William George Ward from Northampton enlisted into the Royal Marines on 30 January 1941, civil occupation Boot and Shoe Operative. He served as a Signaller with the 18th Battalion RM, and the 1st RM Mobile Company, RM Division, before being posted to the Signals Troop of 4 Special Service Brigade in September 1943 which had just been formed the previous month. Marine Ward was subsequently attached to 41RM Commando as a Signaller. Active service included the allied landings at Normandy and almost certainly Walcheren.

30.01.1941 enlisted Royal Marines. 

15.09.1943 posted to 4 Special Service (later redesignated Commando) Brigade.

22.10.1943 posted Commando Depot (Commando Basic Training Centre), Achnacarry.

23.10.1943 temporarily attached to the commando course of 46RM Commando.

09.11.1943 posted HQ 4 Special Service Brigade Signals Troop on completion of course.

10.01.1944 to 19.01.1944 attached 45RM Commando. Awarded 1st Good Conduct Badge. 

16.04.1944 to 21.04.1944 posted Town Fighting Wing, Scottish Command.

05.06.1944 taken on strength 41RM Commando and embarked for overseas service.

06.06.1944 disembarked with 41RM Commando at Normandy.

20.08.1944 promoted Acting Temporary Corporal.

15.02.1945 struck off strength 41RM Commando to 16 Casualty Clearing Station (sickness) and hospitals including the 88th British General Hospital at Turnhout, Begium, and then 49 Rehabilitation Unit.

20.02.1945 appointed Temporary Corporal.

09.03.1945 taken on strength 41RM Commando.

05.07.1945 struck off strength 41RM Commando to 4 Commando Brigade Signals Troop.