50ME Commando
There may be content on individuals that is not listed here. If you do not find a name use the different Search options within the Site. Contact the Archive to have a name included.
Displaying 1 - 182 of 182'Kastellorizo - Operation Abstention'
Tuesday, February 25, 1941
Location
Kastellorizo
Greece
36° 8' 40.1352" N, 29° 35' 10.1724" E
Allied operation from 25 to 28 February 1941 on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo (or Castellorizo).
Tip: click on 'What Links Here' above for more.
'Layforce'
Three UK based Army Commando units, Nos. 7, 8, and 11 Commandos, were combined within 'Force Z' for operations initially envisaged against Rhodes in the Eastern Mediterranean. Other elements of the Force included a number of men from No.3 Commando and the Canoe section of No.8 (Guards) Commando. They departed from the Isle of Arran on the 31st January 1941, and arrived at Suez on the 7th March.
'ME Commando Roll of Honour'
The history of 50, 51, and 52 Middle East Commandos is a complex one. In June 1941 50 and 52 ME Commando became 'D' Bn. of Layforce for operations in Crete. Between September and December 1941 decisions were being made to disband them and create a new Commando.
'Middle East Depot Commando Training and Holding Unit'
The Middle East 'Depot Commando Training and Holding Unit' came into being mid December 1940 and was formally established at Geneifa beside the Great Bitter Lake under the command of Major D.W. Melville MC on 25 January 1941.
Its role was to provide training and reinforcements for 50, 51, and 52 Commandos who were all deployed at the time, and also as a Holding Unit for Commandos.
'Rearguard action on Crete'
Monday, May 26, 1941
Location
Suda Bay
Island of Crete
Greece
35° 29' 13.0272" N, 24° 5' 7.6704" E
'Volunteers from Spain, 50 ME Commando'
Nominal Roll of Spanish volunteers attested into The Queen's Royal Regiment and attached to No.50 Middle East Commando before joining 'D' Battalion of Layforce. Many were prisoners of war after Crete 2 June 1941. Click on names for more. (this is a work in progress).
Sources
Queen's Royal Regiment Records.
War Office, Prisoners of War Lists, WW2, 1943-1945. / National Archives file WO392/20.
*Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/34, 35, 45, and 69
1st Special Service Regiment Officers Jul'42
The following is from the War Diary Nominal Roll of Officers on strength 4th July 1942.
| Surname | Initials |
Rank
|
Regt.
|
|---|---|---|---|
50ME Commando
The Middle East Commando began to form at Geneifa in August 1940. No.50 Middle East Commando formed up in September 1940 and became fully operational in October. It included a detachment of 63 volunteers from Spain. A large number of these Spaniards would be among those captured in June 1941 at Crete.
No.50 Middle East Commando operations included Operation Abstention 25 to 28 February 1941 on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo (or Castellorizo).
No.50 Middle East Commando operations included Operation Abstention 25 to 28 February 1941 on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo (or Castellorizo).
ADDICOTT, Horace Lindsey
Trooper
322200
50ME Commando
Warwickshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
25-28 February 1941 escaped after Operation Abstention at Kastellorizo.
24 October 1942 wounded Middle East.
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Kingstanding, Birmingham.
ALBALADEJO, Alexander
Private
13808266
6100503
50ME Commando
Pioneer Corps
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Alexander Albaladejo, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941; found to have been wounded, captured and later transported to Stalag 344.
Sources
ALORCON GOMEZ, C.
Private
6100501
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal (West Surrey) Regiment
Spanish volunteer who served in 'D' Bn. Layforce.
Service timeline
24.11.1940 embarked Egypt.
25.11.1940 disembarked Crete.
23.02.1941 granted W.T.P.P. and embarked for Egypt.
24.11.1940 embarked Egypt.
25.11.1940 disembarked Crete.
23.02.1941 granted W.T.P.P. and embarked for Egypt.
24.02.1941 disembarked Egypt.
ALVAREZ, Jose
Corporal
6100504
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Corporal Jose Alvarez, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/35..
Sources
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/35..
ANDREWS, William
Sergeant
6397511
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.
Sergeant William Andrews was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been captured and transported to Stalag 383. Post war member of the Commando Association from Bow, London.
Sources
Sources
ARCHER, C.D.
Private
4855929
50ME Commando
Leicestershire Regiment 2nd Bn.
Private Archer was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo.
Sources
Casualty Lists WO417/23.
Sources
Casualty Lists WO417/23.
ASENJO, A.
Private
6100502
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment (West Surrey)
Private Asenjo was a Spanish volunteer who served in 'D' Bn. Layforce taking part in operations at Crete. Evacuated to Egypt from Crete.
Service timeline:
Service timeline:
23.08.1940 posted 50 (ME) Commando.
24.11.1940 embarked for Crete.
BAIRD, John William
Trooper
295210
Middle East Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment
Trooper John Baird, Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/94 (1945).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/94 (1945).
BARDENAS, R.
