A TRIBUTE TO THE FALLE FROM 48 ROYAL MARI E COMMA DO O THE 70TH A IVERSARY OF THEIR FORMATIO o.48 Commando was formed 2 months prior to D-Day from a Royal Marine Battalion that had returned to the UK and the Royal Marine members of the recently disbanded number 2 M. .B.D.O. The Command of the Commando was placed in the hands of Lieutenant-Colonel Moulton. ROLL OF HO OUR
In the Memorial Garden at the Royal Marine Museum Portsmouth
Plaque commissioned by Whitbread Wessex Ltd, located at The Rising Sun Pier, River Hamble, Warsash, Hants. Unveiled by Rt. Hon. Countess of Burma, CD, JP, DL, on 28 May, 1980.
OPERATIO “OVERLORD�, D-DAY TUESDAY 6TH JU E 1944
Memorial to 48 Commando RM, St. Aubin, Normandy, France Langrune-sur-Mer: France:
48 Royal Marine Commando was the first to land on Juno Beach with the task of securing the left flank. Dawn revealed a grey sky, the sea was rough, and some of the assaulting flotillas were making heavy weather. H-hour was postponed for three quarters of an hour. Then six infantry landing craft made for land and beached. On the way in several landing-craft hit the beach obstacles and were sunk. There was a heavy swell and a
vicious tidal stream which carried away and drowned men attempting to swim. The beach defences had been almost untouched by the naval and air bombardment.
Memorial to 48 Commando RM, located Langrune-sur-Mer, Normandy, France. The unit landed Normandy, 6 June, 1944, and captured strong point at Langrune-sur-Mer.
St Aubin-sur-Mer on Juno Beach, 6 June 1944. Photo Š IWM (B 5217) A much depleted 48 Commando RM due to losses in the landings launched the assault on Langrune-sur-Mer, a very heavily fortified position. After heavy fighting and severe losses success was complete. They moved forward advancing to their given position to hold the line with the 6th Airborne Division, while masses of stores, equipment and men poured ashore ready to continue the move inland when fully organised. AMATO, DENIS Sergeant 48 R.M. Commando. Aged 25 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: CH/X1615 Commonwealth War Dead Grave/ Reference: 2. P. 2. Cemetery: HERMANVILLE WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
APPLEYARD, FRANK Lance Corporal 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 21 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X 106192 Awards: M M (in Sicily): Son of Charles and Bessie Appleyard, of Shaw, Lancashire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 2. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action
BISHOP, TIMOTHY ROLAND Serjeant 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 20 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PO/X101978: Son of Timothy Smith Bishop and Mildred Gladys Bishop, of Dosthill.
Commonwealth War Dead Cemetery: DOSTHILL (ST. PAUL) CHURCHYARD Staffordshire, N W. Corner. Died of wounds in the Normandy landings. picture of his grave is shown: - http://www.twgpp.org/information.php?id=1096700 BOARDMA , WILLIAM Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 28 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PO/X102664 Additional information: Son of William Henry and Martha Ann Boardman, of Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent; husband of Nina Boardman, of Hartshill, Stoke-onTrent. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. B. 4. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY. Killed in action Normandy
BOTLEY, ALBERT GEORGE Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Aged 28 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: CH/X101475 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 1. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
BOUR E, FREDERICK EDWARD DONOVAN Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 19 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X106138: Son of Frederick and Florence Bourne, of Llanelly, Carmarthenshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 22. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
CAPPLEMA , JOHN Sergeant 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 26 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: CH/X109637: Son of Barker and Beatrice Ann Cappleman, of York; husband of Dorothy Vera Cappleman, of York. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 17. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
COULSO , REGINALD Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 27 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X120489: Son of Robert and Doris Myers, of Leeds, Yorkshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 3. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY killed in action Normandy.
