'Layforce'

Commando Veterans Archive Header

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 - 208 of 208

ABLEWHITE, C.A.

Private
4803670
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Lincolnshire Regiment
Private Abelwhite was wounded 9 June 1941 during operations at the Litani River in Syria [1]. 
Wounded a second time on 15 December 1941 during operations in the Western Desert [2].
 
Sources

ADAMS, William John

Sergeant
5828073
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Suffolk Regiment
Sergeant William Adams was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Member of the Commando Association from Lowestoft, Suffolk.
 
Sources

ALLEN, Ronald

Driver I/C
2591915
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Corps of Signals
Driver Ronald Allen was reported missing believed a prisoner of war on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete. Later imprisoned at Stalag 4A and Stalag 4B.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28.

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.
24.02.1941 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..

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:
23.08.1940 posted 50 (ME) Commando.
24.11.1940 embarked for Crete.

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.

BARNETT, Edgar Albert

Lance Bombardier
933008
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Artillery
Edgar Albert Barnett, a Labourer from Birmingham, enlisted into the Armed Forces on 15 July 1939. He volunteered for commando service and was attached to No.7 Commando which embarked for the Middle East forming 'A' Battalion of Layforce.

BARRAND, Peter Charles

Lance Corporal
6971182
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Rifle Brigade
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Peter Barrand was reported missing presumed killed during operations in the Western Desert. Son of Oscar A. and Grace Barrand, of Selsey, Sussex [1][2].

BARTON, J.

Private
3325685
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Highland Light Infantry 2nd Bn.

Wounded 9 June 1941 attached Layforce during operations at Litani River, Syria.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/29.

BEALE, William

Corporal
5947082
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Middle East Commando
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment

William Beale enlisted 29 January 1929, civil occupation Tyre Builder. He volunteered for the Commandos in WW2 and was attached to No.7 Commando embarking for the Middle East as part of Layforce.

BIRCH, Frederick

Fred Birch 7 Commando
Sergeant Frederick Birch 7 Commando
Corporal (Acting Sergeant)
2931860
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
51ME Commando
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Frederick Birch, a Wholesale Meat Salesman from Liverpool, enlisted on 21 August 1939 later volunteering for the commandos. Sergeant Birch served in No.7 Commando and took part in operations at Bardia and Crete before moving to 51 Middle East Commando.

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.

BOGLE, James

James Bogle 11 Commando
Private
2888381
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Gordon Highlanders

James Bogle from Glasgow enlisted 27 June 1940 later volunteering for the commandos. He was attached to No.11 Commando and embarked with them for the Middle East as part of Layforce. Private Bogle was was reported missing 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ.

BOND, Edward Alfred

Second Lieutenant
170240
'Layforce'
Sherwood Foresters

28.03.1941 Geneifa, Second Lieutenant 'A' Company of 'D' Bn Layforce
---.06.1941 prisoner of war Crete. 
 
Sources
52 Middle East Commando War Diary 28/3/1941 (List of 'D' Bn Layforce Officers).
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/2.

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].

BOWEN, Alfred Leighton

Alfred Leighton Bowen
Trooper
318358
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
North Somerset Yeomanry
1938 joined the North Somerset Yeomanry rank Trooper. 
20 February 1940 arrive in Palestine with his Regiment.
March 1940 injury to knee from horse kick.
August 1940 posted to Air Defence Operations Room at Haifa *.

BOWERS, John Henry

John Henry Bowers No.8 Commando
Lance Corporal (later Major)
2614807 and 284731
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
Grenadier Guards, 3rd Bn.
Queen's Own Royal West Kent
Royal Hampshire Regiment, 2/4 Bn.
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Mentioned in Despatches
Service timeline: 
  • 03.1936 enlisted as a regular soldier [1].
  • 09.1939 posted to France with British Expeditionary Force [1].

BOYLE, Richard

Captain (later Temporary Major)
64612
'Layforce'
Black Watch
Military Cross (MC)
Killed in action or died of wounds
Major Richard Boyle MC, 1st Battalion Black Watch, died during operations at the River Rhine crossing [1][1a].
Layforce
  • 28.03.1941, Captain, Commander 'D' Company, 'D' Bn. Layforce at Geneifa [2].

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.

BROAD, Harry Orlando

Private
5435324
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry

Harry Broad, a Labourer and Pipe Layer from Devonport, Plymouth, enlisted 11 July 1930. Private Broad volunteered for the Commandos in WW2 and was attached to No.7 Commando embarking for the Middle East as part of 'A' Battalion Layforce.

BROWN, Jack

Trooper
326038
Middle East Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Armoured Corps Yorkshire Hussars
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Jack Brown, 'D' Bn., Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.