Private
6100506
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment (West Surrey)
Private Bardenas was a Spanish volunteer who served in 'D' Bn. Layforce taking part in operations at Crete. Evacuated to Egypt from Crete.
Service timeline:
23.08.1940 posted 50 (ME) Commando.
23.08.1940 posted 50 (ME) Commando.
BARNETT, William Henry
Fusilier
6459325
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
William Henry Barnett enlisted into the Armed Forces on 23 November 1936. Fusilier Barnett, 50 Middle East Commando ('D' Battalion, Layforce), was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, subsequently confirmed prisoner of war.
BARROSO, Montiano
Served as :
Surname seen elsewhere as Banoso and Banosa
Lance Sergeant
6100505
50ME Commando
Queen's Royal Regiment
Lance Sergeant Montiano Barroso, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941; found to have been captured and later transported to Stalag 383.
Sources
BATE, James Howard
Corporal
553100
50ME Commando
Queen's Own Yorkshire Dragoons, Royal Armoured Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal James Bate was reported missing presumed drowned whilst attempting to escape the enemy during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. Joined the Commando on 15 Ocotber 1940 and has no known grave. Son of James William and Minnie Jane Bate.
BEEDELL, Lawrence Henry
Trooper
326889
50ME Commando
Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Trooper 'Harry' Beedell, 50ME Commando and 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2nd June 1941 during operations in Crete, later discovered captured on 1st June.
BENTLEY, W
Lance Corporal
6398076
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.
Lance Corporal Bentley was was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war
BLACKBURN, Thomas
Trooper
321988
50ME Commando
Cheshire Yeomanry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Thomas Blackburn was reported missing presumed drowned during operations on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave.
Report by Tpr Weston
BLAKE, Dennis Lester
Corporal
295168
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Household Cavalry Regiment
Dennis Lester Blake from Morden, Surrey, enlisted 19 November 1936. Corporal Blake was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
BLASCO, Vicente
Lance Corporal
6100545
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Vicente Blasco was a Spanish volunteer who enlisted on 9 September 1940. Lance Corporal Blasco, No.50 Middle East Commando, attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war since 1 June 1941.
BOAST, Edward Albert
Corporal
6457716
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Edward Boast from Walthamstow, London, enlisted 1 January 1934. Corporal Boast was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
BORWICK, Michael George
Temporary Captain (later Lieutenant Colonel)
64017
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Scots Greys, Royal Armoured Corps
Mentioned in Despatches
Deputy Lieutenant (DL)
- 25 February 1941, Kastelorizzo, Captain, 50 Middle East Commando, engaged in Operation Abstention [1].
- 28 March 1941, Geneifa, Captain, 'C' Company, 'D' Bn., Layforce [2].
BOYLE, Peter, J.
Fusilier
6458472
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier Peter Boyle was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
BRAVO, Jose
Private
6100551
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Jose Bravo, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
BRITTAIN, E.
Private
4746370
'Layforce'
York and Lancaster Regiment
Private Brittain, attached to 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
BRITTON, Joseph
Lance Corporal
4745313
'Layforce'
York and Lancaster Regiment
'D' Bn., Layforce. PoW Crete.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/31 and 95.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1 and 11.
BROWN, J.
Lance Corporal
305201
50ME Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment
Lance Corporal J. Brown was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war in Italian hands [1][1a][1b].
BULLEN, John
Private
6398836
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.
Private John Bullen was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
BUSBY, John Henry
Corporal
4743550
'Layforce'
York and Lancaster Regiment 2nd Bn.
Died on war service
Corporal John Busby from Hull was reported in the Casualty Lists as attached to 'D' Bn Layforce [1] at the time of his death through illness in the Middle East [2][3].
CARMONA, Miguel
Private
6100553
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Miguel Carmona, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
CASTELLANO PORDO, Francisco
Private
6100507
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Queen's Royal Regiment Records
CEVANTES, Santiago
Private
6100546
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Santiago Cevantes, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
CHAPMAN, Alfred James
Lance Corporal
875020
50ME Commando
British Military Mission 204
Royal Artillery
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
1937 attested into the Royal Artillery [1].
27 March 1938 transferred to Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment [1].
29 May 1941 wounded during operations in Crete whilst attached to Layforce [2].
CHIVERS, Frederick James
Lance Corporal
5107918
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Frederick Chivers from London enlisted 28 August 1933. Lance Corporal Chivers attached to 50 Middle East Commando ('D' Bn., Layforce) was reported missing on 2nd June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Sources
CLETO, Sanchez
Private
6100554
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Sanchez Cleto, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
COCHRANE, Archibald Leman
Captain
136278
'Layforce'
Royal Army Medical Corps
Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Professor Archibald Cochrane, CBE, MB, FRCP, was the Medical Officer of 'D' Bn. Layforce (50 and 52 Middle East Commandos). He was taken prisoner of war during operations at Crete continuing his work as a Doctor in the prison camps.
