Police Officers in the WW2 Commandos
Those with pre war military service before joining the Police were on the Army Reserve List and could be called up at the outbreak of war. Some then volunteered from Regiments when the Commandos were formed. Police Officers were later permitted to volunteer direct for the Commandos and there were three Police Intakes at the Commando Basic Training Centre.
1st Police Intake - 24 June to 27 August 1942, total 68.
2nd Police Intake - 23 July to 24 September 1942, total 273.
3rd Police Intake - 15 October 1942 to 18 January 1943, total 84.
The list below is not complete. ?? after police service means suspected but not confirmed.
ALEXANDER, Charles Henry
Trooper
14241760
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Leicester Police
Lance Corporal Charles Alexander was reported missing 2 March 1943 during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war. He had volunteered as part of the Police Intakes to the Commandos.
In 1939 he was a Police Constable in Leicester residing at 7 The Cresent, Melton Mowbray.
ANDERSON, Barrie Sherwill Norman
Trooper
14241781
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Staffordshire County Police
Died on active service
Trooper Barrie Anderson was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations in North Africa and later found to be a prisoner of war. He died of wounds in captivity on 12 January 1943 in Italy.
ANDREWS, Alfred Archley
Fusilier
14604353
No 1 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Alfred Andrews died during operations at Kangaw, Burma. He had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. Son of George Andrews, and of Dora E. Andrews, of South Harrow, Middlesex.
Alfred Archley Andrews, Police warrant number 125297, joined the Metropolitan Police on 12 Oct 1936. In 1939 he was PC 704K at Walthamstow Police Station, on K Division.
ANSELL, Arthur James
Trooper
14241725
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Arthur James Ansell, warrant number 126925, joined the Metropolitan Police on 7 June 1938. Last posted to 'N' Division as a Constable.
1939 married and serving at the Police Station, 12A Holmes Road, Kentish Town, London.
1942 volunteered as part of the Police Intakes to the Commandos
ASHTON, Colin William
Fusilier
14241646
30 Commando Assault Unit
Lancashire Fusiliers
Lancashire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Colin Ashton, 34 Army Troop, died during operations in the Aegean when his unit was attacked on Leros and bombed by enemy aircraft. He has no known grave.
ASHWORTH, James Kenyon
Private
No 1 Commando
West Sussex Constabulary
James Ashworth was a serving Police Officer from Sussex who volunteered for the Commandos. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at 116 The Gardens, Southwick, Sussex. Post war member of the Commando Association.
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 98 issued March 1994.
AUSTIN, Selwyn Ronald
Private
14241782
No 1 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment
Coventry City Police / Warwickshire Constabulary
Private Selwyn Austin was wounded 17 March 1943 during operations in North Africa.
Selwyn was a Coventry Police Constable who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intake that commenced July 1942. Post war member of the Commando Association.
Sources
BAGOT, Henry Hunter
Known as:
Harry
Trooper
14241647
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Manchester Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Henry Bagot died during operations at Bizerte, Tunisia. He was a serving Police Officer who had volunteered as part of the Police Intakes. Henry joined the Manchester Police on 19 December 1940.
Sources
CWGC.
Manchester Police Index 1812-1941 (First names listed as Harry (Henry Hunter).
BAKER, Herbert Valentine
Lance Corporal
14241761
No 1 Commando
Royal Warwickshire Regiment
Derbyshire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Herbert Baker died during operations at Kangaw, Burma.
He was a serving Police Officer who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. Herbert was the son of Albert and Harriet Baker, and husband of Beatrice Ellen Baker, of Handsworth, Birmingham.
BAKER, Kenneth, C.
Private
14241727
No 1 Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
West Sussex Constabulary
Private Kenneth Baker was wounded 23 February 1943 during operations in North Africa.
He volunteered for the Commandos from the Police. In 1939 he was single, residing at Havelock Road, Bognor Regis, and his occupation listed as Police - West Sussex County Council.
Sources
BALE, John Henry
Private
14241608
No 1 Commando
South Wales Borderers
Newport Borough Police
Private John Bale was reported missing 2 December 1942 during operations in North Africa (Tunisia), later found to be a prisoner of war in Italy [1][1a].
1943 escaped from captivity to a neutral country [2][2a].
1944 repatriated back to the UK [3].
BARDENS, John Henry
Gunner
14241811
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
??
Gunner John Bardens was reported missing 2 March 1943 during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war. 1946 resided Plymouth.
BARLOW, Jack
Lance Corporal
6482241
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Colonial Police Medal
Lance Corporal Jack Barlow served in 6 troop and also in the Intel Section of No.2 Commando. He was one of the Metropolitan Police Intakes to the Commandos. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at the Police Section House, Arlington Road, Camden London [Source: The 1939 Register for Camden].
The following is from his daughter Jennie Barlow.
BARNES, Norman Alfred George
Trooper
14241844
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Hampshire County Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Norman Barnes died of wounds in North Africa [1]. At the time of his death his Commando were engaged in operations at Bizerte, Tunisia.
Extract from the No 1 Commando War Diary 6-8 December 1942
6 Dec.1942 - Unit returned to TABARKA (under troop arrangements) from Operation
BARNES, William Walter
Lance Sergeant
6482223
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Mentioned in Despatches
1939 William Barnes was a Metroplitan Police Constable residing in Paddington.
1942 volunteered for the Commandos as part of the 1st Police Intake.
December 1942 (Fusilier) No.2 Commando 6 Troop.
20 March 1945 (Fusilier) (No.2 Commando) wounded during operations in Italy.
BARRASS, Nicholas William
Lieutenant
295395
14253337
No 4 Commando
Royal Artillery
Bradford Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Nicholas Barrass died during operations in Holland. Whilst engaged in a house clearance at Flushing he was killed by a sniper who fired from an adjacent building. Commissioned from the ranks as Second Lieutenant on 2 October 1943.
BARTLETT, Brian, V.
Trooper
14241812
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Bristol City Police
Trooper Brian Bartlett, No.1 Commando, was wounded 17 March 1943 during operations in North Africa. Also served at Commando Group HQ.
1939 Police Constable residing at 44 Kensal Road, Bristol.
1942 volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes.
1949/50 Honorary Secretary Bristol Branch of the Commando Association.