BROWN, Leslie Jock

Cpl. Leslie Brown 1st SAS
Corporal
5437777
SAS
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
51ME Commando
Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Corporal Leslie Brown had previously served in the Commandos before joining 'B' Squadron of the 1st Special Air Service. He died when his jeep patrol was attacked whilst en route to harass the enemy in Southern Tunisia.
Service*

BRUCE, Charles

Sergeant
2758668
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Black Watch

Sergeant Charles Bruce, from Brechin, Angus, was reported missing 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ, later found to be a prisoner of war at Camp 59 in Italy from which he managed to escape back to allied lines after the Italian Armistice.

BUCKLEY, Alfred, J.T.

Corporal
4856362
'Layforce'
Leicestershire Regiment
Corporal Alfred Buckley 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.

BURTON, William John

Temporary Captain
63868
'Layforce'
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment
York and Lancaster Regiment
Military Cross (MC)
28 March 1941, Geneifa, 'C' Company Commander, 'D' Bn., Layforce.
June 1941 Prisoner of war during operations at Crete. Awarded the Military Cross for gallant and distinguished service in the Middle East.
 
Sources

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].

BUTTON, Gordon

Private
4449904
'Layforce'
Middle East Commando
Durham Light Infantry 1st Bn.
Died on war service
3 February 1942 serving in No.1 Special Service Detachment at Taunngyi Southern Shan States, Burma.

Sources
CWGC.
Casualty Lists WO417/57.

CAMERON, R.

Private
3326220
'Layforce'
Highland Light Infantry 2nd Bn.

Wounded 9 June 1941 attached Layforce during operations at Litani River, Syria.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/29.

CAMPBELL, Robin Francis

Lieutenant (Temporary Captain)
138704
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
General List
Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Temporary Captain Robin Campbell was attached to the raiding party for Operation Flipper, an attack on Rommel's HQ in November 1941. Wounded and taken prisoner, he was subsequently repatriated in 1943 because of his wounds.

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.

CARR, George

Signalman
2577040
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Corps of Signals
George Carr, a Press Photographer from Darlington, enlisted into the Armed Forces on 24 August 1939 later volunteering for special service and attached to No.7 Commando. Deployed overseas for service in the Middle East with No.7 Commando forming 'A' Battalion of Layforce.

CARR, William

Lieutenant
170245
'Layforce'
Yorkshire and Lancashire Regiment
William Carr, an Agricultural Advisor from Fulford, York, served in the Yeomanry from April 1939 untill called up in August 1939. He was later seconded to the Middle East Commando and 'D' Battalion of Layforce. Captured 1 June 1941 at Crete.
 
Sources

CAUDELL, Raymond Douglas

Lance Corporal
140951
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Army Service Corps

Lance Corporal Raymond Caudell from Hertfordshire was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28, WO417/30, and WO417/95.

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

CHEETHAM, Anthony

Signalman
2578821
'Layforce'
Royal Corps of Signals
Signalman Anthony Cheetham was attached to Layforce from the 6th Cavalry Brigade Signals. He was reported missing in Crete 2 June 1941 later found to be a prisoner of war. 
Post war member of the Commando Association residing Hilton, Natal, South Africa.
 

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.

COLBECK, John Vivian

Captain (later Major)
101039
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Tank Regiment
Mentioned in Despatches
Territorial Efficiency Medal
Mentioned in Despatches - Captain Colbeck was captured on 20 April 1941 at Bardia, North Africa, and subsequently imprisoned in various camps in Italy and Germany. He made numerous attempts to escape but only succeeded in leaving the camp on one occasion.

COLLINGWOOD, Fred

Private
4454318
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Wiltshire Regiment

Private Fred Collingwood was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/94.

COWPER, Alexander Bruce

Sapper
2077985
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Engineers
Killed in action or died of wounds
Sapper Alexander Cowper was killed in action during operations in Crete. He has no known grave. Son of James and Agnes Cowper of Wallsend, Newcastle Upon Tyne.
Service
15.05.1939 enlisted Royal Engineers.

DALY, Dermot Ralph

Major (Temporary Lieutenant Colonel)
36692
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
Scots Guards 2nd Bn.
Mentioned in Despatches
Educated at Eton College; 15/1/1927 Second Lieutenant, Supplementary Reserve of Officers, Scots Guards; 31/1/1930 Second Lieutenant Regular Army, Scots Guards; served with the King's African Rifles and the Colonial Office 1931/1932; Promoted Lieutenant 31/1/1933; served in Palestine 1936/1937;

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].

DOVE, George

George Dove 11 Commando
Private
4976786
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Sherwood Forresters
Private George Dove was wounded on 9 June 1941 during operations at the Litani River in Syria.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.

[Image] CVA Gallery.

DRORI, Avishalom

Corporal
PAL/14538
51ME Commando
'Layforce'
Pioneer Corps

Corporal Avishalom Druri was Jewish and from Palestine. He volunteered for the British Army and was first posted to the Pioneer Corps before being attached to 51 Middle East Commando.