COULTER, WILLIAM KNOWLES Sergeant 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 31 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: CH/X102466: Son of Robert John and Jane Smith Coulter, of Falkirk, Stirlingshire; husband of Margaret Coulter, of Bainsford, Falkirk. Commonwealth War Dead Gravel Reference: XIV. A. 8. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY killed in action Normandy
CURTIS, EDWARD GEOFFREY Lieutenant “B” Troop 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 24 Date of Death: 06/06/1944: Son of Edward James Curtis and Jane Curtis, of Frizinghall, Bradford, Yorkshire. Died of wounds. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XV. A. 23. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY
DEWHURST, FRANCIS JOSEPH Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 19 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X109309: Son of James and Edith Dewhurst, of Preston, Lancashire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 12. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY killed in action Normandy
EDWARDS, GERARD Marine 48 R.M. Commando.: Age 21. Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: CH/X111667: Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. B. 10. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY killed in action Normandy
FEREDAY, WILLIAM THOMAS GEORGE Marine 48 R.M. Commando Age: 20 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PO/X110732: Son of William and Alice Fereday, of Toll End, Staffordshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XV. A. 21. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY killed in action Normandy
FORD, WILLIAM HENRY Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X104842: Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. B. 5. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
FOX, WALTER Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 28 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PO/X110652: Son of William John and Rose Fox; husband of Gladys Matilda Fox, of South Norwood, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. B. 6. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
HALL, LEONARD JOHN ALBERT Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age 21 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: CH/X106543 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. B. 1. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
HILTO , ARTHUR; Corporal “HQ” Troop Signals Section 48 R.M. Commando. Aged 26 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X120196 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. B. 2. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
HUMPHREYS, CHARLES HARRY Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X120073 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. B. 11. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
JEHU, EDWARD Sergeant 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 24 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X101133: Son of Edward Llewelyn Jehu and Mary Elizabeth Jehu, of Llanfair Caereinion, Montgomeryshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. B. 7. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
JOH SO , ALFRED GEORGE Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age 23 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PO/X108641: Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 7. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
LARKI , JOSEPH THOMPSON Lance Corporal 48 R.M. Commando. Formerly 7th Battalion RM Age 22 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X 104620 l: Son of Joseph Thompson Larkin and Matilda Larkin, of Belfast, Northern Ireland; nephew of Mary Agnew, of Belfast. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: Sec. M. 12. Grave 81. Cemetery: SOUTHAMPTON (HOLLYBROOK) CEMETERY KIA on LCI, Normandy landings
LE ARD, FREDERICK CHARLES LAURENCE Captain 48 R.M. Commando. “Z” Troop Age: 23 Date of Death: 06/06/1944: Son of William Laurence Arthur and Marie Victoria Lennard, of Mottingham, Kent. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 23. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY & Sheringham, Norfolk War Memorial drowned Normandy
McCAI , GERALD Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 19 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X110443: Son of Thomas Christopher and Letitia McCain, of Birkdale, Southport, Lancashire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 9. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
McLAUGHLA , JOHN Marine. 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 21 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PO/X108694: Son of William Barrie McLaughlan and Hannah McLaughlan, of Ruchill, Glasgow. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. B. 12. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
MOSS, ALBERT Corporal 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 25 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: EX/861: Son of Annie Moss; husband of Mary Moss, of Birkenshaw, Yorkshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 20. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
O'BOYLE, BERNARD Corporal “HQ” Troop 48 R.M. Commando. Age 22 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X 106902 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. B. 8. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
PERRY, JAMES LAWRY Captain “B” Troop 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 22 Date of Death: 06/06/1944: Son of Sydney Beecher Perry and Evelyn Perry, of St. Austell, Cornwall. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 18. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
POLLEY, JOSEPH JAMES Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 19 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PO/X 111675: Son of Joseph and Mary Polley, of Grays, Essex.
Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 6. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
y POOLE, ARTHUR Corporal 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 26 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: CH/X 101159: Son of Arthur and Gertrude Poole; husband of Joyce Edna Poole, of Acock's Green, Birmingham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 2. P. 1. Cemetery: HERMANVILLE WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
