to be taken under a joint British and ELAS guard to Spetzai, an island off the Peloponnese. At one period during these negotiations, the C.O. found himself left alone amidst a band of ferocious guerrillas as a sign of good faith. The surrender was carried out successfully and the C.O. returned to Kithera, leaving Major R.A.C. CAMERON MC in charge of one section to act as British part of the guard. En route for Spetzai, Major CAMERON managed to arrange the surrender of the Security Bn garrison at Navplion. This was no easy task as fighting had already broken out between the garrison and the ELAS. After overcoming many difficulties in transport and shipping, Major CAMERON's party reach Spetzai on 5th Oct. A Stirling woman summed up the situation in the Peloponnese for Major CAMERON when she said "It was Hell under the Germans but worse with the ELAS".

On the 24th Sept 'C' Sqn of the Greek Sacred Regiment arrived from the M.E. and came under the command of Foxforce. The patrol to Poros reported that the island had been evacuated by the Germans. The Navy decided to move the naval base to Poros and on 30th Sept the Force sailed on minesweepers to Poros. On the Force's arrival in Poros Bay at first light on 1st Oct, there was wild firing from the shore. An opposed landing was feared until it was realised that it was an old Greek custom to signify welcome. Again the population was jubilant. The force took up positions around the bay with Ops on the hills overlooking Aiyina, 11 miles away. Any craft venturing on the North side of Poros Island was shelled from Aiyina. Again the Force was confronted with civilian problems. The ELAS in the newly liberated Peloponnese were not losing much time in assuming control. Opponents conveniently disappeared, men were conscripted and food was pillaged from villages. Many Greeks arrived at Poros driven from their homes by terror of the ELAS. Major CAMERON's party at Spetzai reported the ELAS were being most uncooperative and were indulging in anti-British propaganda.

Planning for the operation on Aiyina continued. There was no air cover of the island in spite of urgent appeals to L.F.A. Much information was obtained about the German positions in the Gulf of Athens from patrols and interrogation of German PWs and Greek caique skippers. Briefing was handicapped by the necessity for all orders having to be translated to the C.O. of the Sacred Greek Regt. By the 11th October all plans for the attack on the Aiyina C.D. Batteries at Perdhika and Tourlos were firm. D-day was on the 13th Oct. Air and naval support was arranged including preliminary softening up raids on D - 1. On D - 2 the enemy evacuated Perdhika and the plans had to be changed accordingly. Then on D - 1, AFHQ ordered an attack on Fleves Island to coincide with the Aiyina attack. In the afternoon of D - 1, patrols reported Aiyina completely evacuated. "Emergency Operation" signals sped back and forward between Poros and Italy. All changes in the air support had to be made through L.F.A. in Italy. Changes in the naval support had to go via S.N.O. Poros to the Navy in the M.E. at Alexandria. To add to the excitement, a plane from M.E. at last dropped us the long requested air photographs. They were the air cover of Poros and Aiyina! On the evening of D - 1, the 12th Oct, the final orders from L.F.A. arrived: cancel attack on Aiyina, secure port of Piraieus and aerodrome at Kalmaki preventing demolitions at both, D Day the 14th that same night the OPs reported many demolitions at Piraieus. On the 13th October a small patrol went to Fleves and found the island evacuated. At 2100 hours on the 13th the Force embarked on 2 LCTs and sailed for Piraieus. The minefield between Aiyina and Piraieus was successfully passed at first light on the 14th. As the landing craft came in sight Piraieus harbour, every available craft in the bay came speeding towards them. In no time the Force was surrounded by a cheering armada. The Germans had left the day before. On the shore could be seen a solid black mass of Greeks. The caique harbour had been left undamaged so the landing was made there. The assault troops made a beach-head in the crowd to allow the force to disembark. The C.O. of the British Military Mission in Athens decided it was essential that British troops should enter Athens immediately in order to prevent civil disturbances. The Force made a quick change from denim battle order into K.D. parade order, and by bus were taken to the outskirts of Athens. There the Force was joined by a weak company from No. 4 Para Bn, who had dropped at Megara airfield that morning, and were just in time to take part in the entry into Athens. The Force made a ceremonial march through the streets of Athens to Constitutional Square. Vast crowds cheered the procession and at time almost engulfed the Force. In Constitutional Square the Force was inspected by the Greek Military Governor of Attica. Then the Force marched past the Unknown Warrior's Tomb on which the C.O. laid a wreath. The C.O. received the Freedom of Athens. Billets for the Force were provided in the Melakon building in the centre of Athens. There the Force was virtually imprisoned by madly cheering crowds. This building became the centre of demonstrations and processions which continued by torchlight after dark. Greek political slogans, songs, dances, loudspeakers and more political slogans rent the air. The only starving people in Athens that night was Foxforce, having had no food that day save a haversack breakfast at 0500 hrs. Late at night M.T. forced the way through the mob and raised the siege.