BARTON, Leslie James
Fusilier
14604357
No 5 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Fusilier Leslie Barton was wounded 15 March 1944 during operations in Burma.
He had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Metropolitan Police Constable residing at Gilmour House, Renfrew Road, Vauxhall, Lambeth.
Post war member of the Commando Association.
Sources
BEARNE, Robert Stanley
Lance Sergeant
14604358
No 1 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Robert Stanley Bearne volunteered for the Commandos from the Police as part of the Police Intakes of 1942. In 1939 he was a Metropolitan Police Officer at the Police Station, Walworth Road, Southwark. Post war member of the Commando Association from Southall.
Sources
The 1939 Register covering Southwark.
BEATTIE, James Simpson
Corporal (later Second Lieutenant)
14241854
314128
No 1 Commando
Royal Scots
Edinburgh City Police
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Military Medal (MM)
Queen's Police Medal
Corporal James Beattie was awarded the Military Medal in 1943 in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa [1].
1 April 1944 commissioned Second Lieutenant from O.C.T.U. [2].
1967 (Chief Superintendent, Edinburgh City Police) awarded the Q.P.M. [3].
BENNION, Thomas James
Corporal
14241783
No 1 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Stoke on Trent City Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Thomas Bennion died of wounds received during operations at Kangaw, Burma.
He was a serving Police Officer who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing in Stoke on Trent.
He was a serving Police Officer who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing in Stoke on Trent.
BENTLEY, Charles
Fusilier
14241648
No 1 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Cheshire Constabulary
1939 Charles Bentley was a Police Civilian Clerk residing in Goostrey, Cheshire [1].
15 January 1940 joined Cheshire Constabulary as a Police Officer [1a].
14 September 1942 No.1 Commando (from the Police Intakes who volunteered that year) [2].
BENTLEY, Donald
Private
14241762
No 1 Commando
Lincolnshire Regiment
Lincolnshire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Donald Bentley died during operations in North Africa. He was a serving Police Officer who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes.
In 1939 he was a Policeman residing at 74 Farthing Avenue Scunthorpe. He is amongst those named on the WW2 Memorial Plaque located at Lincolnshire Police HQ, Deepdale Lane, Nettleham, West Lindsey, Lincolnshire.
BERRY, James Arthur
Private
14241649
No 1 Commando
Cheshire Regiment
Cheshire County Constabulary
20 February 1939 joined Cheshire Constabulary - Police Constable 256 residing at 113 West Street, Crewe. 1942 volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes.
4 March 1943 reported missing in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war.
BETTY, Arthur John
Private (later Captain)
14241813
35447
No 1 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment
Gloucestershire
Private Arthur Betty was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations in North Africa later found to be a prisoner of war in Italian hands. In 1944 he is reported no longer a prisoner of war [1][1a].
BIDDISCOMBE, Edward
Lance Bombardier
14241845
No 1 Commando
Royal Artillery
??
Lance Bombardier Edward Biddiscombe, HQ Troop, was wounded on 31 January 1945 during operations at Kangaw, Burma.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/88.
No.1 Commando Winchester Reunion programme obituaries in Gallery.
Linked Content below.
BINNIE, John
Lance Corporal
6482283
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Lance Corporal John Binnie was wounded 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy (Operation Devon). Wounded again June 1944 at Normandy, France, rank Lance Corporal. He had volunteered for the Commandos from the Police.
BISHOP, Arthur
Marine
PO/X 114618
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Buckinghamshire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Arthur Bishop died during operations in Sicily whilst aboard the HMS Queen Emma during an enemy air attack on the vessel.
BISHOP, Frederick Walter
Fusilier
14317282
No 3 Commando
Royal Scots Fusiliers
Glasgow City Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Frederick Bishop died during operations at Agnone and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). Son of Frederick Walter and Mabel Bishop, of Glasgow.
BISSELL, Stanley
Known as:
Stan or Sonnie
Staff Sergeant
6482222
Commando Basic Training Centre
Metropolitan Police
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Stan 'Sonnie' Bissell joined the Metropolitan Police on the 1st March 1926. In 1930 & 1934 he won silver medal at the British Empire Games middleweight freestyle wrestling events in Canada and London. He was then posted as self defence instructor at the Metropolitan Police Training Centre at Peel House.
BLAKEMAN, Albert John
Fusilier
14604359
No 6 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Albert Blakeman died of wounds during operations at Normandy, France. He had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942.
BOOTH, William Martel
Known as:
Bill
Lance Corporal (later Captain)
14241729
321576
No 5 Commando
No 1 Commando
Essex Regiment
South Street Police Station Romford
William Booth volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable at South Street Police Station in Romford. He served in both Nos.1 and 5 Commandos leaving on being posted to O.C.T.U. Commissioned Second Lieutenant, Essex Regiment, on 10 June 1944. Post war member of the Commando Association who record his rank as L/Cpl (later Capt).
BOYES, Robert Paul
Company Sergeant Major
14241789
No 1 Commando
Royal Norfolk Fusiliers
Hartlepool, Birmingham, Mid Anglia, and North Yorkshire
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Queen's Police Medal
Company Sergeant Major Robert Boyes served in No.1 Commando having volunteeered as part of the Police Intakes.
BRIDLE, Desmond George
Lance Corporal
14604360
No 3 Commando
Royal Scots
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Desmond Bridle was killed in action in Normandy, France, during operations near the Chateau d'Amfreville. He was from South Harrow and one of the Metropoltan Police Intakes to the Commandos.
BROWN, Kenneth, S.
Lance Corporal
14604361
No 5 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Lance Corporal Brown was wounded 13 January 1945 during operations in Burma.
He had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Metropolitan Police Officer residing at the Police Section House, 277 Upper Street, Islington.
Sources
BRUNT, Morris Raymond
Private
14241787
No 1 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Birmingham City Police
Private Morris Brunt was reported missing 6 December 1942 during operations in North Africa, later found to be a prisoner of war in Italian hands.
In 1943 he escaped captivity via Switzerland eventually returning to the UK in 1944.
BUCKLAND, R.A.
Fusilier
6482291
30 Commando Assault Unit
Royal Fusiliers
??
Fusilier R.A. Buckland was wounded during operations in Italy (date not reported).
Source: Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/81.