DUFF, David

David Duff 11 Commando
Private later Lance Corporal
2932497
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders 5th Bn.
Killed in action or died of wounds

David Duff served in No.11 Commando 10 troop in the Middle East. He left No.11 Commando which was disbanded early and returned to the 5th Bn., Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders.

ELLIOT, John

Lance Corporal (later Sergeant)
2989826
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Pioneer Corps
Served with 'C' Bn., Layforce in Palestine, Cyprus, and Syria (Litani River battle). Returned to his unit after Layforce and No.11 Commando were disbanded. Later transferred to the Pioneer Corps. Final rank attained Sergeant, Pioneer Corps.
 
Sources

ETHELSTONE, Harry

Private
5670462
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
Somerset Light Infantry

Private Harry Ethelstone was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Originally shown on Casualty Lists as No.7 Commando attached 'A Bn., Layforce this was amended to No.8 Commando attached 'A' Bn., Layforce.

EVANS, George Lancelotte

Corporal
2931202
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders (Liverpool Scottish)
Corporal George Evans was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later confirmed a prisoner of war. George Lancelotte Evans from Claughton, Birkenhead, was employed at Birkenhead Central Library before enlisting on 28 April 1939.

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.

FARRINGTON, John Beddell

John Beddell Farrington
Private (Acting Lance Corporal)
5111475
No 4 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Warwickshire Regiment
British Empire Medal (BEM)
Lance Corporal John Farrington was reported missing on 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete with Layforce. He was held as a prisoner in both Germany and Poland, and later awarded the British Empire Medal (Military Division) for his numerous escapes from different camps.

FEEBERY, Cyril

Cyril Feebery 8 Commando
Corporal (later Squadron Sergeant Major)
2615284
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
SBS
Grenadier Guards
Army Air Corps
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Guardsman Feebery was wounded in 1940 whilst deployed to France as part of the British Expeditionary Force. Volunteereed for the Commandos and served as a Corporal in No.8 Commando. Embarked for the Middle East as part of 'B' Bn Layforce.

FLUIN, Henry Thomas

Private (later Sergeant)
5527612
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Wiltshire Regiment
Service Record
19.11.1929 enlisted into the Wiltshire Regiment. Trade on enlistment Labourer. Next of kin Robert and Elizabeth Fluin (parents) from Islington, London. 
15.11.30 to 02.01.1932 Egypt. 
03.01.1932 to 07.11.1932 Shanghai.

FOWLER, Robert

Robert Fowler 11 Commando
Private
2932499
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Robert Fowler enlisted into the Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders on 18 October 1939, civil occupation - Enameller. Private Fowler later volunteered for the Commandos and was attached to No.11 Commando 10 Troop embarking with them for the Middle East as part of Layforce.

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.

FRASER, Thomas Coupar

Pte. Thomas Fraser 11 Commando
Private
2934226
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Thomas Fraser, 10 Troop, died during operations in the Western Desert. He had been one of the raiding party of Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ. Son of Leslie D. and Annie H. Fraser, of Parkhead, Glasgow.
 
Sources

FREEMAN, Fred Edward L.

Fred Freeman 7 Commando
Private
5830905
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Suffolk Regiment
Fred Freeman enlisted into the Suffolk Regiment on 2 October 1939, trade on enlistment Iron and Steel dresser. He later volunteered for the special service with the commandos and was attached to No.7 Commando.

FURNIVAL, William Roy McGarry

Sergeant
2928615
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Sergeant William Roy McGarry Furnival was reported missing and later a prisoner of war 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete. Post war member of the Commando Association from Hampshire.
 
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 and WO417/30. 

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
Queen's Royal Regment Records.
Casualty Lists 1939-45 / National Archives files WO417/28 and WO417/34.

GALLIER, Robert Allen

Gunner
1465403
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Artillery

Gunner Robert Gallier was reported missing believed to be a prisoner of war 2 June 1941 after operations at Crete. In 1942 it was reported he was no longer missing.

Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/42.
RA Attestations Register 1938.

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.

GILLINGHAM, Reginald John

Company Quartermaster Sergeant
543209
'Layforce'
Royal Armoured Corps
Company Quartermaster Sergeant Reginald Gillingham was reported missing presumed died during operations in Burma on 19 June 1942, his secondary unit recorded as 'B' Bn., Layforce on each of the casualty listings. He has no known grave.

GLITHERO, G.E.

Corporal
4804364
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Lincolnshire Regiment
Corporal Glitheroe was wounded on 9 June 1941 during operations at the Litani River in Syria. Member of the Commando Association.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27 (surname spelt Giltheroe).

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.

GOODSIR, Georges Albert Jacques

Lance Bombardier
1467168
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Artillery
Georges Albert Jacques Goodsir, a Schoolmaster from Hampshire, enlisted into the Armed Forces in September 1939, later volunteering for the Commandos and attached to No.7 Commando. He embarked with them for operations in the Middle East as part of Layforce.