COLLINS, R.
Sergeant
2928399
50ME Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Sergeant Collins was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo.
Sources
Casualty Lists WO417/23.
Sources
Casualty Lists WO417/23.
COOK, Frank, B.
Fusilier
6458666
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier Frank Cook was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war from 1 June 1941.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 (army no. amended in WO417/29.)
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 (army no. amended in WO417/29.)
CROSSAN, William George
Trooper
410677
50ME Commando
1st Royal Dragoons, Royal Armoured Corps
William George Crossan from Canada enlisted into the Armed Forces on 26 October 1937, civil occupation Motor Mechanic.
DARBY, Arthur Claude
Corporal
408910
50ME Commando
The Royals, Royal Armoured Corps
Corporal Arthur Darby was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Member of the Commando Association from Dunfermline, Fife.
Sources
DAWES, Ernest William
Private
4911348
50ME Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Ernest Dawes died during operations on the Greek island of Kastellorizo.
DENNIS, V.L.
Private
5951155
50ME Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment 1st Bn
Private Dennis, 50 Middle East Commando, was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo [1][2].
DEVINE, J
Sergeant
2818270
'Layforce'
Highland Light Infantry 2nd Bn.
Sergeant Devine attached to 'D' Bn., Layforce was wounded 29 May 1941 during operations in Crete.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/26.
Notes
DIAZ, Juan
Corporal
6100509
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Corporal Juan Diaz, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war [1][2][3].
Extracts from WO344/91/1 [3].
DOWLING, William George
Private
5500848
50ME Commando
Hampshire Regiment
William George Dowling was a Fishmonger from New Milton, Hampshire, prior to enlisting on 24 April 1939. Private William Dowling was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war
DREWITT, Glanville
Private
3959808
52ME Commando
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Private Glanville Drewitt, 52 Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. He also served in 50 Middle East Commando. Post war member of the Commando Association, London Branch.
EDWARDS, Harry
Fusilier
6458488
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier Harry Edwards was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
ENGLAND, Leslie Frank
Trooper
552907
50ME Commando
Life Guards
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Leslie England was reported missing later presumed killed in action during operations on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave. Son of Arthur England and of Mary Ann England, of Cheylesmore, Coventry [1][1a][1b].
FAJARDO, Joaquin
Private
6100512
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Joaquin Fajardo, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941; found to have been captured and later transported to Stalag 4C. Liberated in 1945.
FARMER, H.
Private
4746551
50ME Commando
York and Lancaster Regiment 2nd Bn.
Private Farmer was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo (Operation Abstention), later found to be a prisoner of war.
FELLOWES, Hubert, H.
Corporal
5497866
50ME Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Corporal Hubert Fellowes was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
FILMER, Ronald
Corporal
7343128
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.
Corporal Ronald Filmer was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war from 1 June 1941.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
FOX-DAVIES, Harley Edmond Fitzroy
Captain (Acting Major)
39436
50ME Commando
52ME Commando
Durham Light Infantry
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Attached from the Durham Light Infantry to MI (R) Military Intelligence in July 1940 to assist with the setting up of Commando units in the Middle East.*
- Second in Command of No.50 Middle East Commando July 1940*.
FRAILI, G.T.
Private
6100513
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Fraili, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
FRANCO, T.
Private
6100511
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Franco, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
FROST, Terence Ernest Manitou
Corporal
553904
50ME Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Warwickshire Yeomanry
Terence Ernest Manitou Frost, better known as the renowned artist Sir Terry Frost, was born in Leamington Spa. In November 1933 he joined the Territorial Army his profession at the time being a Commercial Traveller.
GALERA, Enrique
Also seen as:
GALERA RAFOLI, Enrique
Corporal
6100518
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, reported missing in Crete on 2 June 1941, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Sources
Queen's Royal Regment Records.
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
GALORETTA / MANZOUOS, Luciano
Private
6100517
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34 (shown as M.L. Galoretta).
GARCIA, John
Private
6100515
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private John Garcia, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/35.
GERONINO, Francisco
Also seen as:
JERONIMO, Francisco and WILLIAMS, Frank
Private
6100555
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, reported missing 2 June 1941 in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. In 1942 he was reported no longer a prisoner.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/45.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/45.
GOMEZ, Seraphin
Sergeant
6100516
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Sergeant Seraphin Gomez, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Service timeline*
23.08.1940 appointed Acting Corporal.
GREENWOOD, Jack
Corporal
4745720
50ME Commando
York and Lancaster Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Jack Greenwood died during operations against the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He was initially reported missing believed drowned attempting to escape. His body was later found and identified.
Sources
HACKETT, Harry
Gunner
876593
50ME Commando
Royal Artillery
Gunner Harry Hackett, 50 Middle East Commando, was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo [1][2].
-
Enlisted RA 1937 [3].