Notes: His Service number is within a batch allocated to volunteers for the Commandos from the Metropolitan Police in 1942. Awaits verification of any Police Service.
BUNT, Reginald Melford
Private
14241788
No 1 Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Birmingham City Police
Mentioned in Despatches
Private Reginald Bunt received a Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service in North Africa. He had volunteered for the Commandos from the Police as part of the Police Intakes of 1942. In 1939 he was a Police Constable at Digbeth Police Station, Birmingham.
Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Small Heath, Birmingham.
CALLAGHAN, Dennis
Lance Corporal
14241621
No 2 Commando
Black Watch
Halifax Police
Private Dennis Callaghan, 6 Troop, was wounded on 13 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy. He was one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos from Halifax and in 1939 was single and a Police Constable at Warley Road Police Station, Halifax. In the late 70's he was living in Tenerife.
CANT, Evelyn Arthur George
Corporal
14241841
343757
No 2 Commando
Essex Regiment
Essex County Constabulary
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Corporal Evelyn Cant, 4 Troop, was wounded on 16 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy [1][1a].
CAPP, William Thomas
Known as:
Bill
Corporal
14241731
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Corporal William Capp served in 5 Troop and was Piat Mortar operator.
A serving Metropolitan Police Officer he had volunteered as one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos. In 1939 he was residing at the Police Section House, 277 Upper Street Islington.
CAPSTICK, N.
Private
14241651
No 2 Commando
Black Watch
Lancaster Police
Private N. Capstick served in 5 Troop and later the Transport Section.
A serving Police Officer from Lancaster he had volunteered as one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos.
CARRICK, George
Lance Corporal
14241652
No 2 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Colne Police Lancashire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal George Carrick, 3 troop, died [1] during operations on 13 September 1943 at Dragone Hill, Salerno, Italy, where he was initially buried (Map ref 602409) [2].
CARTER, Donald, A.
Fusilier
6482271
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Private Donald Carter was wounded 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy (Operation Devon). He volunteered for the Commandos from the Police.
In 1939 he was a Metropolitan Police Constable residing at the Police Section House, King David Lane, London E1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/69.
CHAPMAN, William Jopp
Private
14241789
No 2 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Birmingham City Police
William Chapman was a Police Constable in Birmingham who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In January 1943 he was in the Mortar Section. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Birmingham.
Sources
The 1939 Register covering Birmingham (listed as Police Constable).
CHEETHAM, Gerald
Fusilier
6482292
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Metropolitan Police
Died on active service
Fusilier Gerald Cheetham, Heavy Weapons Troop, died of illness (pneumonia) whilst on active service in Italy. Son of Thomas James Cheetham and Charlotte Cheetham [1][1a][1b].
A former pupil of Ashton Grammar School before joining the Metropolitan Police from which he later volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942 [2][3].
A former pupil of Ashton Grammar School before joining the Metropolitan Police from which he later volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942 [2][3].
CHESTERS, William
Corporal
14241790
No 2 Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
??
Corporal William Chesters was wounded 17 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy (Piegolette). Post war member of the Commando Association from Derrington, Staffs.
Sources
Casualty Lists / WO417/67.
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 107 (1998).
CLARKE, Hilary Laurence
Fusilier
6482249
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Hilary Clarke was killed in action during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the Bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). He had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942. Son of Ralph and Mahlah Anne Clarke, of Leicester; husband of Evelyn Alice Clarke. His brother Stanley William Clarke, RN, also died in the war.
CLARKE, Patrick Joseph
Fusilier
6482285
No 4 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Metropolitan Police (War Reserve)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Patrick Clarke was killed in action during operations at Normandy, France.
Patrick was a painter decorator by trade residing at 11 Fairmead Road, Tufnell Park, London.
In 1939 he was a Metropolitan Police War Reserve Officer.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/77.
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/77.
CLARKSON, George
Lance Corporal
14241653
No 2 Commando
??
Served in the Mortar Section/ Heavy Weapons Troop January 1943.
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Cheshire.
Sources
Image with details on photo in gallery titled No. 2 Commando Mortar Section/ Heavy Weapons Tp. Jan. 1943.
Handwritten list of No.2 Commando OR's from Mrs Desiree Roderick MBE (CBF).
Image with details on photo in gallery titled No. 2 Commando Mortar Section/ Heavy Weapons Tp. Jan. 1943.
Handwritten list of No.2 Commando OR's from Mrs Desiree Roderick MBE (CBF).
CLEMENTS, Albert Edward
Private
No 2 Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
West Sussex Constabulary
Private Albert Clements served in 1 Troop and was injured in 1943 during training at Gibraltar after which he was evacuated to the UK for treatment. He was one of the Police Intakes who had volunteered for the Commandos in 1942 having served 3 years in the Sussex Police at Southwick and Worthing Police Stations. Post war member of the Commando Association from Sussex.
COBLEY, Victor Charles
Lance Corporal
14241816
No 2 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Plymouth City Police
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Victor Cobley served in the Heavy Weapons Troop. In 1944 he was commissioned Second Lieutenant. A serving Police Officer he volunteered as one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos.
COKER, James Thomas
Private (later Lance Corporal)
14604363
No 1 Commando
Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment
Metropolitan Police
Military Medal (MM)
Private James Coker, 6 Troop, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma. He was a Metropolitan Police Constable who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was serving at Highgate Police Station, Archway Road, London.
Award Recommendation
Arakan 1945
COLEMAN, Lloyd
Private
14241610
No 2 Commando
Somerset Light Infantry
Somerset Police
Private Lloyd Coleman served in 5 troop, ('B' Section, No.4 Sub Section) and, after a course on the 3" Mortar, the Heavy Weapons Troop.
A serving Police Officer he volunteered as one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos and came from Somerset.
Sources
CONWAY, John Alphonsus
Fusilier
14241817
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers, 9th Bn.
Gloucestershire
Fusilier John Conway was wounded 18 January 1944 during operations in Italy. He had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable serving at the Police Station, High Street, Stow on the Wold.
COOK, Kenneth
Known as:
Ken
Private
14241818
No 2 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Police Force not known
Private Kenneth Cook served in 'A' Section, No.2 Sub-Section of 5 troop. A serving Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes.
From 1994 onwards he was the Secretary of the Bristol Branch of the Commando Association.