RICHARDSO , STANLEY Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 19 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X 107046: Son of George and Dorothy Richardson, of Thornaby-on-Tees, Yorkshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. B. 9. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
RIGBY, FREDERICK RALPH Lieutenant “Z” Troop 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 26 Date of Death: 06/06/1944: Son of Edward and Margaret Helen Rigby; husband of Peggy Rigby, of Skipton in Craven, Yorkshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 21. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY & Slaidburn, Yorkshire War Memorial Drowned Normandy
RULE, DENNIS HAROLD GEORGE Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PO/X 4819 Commonwealth War Dead Memorial Reference: Panel 87, Column 3. Memorial: PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL Killed in action Normandy
SIMPSO , HAROLD Lance Corporal 48 R.M. Commando Age: 26 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: EX.2938 (T): Son of John and Nora Simpson, of Witney. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: Sec N. Grave 3295. Cemetery: WITNEY BURIAL GROUND Died of wounds in Normandy landings
SIMPSO , THOMAS Marine: 48 R.M. Commando; Age: 22; Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PO/X 112911 Additional information: Son of Dinah Simpson, of Swalwell, Co. Durham. Commonwealth War Dead Memorial Reference: Panel 87, Column 3. Memorial: PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL Killed in action Normandy
SPRUCE REGINALD GIBSON Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 19 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X 112735: Son of Samuel S. and Ethel May Spruce, of Longton, Staffordshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 10. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
STA LEY, JAMES EDWARD Marine.48 R.M. Commando. Age: 19 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X 109310: Son of Elizabeth Ann Stanley, of Darwin, Lancashire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 11.Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
STEVE S, CYRIL ERNEST Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 21 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: CH/X 108711: Son of Nora L. R. Read, of Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XV. B. 3. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
STURMEY, FRANK ERNEST: Marine 48 R.M. Commando Age: 21 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PO/X 111650 Additional information: Son of Walter and Mable Alice Sturmey, of Stroud, Gloucestershire. Commonwealth War Dead Memorial Reference: Panel 87, Column 3. Memorial: PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL Died of wounds Normandy
TAVOLIER, JOSEPH ANTHONY Corporal 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 26 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: EX/1975: Son of Alice Tavolier, of Birmingham; husband of Eileen Tavolier, of Ashted, Birmingham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 13. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
UPTO , LESLIE Corporal 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 29 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X 104980: Son of Harry and Alice Upton; husband of Dorothy Caroline Upton, of Nottingham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 15. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
WARDLE, GEORGE Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 20 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X 109760: Son of Robert Watson Wardle and Irene Wardle, of Chorltonon-Medlock, Manchester. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 24. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
WILLIAMS, CYRIL JESSE Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 19 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: CH/X 3264: Son of Jesse B. and Alice W. Williams. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 79, 2. Memorial: CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL Killed in action Normandy
WISE, DERRICK GEORGE Corporal 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 20 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: CH/X 109480; Son of George and May Wise, of Luton, Bedfordshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 5. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
WILKI SO , WALTER HENRY Lance Corporal Royal Army Medical Corps attached to “Y” Troop 48 R.M. Commando; Age: 24 Date of Death: 06/06/1944 Service No: 7518277; Son of Arthur James Wilkinson and Sarah Wilkinson, of Blackwell, Derbyshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. B. 3. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY killed on LCI during landings Normandy.”He was dressing a man’s wounds and although it in the leg continued his work in full view of the shore; a second bullet hit him in the shoulder but he did not seek cover. He was then killed by a third shot.” (10)
YATES, THOMAS DAVID Lieutenant. “Y” Troop 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 22 Date of Death: 06/06/1944; Son of James and Amy Yates, of Sale, Cheshire Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. A. 19. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy (drowned at sea)
WED ESDAY 7TH JU E 1944 A further attempt was made in LA+GRU+E on a formidable strong point with the support of three tanks. A hole was knocked through the concrete wall by gun-fire from the tanks and an assault party moved in to take possession of the two houses on each side of the gap. One of these was blown up by a demolition party and the rubble used to form a causeway over the anti-tank ditch inside the wall. The tanks were then introduced into the defences and, with their support; troops went in to clear the trenches and dug-outs that honeycombed the position. Shortly after this the Germans surrendered. CO ER, CHARLES GEOFFREY LANGDALE Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 22 Date of Death: 07/06/1944 Service No: CHX106558 Additional information: Son of Albert and Jessie A. Conner, of Whetstone, Middlesex. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: XIV. D. 14. Cemetery: BAYEUX WAR CEMETERY Died of wounds Normandy
GOSLI G, THOMAS GEORGE Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 22 Date of Death: 07/07/1944 Service No: CH/X 104974: Son of Thomas Frank and Annie May Gosling; husband of Ellen Gosling, of Stepney, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: III. D. 3. Cemetery: RANVILLE WAR CEMETERY Died in Normandy
DIED OF WOU DS FROM THIS PHASE OF THE OPERATIO S