GORNALL, James

Gunner
3856286
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Artillery
Military Medal (MM)
Gunner James Gornall, 3 troop, was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the field [1]. He took part in Operation Exporter at Litani River and was captured after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ.

GRAHAM, James Leslie

Lance Corporal
3191535
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
King's Own Scottish Borderers
Lance Corporal James Graham from Newcastle upon Tyne was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. 
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives files WO417/27 and WO417/34.

GRAY, John, B.

Lance Corporal
3132719
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Scots Fusiliers

Lance Corporal John Gray 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 and WO417/92.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 and WO392/11.

GREEN, D.

Lance Corporal
6803656
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
Staffordshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Lance Corporal Green was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. His commando formed part of 'D' Bn., Layforce for this operation.
 
Sources

GREEN, William Alfred

Private
5933643
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Suffolk Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds

Private William Green was reported missing presumed died died during the period No 7 Commando, as part of Layforce, were engaged in a rearguard action whilst allied troops were evacuated from Crete. He has no known grave. Son of Harry and Anne Elizabeth Green, of March, Cambridgeshire.

HANCOCK, Harry

Private
4748143
'Layforce'
Middle East Commando
British Military Mission 204
York and Lancaster Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Harry Hancock, 'C' Bn Layforce, was reported missing 9 June 1941 during operations at Litani River, Syria, later reported no longer missing.

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.

HAWKINS, H.

Trooper
550785
ME Commando Depot
'Layforce'
Yorkshire Dragoons, Royal Armoured Corps

Trooper Hawkins was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete., later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/29 and 33.
Prisoners of War / National Archives files WO392/1.

HERAS, Braulio

Braulio Heras
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.
 

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.

HIGGIN, Arthur

Private
4126259
'Layforce'
Cheshire Regiment

Private Arthur Higgin, HQ Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations on Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.

HOWIE, Robert Cullen

Lieutenant
154064
'Layforce'
General List
28 March 1941 Acting Quartermaster 'D' Bn Layforce HQ.
2 June 1941 (Lieutenant) prisoner of war Crete.
 
Sources
52 Middle East Commando War Diary 28 March 1941 ('D' Bn Layforce Officers).

HOWLAND, William John

Regimental Sergeant Major
6077878
'Layforce'
Queen's Royal Regiment
28.03.1941 Regimental Sergeant Major of 'D' Bn. Layforce.
01.06.1941 prisoner of war Crete.
 
Sources
52 Middle East Commando War Diary 28 March 1941 (List of Oficers for 'D' Bn).

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.
 
Sources

HYND, Alexander

Lance Corporal
2696562
'Layforce'
Scots Guards
29.07.1939 enlisted Scots Guards.
01.06.1941 prisoner of war Crete.

Sources
Dir. of Mil. Int.: Liberated Prisoner of War Interrogation Questionnaire 1945/6 / National Archives file WO344/156/3.

INNES, John

Lance Corporal
2932101
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders 2nd Bn.
Died on active service
Lance Corporal John Innes died in a field hospital in Egypt on 16 January 1942.

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.

IVES, Edwin Isaac

Company Quartermaster Sergeant
2694795
'Layforce'
Scots Guards
16.04.1934 enlisted Scots Guards aged 18.
01.11.1940 attached 52 Middle East Commando
28.03.1941 Geneifa, Company Quartermaster Sergeant, 'D' Bn. Layforce.
02.06.1941 prisoner of war Crete.
15.04.1946 released to Royal Army Reserve Class 'Z'.

JAMIESON, John

John Jamieson 7 Commando
Private
2933872
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Liverpool Scottish Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Private John Jamieson, 'B' Company of the 1st Bn., Liverpool Scottish, volunteered for the Commandos and was attached to No.7 Commando. 
31 January 1941 departed for the Middle East as 'A' Battalion of Layforce.

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.

JONES, John James

Lance Corporal
2933682
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Liverpool Scots Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
John James 'Jack Jones, a Tanners Sole Leather Machine Operator, resided in 1939 at 63A Gwladys Street, Liverpool. Enlisted 12 January 1940 and posted 'B' Company, 2nd Battalion Liverpool Scots. Volunteered for the commandos and attached to No.7 Commando 1 August 1940.

JONES, Richard Babington

Lieutenant (later Major)
124667
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
Staffordshire Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Royal Artillery
Territorial Efficiency Medal
09.03.1940 commissioned Second Lieutenant, Staffordshire Yeomanry [1].
01.11.1940 (Second Lieutenant) posted to 52 Middle East Commando at Geneifa [2].
28.03.1941 serving in 'D' Company, 52 Middle East Commando [2].

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

KEARNEY, Joseph Francis

Gunner
970050
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Artillery
Gunner Joe Kearney was attached to No.11 Commando 1 Troop from the 57th (Newfoundland) Heavy Regiment Royal Artillery. He was reported missing 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper in the Western Desert, later found to be a prisoner of war.