The following days saw no diminution in the crowds. HQ was engulfed by German deserters, Italian PWs seeking protection, British and American subjects, escaped Allied PWs, Greeks desiring jobs with the British Forces. Once the main body of British troops arrived, Foxforce was unceremoniously thrown out of the Melakon building and given as billets a louse-ridden school, which was uninhabitable. Every respectable billet had been chosen in Cairo for other units from a town plan. Foxforce found its own billet, outside of Athens. The Force now came under the command of No. 2 Independent Para Bde Gp and was renamed Commando Force. The S.B.S. and L.R.D.G. patrols ceased to be under command. It was decided that Commando Force, renamed Scrumforce, should be the advance party of the occupational troops for Salonika. On the 29th of October the 'C' Sqn. Sacred Regiment ceased to be under command of Scrumforce. On the 30th October the Force embarked at Piraieus on LCIs. The stores were loaded on caiques with Lieut. P.H. BOLTON i/c. When a storm dispersed the caique fleet, it became known as Bolton Wanderers. Just prior to leaving Piraieus, the CC, Lt-Col R.J.F. TODD DSO, had to return to Italy to assume command of No. 2 S.S. Bde in succession to Brig. T.B.L. CHURCHILL MC. Major M.R.H. ALLEN MC assumed temporary command of 9 Commando and Scrumforce with the local rank of Lt-Col. On the 31st October the Force disembarked at Skiathos Island, which was to be used as an advance staging area for Salonika. Bivouacs were made in an olive grove. On leaving Italy the Commando had been ordered to prepare for a three weeks operation. It was now well into the second month of the Force's stay in Greece and the stores were being heavily strained. On the 2nd of November Flyforce, commanded by Major R.A.C. CAMERON MC, the advance party of Scrumforce, entered Salonika. Three days later, after one of the worst voyages ever experienced, the main body of Scrumforce arrived at Salonika. The craft had crossed a heavily sown and unswept minefield, which later proved very destructive against following convoys. The ELAS were in complete control here. The main body of British troops arrived on the 7th November. Scrumforce was split up. The R.S.R. detachments ceased to be under command. Lt-Col HAMILTON-HILL, the C.A.O., returned to Italy. 9 Commando was left by itself and came under command 7 Ind Inf Bde. On 13th November a detachment of 50 All Ranks formed part of a guard of honour for the arrival of MODIS, Governor General of Salonika.

There was a tense situation at Drama between Nationalists and the ELAS. Co 9 Commando had to despatch two troops to show the flag and maintain order by their presence. 1 and 2 Tps made up this force, called Dramforce, under the command of Capt. H.T. KITHER. The journey to Drama was rather a long business owing to enemy demolitions especially at the river Strymon which had to be crossed by a slow ferry driver by the current of the river. Dramforce held ceremonial parades in Drama and the neighbouring towns, which greatly impressed the local populace. A patrol was maintained on a temporary boundary set up between the ELAS and Nationalists.

The situation remained tense the whole time Dramforce was there. Dramforce were relieved by 1st Coy R. Sussex and returned to Salonika on the 1st December.

At the beginning of November 9 Commando was split up all over Greece. The main body was at Salonika, a rear HQ in Athens, two troops were at Drama, one section was at Skiathos, and one section still at Spetzai. In addition there was a rear party in Italy.

On the 1st December Lt-Col. J.M. DUNNING-WHITE, 8 Hussars, arrived from U.K. fresh from the Western front, to take over command of No. 9 Commando.