HEDLEY, STANLEY Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 20 Date of Death: 08/06/1944 Service No: C/X 106534: Son of Amos and Mary Ann Hedley, of North Shields. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: Sec. K. Grave 14461. Cemetery: TYNEMOUTH (PRESTON) CEMETERY Died of wounds in the UK following D-Day Landings
STEVE SO , DONALD HENRY Sergeant 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 23 Date of Death: 11/06/1944 Service No: PLY/X 3839: Son of Henry and Laura M. Stevenson, of Barnehurst. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: Row 16. Grave 14. CRAYFORD (ST. PAULINUS) CHURCHYARD died of wounds as result Normandy landings
WED ESDAY 12TH JULY ORMA DY BURKE, JAMES MICHAEL Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 20 Date of Death: 12/07/1944 Service No: PO/X115910 Additional information: Son of James and Winefred Burke, of Widnes, Lancashire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: IA. E. 11. Cemetery: RANVILLE WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
CLARK, HERBERT Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 22 Date of Death: 12/07/1944 Service No: PLY/X103629 Additional information: Son of Sydney James Clark, and of Matilda Winifred Clark, of Bootle, Lancashire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: IA. D. 11. Cemetery: RANVILLE WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
HOSKI S, EDGAR JOHN Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 20 Date of Death: 12/07/1944 Service No: CH/X 113425 Additional information: Son of Gerald and Laura Mary Hoskins, of Boughton, Norfolk. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: IA. F. 11. Cemetery: RANVILLE WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Normandy
SATURDAY 15TH JULY 1944 DORMA , JOHN Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 22 Date of Death: 15/07/1944 Service No: CH/X103744 Additional information: Son of William Robert and Alice Dorman, of Muswell Hill, Middlesex. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: IVA. C. 15. Cemetery: RANVILLE WAR CEMETERY Died of wounds Normandy
WHITE, ANTHONY ALBAN Marine. 48 R.M. Commando Age: 23 Date of Death: 15/07/1944 Service No: PLY/X 104833 Son of Alban and Margaret White, of Beswick, Manchester. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/ Reference: IVA. D. 15. Cemetery: RANVILLE WAR CEMETERY Died of wounds Normandy
CAE OPERATIO S MO DAY 7TH AUGUST 1944 SILK, ERIC JOHN: Sergeant 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 21 Date of Death: 07/08/1944 Service No: PO/X 107314: Son of George Robinson Silk and May Silk, of Humasdorp, Cape Province, South Africa. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: IV. A. 4. Cemetery: LA DELIVRANDE WAR CEMETERY, DOUVRES Died Normandy in the operations near Caen
TUESDAY 8TH AUGUST 1944 JOH SO , CHARLES STEPHEN Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 20 Date of Death: 08/08/1944 Service No: PO/X 113092 Additional information: Son of Robert Burns Johnson and Annie Johnson, of Ruchill, Glasgow. Commonwealth War Dead Memorial Reference: Panel 93. Memorial: PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL Killed in Normandy in the operations at Caen
SU DAY 13TH AUGUST 1944 LAMB, JOHN MCCRAE KIRKPATRICK Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 24 Date of Death: 13/08/1944 Service No: EX/5054 Additional information: Son of Alexander B. and Mary Kirkpatrick Lamb, of Dumfries Died in Normandy in the operations at Caen
Dumfries (St. Michael's) Cemetery and. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: IA. H. Cemetery: RANVILLE WAR CEMETERY SUBSEQUE TLY HILLS, HENRY JOSEPH Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Date of Death: 21/09/1944 Service No: PO/X 110743: Son of Henry G. and Sarah L. Hills, of Tonbridge, Kent, England. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 3. C. 7. Cemetery: CALAIS CANADIAN WAR CEMETERY, LEUBRINGHEN Died of wounds in Normandy
TUESDAY 29TH AUGUST 1944 FOX, ARTHUR THOMAS Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 21 Date of Death: 29/08/1944 Service No: PLY/X108266 Additional information: Son of Arthur and Ellen Fox, of Birmingham; husband of Amy Fox, of Short Heath, Birmingham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: IIA. B. 4. Cemetery: RANVILLE WAR CEMETERY Killed in Normandy in the operations at Caen
WOODBI E, BERT Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 22 Date of Death: 29/08/1944 Service No: PO/X 110733 Additional information: Son of Mr. and Mrs. E. Woodbine, of Tipton, Staffordshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: IIA. C. 4. Cemetery: RANVILLE WAR CEMETERY Killed in action in Normandy in the operations at Caen
BELGIUM SEPTEMBER -OCTOBER 1944
REEVES, JONATHAN ALBERT Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 28 Date of Death: 25/09/1944 Service No: CH/X 105599 Additional information: Son of Jonathan Albert and Phyllis Virtue Reeves, of Streatham, London, England. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: VI. B. 3. Cemetery: ADEGEM CANADIAN WAR CEMETERY Died in Belgium
PUGH, HAROLD Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 21 Date of Death: 16/10/1944 Service No: PO/X 112224 Additional information: Son of Arthur and Ethel J. Pugh, of North Walsall, Staffordshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: Plot 63. Row 1 Grave 9. Cemetery: BRUGGE GENERAL CEMETERY Died of wounds in Belgium
“OPERATIO I FATUATE” –WALCHERE . The Dutch island of Walcheren stands at the mouth of the River Scheldt and controls access to the port of Antwerp, which was still in German hands. With the Allies still being supplied mainly through the Mulberry Harbour in +ormandy, the importance of Antwerp close to the line of advance was critical to the Allies. “Operation Infatuate” was the major amphibious invasion of the island involving landing against heavily fortified and entrenched German positions. Prior to the landings the RAF had breached the seawall flooding the interior of the island. 48 Commando Royal Marines had to go south of the gap. The first flight ashore consisting of three troops; each Troop in a tank landing craft, they touched down with Moulton being one of the first on the beach. Though constantly shelled on the way in their casualties were not heavy. They fought their first objective; a row of concrete pill boxes, on the southern shoulder of the gap. When this was accomplished they moved on to the next a radar station, only to find it had been hastily abandoned.