HAMPER, Arthur Ernest Stephenson
Private
6286695
50ME Commando
The Buffs (Royal East Kent Regiment)
Mentioned in Despatches
Private Arthur Hamper was shot and killed when attempting to escape from Stalag 4F whilst a prisoner of war in German hands. He was awarded a posthumous Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service.
HARDING, John Aubrey, D.H.
Lance Corporal
6457903
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Lance Corporal John Harding was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
HARRISON, Charles, F.
Corporal
4856341
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Corporal Harrison, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/29.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/29.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
HARTLEY, Christopher Lancelot
Corporal
6846173
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
9th Bn. King's Royal Rifle Corps (Rangers)
Corporal Christopher Hartley was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/32, and WO417/102.
HARVEY, C.
Signalman (Lance Corporal)
407138
50ME Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Cheshire Yeomanry
Lance Corporal C. Harvey was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war in Italian hands [1][1a].
HERAS, Braulio
Also seen as:
HERAS, Bravilo
Private
13808248
6100520
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Pioneer Corps
Queen's Royal Regiment
Died on war service
Private Bravlio Heras, a Spanish volunteer in 50 Middle East Commando ('D' Bn., Layforce), died whilst a prisoner of war having been captured during operations in Crete on 2 June 1941. He is believed to have been killed by Russian fire at Stalag 4C and has no known grave.
HERMON, Kenneth Edward
Captain
65941
'Layforce'
Durham Light Infantry
28.03.1941 Geneifa, Commanding 'A' Company of 'D' Bn Layforce
04.06.1941 prisoner of war Crete.
Sources
52 Middle East Commando War Diary 28/3/1941 (List of 'D' Bn Layforce Officers).
HESLOP, James
Fusilier
4270540
'Layforce'
Royal Northumberland Fusiliers, 1st Bn.
Fusilier James Heslop attached to 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later confirmed prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27, 29, and 94.
HEWITT, W.
Sergeant
4858688
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Sergeant Hewitt, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete. Later found to have been captured and transported to Stalag 383.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
HIDALGO, Joseph
Private
6100557
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Joseph Hidalgo, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/95.
HILL, Francis William Amey
Private
3959780
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Private Francis Hill was reported missing during operations at Crete on 2 June 1941 and later found to be a prisoner of war at Stalag 3D.
HODGSON, Albert
Lance Corporal
3597591
50ME Commando
Coldstream Guards
Lance Corporal Albert Hodgson was reported missing on 2nd June 1941 during operations in Crete; later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
HOEBE, L.T.
-
50ME Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association from Holland.
Sources
Commando Association newsletter 93.
HOLLINGSHEAD, Robert, W.
Corporal
6459214
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Corporal Robert Hollingshead was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war from 1 June 1941.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
HUTCHINS, Gerald Thomas
Also seen as:
HUTCHINS, Thomas Gerald
Trooper
408809
Middle East Commando
'Layforce'
1st Royal Dragoons, Royal Armoured Corps
04.11.1935 enlisted into the Armed Forces; civil occupation Labourer.
01.06.1941 prisoner of war during operations at Crete.
01.06.1941 prisoner of war during operations at Crete.
Sources
IMPERATO, Robert Tony
Corporal
4034040
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Corporal Robert Imperato was reported missing during operations at Crete on 2 June 1941, later found to be a prisoner of war from 1 June 1941.
IRWIN, Thomas
Private
7885134
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Private Thomas Irwin, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
JARY, James William
Trooper
327237
50ME Commando
Nottinghamshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
William James Jary enlisted on 1 September 1939, former occupation Servant. Trooper Jary, 50 Middle East Commando was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later confirmed prisoner of war since 27 February 1941.
JOHNSON, William Edward
Lance Corporal
4858135
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Lance Corporal William Johnson, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
JOHNSTONE, Robert
Fusilier
6457594
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier Robert Johnstone was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4A).
JONES, Albert, G.W.
Fusilier
6458420
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier Albert Jones was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4A).
JONES, William
Trooper
4124972
50ME Commando
Royal Dragoons, Royal Armoured Corps
William Jones from Macclesfield enlisted 2 February 1938. Trooper Jones, 50 Middle East Commando, was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later confirmed prisoner of war since 27 February 1941.
JORDA, Francisco
Also seen as:
CORDA and FORDA
Lance Corporal
6100521
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Spanish volunteer who served in 'D' Bn., Layforce. Reported missing on 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been taken prisoner of war and transported to Stalag 21A at Thorn, Poland.
Notes/Sources
KNOTT, Harry Leonard
Fusilier
6458284
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Fusilier Harry Knott died during operations against the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/23.
LAKER, Jesse, A.
Trooper
410608
50ME Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Trooper Jesse Laker was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in the Middle East, later found to be a prisoner of war. On this date his Commando were engaged in operations in Crete.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National archives files WO417/42, WO417/94.
LEWIS, John Thomas
Private
3957525
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Private John Lewis was reported missing on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war from 1 June 1941.
LILLO, Julian
Private
6100558
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Julian Lillo, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/95.
