TOWNSEND, Robert Oliver
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Rank:
Lance Sergeant
Unit / Base:
6 Commando
Regiment/Corps:
Somerset Light Infantry
Service:
Army
Number:
5670050
Died :
Monday, October 4, 1943
Died on active service
Age:
28
Cemetery/Memorial:
Operations:
Lance Sergeant Robert Townsend died in North Africa as result of an accident whilst serving with 30th Bn. Somerset Light Infantry. Son of Frederick William and Nellie Townsend, of Saltley, Birmingham [1][2].
08.11.1942 (Corporal, No.6 Commando) wounded in action (remaining on duty) Operation Torch [3].
26.02.1943 (Corporal, No.6 Commando) wounded Battle of Steamroller Farm, Tunisia [4]..
The Commando was withdrawn to the UK after this operation having suffered heavy casualties in this and earlier actions [5].
Sources
[1] CWGC.
[1] CWGC.
[2] Casualty Lists / National Archives WO 417/73
[3] Casualty Lists / National Archives WO 417/54
[4] Casualty Lists / National Archives WO 417/58
[5] Brief resume from the account of Brig. Derek MIlls Roberts in the book When Shall Their Glory Fade, author Maj James Dunning.
Notes
The fact that Townsend remained in North Africa (serving with the Somerset LI) after No 6 Commando left is likely attributable to his wounds and subsequent recovery period, and the regulations regarding being away from your unit on hospitalisation. [view the 'x' lists.]
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