KING, Thomas, J.

Private
5191561
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Gloucestershire Regiment

Served: No.4 Commando; 3 Special Service Battalion; No.7 Commando; 'A' Bn., Layforce. 
Private Thomas King was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. 

KLINCK, H.S.

Private
3326475
'Layforce'
Highland Light Infantry 2nd Bn.

Wounded 9 June 1941 attached Layforce during operations at Litani River, Syria.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/29.

LACEY, Leonard Frank

Private
5669104
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
British Military Mission 204
Somerset Light Infantry
Died on active service
Private Leonard Lacey died whilst a prisoner of war. He had been posted from the Commando to Middle East Detachment 2, later redesignated 2nd Special Service Detachment (SSD 2), in Burma. He has no known grave. Son of Edward James Lacey and Louise Rose Lacey.
 

LAMBERT, Joseph

Fusilier
3714345
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Lancashire Fusiliers
Fusilier Joseph Lambert from Wesham near Preston was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete. Later found to be a prisoner of war having been captured the previous day. Enlisted 12 March 1940, civil occupation - Hotel Worker. Post war member of the Commando Association.

LAPPIN, James

Jimmy Lappin 11 Commando and SAS
Corporal
2934114
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
SAS
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Mentioned in Despatches
10 Troop of No.11 Commando. 
Took part in the Rommel raid (Operation Flipper)*.
'A' Squadron Middle East Commando.
Special Air Service.
Mentioned in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the Field.
 

LARNEY, Owen

Private
3777096
'Layforce'
King's Regiment
Owen Larney from Dublin enlisted 4 May 1940. Private Larney attached Layforce was reported wounded and missing June 1941 during operations in Crete, later confirmed prisoner of war. Initially taken to 5 AGH (Athens General Hospital) before being transported to German Stalags.

LAWRENCE, Christie Norman

Lieutenant (Honorary Captain)
124143
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
Somerset Light Infantry
Mentioned in Despatches
Order of the White Eagle (Yugoslavia)

Christie Norman Lawrence was commissioned Second Lieutenant 9 March 1940. Reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete later confirmed to be a prisoner of war. He escaped and joined General Mihailovic's Chetnik Forces in Yugoslavia. Later recaptured and transported to Germany.

LILLEY, Harold

Gunner
950256
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Artillery
Harold Lilley from Hull, East Yorkshire, enlisted 16 October 1939, civil occupation - Fish Worker. Volunteered for the Commandos. Attached No.7 Commando 24 August 1940.

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.

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.

LOCK, Charles

Charles Lock 11 Commando
Corporal
2884454
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Gordon Highlanders

Corporal Charles Lock, 8 Troop, was reported missing 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association from Walmer, Kent.

LUMBRERA, Francisco

Francesco Lumbrera 50ME Commando
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.

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

MACQUARRIE, Donald Maclean

Donald Macquarrie 11 Commando
Original grave of Donald Macquarrie
Lance Corporal
3319006
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Gordon Highlanders
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Donald MacQuarrie, 8 troop, died of wounds during operations in the Middle East. Initially reported as missing on 24 November 1941 then as wounded and a prisoner of war (since recaptured). 

MACRAE, Philip

Lance Bombardier
1523812
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Artillery
Philip Macrae, a Gamekeeper from Eskadale, Invernesshire, enlisted into the Royal Artillery on 7 November 1939. After volunteering he was later attached to No.11 (Scottish) Commando and embarked with them for the Middle East as part of Layforce.

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.

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
11.09.1940 posted 50 ME Commando.
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.

MAXWELL, Kenneth Horton

Lieutenant
87670
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
Territorial Decoration (TD)
Kenneth Horton Maxwell, a Merchant from Oxton in Birkenhead, Cheshire, enlisted into the Armed Forces August 1939. He volunteered for commando service and was attached to No.7 Commando embarking with them for the Middle East, his Commando forming 'A' Battalion of Layforce.

MAXWELL, Thomas Turnbull

Guardsman
2695837
'Layforce'
Scots Guards 2nd Bn.
Died on war service

Guardsman Thomas Maxwell was wounded during operations in Crete on 2 June 1941 and became a prisoner of war. He died whilst in captivity. Son of Robert and Mary Jane Maxwell, of Kirkconnel, Dumfriesshire.

MCADAM, Leslie

Sergeant
46720
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Cameronians
Sergeant Leslie McAdam was reported missing 24th November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ, later found to be a prisoner of war from the 21st November.

MCGIBBON, Robert Lorne

Robert Lorne McGibbon 50ME Commando
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].

MCKEE, Peter McIntyre Hugh

Peter Mckee 7 Commando
Sergeant (Acting Troop Sergeant Major)
1477227
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Artillery
Troop Sergeant Major Peter McKee was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later confirmed a prisoner. Repatriated to the UK in 1943.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28 and WO417/68.