LINSDELL, Reginald
Private
6399310
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.
Private Reginald Linsdell, 50 Middle East Commando ('D' Battalion Layforce), was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later reported no longer missing.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/34.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/34.
LLEWELLYN, Frederick, J.
Private
3958609
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Private Frederick Llewellyn was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete , later found to be a prisoner of war.
LLORET, Carlos
Private
6100522
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Carlos Lloret, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/95.
LOCKINGTON, Arthur
Trooper
324447
50ME Commando
British Military Mission 204
Royal Armoured Corps
Died on war service
Trooper Arthur Lockington, assigned from the Commando to Middle East Detachment 2, later redesignated 2nd Special Service Detachment (SSD 2), died in Burma. He has no known grave.
Sources
CWGC.
LOWENTHAL, M.J., or N.
Private
4131437
50ME Commando
Cheshire Regiment 1st Bn.
Private Lowenthal was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists WO417/23.
LUMBRERA, Francisco
Private
ME/13808250
6100524
'Layforce'
50ME Commando
Pioneer Corps
Queen's Royal Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Francisco Lumbrera*, 50 Middle East Commando, and from Spain, died whilst a prisoner of war having been captured during operations in Crete in 1941. He has no known grave. Believed killed by Russian fire at Stalag 4C Wistritz bei Teplitz,Germany.
LUNN, George Reid
Private
6286326
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
The Buffs, 1st Bn.
George Reid Lunn enlisted 27 August 1936. Lance Corporal Lunn, 52 Middle East Commando was captured 1 June 1941 during operations in Crete where his Commando formed part of 'D' Battalion, Layforce.
LYMBERY, John Graham
Lieutenant
170242
'Layforce'
Sherwood Foresters 1st Bn.
Lieutenant John Lymbery from Dulwich, London, was captured 1 June 1941 during operations in Crete whilst attached to 'D' Bn., Layforce. He remained in captivity for the rest of the war. Enlisted 20 April 1938 whilst a Medical Student at the University of London. Embarked for the Middle East.
LYON, Robert James
Guardsman (Raider)
2695458
50ME Commando
Scots Guards
02.09.1936 attested into the Scots Guards, civil occupation Labourer.
15.10.1940 posted 50 Middle East Commando.
05.03.1941 posted Depot Middle East Commando.
04.04.1941 posted to 'D' Bn., Layforce on completion of signal course.
LYONS, John Gordon
Lance Corporal
2763806
50ME Commando
Black Watch
John Lyons enlisted into the 2nd Battalion Black Watch on 9 October 1939, civil occupation Fitter and Turner.
MACDONALD, Donald
Corporal
3311070
'Layforce'
Black Watch, 2nd Bn.
Donald Macdonald, a Tailor from Scotland, enlisted on 17 October 1932. Corporal Macdonald attached to 'D' Bn., Layforce, was captured 1 June 1941 during operations in Crete.
Sources
MALONE, Terence
Corporal
6913011
'Layforce'
Rifle Brigade
Corporal Terence Malone, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
MARIN, Basil
Sergeant
6100528
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Sergeant Basil Marin, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 1 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/37.
MARINO, Angel
Private
6100529
50ME Commando
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Angel Marino, a Spanish volunteer from Bilbao, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. He remained at liberty in Crete for 10 months living alone in the mountains until recaptured by 2 Greek policeman. He was a prisoner for the remainder of the war.
MARSON, Kenneth
Private
4858831
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment 2nd Bn.
Private Kenneth Marson, 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/34 and WO417/94
MARTINEY, Aurelio
Served as :
surname also seen as MARTINEZ
Private
6100561
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Aurelio Martiney, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war
MARTINEZ, Francisco
Private
6100548
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Francisco Martinez, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/39.
MARTINEZ, M.
Private
6100547
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment (West Surrey)
Spanish volunteer who served in 'D' Bn. Layforce.
Service timeline
Service timeline
11.09.1940 posted 50 ME Commando.
24.11.1940 embarked Egypt.
25.11.1940 disembarked Crete.
24.11.1940 embarked Egypt.
25.11.1940 disembarked Crete.
02.12.1940 deprived 10 days pay (Sec. 40 A.A.)
MARTINEZ, Pereira
Private
6100562
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Francisco Martinez, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
MATHER, James Henry
Private
3960750
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Died on war service
Private James Mather was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete and later found to be a prisoner of war [1]. He had been imprisoned at Stalag 4C, a prisoner of war camp at Wistritz bei Teplitz, Sudetenland ( part of former Czechoslovakia) [2a].
MCALLISTER, H.
Private
2932951
50ME Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Private McAllister was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Repatriated to the UK in 1943.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/34 and WO417/68.
MCCORMICK, John
Private
3711810
50ME Commando
King's Own Royal Regiment (Lancaster)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private John McCormick was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941, later presumed killed in action, during operations against the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave. Son of Peter McCormick and of Annie McCormick, of Bolton, Lancashire.
