Alfred Cecil Russell joined the Royal Marines in 1917 and served as a boy bugler. In 1920 he enlisted in the Worcestershire Regiment serving with them until volunteering for commando service during the war. He was the Troop Sergeant Major of 1 Troop, No.9 Commando. 

In 1968 Alfred Russell was awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division), after 17 years employment as School Staff Instructor, Worcester Royal Grammar School Combined Cadet Force. Member of the Commando Association from Worcester.