MCKENNA, Edward Thomas

Lance Corporal
3777325
'Layforce'
Kings Regiment (Liverpool)
Border Regiment
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Edward McKenna, King's Regiment and Special Service, was wounded during operations in Crete on 28 May 1941. On the 31st March 1944 he is listed with the Border Regiment and killed in action in Burma.
 
Sources

MCKENZIE, James Burnett

Private
2880400
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Gordon Highlanders

Private James McKenzie was reported missing in the Middle East 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ, later found to be a prisoner of war since 19 November 1941. 

MCLELLAN, Dugald Bone

Dugald Mclellan 52 Middle East Commmando
Trooper
320145
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Scots Greys
Royal Armoured Corps
23.03.1938 enlisted Cavalry of the Line aged 18. 
26.03.1938 posted Royal Scots Greys.
02.11.1940 attached 52 Middle East Commando.
02.06.1941 reported missing during operations at Crete; prisoner of war since 01.06.1941.

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.

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
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]. 

MILLS, Charles Ernest

Private
5827821
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Suffolk Regiment

Charles Ernest Mills, a Miller and Millwright from Suffolk, enlisted 15 January 1940. Private Mills later volunteered for the Commandos and was attached to No.7 Commando embarking with them for the Middle East.

MOYLES, Gerard

Lance Corporal
318430
ME Commando Depot
'Layforce'
Cheshire Yeomanry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lance Corporal Gerard Moyles was reported missing 2 June 1941, later confirmed as died, during operations in Crete. He has no known grave. Son of Peter and Mary Moyles.
Commando 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, Robert

Robert Murray 11 Commando
Robert Murray 1986 Arran
Private
2877544
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Gordon Highlanders

Private Robert Murray, 8 Troop, was reported missing 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association.

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.

NICHOLLS, Frank Raymond Jocelyn

Captain
71042
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Special Service Detachment 1
Royal Artillery
Mentioned in Despatches
Killed in action or died of wounds
Captain Frank Nicholls, No 7 Commando and Layforce, died whilst attached to No 1 Special Service Detachment. He has no known grave. Son of Mrs. A. M. Connell, of West Brompton, London.

NICOL, Charles

Charles Nicol 11 Commando
Acting Sergeant
2873369
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Gordon Highlanders

Sergeant Charles Nicol was reported missing 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ, later found to be a prisoner of war. 

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

PARISH, C.

Captain
'Layforce'
Royal Sussex Regiment
28 March 1941 Commander of 'B' Company, 'D' Bn. Layforce at Geneifa.
 
Sources
52 Middle East Commando War Diary 28/3/1941 (List of 'D' Bn. Layforce Officers).
 

PARKINGTON, Oswald

Private
6085077
'Layforce'
The Queen's Royal Regiment (West Surrey) 2nd Bn.
Killed in action or died of wounds
Private Oswald Parkington died during operations in Crete. Elements of Layforce were engaged in a rearguard action during the evacuation.
 
Sources
CWGC.

PAXTON, Charles Henry

Private
2933778
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders

Private Charles Paxton, 10 Troop, was reported missing on 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ in Libya, and later found to be a prisoner of war.

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.

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.

PRYDE, William

William Pryde 11 Commando
Lance Corporal
2932498
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
William Pryde, a Fitter from Falkirk, Scotland, enlisted 18 October 1939. He later volunteered for the Commandos and was attached to No.11 Commando 10 Troop embarking with them for the Middle East as part of Layforce.

RATCLIFF, Harry

Corporal
3521261
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
King's Own Royal Regiment
Harry Ratcliff, from Oldham Lancashire, enlisted into the Armed Forces on 9 November 1926 and served until 8 November 1938. He re-enlisted on 15 August 1940 later volunteering for the Commandos.

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.

RICHARDSON, Peter Lingwood

Lance Bombardier
908598
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Artillery
Lance Bombardier Peter Richardson from Banstead, Surrey, was reported missing 19th April 1941 during operations at Cyrenaica (Bardia Raid), later found to be a prisoner of war.
Civil occupation - Bank Clerk.
Enlisted Territorial Army 1st May 1939.

RILEY, Charles George Gibson

Guardsman (later Captain)
2656281 and 281325
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
SAS
Coldstream Guards
Isle of Ely Constabulary
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
15 January 1934 enlisted Coldstream Guards former trade Quarryman; 1937 to Army Reserve List; 1 January 1938 joined Isle of Ely Constabulary; September 1939 mobilised Coldstream Guards; 1940 No.8 Commando; Layforce; 1st Special Service Regiment; September 1941 'L' Detachment SAS; January - Apri

ROBERTSON, William Thorburn

Private
3055828
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Scots

William Robertson from Edinburgh enlisted on 1 August 1939, civil trade Painter. He later volunteered for the Commandos. Private Robertson was reported missing 20 April 1941 during operations at Cyrenaica (Bardia), later found to be a prisoner of war. 