McEWAN, Alexander
Trooper
321151
Middle East Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Trooper Alexander McEwan was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National archives files WO417/29 and WO417/30.
MCGIBBON, Robert Lorne
Lieutenant (later Captain)
85719
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment 2nd Bn.
1939-1940 served in Palestine before joining No.50 Middle East Commando [1][1a].
28.03.1941 Lieutenant, 'B' Company, 'D' Bn., Layforce at Geneifa [2].
MCGILL, Arthur, T.
Sergeant
2928520
50ME Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Private Arthur McGill was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
MCLEOD, J.
Corporal
3311710
'Layforce'
Highland Light Infantry 2nd Bn.
Corporal McLeod attached to 'D' Bn., Layforce was wounded 29 May 1941 during operations in Crete.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/26.
Notes
50 and 52 Middle East Commandos formed 'D' Bn., Layforce at Crete.
MEALOR, Joseph
Private
2928898
50ME Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Private Joseph Mealor, aged 26, was reported missing and later a prisoner of war 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete.
MENAS, J
Private
6100526
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, reported as a prisoner of war in German hands (in Germany) after operations in Crete 1941. In 1943 he is reported as repatriated to the UK.
Sources
Sources
Queen's Royal Regiment Records.
MILLER, Ean Creighton
Second Lieutenant
137263
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
King's Royal Rifle Corps
22.06.1940 commissioned Second Lieutenant [1].
28.03.1941 Second Lieutenant, 'A' Company 'D' Bn. Layforce at Geneifa [1a].
25-28.05.1941 wounded during operations at Kastellorizzo [2][2a].
MOTHERSOLE, H.
Trooper
319378
50ME Commando
Warwickshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Escaped after Operation Abstention at Kastellorizo.
Source:
50 Me Cdo Casualty List 25th-28th Feb. 1941 in Crete - Ref. GRO2E/1188/69C / National Archives WO361/124.
MUNRO, George
Sergeant
3323555
No 11 Commando
50ME Commando
SBS
Highland Light Infantry (City of Glasgow Regiment) 2nd Bn.
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sergeant George Munro, SBS, a veteran of the Litani River raid, died during operations on the island of Samos after leaving the Commando. Son of John J. Munro and Jeanie Munro, of Glasgow.
Service
MURPHY, Patrick Joseph
Private
3314324
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Highland Light Infantry
Private Patrick Joseph Murphy, from Waterford, Eire, was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo [1][2].
- 2 June 1941 Crete, wounded and a prisoner of war [3][4][4a].
MURRAY, Alfred
Sergeant
408834
Middle East Commando
Royal Armoured Corps
Sergeant Alfred Murray was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/29 and WO417/30.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 383).
MYERS, R.D.
Sergeant
50ME Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association last known residing East Bolden, County Durham.
Sources
Commando Association Lost Legion List 9.
NAVARRETE, Francisco
Lance Corporal
6105530
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Lance Corporal Francisco Navarrete, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.
NOBLE, Arthur Frederick
Private
6397720
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.
Private Arthur Noble was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4F).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4F).
NUNN, Robert Richard
Sergeant
6457784
'Layforce'
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Sergeant Robert Nunn from Shepherds Bush, West London, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to have been taken prisoner the previous day. Enlisted 2 September 1933.
Sources
Sources
PATRICK, G.A., or J.
Private
4858786
50ME Commando
Leicestershire Regiment 2nd Bn.
Private Patrick was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo.
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists WO417/23.
PEMBERTON, Hugh
Private
2932594
50ME Commando
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Hugh Pemberton was reported killed in action in the Western Desert.
Son of Ellen Pemberton, and stepson of Robert White, of Liverpool.
Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/34.
CWGC.
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/34.
POLLARD, Jack Kenneth Verdon
Trooper
323901
50ME Commando
Cheshire Yeomanry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Jack Pollard was reported missing presumed drowned attempting to escape the enemy during operations on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave. Son of Frank and Clara Agnes Pollard, of Altrincham, Cheshire.
POSTILLO, Rafael
Lance Corporal
6100531
'Layforce'
50ME Commando
Queen's Royal Regiment
Lance Corporal Rafael Postillo was a Spanish volunteer who served in 'D' Bn., Layforce. He was reported missing on 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/20.
Sources
Prisoners of War 1715-1945 / National Archives file WO392/20.
POUCHER, William
Private
4856898
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Private William Poucher, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
REDONDO, J.
Private
6100533
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Pioneer Corps
Private Redondo was a Spanish volunteer who served in 'D' Bn. Layforce taking part in operations at Crete. Evacuated to Egypt from Crete.
Service
24.11.1940 embarked Egypt.
25.11.1940 disembarked Crete.
23.02.1941 granted W.T.P.P.
23.02.1941 granted W.T.P.P.
ROBINSON, George Edgar
Trooper
408973
50ME Commando
Royal Scots Greys (2nd Dragoons), Royal Armoured Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper George Robinson was reported missing presumed drowned whilst attempting to escape the enemy during operations on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo.