When fighting broke out in Athens a high state of preparedness had to be maintained in Salonika. On the event of the outbreak of fighting, all forces in Salonika had to withdraw into and hold a perimeter. The Commando had to provide guards for several VPs and PW escorts. The Commando's role in the perimeter changed several times, and the C.O. had to change his plans accordingly. Adding to his difficulties was the necessity of carrying our recces as unostentationously as possible, pretending he was sightseeing. As the situation had deteriorated, the Commando had to move into the perimeter and was billeted in Allatini Flour Mills, the troops living amongst the machinery. Everyone was confined to billets and street patrols were sent out during the hours of darkness.  Christmas once again could not be celebrated on 25th December, all festivities being postponed. The ELAS remained very correct, but obstructed the British at every turn, while expounding the most violent anti-British propaganda. A football match the C.O. had arranged with the ELAS was cancelled by EAM. Spies were everywhere. The C.O. and 2 i/c were sniped at in their car. The ELAS celebrated the New Year by firing all their weapons into the air. The Military Command in Salonika feared that the ELAS attack had commenced and ordered a stand to. So 0030 hrs on the 1st January 45 saw 9 Commando standing to, ready for battle (hic). Woe to any foe that had crossed their path that night.

The beginning of January saw the complete rout of the ELAS in Athens, forcing them to seek terms. By the conditions of the terms they had to withdraw outside the Salonika area and be clear by the 16th January. The C.O. with 1, 2 and 5 Tps patrolled an area up to the withdrawal boundary to confiscate any stores not clear by midnight 16th January. The whole Commando was then employed in house searching for arms and ammunition.

During this period a certain amount of sport was carried out. The football team played very well and was highly placed in the Salonika League. A very successful novices' boxing competition was run.

The Greek situation by the end of January being under control, it was possible to release 9 Commando from Greece. The three weeks stay in Greece had dragged out to almost five months, by the time the Commando left Salonika on the 6th February aboard two LSTs. No one was really sorry to leave Greece. The stay in Salonika had been most irksome and uncomfortable, being neither one thing nor the other, battle or peace. Most of the unit's kit was still in Italy. Welfare was very slow in arriving and the Commando always seemed to be one step ahead of it. Training was impossible owing to the many moves and constant state of emergency. Altogether, save for a few days in Athens, the Greek campaign for 9 Commando was marked by constant fatigues, guards, moves and periods of stand to.

Return to Italy

After a four week voyage, the Commando arrived at Taranto on the 10th February. By the 11th the unit had moved into its new station at Martina Franca. The next weeks were spent in reorganisation, administration and training.

W.T., Sen NCOs and Sub Offrs demolition, snipers and field craft cadres were held. The Commando classified in all weapons. The period of time given to the C.O. for this very essential work had to be curtailed by operational necessity. On the 11th March the Commando had to move to Ravenna to join 2 Commando Bde. The move was made by train to Rimini and thence by M.T. arriving at Ravenna on the 14th. The armies in Italy, bogged down for so long, were preparing for their final big offensive, in the initial stages of which, 2 Commando Bde were to play a large part in operation "Roast".  9 Commando started training for its role in this operation.  It was introduced to and became familiar with the new types of equipment it was to use; Stormboats, LVTs (Fantails); Weasels, Lifebuoy flamethrowers and Littlejohn 2 pr A.tk guns. Each troop spent a few days in the line to familiarise it with the type of terrain over which it would be operating.

The Last Battles in Italy

On April 1st the Commando left Ravenna for operation "Roast". This was an amphibious operations involving a crossing of Lake Comacchio. This must stand out in Commando history as one of the most hazardous and complicated operations ever undertaken. The special craft intended to carry the troops across the lake had almost to be carried themselves by the troops. The operation was very successful. During the operation, a man complained that he had no cigarettes. His L/Cpl reminded him that he had been issued seven that morning. "Seven!" he objected. "I smoked them all in one stonk". After the heavy morning counter attack had been repulsed, rations and mail reached 5 Tp. Pte LANCASTER received a book "Bullets for Breakfast"!

The next operation was when one section of 4 Troop under Lieut. P.H. BOLTON was sent to occupy certain islands on Lake Comaccio (Op. "Fryforce"). This was uneventful.

Capt. M.A.W. DAVIES MC rejoined the unit from Staff College, Haifa, on 10th April and took on the job of Adjutant again. The Guard Room has remained full ever since.