ROBINSON, James William

Driver
T/166871
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Army Service Corps
In 1939 James William Robinson was employed as a Grocer's van man and resided with his wife Kathleen in Boston, Lincolnshire. After enlisting into the Armed Forces he was posted as a Driver in the R.A.S.C. before volunteering for special service and attached to No.7 Commando.

RODGER, Thomas Buchanan White

Corporal
2324891
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Engineers
Mentioned in Despatches
Thomas Rodger, a Sales Supervisor from Glasgow, enlisted into the Royal Engineers Reserve on 30 January 1936. Called to the Colours on 30 August 1939. Attached to 3 Special Service Battalion on 11 November 1940. Attached No.7 Commando on 31 January 1941*.

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.

RUSSELL, Frederick James

Private
5572601
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Wiltshire Regiment

Private Frederick Russell was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28, WO417/30, and WO417/94.

RUSSO, James Anthony

Lieutenant (later Captain)
71402
'Layforce'
Royal Armoured Corps, 3rd Hussars
26.07.1939, commissioned Second Lieutenant 3rd Hussars from General List TA (University Candidate) with seniority 27 January 1938 [1]. 
01.01.1941, promoted Lieutenant, 3rd Hussars [1a].

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.

SANDBACH, Cecil Emerson

Cecil Sandbach
Lieutenant (later Honorary Captain)
170234
'Layforce'
Cheshire Regiment
03.11.1940, O.C.T.U. commissioned Second Lieutenant, Cheshire Regiment [1].
28.03.1941, Second Lieutenant, 'B' Company 'D' Bn., Layforce at Geneifa [2].
01.06.1941, Lieutenant, prisoner of war, Crete [3][3a][3b][3c].

SCHOFIELD, Harry Vane

Trooper
323263
'Layforce'
Stafford Yeomanry, Royal Armoured Corps
Trooper Harry Schofield, 'D' Battalion of Layforce, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association from Scarborough.
 
Sources

SEYMOUR, William Napier

William Seymour 52 Middle East Commando
Major
56896
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
Scots Guards
Mentioned in Despatches
Adjutant of 52 Middle East Commando in Sudan and Ethiopia, and Adjutant 'D' Bn. Layforce, although did not participate at Crete due to an injury. Later joined Middle East contingents to the Far East to be part of Mission 204.

SHERWOOD, James Barlow Brookes

James Sherwood 8 Commando
Sergeant (later Captain)
T/106321 and 305079
No 8 Commando
'Layforce'
SBS
Royal Army Service Corps
Royal Ulster Rifles
Military Medal (MM)
Served with No 8 Troop, No 8 Commando in GB, 9/1940 -12/1940; served with Folboat Troop, No 8 Commando in GB, 12/1940 - 2/1941; served with Folboat Section, Layforce in Egypt and Mediterranean, 2/1941 - 3/1941; served with No 1 Special Boat Section in Mediterranean and North Africa, 4/1941 - 2/

SHORTEN, Raymond Herbert

Lieutenant
163658
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
SAS
General List
Killed in action or died of wounds
Lieutenant Raymond Shorten left the Commando in July 1942 to join 'L' Detachment SAS. He  died in October during operations with the SAS at Sidi Barrani.
 
 Nov 40, enlisted General List
 Dec 40, 52 ME Cdo
 Jan 41, wounded

SLADE, E.A.H.

Private
5620225
'Layforce'
Devonshire Regiment
12 June 1941 wounded during operations in Cyrenaica, unit 4 Special Service Bn. [1] [notes]. 
6 June 1944 wounded N.W.E. serving with his Regiment, rank Lance Corporal [2].
 
Sources

SMILEY, David de Crespigny

Captain (later Colonel)
P/69082
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Horse Guards
Member of the Royal Victorian Order (MVO)
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Bar to the Military Cross
Military Cross (MC)
Mentioned in Despatches
  • 28.03.1941, Captain, 52 Middle East Commando, appointed to 'D' Company of 'D' Bn., Layforce at Geneifa [1][1a][1b].
  • 1941, Temporary Captain, Mentioned in Despatches in recognition of distinguished service in the Middle East [2].

SMITH, William James

Trooper
7909151
'Layforce'
Royal Armoured Corps
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper William Smith was reported missing August 1942 during operations in Burma, later presumed killed in action on or shortly after 31 August 1942. He was attached to the Special Service Detachment and has no known grave.

SNEESBY, Eric

Driver
67473
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Army Service Corps

Driver Eric Sneesby was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/28, WO417/34, and WO417/96.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1.

SPARROW, H.S.

Lance Corporal
406644
'Layforce'
Household Cavalry Regiment
Lance Corporal Sparrow was reported wounded 11 June 1941 during operations in the Middle East. 
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/31.
 