COOKSON, Charles
Corporal
14241654
No 2 Commando
Kings Own Scottish Borderers
Burnley Borough Police
Corporal Charles Cookson served in 1 Troop and later the Heavy Weapons Troop.
A serving Police Officer he volunteered as part of the Police Intakes to the Commandos.
1939 Police Constable, Burnley Borough Police, residing at 117 Woodgrove Road, Burnley.
July 1942 direct Police Intake to the Commando Basic Training Centre, Achnacarry.
COOPER, Dudley Edward
Fusilier
14241655
No 2 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Manchester Police
Military Medal (MM)
Fusilier Dudley Cooper was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy.
He was a serving Police Officer who joined the Manchester Police on 26 March 1941 before volunteering for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes.
Recommendation
COOPER, George
Private
14241819
No 2 Commando
Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment
Yes
Private George Cooper served in 'B' Section, No.3 Sub-Section of 5 Troop, and later in the Mortar Section.
A serving Police Officer he volunteered as one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos. He was married and from New Houghton near Mansfied.
Sources
Notebook of LSgt Joe Rogers MM of 5 Troop.
COULSON, John Richard
Corporal
14241656
No 2 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Southport Police
Corporal John Coulson served in 5 Troop before transferring to HQ. A serving Police Officer residing in Southport he volunteered for the Commandos as one of the Police Intakes. Post war member of the Commando Association (Liverpool).
COULTHARD, Arnold, C.
Private
14241761
No 2 Commando
Durham Light Infantry
Sunderland Police
Private Arnold Couthard served in 6 Troop.
He was a serving Police Officer from Sunderland who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. He is amongst the Police Officers from Sunderland who had passed their Police First Aid Course named in a newspaper report in 1940.
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Sunderland.
COX, Cecil Ernest Robert
Corporal
14241734
No 2 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
West Sussex Constabulary and Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Cecil Cox, 1 troop died on 22 March 1944 of wounds received on the 18/19 March 1944 during a raid on the village of Grohote on the Dalmatian island of Solta. Son of Ernest and Alice Jane Cox of Horsham Sussex. Cecil Cox was a Metropolitan Police Officer who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942 [1][2][3][5][6].
CRABTREE, Ben
Guardsman
14241707
No 2 Commando
Coldstream Guards
Sunderland Police
Guardsman Ben Crabtree served in 6 Troop [1]. Post war on 6 October 1945 he transferred to the Corps of Military Police [2] before being released from service.
His service number indicates he was one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos. In 1949 he was a Detective serving in Sunderland Police [3].
CRAIG, John
Private
14241657
No 2 Commando
Black Watch
Police Force not known
Private John Craig from Blackpool served in 'A' Section, No.2 Sub-Section of 5 Troop. He was reported missing 13 September 1943 whilst with Rfn. A. Davies in a forward section post on Hill 321 at Vietri Sul Mare, Italy, which was overrun by the enemy for a period of 2 hours. Both were later found to be prisoners of war.
CRAIG, Robert
Bombardier
14241708
No 2 Commando
Royal Artillery
Hartlepool Police
Bombardier Robert Craig served in No.4 Troop and the Heavy Weapons Troop.
A serving Police Officer from Hartlepool County Durham he volunteered as one of the Police Intakes to the Commandos. Post war member of the Commando Association.
Sources
Fred Mather, No.2 Commando.
CRAIG, Robinson Ostle
Private
14241791
No 2 Commando
Kings Own Scottish Borderers
Newcastle Under Lyme Borough Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Robinson Craig died [1] during operations on 11 September at Dragone Hill, near Vietri Salerno. He was buried there the following day, his grave being marked with a cross. However it was never again found and Private Craig is one of the many who now have no known grave [2].
CROWE, Edward Louis
Known as:
Ted
Private
14241837
No 2 Commando
Royal Norfolk Regiment
Peterborough Police
Edward Crowe volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942.
1939 residing with his parents in Sheringham, Norfolk, profession Printers Apprentice.
1941 April, joined the Police at Huntingdon, Peterborough.
1943 January, serving in the Mortar Section/Heavy Weapons Troop of No.2 Commando.
CUNNINGHAM, Stephen
Private
14604367
No 1 Commando
Seaforth Highlanders
Metropolitan Police
Private Stephen Cunningham, 6 Troop, was wounded 31 January 1945 during operations at Kangaw, Burma. Post war member of the Burma Star Association residing Upper Norwood, South London.
DAVID, Douglas, W.
Fusilier
6482296
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
In 1939 Douglas David was a serving Metropolitan Police Constable residing at Blackheath Police Section House, Greenwich, SE10.
Sources
The 1939 Register covering Greenwich.
Handwritten list of No.2 Commandos compiled by Mrs Desiree Roderick MBE.
DAVID, Gordon Percy
Trooper
14241820
No 2 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Frome, Somerset Constabulary
Trooper Gordon David was wounded on 14 September 1943 during operations at Salerno, Italy. A serving Police Officer from Frome, Somerset, he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
DAVIDSON, Douglas Oscar
Trooper
14241622
No 2 Commando
Leeds City Police
Douglas Oscar Davidson was a serving Police Officer who joined the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable with Leeds City Police residing at 45 Richmond Avenue, Leeds.
Post war member of the Yorkshire Branch of the Commando Association.
Sources
DAVIES, Arthur Henry William
Rifleman
14241793
No 2 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
Stoke on Trent Police
Rifleman Arthur Davies served in 'A' Section, No.2 Sub-Section of 5 Troop. He was reported missing 13 September 1943 whilst with Pte. John. Craig in a forward section post on Hill 321 at Vietri Sul Mare, Italy, which was overrun by the enemy for a period of 2 hours. Both were later found to be prisoners of war.
DAVIES, L.
Private
14241658
No 2 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Lancashire Police
Private L. Davies served in 5 Troop and later the H.Q. Section. A serving Police Officer from Lancaster he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes.
Source
Notebook of LSgt. Joe Rogers MM of 5 Troop.
Cropped from CVA Gallery image.
DAVIES, Wyndam Francis
Fusilier
6482247
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Metropolitan Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Wyndam Davies, 6 troop, was killed in action at Dragone Hill, Salerno, Italy. Initially buried as far as is known by the 6th Yorks and Lancs Regiment on the forward slope of the hill.