On April 11th the C.O. received notice to mount another amphibious operation "Impact Royal" under 24 Guards Bde. It was again over Lake Comaccio, but this time on its South West shore. Little time was given for planning as the Commando had to leave its base, Marina di Ravenna, P.M. on 12th April, embark that night and land the next day in broad daylight - on Friday 13th! The operation was carried out in Fantails (LVTs IV). The landing proved to be unopposed. The operation then took on in principle two bashes against the enemy to clear up to an cross the Fossa Marina which was holding up the advance of the Guards Bde. Though the Commandos did not succeed in crossing, it made it possible for the Brigade to cross, first by clearing the enemy from some very strongly defended positions South of the Fossa Marina, then by knowledge gained of the enemy, his weapons, positions, and the nature of the water obstacle with its many hazards.

The Commando returned to Marina di Ravenna on 17th April. Owing to the casualties sustained on Ops "Roast" and "Impact Royal", the C.O. reorganised the Commando into three rifle troops and a heavy weapons troop.

Total Victory

V.E. Day, 8th May 1945, 9 Commando, strength 25 Officers and 430 ORs, paraded for an address from the C.O., followed by a service of thanksgiving and remembrance, the sounding of the "Last Post, Reveille and Cease Fire." All ranks then had a issue of rum. The Sergeants marched with pipes to the Officers' mess which was drained dry. At night a bonfire was lit and toasts drunk round it in vino.

This ends another phase in the history of 9 Commando. What the future holds is as yet unknown. One more phase or many? Who knows?

Appendix 'A'

 

STATISTICS

Unit Strength

 
 
 
Offrs
ORs
‘’          ‘’
Embarked at Loverpool 11th Sept 43
:
 
27
427
‘’          ‘’
After Operation “Anzio II”
:
 
12
217
‘’          ‘’
Embarked Taranto for Greece 14 Sept 44
:
 
27
399
‘’          ‘’
Before OP “Roast” 31 Mar 45
:
 
30
442

 

Casualties

Allied
Missing
Wounded
Operation“Partridge”
 
 
6
ORs
 
 
1
ORs
6
Offrs
15
ORs
Patrol 5 Jan 44
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operation “Ornito”
3
Offrs
16
ORs
1
Offrs
15
ORs
6
Offrs
78
ORs
Operation “Anzio II”
2
Offrs
23
ORs
 
Offrs
4
ORs
2
Offrs
74
ORs
Operation “Roast”
3
Offrs
8
ORs
 
 
 
 
2
Offrs
40
ORs
Operation “Impact Royal”
1
Offrs
5
ORs
1
 
 
 
2
Offrs
48
ORs
Batttle Casualties
1
Offrs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Battle Accidents
 
 
2
ORs
 
 
 
 
 
 
15
ORs
TOTALS:
10
Offrs
60
ORs
2
Offrs
20
ORs
18
Offrs
271
ORs

 

Reinforcements

 
Offrs
ORs
Draft from U.K
24 Apr 44
11
80
Draft from U.K
Oct 44
1
18
Draft from U.K
Dec 44
1
25
Recruited in Italy Apr – Aug 1944 (from 35 Offrs and 361 ORs interviewed
 
10
171
TOTAL:
 
23
294

R.T.U

 
Offrs
ORs
"      "
Sept 42 – Apr 44
1
45
"     "
May 44 – Apr 45
 
42
TOTAL:
 
1
87

 

 
Offrs
ORs
On 8 May 45 Nos still in Cdo who were in it when it was formed Nov 40
8
79
On 8 May 45 Nos still in Cdo who embarked U.K. Sept 43
10
152
Estimated Casualties inflicted on Enemy by 9 Cdo between 29 Dec and 15 Apr 45         
9
1600

 

Appendix 'B'

DECORATIONS AND AWARDS

 

D.S.O.

D.C.M.

M.C.

Bar to M.C. 

M.M.