He has no known grave. Son of George Edgar Robinson and of Jessie Robinson, of Dundee.
ROSE, Stephen Murfin
Major (later Lieutenant Colonel)
67108
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment)
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Mentioned in Despatches
Captain Stephen Rose joined the Middle East Commando when it began to form at Geneifa in August 1940. He later became second in command of No.50 Middle East Commando [1].
ROUGH, Thomas
Private
4861701
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Private Thomas Rough, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
SADD, Albert Norman
Lance Sergeant
2323946
50ME Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Lance Sergeant Albert Sadd was reported missing on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/3, errata in WO417/54.
SADDLER, Thomas
Trooper
548685
Middle East Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment
Trooper Thomas Saddler, Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/92 (1945).
SANCHEZ, Manuel
Private
6100534
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Manuel Sanchez, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/35.
SHARMAN, Richard
Lance Sergeant
4910237
50ME Commando
South Staffordshire Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Richard Sharman was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941, later presumed killed in action, during operations against the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave. Son of Lilian Licence, of Derby.
SHEEHY, Richard, W.
Lance Corporal
5884521
50ME Commando
Warwickshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Lance Corporal Richard Sheehy was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later reported a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association.
Sources
Sources
SHELTON, Leslie
Lance Corporal
4802003
50ME Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Lance Corporal Leslie Shelton was reported missing during operations at Crete on 2 June 1941 and later found to be a prisoner of war.
SIMMONDS, Frederick John
Lance Sergeant
7584420
'Layforce'
South Staffordshire Regiment
Died on war service
Lance Sergeant Frederick Simmonds of 27 Sherborne Street Gloucester, died in Belgium.
SLADE, William Henry
Private
6088319
50ME Commando
Queen's Royal Regiment West Surrey
Private William Slade was reported missing and a prisoner of war 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Post war member of the Commando Association from Sussex.
Sources
SMITH, Alexander
Private
4123499
50ME Commando
Cheshire Regiment 1st Bn.
Private Alexander Smith, 1st Bn. Cheshire Regiment attached 50 Middle East Commando, was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo [1][2].
SMITH, John
Lance Corporal
295308
Middle East Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment
Lance Corporal John Smith, Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/32, WO417/94.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/32, WO417/94.
SMITH, Michael Arnold
Second Lieutenant
143725
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Second Lieutenant Michael Smith was reported wounded and missing between 25 and 28 February 1941, later presumed killed in action, during operations against the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave.
SQUIER, Herbert Cecil
Corporal
2564989
50ME Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Corporal Herbert Squier was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/29 and WO417/31 (Stalag 8A).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/29 and WO417/31 (Stalag 8A).
STEVENS, A. Kenneth
Fusilier
6201511
50ME Commando
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
Fusilier Stevens was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4F).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 4F).
STEVENSON, Joseph
Lance Corporal
4857910
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment 2nd Bn.
Lance Corporal Joseph Stevenson, 50 ME Commando attached 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association (Leeds Branch).
Sources
Sources
STEVENSON, Joseph
Private
2756296
50ME Commando
Black Watch
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Seacroft, Leeds [1].
Commando Association newsletter 59
Commando Association newsletter 59
STEWART, W.S.
Corporal
2754796
50ME Commando
Black Watch
Mentioned in Despatches
Corporal W.S. Stewart was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later found to be a prisoner of war in Italian hands [1][1a][1b].
STOCKS, Joseph William
Private
4746205
'Layforce'
York and Lancaster Regiment
Private Joseph Stocks was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later confirmed prisoner of war date of capture 9 June 1941*.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/26, 31, and 93.
SUMMERFIELD, J. (or Charles, J.)
Corporal
3957938
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Corporal Summerfield was was wounded between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo [1][2].
- 2 June 1941 Crete reported missing later found be a prisoner of war [3][4][5].
SWINBURN, Arthur
Warrant Officer 2 Company Sergeant Major
4855159
368088
50ME Commando
Leicestershire Regiment & Royal Pioneer Corps
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Mentioned in Despatches
Arthur Swinburn enlisted into the Leicestershire Regiment on 24th November 1928 for 9 years, and then a further 3 years in Reserve, before volunteering for the Commandos in 1940 [1].
TALBOT, Dennis Gifford
Signalman
2324031
50ME Commando
Royal Corps of Signals
Signalman Dennis Talbot was reported missing on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to have been captured 1 June 1941.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/29.
Prisoners of War Lists / National Archives file WO392/11.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/29.
Prisoners of War Lists / National Archives file WO392/11.
TAYLOR, Alfred George
Lance Corporal
3311847
50ME Commando
Highland Light Infantry (City of Glasgow Regiment) 2nd Bn.
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Alfred Taylor died during operations on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. Son of Alfred and Jessie Taylor, of Buckpool, Banffshire.
Sources
CWGC.