Notes

STABLES, Leslie

Lance Corporal
3063118
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Scots 2nd Bn.
Leslie Stables, a Bottle Inspector from Yorkshire, enlisted on 20 June 1940. After volunteering for the Commandos he was attached to No.11 Commando and embarked with them for the Middle East as part of Layforce.

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

STEWART, Charles

Sergeant
2979811
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Highland Light Infantry 2nd Bn.
Charles Stewart from Glasgow enlisted on 2 March 1936. He volunteered for the Commandos in WW2 and was attached to No.7 Commando embarking with them for the Middle East as part of Layforce.

STOCKS, Douglas

Dougie Stocks 11 Commando
Driver i/c
2332752
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Corps of Signals
Driver Dougie Stocks, 'C' Bn Layforce, was reported missing 20 November 1941 during operations in the Western Desert, later confimed as wounded and a prisoner of war in Italian hands. He was repatriated to the UK in 1943. Driver Stocks was from Kirkcaldy, Scotland.
 

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.

TERRY, Jack

Sgt Jack Terry DCM 11 Commando
Sergeant
880535
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
SAS
Royal Artillery
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Sergeant Jack Terry was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal [1] in recognition of gallant and distinguished services during the Rommel raid in the Middle East. It was during this raid that his commanding officer Lt. Col. Geoffrey Keyes was killed. Sgt.

THOMAS, John Smith

Private
3319284
Independent Companies and Special Service Battalions
'Layforce'
Highland Light Infantry (City of Glasgow Regiment)
Private John Thomas, 3 Special Service Bn. was reported missing in the Middle East on 20 April 1941 (Bardia Raid) later found to be a prisoner of war.
 
Sources
Casualty Lists  / National Archives files WO417/24 and WO417/27.

THOMAS, Leslie

Trooper
406292
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Armoured Corps Staffordshire Yeomanry
Killed in action or died of wounds
Trooper Leslie Thomas, 52 Middle East Commando ('D' Bn. Layforce), died during operations in Crete. Son of George Henry and Mary Thomas, of Leicester.
 
Sources
CWGC.

THOMAS, Norman

Private
6088017
'Layforce'
The Queen's Royal Regiment (West Surrey) 2nd Bn.
Died on war service
Private Norman Thomas was reported as missing in action on Crete on the 2nd June 1941, however he had been taken prisoner. He died whilst a prisoner of war cause of death not known to this archive.
 

THOMPSON, Alfred

Private
3771992
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
King's Liverpool

Alfred Thompson, a Painter from Liverpool, enlisted on 27 October 1938. Private Thompson volunteered for the Commandos in 1940 and was attached to No.7 Commando embarking with them for the Middle East as part of Layforce.

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

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.

VARNEY, Frank Ernest

Frank Varney 11 Commando
Lance Corporal
4977399
No 11 Commando
'Layforce'
Sherwood Forresters

Lance Corporal Frank Varney, 10 Troop, was reported missing on 24 November 1941 after Operation Flipper, the raid on Rommel's HQ in Libya, and later found to be a prisoner of war.

WALSH, Stanley, G.

Private
6402554
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Sussex Regiment 1st Bn.
Private Stanley Walsh was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations at Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war having been captured on 1 June 1941. 
 
Sources
Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/27.

WARD, S.

Trooper
406676
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
Household Cavalry Regiment
29.05.1941 'D' Bn. Layforce wounded in Crete [1].

15.07.1941 'D' Bn. Layforce wounded in the Middle East [2].

WHALEY, James Arundel

Corporal
5950224
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Marines
James Arundel Whaley enlisted in 1939, civil occupation Electricity Meter Reader. In 1940 he volunteered for the Commandos and was attached to No.7 Commando embarking with them for the Middle East as part of Layforce.

WILLETT, Douglas

Trooper
7913048
'Layforce'
Royal Armoured Corps

Trooper Douglas Willett was reported missing on 20 April 1941 during operations in Cyrenaica, Libya (Bardia raid), later found to be a prisoner of war.

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.

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.
 

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.

WINTERBOTHAM, Sydney, J..

Lance Corporal
T/2574005
No 7 Commando
'Layforce'
Royal Army Service Corps
Lance Corporal Sydney Winterbotham, 'F' Troop, was reported missing 2 June 1941 during operations in Crete, later found to be a prisoner of war. Post war member of the Commando Association from Nottingham.
 
Sources

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

WRIGLEY, John William

Private
47045203
52ME Commando
'Layforce'
York and Lancaster Regiment
John William Wrigley, a Labourer from Bradford, enlisted into the Armed Forces on 13 January 1933. Private Wrigley, 52 Middle East Commando which was part of 'D' Battalion of Layforce, was reported missing later confirmed prisoner of war 1 June 1941 during operations in Crete. 

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].
Contact the Archive via the [contact form].
 
All content is researched and administered by the Commando Veterans Archive.