Son of Francis and Mary Ann Davies, of Port Talbot, Glamorgan.
Volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942.
DAVISON, John Cyril
Known as:
Jack
Corporal (later Lieutenant)
14241659
326323
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
East Lancashire Regiment
Birkenhead Police Force
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal John Davison, No 3 Commando, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during operations at Bova Marina, Italy, between 28 August and 5 September 1943. [1][1a].
DENHAM, Joah Selwyn
Known as:
Joe
Captain
14241763
329309
No 3 Commando
Sherwood Forresters
Lincolnshire Constabulary
Military Medal (MM)
Corporal Joah Denham was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished service during operations at Cape Spartivento, Italy, between 27 August and 5 September 1943 [1][2].
30 August 1944 granted an Immediate Emergency Commission as Second Lieutenant [3].
DENNIS, Thomas Gerald
Lance Sergeant
14241660
No 3 Commando
Cheshire Regiment
Wortley Police Leeds and Liverpool Police
Lance Sergeant Thomas Dennis served in 6 troop and was one of the No.3 Commando boxing team, weightclass heavyweight.
Wounded during operations at Lentini, Sicily on 20 August 1943 and again in June 1944 at Amfreville, Normandy, he was medically discharged as a result in February 1945.
DICKINSON, John, L.
Known as:
Jack
Lance Corporal
14241642
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Yorkshire Constabulary
Lance Corporal John Dickinson was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations in Sicily, later found to be a prisoner of war.
DIGHTON, Derrick John
Lance Sergeant
14205604
No 3 Commando
Suffolk Regiment
Essex County Constabulary
Lance Sergeant Derrick Dighton, 4 Troop, was wounded on 24 January 1945 . At this time his Commando were engaged in operations at Maasbracht. Derrick was an Essex Police Officer who retired as a Chief Superintendent in 1982 having served at Romford, Bishops Stortford, Harwich, Kelvedon, Dunmow, Braintree, Chelmsford and Colchester.
Sources
DOLBY, William Arthur Watkins
Private
14241623
No 3 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
South Yorkshire Police
Private William Dolby was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the Bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge), later found to be a prisoner of war.
A serving Police Officer from Wombwell near Barnsley he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes.
DRIVER, John
Fusilier
14241662
No 3 Commando
Lancashire Fusiliers
Preston Borough Police
Fusilier John Driver was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the Bridge at Malati (3 Commando bridge), later found to be a prisoner of war.
A serving Police Officer from Preston he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was Police Constable 128 residing Linnet Street, Preston.
DRURY, Thomas
Trooper
14241624
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Dewsbury Police
Private Thomas Drury served in the HQ Troop Motor Transport Section. He was a serving Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing in Dewsbury.
DUNFORD, Edwin
Trooper
14317743
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Dorset Constabulary
Edwin Dunford was a serving Police Officer from Dorset Constabulary who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes that commenced in 1942. Edwin joined the Dorset Constabulary on 1st April 1939. He was Police Constable 126 residing in Weymouth.
DUNKLEY, Eric Cambrai
Trooper
14241764
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Northamptonshire Constabulary
Trooper Eric Dunkley was reported wounded and missing 5 October 1943 at Termoli Italy, later found to be a prisoner of war.
EARL, Dennis Victor
Private
14317744
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Wiltshire Regiment 2nd Bn.
Bristol Police Force
Trooper Dennis Earl was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations in Sicily, later found to be a prisoner of war.
A serving Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable, single, and residing at 37 Cotham Vale, Bristol.
EAST, Gerald Thomas
Corporal
6482238
No 4 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Corporal Gerald East, No.4 Commando, was wounded 6 June 1944 (remaining on duty) during operations at Normandy, France [1].
Also served in No.3 Commando and 1 Commando Brigade [2].
In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at 72 Ridley Road, Forest Gate, London, with his wife Edna [3].
ELMS, Frank
Second Lieutenant
304633
No 4 Commando
Northamptonshire Regiment
Northampton Borough Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Second Lieutenant Frank Elms died during operations at Normandy, France.
A serving Police Officer in Northampton he volunteered for the Armed Forces in 1941 serving in the Royal Air Force before joining the Commandos.
Extract from the No 4 Commando War Diary
Extract from the No 4 Commando War Diary
ENNIS, James Francis
Known as:
Jock
Lieutenant (later Honorary Major)
53193
No 4 Commando
Royal Artillery
Metropolitan Police
Mentioned in Despatches
Lieutenant James Ennis received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the combined attack on Dieppe [1]. He had previously taken part in the Hardelot raid where he acquired a nickname of 'Carpet Slippers' [2].
- 31 December 1939 commissioned Second Lieutenant [3].
EVANS, Goronwy Wyn
Sergeant
14241738
No 3 Commando
Royal Welch Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Fusilier Goronwy Evans was wounded on 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone Sicily and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).
A serving Metropolitan Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he is listed as Police Constable 621E, single, and residing at the Police Section House at 53 Judd Street, Euston, London.
EVANS, Gwilym
Private
14241612
No 3 Commando
Welch Regiment
Glamorgan County Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Gwilym Evans was reported missing 14 July 1943, later presumed killed in action, during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (later called 3 Commando Bridge).
EVANS, Leslie Daniel
Guardsman
14241613
No 3 Commando
Welsh Guards
Cardiff City Police
Guardsman Leslie Evans was a serving Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable at Bridge Street Police Station Cardiff. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Cardiff.
Sources
The 1939 Register covering Cardiff.
EVERETT, William, J.
Known as:
Bill
Private
14241614
No 3 Commando
Welch Regiment
Cardiff City Police
Private William Everett was reported missing 14 July 1943 serving with No.3 Commando during operations in Sicily, later found to be a prisoner of war.
A serving Police Officer from Cardiff he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes and resumed his Police service after the war ended.
Sources
Sources
FANTHAM, Maurice
Marine
PO/X 114817
40RM Commando
Royal Marines
Birmingham City Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Marine Maurice Fantham died in Italy on 13 October 1944 from wounds he had received 3 days earlier. A serving Police Officer he had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes.
He is amongst those named on the WW2 Birmingham City Police Memorial located at West Midlands Police HQ, Lloyd House, Colmore Circus, Queensway, Birmingham.