TAYLOR, George
Trooper
548993
50ME Commando
Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Royal Tank Corps
Trooper George Taylor was reported missing between 25 and 28 February 1941 during operations on the occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo, later reported prisoner of war.
TAYLOR, Graham Cecil Gordon
Temporary Captain
74627
50ME Commando
Leicestershire Regiment
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Graham Taylor was reported missing presumed killed in action during operations in Crete. He has no known grave. Son of Colonel H. W. Taylor, O.B.E., and Mrs. E. M. Taylor, of St. Minver, Cornwall.
TAYLOR, Stanley Benjamin
Sergeant
2657671
50ME Commando
Coldstream Guards
Sergeant Stanley Taylor from Hull was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. 50 and 52 Middle East Commandos formed 'D' Battalion of Layforce for this operation. Prior service in Palestine with the Coldstream Guards.
THOMAS, Patrick John
Private
4074553
50ME Commando
Welch Regiment
Patrick John Thomas, a Post Office Labourer from London, enlisted into The Welch Regiment 4 April 1930.
TORRALBO, Miguil
Private
6100538
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Miguil Torralbo, a Spanish farmer who volunteered for the British Army in Egypt, was attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce and reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Sources
TOWNSEND, Charles
Corporal
50ME Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association from Kings Norton, Birmingham.
Sources
Obituaries in Commando Association newsletter 65 (1977).
TRILL, Jaime
Private
6100540
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
Private Jaime Trill, a Spanish volunteer attached to 'D' Bn. Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/35.
TRUSTY, Robert
Private
4858686
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Private Robert Trusty, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.
TUNSTALL, Francis Barnard
Private
6400012
50ME Commando
Royal Sussex Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Francis Tunstall was reported missing presumed drowned attempting to escape the enemy during operations on the enemy occupied Greek island of Kastellorizo. He has no known grave. Son of Sydney Charles and Alice Louise Tunstall; grandson of Alice Short, of Plymouth.
TURNER, Edward
Corporal
5496525
50ME Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Corporal Turner was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Later found to have been captured and transported to Stalag 344.
WALDOCK, Harold Frank
Private
5497482
50ME Commando
Hampshire Regiment
Harold Frank Waldock enlisted 18 November 1935, civil trade Cook. Corporal Waldock, 50 Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete later found to be a prisoner of war.
WALKER, John
Corporal
50ME Commando
Post war member of the Commando Association from Market Harborough, Leics.
Sources
Commando Association newsletters 93 and obituaries in 101 (1995).
WESTON, Richard John
Trooper (later Lance Sergeant)
323119
50ME Commando
Cheshire Yeomanry / Durham Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Sergeant Richard Weston, 9th Bn., Durham Light Infantry, was killed in action 16 July 1943 during operations at Sicily.& Son of Clement and Sarah J. Weston, of Didsbury, Manchester. [1][1a].
WILLIAMS, Albert Ivor
Trooper
553121
Middle East Commando
Household Cavalry Regiment
Trooper Albert Williams, Middle East Commando, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/30, and WO417/93 (1945).
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/28, WO417/30, and WO417/93 (1945).
WILLIAMS, George James
Fusilier
6465623
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Fusiliers 1st Bn.
George James Williams, a Glass Blower from London, enlisted 1 October 1939. Reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.
WILLIAMS, Hubert
Lance Corporal
325648
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Cheshire Yeomanry
Royal Corps of Signals
Lance Corporal Hubert Williams, 50 Middle East Commando attached to 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941, later confirmed a prisoner of war, during operations in Crete. Prior to enlisting in April 1939 he was employed as a Stockkeeper.
WILLIAMSON, Charles Edward Filling
Acting Lance Corporal
4855100
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Lance Corporal Charles Edward Filling Williamson, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.
WILSON, Arthur
Trooper
409682
50ME Commando
'Layforce'
Yorkshire Dragoons, Royal Armoured Corps
Trooper Arthur Wilson was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/31, WO417/32, WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO3921/1.
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/31, WO417/32, WO417/94.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO3921/1.
WOOD, Wilfred Edward
Lance Corporal
4747183
'Layforce'
York and Lancaster Regiment
Lance Corporal Wilfred Wood was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later confirmed prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association. Emigrated to Australia.
Sources
YOUNG, George Alan Dawson
Temporary Lieutenant Colonel
23734
52ME Commando
50ME Commando
Royal Engineers
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Mentioned in Despatches
Lieutenant Colonel George Alan Dawson Young R.E., was the Commanding Officer of 50 Middle East Commando until November 1940 when he assumed command of 52 Middle East Commando after its former commanding officer, Harry Fox-Davies, was taken ill.
Ask Questions / Add Information / Add Photos
Use the Archive Forum for research enquiries, or to add information or photos. [register now].
Read some frequently asked questions here [FAQ's].
Read some frequently asked questions here [FAQ's].
Contact the Archive via the [contact form].
All content is researched and administered by the Commando Veterans Archive.