Intense machine-gun fire met Major de Stacpoole and 'Y' Troop as they went into attack; they were all killed or wounded before they could reach the enemy. Before artillery could be brought to bear on the position embedded in concrete, further assaults would suffer the same fate The fighting took 8 days before the island fell & access to Antwerp was achieved.
A memorial, located Serooskerke Village, Island of Walcheren, +etherlands, to the ranks of 48 Commando RM and 79 Squadron Royal Engineers who lost their lives when the Landing Vehicles Track were hit by enemy fire.
To the citizens of Serooskerke (W) on the 40e anniversary of liberation 8e +ov: 1984 for their friendship and hospitality to old comrades of 48 commando Royal Marines over the 40 years this plaque was unveiled by Maj. D.J. Flunder. M.C., V.R.D., (A Troop) of 48 commando.
WED ESDAY 1ST OVEMBER 1944
BROW , WILLIAM Private Royal Army Medical Corps attached 48 Commando RM16 Lt. Field Ambulance Age: 26 Date of Death: 01/11/1944 Service No: 7404141 Additional information: Son of George and Jeannie Lawrence Brown, of Aberdeen; husband of Mary Brown. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 6. C. 5. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
BURGESS, NORMAN Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Date of Death: 01/11/1944 Aged 23 Service No: PO/X 108636 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 5. B. 8. Cemetery: B BERGEN-OP-ZOOM RGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
DAVIS, ANTHONY DAVID Sergeant 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 21 Date of Death: 01/11/1944 Service No: CH/X 107012: Son of John and Elizabeth Jane Davis, of Watford, Hertfordshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 6. A. 9. Cemetery: BERGENOP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY killed in action Walcheren
De STACPOOLE Derick Roderick “Y” Troop 48 RM Commando; Major Date Of Death: 1st November 1944 Age: 25: son of George, 5th Duke de Stacpoole and Duchess (nee Palmer), Tobertynan, Enfield, Co. Meath, Republic of Ireland "A gallant, handsome Irish gentleman and most admirable soldier, we owed much to the standards he had set" (Lt-Col J.L.Moulton) Gravesite: Bergen-op-Zoom War Cemetery, Netherlands 6.B.2 Wounded in action 6.6.1944 Normandy. Killed in action Walcheren. His brother 56472108 was also killed in Holland on the same day.
HAI ES, LESLIE JAMES Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 23 Date of Death: 01/11/1944 Service No: PLY/X104936 Additional information: Son of James and Ethel Haines, of Radstock, Somerset. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: Sp. Mem. 6. D. 9. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Died at Walcheren
HUGHES, HAROLD Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 20 Date of Death: 01/11/1944 Service No: PLY/X 109789; Son of Harold and Ada Hughes, of Hanley, Staffordshire. Commonwealth War Dead Memorial Reference: Panel 92, Column 1. Memorial: PLYMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL Killed in action Walcheren
JORDA , KENNETH JOSEPH Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 19 Date of Death: 01/11/1944 Service No: PLY/X 113603; Husband of Kitty Evelyn Jordan, of Ashton, Lancashire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 6. B. 1. Cemetery: BERGEN-OPZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
LI DREA, CYRIL BRIAN Lieutenant 48 R.M. Commando. “Z” Troop Age: 19 Date of Death: 01/11/1944: Son of John Graham Lindrea and Mary Lindrea, of Clifton, Bristol.
Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 6. A. 10. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
McARTHUR, Marine “S” Troop 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 21 Date of Death: 01/11/1944 Service No: CH/X 107114 Additional information: Son of William and Isabelle McArthur of Oatlands, Glasgow Commonwealth War Dead Memorial Reference: 79, 2. Memorial: CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL Killed in action Walcheren
McKE ZIE, GORDON MALACHY CRAWFORD South African Lieutenant South African Armoured Corps SECONDED 48 Commando RM Date of Death: 01/11/1944 Service No: 110297V Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Memorial Reference: Panel 11. Memorial: GROESBEEK MEMORIAL
SAMWELL, LAWRENCE ARTHUR Marine 48 R.M. Commando Age: 21 Date of Death: 01/11/1944 Service No: CH/X 106993 Additional information: Son of Arthur Alfred and
Violet Emily Samwell, of Lodge Hill, Rochester, Kent. His brother Vernon James Samwell also fell. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 6. A. 7. Cemetery: BERGEN-OPZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
SHEARS, PHILIP DESMOND Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age 21 Date of Death: 01/11/1944 Service No: PO/X 116356 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 5. D. 11. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
STEVE TO , THOMAS Corporal 48 R.M. Commando Age: 21 Date of Death: 01/11/1944 Service No: PO/X 117135 Additional information: Son of Thomas Steventon, and of Florence Steventon, of Wednesbury, Staffordshire. Commonwealth War Dead Memorial Reference: Panel 87, Column 2. Memorial: PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL Missing presumed killed Walcheren
WI SER, DAVID MICHAEL DE REUDA Lieutenant Royal Army Medical Corps attached 48 Commando RM Age: 29 Date of Death: 01/11/1944 Service No: 305697 Awards: M C: Son of Comdr. Alfred Michael Winser, R.N. (Rtd.) and Elizabeth Marjorie Winser, of Hampstead, London. B.M. Scholar of Winchester and of Corpus Christi College, Oxford; rowed three years for Oxford; Newdigate Prize Winner Lieutenant Winser, of the Royal Army Medical Corps, was awarded the Military Cross for actions that took place before the 4th Special Service Brigade was attached to the 6th Airborne Division. Note spelling (Winser as per cwgc) June 6th and 7th 1944. St Aubin and Langrune. “Throughout the action, the medical personnel have behaved with great gallantry. I attribute this to the training, leadership and personal example under fire of Lieutenant Winser. He repeatedly attended the wounded under fire both on the beach and in Langrune. His attitude was at all times calm, reassuring and unshaken however heavy the casualties or trying the circumstances. The casualty figures for 48 Commando will bear witness to the magnitude of the tasks which he accomplished successfully�.
Grave Reference: 6. B. 3. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren.
PRESE+TED TO THE PEOPLE OF ZOUTELA+DEI+ COMMEMORATIO+ OF THE 50TH. A++IVERSARY OF THEIR LIBERATIO+ BY"A" TROOP 48 COMMA+DO, ROYAL MARI+ES AT 11.00 HRS. O+ 2+D. +OVEMBER 1944 FRIDAY 3RD - SATURDAY 4TH OVEMBER 1944
MACKE ZIE, RODERICK GIMSON GRANT Captain “X” Troop 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 24 Date of Death: 03/11/1944 Awards: M C Son of John Ross Mackenzie, and of Elizabeth Mackenzie (nee Gimson); nephew of Alice M. Gimson, of Leicester. Lieutenant Mackenzie was awarded the Military Cross for actions that took place before the 4th Special Service Brigade was attached to the 6th Airborne Division. “June 6th and 7th 1944 St Aubin and Langrune. Rallied his troop on the beach under fire when his troop commander was hit and led them off the beach to the assembly area. During street fighting in Langrune, led his troop with gallantry and determination, and by working his way forward in advance of tank support was largely responsible for the capture of the Langrune strong point. He showed throughout, complete disregard for his own safety and remained calm and cheerful in very trying circumstances on the beach. “ Mackenzie was promoted to Captain on the 13th June 1944, and on the 23rd June was placed in command of "X" Troop.
Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: Plot 9. Row 7. Grave 2. Cemetery: OOSTENDE NEW COMMUNAL CEMETERY Died of wounds received 1.11.1944 Walcheren died of wounds in hospital, Belgium
GODKI , NOEL HERBERT Captain “HQ� Troop 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 32 Date of Death: 04/11/1944 Awards: M.B.E Captain Godkin, was the only son of Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Godkin of Park Road, Loughborough. Mr. Herbert Godkin was head of the firm of Messrs, Herbert Godkin and Co, accountants, Baxter gate, Loughborough. Capt, Godkin was educated at Loughborough Grammar School and went to London for five years, where he was articled. Capt Godkin had many friends in Loughborough who will regret the passing of this gallant soldier. He joined up as a private in 1941, and later obtained his commission. At the date of his death he was an administrative officer in the Royal Marine Commando. He was in the thick of the fighting on many occasions and was in the landings at Sicily, Italy and Normandy. Before joining the Royal Marines Capt, Godkin, who was a chartered accountant, was a partner in the firm with his father and uncle. He took a great interest in literature, art, and music, and was a fluent French speaker. He was a popular member of the Loughborough Rugby Club. Quiet and unassuming. Capt, Godkin elected to join some of the toughest fighters in the world, the Royal Marines. He acquitted himself with great credit, and his many friends will remember him with respect, whilst sympathizing with his family. He was engaged to Sister A. Collins, of Loughborough Hospital. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: Plot 9. Row 7. Grave 5. Cemetery: OOSTENDE Died of wounds.