FEATHERSTONE, Charles Roland
Known as:
Ron
Bombardier
No 10 Commando
Royal Artillery
Hull City Police Force
Bombardier Charles Featherstone served in the HQ of No.10 (Inter Allied) Commando. Charles volunteered for the Commandos from the Police. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing in Kingston upon Hull with his parents. His father Arthur was a retired Police Inspector.
FERRIE, James, E.
Known as:
Jim
Corporal
14317290
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Giffnock Glasgow ?
Corporal James Ferrie, 6 Troop, was wounded 11 April 1945 during operations at the River Aller. Post war member of the Commando Association from St. Johnstone, Renfrewshire.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/91.
Commando Association newsletter 49.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/91.
Commando Association newsletter 49.
FLETCHER, Edmund Frederick
Lance Corporal
6482294
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Lance Corporal Edmund Fletcher was wounded 7 July 1944 during operations in Normandy, France. He had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes of 1942.
Edmund Frederick Fletcher, warrant number 125160, joined the Metropolitan Police on 4 Aug 1936, and left on 17 Nov 1946. Last posted to F Division as a PC.
FLETCHER, John Harold
Known as:
Harry
Lance Corporal
14241626
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Yorkshire
Trooper John Fletcher was wounded 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy. He had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Officer residing at 77 Cusworth Lane, Doncaster.
Post war for many years Secretary of the Yorkshire Branch of the Commando Association who recorded his final rank as Lance Corporal.
FRY, William Charles
Private
14241823
No 3 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment
Bristol Police Gloucestershire
Private William Fry was reported missing 14 July 1943, later found to be a prisoner of war, during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the Bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).
He volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a probationary Police Constable with Bristol Police residing in Somerset Street, Bristol.
Sources
Sources
GALE, William S.
Sergeant
14241795
No 3 Commando
Dorsetshire Regiment
Birmingham City Police
Private William Gale was wounded on 13 July 1943 during operations at Agnone Sicily and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).
A serving Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable at Edward Road Police Station Birmingham.
GARRETT, Albert Charles
Known as:
Bert
Lance Sergeant
14604368
Commando Basic Training Centre
Metropolitan Police
Lance Sergeant Albert Garrett served on the staff at the Commando Basic Training Centre from 9th August 1943 - 24th Feb.1945.
A serving Metropolitan Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was single and residing at the Police Section House, 227 Upper Street Islington.
GARRETT, W.J.S.
Sergeant
14241740
No 3 Commando
King's Royal Rifle Corps
??
Sergeant W. Garrett was wounded on 11 April 1945 during operations in Western Europe.
Sources
Casualty Records / National Archives file WO417/91.
Notes
Service number indicates possible Police Intake. Awaits verification.
Service number indicates possible Police Intake. Awaits verification.
GILL, L.M.
Known as:
Len
Private (later Corporal)
14241615
No 3 Commando
South Wales Borderers
??
Private Gill was wounded 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). Post war member of the Commando Association residing in 1965 at Newport, Monmouthshire.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65.
GODDARD, Alfred
Private
14241765
No 3 Commando
Sherwood Forresters
Grimsby Borough Lincolnshire
Private Alfred Goddard was wounded 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). He volunteered for the Commandos in 1942 as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at David Street, Grimsby, Lincs.
Sources
GRANT, James
Lance Sergeant
14241856
No 3 Commando
Black Watch
??
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant James Grant died during operations at Amfreville, Normandy. Son of Peter and Beatrice Grant, of Rothes, Morayshire.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/79.
GRAY, R.H.
Lance Sergeant
14241796
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
??
Lance Sergeant R.H. Gray was wounded on 8 June 1944 during operations in Normandy, France. Post war member of the Commando Association from Acocks Green, Birmingham.
GREALEY, Thomas, Louis
Known as:
Lew
Private
14241742
No 3 Commando
East Lancashire Regiment
City of London Police
Private Thomas Grealey, a serving City of London Police Officer, volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. He was wounded on 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone and Malati Bridge (3 Commando Bridge).
In 1939 Thomas was a married Constable residing at Ferndale Court, Lambeth.
Extract from 1967 CA newsletter.
Extract from 1967 CA newsletter.
GREER, J.C.
Lance Corporal
14241766
No 3 Commando
Black Watch
Scots Guards
??
Lance Corporal Greer, No.3 Commando, was wounded 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy [1].
- 15 November 1944 (Guardsman) (Scots Guards) wounded in North West Europe [2].
- Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing Haxey, Doncaster [3].
Sources
GRIEVE, J.
Acting Lance Bombardier
14241629
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
??
Lance Bombardier Grieve was wounded 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
Notes
Service number indicates possible Police Intake. Awaits verification.
GROSE, Reginald George
Fusilier
6482300
No 3 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
George Medal (GM)
Fusilier Reginald Grose G.M. was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations in Sicily, later found to be a prisoner of war.
- 1939 Police Constable residing at 162 Stanhope Street, Camden.
- 27 June 1941 awarded the George Medal.
- 1942 volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes that year.
HACK, Ronald Roger Louis
Private
14317745
No 3 Commando
Gloucestershire Regiment
Kingswood Police Station Gloucestershire
Private Ronald Hack, 6 Troop, was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations in Sicily at Agnone and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge), later found to have been captured and a prisoner of war [1][1a][1b][4].
HADDOW, David Foster
Fusilier (later Sergeant)
6482263
No 6 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Fusilier David Haddow was wounded 30 November 1942 during operations in North Africa.
He volunteered for the Commandos from the Police. In 1939 he was a Metropolitan Police Constable residing at the Police Section House, Salisbury Road, Queens Park, London.
HALLIDAY, B.N.
Lance Corporal
14241743
No 3 Commando
Middlesex Regiment
??
Lance Corporal Halliday was wounded 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy (Operation Devon).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
Notes
HANTON, John, R.
Private
14241857
No 3 Commando
Black Watch
Metropolitan Police or City of London Police
Private John Hanton was wounded on 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone Sicily and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).
A serving Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing in West Holland Park, London. Post war member of the Commando Association (Arbroath).
HENDERSON, Walter, H.
Private
14241666
No 3 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Liverpool City Police
Private Walter Henderson was wounded on 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone Sicily and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge).
