ELLWOOD, William Cyril

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Known as:

Bill

Rank:

Company Sergeant Major

Unit / Base:

2 Commando

Regiment/Corps:

Essex Regiment

Service:

Army

Service Number:

6019994

Honours & Awards:

Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)

Operations:

Salerno - Operation Avalanche

Lance Sergeant William Ellwood, 3 Troop, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for gallant and distinguished service in Italy" [1][4].

Recommendation

Gulf of Salerno 13 Sept. 1943

During the Fighting on the 13th September at Dragone Hill the enemy attempted to come through our position. They threw stick grenades and brought automatic fire to bear, killing one man and wounding another. Lt. Peters went forward and was also wounded. Sergeant Ellwood with complete disregard for enemy fire and grenades ran forward in the open and fired magazine after magazine into the enemy from his T.S.M.G. at point blank range. Seven enemy dead were found in this area after the action. Throughout the operations he has set a fine standard of leadership, and although hit twice by shell splinters, has continued to command his sub-section with dash and determination [2].

In September 1941 he was part of a detachment of 25 Other Ranks from No.2 Commando who embarked on H.M.T. Ulster Monarch, and proceeded to Gibraltar from where they made several onward and return journeys between Gibraltar and Freetown, via Ghana and Lagos. Their role on board was primarily manning A.A. guns, the 14 pounder on the stern, 3 Bren guns on the top deck, and general ship maintenance and look out duties. They rejoined No.2 Commando in April 1942. Final rank Company Sergeant Major. Post war emigrated to Perth, Western Australia [3].

Sources
[1] London Gazette 36327, page 256.
[2] National Archives file WO 373/4/96.

[3] CA Newsletter 30 issued 1960.

[4] Troop number and rank of Sergeant in No.2 Cdo WD report by Capt Keep on course intake training instructors 15/12/43.

Additional content:

2 Commando Detachment 13 Sep'41 for 7 months

Archive pages :

No 2 Commando