Mentioned in Despatches

 

Appendix 'C'

INSPECTIONS AND VISITS

20 Nov 43
Molfetta
Brig. T.B.L. CHURCHILL MC; Comd. 2 S.S. Bde inspected the unit.
1 Jan 1944
Bacoli
Brig. T.B.L. CHURCHILL MC addressed the unit.
   Jan 44
Bacoli
Gen. Sir Richard L. McCREERY, K.C.B., D.S.O., M.B.F., MC., 10 Corps Comd. Inspected the unit.
15 Mar 44
Anzio
Maj. Gen. GREIGSON-ELLIS, D.S.O. Comd. 5 Div, and Brig LORNE-CAMPBELL, V.C., D.S.O. visited the unit.
20 Mar 44
Anzio
Maj. Gen. GREIGSON-ELLIS, D.S.O. visited the unit to congratulate it on the operation of 19 Mar.
28 June 44
Molfetta
Brig. G.C. DAVY, C.B.E., D.S.O., inspected No. 5 Troop.
29 June 44
Bari
Admiral Sir W. COWAN, K.C.B., D.S.O., M.B.E., inspected unit's guard of honour.
6 July 44
Molfetta
Maj. Gen. R.G. STURGESS, R.M., C.B.E., D.S.O., Comd. S.S. Group inspected the unit.
16 Aug 44
Taranto
Lieut-Col. C.E. VAUGHAN, M.B.E., addressed the unit.
19 Dec 44
Salonika
Brig. D.O. BUTTERWORTH, D.S.O., Comd. 3 Dist inspected unit accommodation.
22 Jan 45
Salonika
Maj. Gen. G.H. BOUCHER, C.B.E., D.S.O., Comd. 4 Ind Div visited the unit.
3 Feb 45
Salonika
Brug. O. do T. LOVETT, D.S.O. Comd. 7 Inf Bde inspected the unit.
15 Feb 45
Martina-Franca
Brig. R.J.F. TOD, D.S.O., Comd. 2 Cdo Bde inspected the unit.
1 Apr 45
Ravenna
Brig. R.J.F. TOD, DSO., addressed the unit.
4 Apr 45
Ravenna
Lieut-Gen. C.F. KEIGHTLEY, C.B., D.S.O., O.B.E., Comd. 5 Corps visited unit and congratulated it on Op "Roast".
7 Apr 45
Marina di
Ravenna
Field Marshall, The Honourable Sir Harold R.L.G. ALEXANDER, G.C.B., C.S.I., D.S.O., M.C., visited Brigade and met all Cos and Major L.S. CALLF, M.C. He was accompanied by the Army Comd. Lieut-Gen. Sir Richard L. McCREERY, K.C.B., D.S.O., M.B.E., M.C. and 5 Corps Comd. Lieut. C.F. KEIGHTLEY, C.B., D.S.O., O.B.E.
26 Apr
Marina di
Ravenna
Brig. R.J.F. TOD, D.S.O. inspected the unit.

 

SAEGERT, John Maclean (Lt. Col)

Known as: 
Jack
Rank: 
Lieutenant Colonel
Unit / Base: 
9 Commando
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Engineers
Service: 
Army
Number: 
14725
P.O.W. camps: 
Born: 
Monday, April 15, 1901
Birthplace: 
London
Died : 
Wednesday, September 18, 1946
John Maclean Saegert
13 July 1921 Royal Military Academy commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Royal Engineers [1].
13 July 1928 promoted Lieutenant [2][2a].
13 July 1932 promoted Captain [2].
1 August 1938 promoted Major [2].
29 July 1940 - 28 October 1940 - Acting Lieutenant Colonel [2].
28 October 1940 - Temporary Lieutenant Colonel [2].
1940 posted Commanding Officer of No.9 Commando on its formation [3].
June 1942 (Royal Engineers attached 10 Indian Divn.) commanded the demolition scheme to cover the withdrawal from Sollum and Mersa Matruh, Egypt, awarded D.S.O. [4][4a][4b].
28 June 1942 (10 Indian Divn, Madras S&M) reported missing believed prisoner of war [4b].
1942 Prisoner of War Camp 21 at Chieti, Italy [5].
May 1944 P.O.W. in German hands repatriated due to acute T.B. [6].
8 December 1944 placed on the HP List on account of disability [7].
14 July 1945 retires on account of his ill health, and granted the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel [8].
18 September 1946 died Ontario Canada [9][10].
Buried at King's Cemetery, Ontario [10].
Distinguished Service Order recommendation
At Sollum in June 1942 Lt. Col. Saegert was in entire charge of the large demolition scheme which accompanied the withdrawal. The thorough and conscientious way this work was carried out at very short notice was largely responsible for denying to the enemy any of the large accumulations of stores which were collected in the position.
As a final task and at considerable personal risk Lt. Col. Saegert himself carried out the blowing up of a large portion of the Sollum Pass Road, thus denying that route to the enemy for some time.
Again at Mersa Matruh on the 27/28 June 1942 Lt. Col. Saegert supervised the execution of the the vast demolitions with highly successful results and so thoroughly that little of any use fell into enemy hands.
Regardless of his own safety Lt. Col. Saegert remained to ensure that everything had been destroyed and that the demolition parties had withdrawn. Although he could have escaped by boat he elected to fight his way out with his Sappers. Throughout both these operations his personal courage and leadership were outstanding and it was mainly through him that both these operations were successfully carried out [4a][4b].
 