A serving Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable with Liverpool City Police.
HERN, Gordon
Private
14241862
No 3 Commando
Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry
Oxfordshire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Gordon Hern was reported missing on 27 August 1943 during early Italian beach reconnaissance, later presumed killed in action. He has no known grave.
Gordon was a Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as one of the Police Intakes 1942/43. His name is on the Oxfordshire Constabulary WW2 Memorial located at St. Mary's Church, Banbury.
HERSTELL, Ernest Maxwell
Gunner
14317992
No 6 Commando
Small Scale Raiding Force
SAS
Royal Artillery
Bristol City Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Gunner Ernest Herstell served in 6 Commando, then the SSRF (62 Commando) and finally the SAS. He died during operations with 2 SAS at Pantelleria during Operation Snapdragon.
Ernest was a serving Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at 37 Cotham Vale, Bristol.
HEWITT, Albert John Henry
Known as:
Harry
Sergeant
PO/X/114619
46RM Commando
Royal Marines
Oxfordshire County Constabulary
Sergeant Albert Hewett served in 'S' troop.
A serving Oxford Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes and resumed his police service with Oxford County Constabulary after the war ended.
HEWITT, Denis Story
Lance Sergeant
14241767
No 3 Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Nottinghamshire County Police
Lance Sergeant Denis Hewitt, 6 Troop, was wounded in France on the 15th August 1944.
Denis was a serving Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at West Bridgford, and by 1967 was Chief Inspector at the County Police Station, Mansfield Woodhouse, Notts.
HILL, Arthur Charles
Lance Corporal
14604371
No 5 Commando
General Service Corps
Metropolitan Police
Arthur Charles Hill was a serving Metropolitan Police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at the Police Section House in Judd Street, Kings Cross.
Sources
The 1939 Register covering St Pancras.
Service Record.
HILL, Eric Albert
Known as:
Lofty
Corporal
No 3 Commando
Metropolitan Police
Corporal Eric Hill, 4 Troop, served at Sicily, Italy and North West Europe. He volunteered for the Commandos from the Police as part of the Police Intakes of 1942. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing in the Police Section House, Ambroseden Avenue, Westminster.
HILL, Harry Leslie
Known as:
Leslie
Private (later Sergeant)
14241797
No 3 Commando
Royal Warwickshire Regiment
Birmingham City Police
Private Harry Leslie Hill was wounded during operations in Sicily in 1943. He had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable at the Police Station in Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham. Post war member of the Commando Association from Bewdley, Worcestershire. They record his final military rank as Sergeant.
HILL, Reginald
Gunner
14317317
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
??
Gunner Reginald Hill was wounded 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). Post war member of the Commando Association from Stoke on Trent.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/66.
HODGES, William Albert
Trooper
14241632
No 3 Commando
Yorkshire and Lancashire Regiment
Barnsley Police
William Hodges was a serving Police Officer who joined the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at 24 Keir Street, Barnsley.
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Barnsley.
HOLLINGWORTH, Leslie
Private
14604372
No 5 Commando
King's Own Royal Regiment
Metropolitan Police
Private Leslie Hollingworth was wounded 31 January 1945 during operations in Burma.
He had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Metropolitan Police Constable residing at Bromley by Bow Police Section House, Poplar.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/89.
The 1939 Register covering Poplar.
HOLMES, Kenneth, Samuel, B.
Lance Corporal
14241824
No 3 Commando
Devonshire Regiment
Police Force not known
Lance Corporal Kenneth Holmes was wounded during operations at Termoli, Italy, on 5 October 1943 [1] and the following year at Normandy, France on 6 June 1944 [2]. He was a Policeman who volunteered as part of the Police Intakes to the Commandos in 1942 [3].
HOOPER, Samuel, L.
Known as:
Sam
Private
14241616
No 3 Commando
Welch Regiment
Cardiff City Police
Private Samuel Hooper, 5 troop, was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations in Sicily, later found to be a prisoner of war.
A serving Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes and post war resumed his service in Cardiff City Police.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/66.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/66.
HOUGH, Richard
Sergeant
14241669
No 3 Commando
Coldstream Guards
Liverpool City Police
Richard Hough volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing in Pilch Lane, Huyton with Roby, Liverpool.
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Liverpool.
Sources
The 1939 Register covering Birmingham.
Sources
The 1939 Register covering Birmingham.
Coldstream Guards Enlistment Registers.
HOUGHTON, Walter Roy Fairley
Guardsman
14241849
No 3 Commando
Scots Guards
Hampshire Constabulary
Killed in action or died of wounds
Guardsman Walter Houghton died of wounds during operations in Sicily. Son of Walter and Esther Fairley Houghton, of Southampton.
Prior to military service Walter Roy Fairley Houghton was a Police Constable based at the Police Station, Old Milton Road, New Milton, Lymington, Hampshire.
HOWARD, Edward John
Private
14241744
No 3 Commando
East Surrey Regiment
Metropolitan Police (War Reserve)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Edward Howard was reported missing 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge), later confirmed killed in action. He has no known grave.
HUMBLE, William McLean
Known as:
Bill
Lance Sergeant
2940188
No 2 Commando
Queens Own Cameron Highlanders
Metropolitan Police
Military Medal (MM)
Colonial Police Medal
Mentioned in Despatches
Lance Sergeant William Humble, 5 troop, was awarded the Military Medal and also received a Mention in Despatches, both during operations in Italy [1][1a].
Recommendation
"Gulf of Salerno 13th September 1943.
HURLEY, Philip
Private
14503448
No 5 Commando
The King's Regiment (Liverpool)
Birkenhead Police Force
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Philip Hurley, 2 troop, died during operations at Maungdaw, Burma.
Son of Philip and Clarice G. Hurley, of Claughton, Birkenhead.
Philip was a serving Police Officer who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing with his parents at 14 Portland Street, Birkenhead.
IMRIE, Bruce Berriff
Lance Corporal
14604373
No 3 Commando
Royal Scots
Metropolitan Police
Lance Corporal Bruce Imrie, 4 Troop, was wounded by a shell fragment in his shoulder during operations at Weser, Germany, on 7 April 1945. He was later medically discharged.
He had been in the Royal Horse Artillery in India aged 14 to 21, before he came to the UK and joined the Police at age 21.