WED ESDAY 8TH OVEMBER 1944 BEA , WILLIAM GEORGE Marine 48 R.M. Commando. “A” Troop, formerly 7th Battalion RM. Aged 22 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: CH/X 103570 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 15. B. 1. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
BRA CH, WALTER JAMES Private Royal Army Medical Corps attached 48 Commando RM Age 23 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: 7387468 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 15. C. 3. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Died Walcheren
E GLA D Walter Hugh 48 RM Commando (A Troop) Lieutenant Number: 92327 V Date Of Death: 8th November 1944 Age: 25: parent unit South African Tank Corps son of Henry W.T. and Janet K .England, Durban, Natal, South Africa Gravesite: Bergen-op-Zoom War Cemetery, Netherlands 21.B.1 Killed in action Walcheren
FOGG, DENNIS Lance Corporal 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 21 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: PO/X 115897 Additional information: Son of Thomas Harvey Fogg and Lydia Maria Fogg, of Alum Rock, Birmingham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 16. B. 11. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
GIBBS, ROBERT MAURICE Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: PO/X 121475 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 5. C. 6. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY killed in action at Walcheren
LAW, JAMES ERNEST Corporal 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 24 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: CH/X 105624 Additional information: Son of Arthur Law, and of Annie Millicent Law, of Ashwell, Hertfordshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 21. B. 2. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
MEE, ALFRED JOHN Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 23 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: CH/X 105114: Son of Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Jewell, of Kentish Town, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 16. B. 8. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY killed in action at Walcheren
PEACE, HAROLD Sergeant 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 24 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: PLY/X 104977: Son of William Bryan and Rebecca Peace, of Beeston, Nottinghamshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 16. A. 7. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
POTTER, FREDERICK Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 21 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: PLY/X 107809: Son of Fred and Mary E. Potter, of Hull. Commonwealth War
Dead Grave Reference: 16. B. 9. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
SAVAGE, CYRIL CHARLES Royal Marines 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 21 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: PLY/X 110740: Son of Kate Savage, of Patchway, Gloucestershire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 16. B. 10. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
SHRIGLEY, ERNEST Corporal 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 29 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: PLY/X 120590: Son of Thomas Arthur and Emma Jane Shrigley, of Talke, Staffordshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 15. C. 8. Cemetery: BERGENOP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
SKELLA D, COLIN Marine “A” Troop 48 R.M. Commando Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: PLY/X 1909 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 15. C. 9. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY killed in action Walcheren
STEPHE S, KENNETH WILLIAM Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age 22 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: PLY/X 108058 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: Panel 103. Column 2. Memorial: PLYMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL Died Walcheren
TITMUSS, PHILIP GEORGE Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 19 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: PLY/X 108464: Son of James and Violet Mary Titmuss, of Lilley, Bedfordshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 15. C. 7. Cemetery: BERGENOP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY & Lilley (now Herts) War Memorial Killed in action Walcheren
WALL, NORMAN F. Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 19 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: PLY/X 4240 Son of Frederick and Daisy Wall. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 6. B. 2. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM CANADIAN WAR CEMETERY Killed in action Walcheren
WARE, CHARLES JOHN Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 29 Date of Death: 08/11/1944 Service No: PO/X 100016: Son of James and Anne Ware, of Copnor, Hampshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 15. C. 2. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Died of wounds Walcheren
MO DAY 13th OVEMBER 1944 SAGE, WILLIAM COLSTON Marine .48 R.M. Commando Age: 21 Date of Death: 13/11/1944 Service No: PLY/X 106647: Son of Edward Colston Sage and Ethel Elizabeth Sage, of Bristol. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: Plot 9. Row 7. Grave 33. Cemetery: OOSTENDE NEW COMMUNAL CEMETERY died of wounds Walcheren