Sources
[1] London Gazette 32404.
[2] Gradation Lists of Officers in the British Army / Half-Yearly List For 31 Dec 1940.
[2a] London Gazette 32844.
[3] No.9 Commando War Diary.
[4] London Gazette 36994, page 1547 (announced 22 March 1945)
[4a] National Archives file WO373/97/149.
[4b] Casualty Lists /National Archives file WO417/3.
[5] Prisoners of War Lists for Italy / National Archives file WO392/21.
[6] Find My Past record.
[7] London Gazette 36829, page 5619.
[8] London Gazette 37214, page 4066.
[9] Government Probate Death Indices.
[10] Photo of headstone on FindaGrave website.
[Image]  © Alex Saegert (grandson).
 
Notes
There is a file at the British Library (Asian and African Studies) reference MSS EUR/ F296/3 (Madras Sappers Officers Association Papers) listed as Correspondence regarding the citation of Maj J M Saegert RE. Full details not known.
 

TOD, Ronald John Frederick (Brig)

Known as: 
Ronnie
Rank: 
Brigadier
Unit / Base: 
6 Independent Company
11 Independent Company
9 Commando
Regiment/Corps: 
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Service: 
Army
Number: 
32187
Born: 
Friday, November 3, 1905
Died : 
Saturday, April 5, 1975
Commissioned  into the Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders in 1925. Served in No 6 Independent Company and was  Officer Commanding No 11 Independent Company in 1940 and later took command of No 9 Commando in 1942.  Awarded DSO, and later a Bar to the DSO, each for "gallant and distinguished services in Italy " whilst commanding No 9 Commando in 1944.  Promoted Brigadier and Officer Commanding 2 Commando Brigade,  in 1945 he was awarded a CBE for "gallant and distinguished services in Italy."
 

Commando Association Newsletter 61 of 1975.

"We are saddened by the death on 5th April last of Brigadier Ronald John Froderick Tod CBE, DSO & Bar,  Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, a Vice President of the Association and one of the first Commanding Officers of the Independent Companies from which Army Commandos were developed. Lt.Colonel Michael Allen (9 Commando) writes:
 
Ronnie Tod, as he was universally and affectionately known, rose spontaneously during the Second World War to the occasion for which he had been trained as a regular soldier, and throughout his wartime commands of No. 6 Independent Company, No. 9 Commando and ultimately 2nd Commando Brigade, he operated as a talented, intrepid, and adventurous professional.  He instinctively recognised the right job to be done, acknowledged the supreme significance of the men with whom he had to see to the doing of it, and then commanded, cared for, and directed them accordingly. Those men remained under his command with unswerving resolution and loyalty for so long as they were fit and able.
Ronnie Tod was daunted by nothing except concern for his men, and at all times was inspired by an implacable determination that together they would achieve the object of whatever task or exercise was set them. He will happily have joined those whose names are inscribed in the Cornmando Roll of Honour Book which rests in St. George's Chapel, Westminster Abbey and we recall that the final completion of this Book of Remembrance was only made possible by his generosity. We have lost another comrade without the like of whom the Army Commandos would never have gained their place in the history of the British Army".
 
Sources:
CBE: LG Publication date: 18 September 1945; Supplement: 37274; Page: 4669
DSO: LG Publication date: 29 June 1944; Supplement: 36586; Page : 3069
Bar to DSO: LG Publication date: 18 July 1944; Supplement: 36615; Page: 3375
 
Photo of grave in Gallery: 
Yes

No.9 Commando 1 Troop image

No.9 Commando 1 troop near the Strymon Bridge, Greece, November 1944.
No.9 Commando 1 troop near the Strymon Bridge, Greece, November 1944. Photo from the collection of Lt Angus Ferguson, No 9 Commando, courtesy of his son Gregor Ferguson.