INNES, James Fraser
Private
14317293
No 3 Commando
Seaforth Highlanders
Stirling and Clackmannan Police
Privates James Innes was wounded on 5 October 1943 during operations at Termoli, Italy. He was one of the Police Intakes who volunteered for the Commandos.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/68.
[Image] Mary Russell (daughter).
IRVINE, J.F.
Sergeant
Commando Basic Training Centre
Kent Constabulary
1955 Police Sergeant at Hythe Police Station and member of the Commando Association. Awaits verification of whether joined the Commandos in WW2 as part of the Police Intakes.
Extract from Commando Association newsletter 21
IRVING, Robert, Anderson
Lance Sergeant
14241798
No 3 Commando
Border Regiment
Birmingham City Police
Lance Corporal Robert Irving was wounded during operations in North West Europe.
A serving Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Constable at Speedwell Road Police Station, Birmingham.
Post war member of the Commando Association who record his final rank attained as Lance Sergeant.
JACKSON, Ernest Stanley
Known as:
Jacko
Fusilier (later Lance Corporal)
6482265
No 4 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Fusilier Ernest Jackson was wounded June 1944 during operations in Normandy, France.
He volunteered for the Commandos from the Police. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at the Police Section House, Crawford Place, Marylebone, London. Post war member of the Commando Association who record his final military rank as lance Corporal.
JACKSON, H.
Lance Sergeant
14241710
No 3 Commando
Durham Light Infantry
??
Lance Sergeant H. Jackson was wounded on 24 March 1945 (remaining on duty) during operations to cross the River Rhine at Wesel and again on 11 April 1945 at the River Aller.
JARVIS, Joseph Augustus
Corporal
14604375
No 5 Commando
Metropolitan Police
Corporal Joseph Jarvis was a serving Metropolitan Police Officer who had volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Constable based or residing at 62 Wapping High Street, Stepney. Post war member of the Commando Association.
JOHN, William, H.
Fusilier
6482272
No 6 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Fusilier William John was reported missing 26 February 1943 during operations in North Africa (Battle of Steamroller Farm), later found to be a prisoner of war in Italy and Germany. He volunteered for the Commandos from the Police. In 1939 he was a Metropolitan Police Officer, single, residing at the Police Section House, Violet Road, Bromley by Bow.
JOHNSON, Henry Horace
Known as:
'Harry' or 'Wham'
Sergeant
14241768
No 3 Commando
Lincolnshire Regiment
Lincolnshire Police
Sergeant Henry Horace Johnson, known as Harry, served in 5 Troop. He was one of the Police Intakes who volunteered for the Commandos. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing at Cliff Road, Stamford.
Sources
The 1939 Register covering Stamford.
CVA Gallery images.
JOHNSON, Herbert
Lieutenant
302137
Commando Basic Training Centre
King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry
Wiltshire Constabulary
Died on war service
Died in the UK
Lieutenant Herbert Johnson died of illness at the Military Hospital, Buchanan, Stirling at 3.45 am on the 17th March 1944. The Register of Deaths records the cause of death as "chronic interstitial nephritis". His profession is shown as "(Detective Sergeant, Police Force) Lieutenant KOY Light Infantry (att. Commandos)".
JONES, George Edward
Gunner
14241633
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Yorkshire
Gunner George Jones was wounded 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). Also served in No.10 Inter Allied Commando.
George Edward Jones volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes. In 1939 he was a Police Constable residing in Kingston upon Hull, Yorkshire.
JONES, Kenneth Edwin
Private
14317295
No 3 Commando
Seaforth Highlanders
Glasgow City Police
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Kenneth Jones died during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). Son of Edwin and Georgina P. Jones, of Glasgow.
JONES, Thomas Ellis
Private
14241672
No 3 Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Liverpool City Police
Private Thomas Jones was reported missing on 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone Sicily and Malati Bridge (3 Commando Bridge), later found to be a prisoner of war.
JOSS, James
Gunner
14317296
No 3 Commando
Royal Artillery
Paisley Police Force
Gunner James Joss was wounded 14 July 1943 during operations at Agnone, Sicily, and the bridge at Malati (3 Commando Bridge). He was a serving police Officer who volunteered for the Commandos as part of the Police Intakes that commenced in 1942.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/65.
KEERY, William James
Corporal
No 1 Commando
Metropolitan Police
George Medal (GM)
Corporal William James Keery G.M. served in No.1 Commando. A serving Metropolitan Police Officer he volunteered for the Commandos as part of one of the Police Intakes. Whilst serving as a Constable, aged 25yrs, he was awarded the George Medal for rescuing 7 persons trapped in a cellar at Queens Buildings Scovell Road at Lambeth, London, 15 October 1940.
KENDRAY, Harold
Lance Sergeant
14241711
No 3 Commando
Black Watch
??
Private Harold Kendray was wounded during operations at Normandy, France.
Post war member of the Commando Association from Thornaby Teesside. They list his rank as Lance Sergeant. In 1939 he was 18 and an apprentice printer living with his family in Thornaby. His Father was a retired Police Inspector.
Sources
KIRBY, William John
Fusilier
6482295
No 4 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Fusilier William Kirby was wounded June 1944 during operations in Normandy, France.
He volunteered for the Commandos from the Police. In 1939 he was a Metropolitan Police Officer serving at the Police Station, High Street, Stoke Newington. Post war member of the Commando Association residing in Clapton before moving to Stamford, Lincolnshire.
LAMBERT, Peter Laurence
Fusilier
6482261
No 4 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police
Fusilier Peter Lambert was wounded 1 November 1944 during operations at Walcheren, The Netherlands. He had volunteered for the Commandos from the Metropolitan Police. In 1939 he was a Police Officer serving at Stoke Newington Police Station. Post war member of the Commando Association residing Garrison Lane, Chessington in 1952.
LAMKIN, Sydney James
Fusilier
6482244
No 2 Commando
Royal Fusiliers
Metropolitan Police (War Reserve)
Fusilier Sydney Lamkin, a Metropolitan Police War Reservist, served in the Heavy Weapons Troop after volunteering for the Commandos. In 1939 he was residing with his wife Irene at 66 Park Road, London N8. Post war member of the Commando Association.
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