A TWERP OPERATIO S SATURDAY 16TH DECEMBER HALL, TOM Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 21 Date of Death: 16/12/1944 Service No: PLY/X 110485 Son of Eddie and Matilda Jane Hall, of Morley, Yorkshire. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: V. A. 57. Cemetery: SCHOONSELHOF CEMETERY Died in Belgium, Antwerp operations
LEE, REGINALD JOHN Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 20 Date of Death: 16/12/1944 Service No: PO/X117881: Son of Reginald and Jessie H. Lee, of Westminster, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: V. A. 47. Cemetery: SCHOONSELHOF CEMETERY Died in Belgium Antwerp operations
DUTCH OPERATIO S 1945 After Walcheren 48 Commando raided across he Maas river into Holland COLEMA , ARTHUR DOUGLAS Marine “A” Troop 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 26 Date of Death: 12/03/1945 Service No: PLY/X 120111; Son of Thomas and May Coleman, of Wraxall, Somerset; husband of Eileen Beryl Coleman, of Bedminster Down, Bristol. He served as the MOA for Lieutenant Collins. He was killed in a raid see below
Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 22. B. 9. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY batman to Lt Collins both killed in action Holland
COLLI S, PETER STRATFORD Lieutenant “A” Troop 48 R.M. Commando. Age: 24 Date of Death: 12/03/1945 Awards: M C; Son of Herbert Stratford Collins and Ellen Louise Collins, of Hollingbourne, Kent. raid across the River Maas into Holland where Lt Collins was injured and captured along with his MOA PLY/X 120111 Marine Arthur Douglas Coleman, both later being reported to have died. It is briefly documented in the book D Day Commando by Ken Ford. .Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 22. B. 10. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY also Queen's College Roll of Honour. killed in action Holland
FI DLAY, MARTIN Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age 22 Date of Death: 26/03/1945 Service No: CH/X 106200; Son of Alexina Findlay, of Chapelton, Newmuir, Brechin, Angus. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 15. A. 1. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Died in Holland
STEWART, JOHN Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age 23 Date of Death: 21/02/1945 Service No: PLY/X 100796; Son of David and Mary Stewart; husband of Ellen Pauline Marjorie Stewart, of Stoke, Plymouth. Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 5. A. 4. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY Died of wounds in Holland
TAYLOR, ROBERT WILLIAM Marine 48 R.M. Commando. Age 21 Date of Death: 08/01/1945 Service No: CH/X 107296 Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: 15. A. 8. Cemetery: BERGEN-OP-ZOOM WAR CEMETERY; Died of wounds in Holland
WHIT EY, ROBERT DESMOND Marine (shown 45 Commando by CWGC). Age: 24 Date of Death: 28/06/1945 Service No: PLY/X108404 Son of James and Rose Whitney, of Glyn Neath; husband of Gwenllian Whitney, of Glyn Neath Commonwealth War Dead Grave Reference: West of Church. Cemetery: ABERPERGWM (ST. CADOC) CHURCHYARD AND PRIVATE EXTENSION Died of illness in UK
BULL Robert Roy 48 Commando RM Marine Number: PO/X 109104 Date Of Death: 12th November 1945 Age: 20 Gravesite: Brierley Hill (St Michael) Churchyard, Staffordshire South of Tower Row 10 Grave 16: son of Frank and Minnie Bull, Brierley Hill, Staffordshire died UK following road accident. He is not shown on the 48 RM Commando Memorial
Post war 4 Special Service Brigade became 4 Commando Brigade Royal Marines & became the home of the Reserve Units. 48 Commando in the 1950s became 48 Commando R SR & provided the ex- ational Service RM commandos with the reserve training. Gravesend 48 Commando RM 'Roll of Honour' of those who gave their lives for their country whilst serving in 48 Commando RM March 1944 - January 1946
Christ Church, Gravesend 48 Commando RM The Plaque was unveiled by Lt. General Sir Robert Sturges, KBE, CB, DSO. Former GOC Commando Group. There is a 'Book of Remembrance' placed under the Plaque. Gravesend: 'Book of Remembrance' 48 Commando RM
. Editors notes. This is a compilation of many people’s work on the internet honouring those members of 48 Commando RM. References: 1. 4th Special Services Brigade Diary 202/99.
National Archives catalogue number ADM
http://www.pegasusarchive.org/normandy/war_4ssbde.htm 2.
Walcheren landings http://www.modern-day-commando.com/48-CommandoRM.html
3. Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/debt_of_honour.asp?menuid=14 4. Pictures of many of the graves can be found on the WAR GRAVES PHOTOGRAPHIC PROJECT. The copyright on these pictures rests with the CWGC/ TWGPP/ DONOR. Original versions of the pictures are available on the website http://www.twgpp.org in hard or soft copy format.. 5.
6. Special Forces Roll of Honour http://www.specialforcesroh.com/browse.php 7. Royal Marine Memorials at Portsmouth http://www.memorials.inportsmouth.co.uk/index.htm 8. NAVAL-HISTORY.NET 1998-2010 archived by British Library & U.S. Library of Congress working with National http://www.naval-history.net/index.htm 9. http://www.memorials.inportsmouth.co.uk/index.htm for memorials to 48 Commando 10. “THE ROYAL MARINES 1919 - 1980” by James D Ladd 11. Pictures of the officers are from the following website http://www.commandoveterans.org/cdoGallery/w/units/Royal%20Marine%20Commando% 20Units/48%20RM%20Cdo
12. Pictures of other members from http://gallery.commandoveterans.org/cdoGallery/v/units/Royal+Marine+Commando+Units/ 48+RM+Cdo/