40 Commando 1942

February

Source : National Archives ADM 202/87
Note i have added 'Roll of Honour' and 'Awards' to each year of the diary.
Please let me know if any typing errors or errors to the text found.

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	SUMMARY OF INFORMATION	REMARKS
London	4 Feb 42	a.m.	Capt.P.W.C.Hellings. D.S.C., detached from 3 R.M. for duty at R.M. Office, informs Capt(A/Major) J.P.Phillipps serving at Staff College Camberlay or requirements for R.M. Commando War Establishments
London	7 Feb 42	--	Major J.P.Phillipps visits R.M.Office and Office of Commodore Combined Operation.(Lord Louis Mountbatten) to discuss staff requirements and R.M. Commando War Establishments.	See Appendix A.
London	12 Feb 42	--	Major J.P.Phillipps attached to R.M.Office for duty from Staff College Camberley. Signal made to Home Fleet and formations and units serving in U.K.
Deal	14 Feb 42	1745	Major J.P.Phillipps, Capt(A/Major)R.D.Houghton, Capt J.C.Manners, Capt.Hellings, D.S.C., Lieut.A.D.Comyn and 100 O.R.'s (approx) arrive to start formation of Unit. Draft of G.1098 equipment table given to Major J.P.Phillipps.	Major.R.D.Houghton from 15(M.G) Bn,R.M.; Capt J.C.Manners from Chatham Div. Lieut.A.D.Comyn from R.M.M.S. Thurlestone
Deal	15 Feb 42	0900	N.C.O.'s and men detailed to sub units. Lieut. D.E.M.B.Tod and Lieut.H.O.Huntington-Whiteley report for duty. Further drafts arrive 72 O.R.'s from 101 R.M.Bde. Beach Engineers Bn. R.M.T.T.Depot	Lieut.D.E.M.B.Tod from Portsmouth Division. Lieut.H.O.Huntington-Whiteley from Chatham Division.
Deal	16 Feb 42	0815	Training starts. Further drafts (25 O.R.'s) arrive from R.M.Sisge Regt. Plymouth Division and 18(Mob)Bn. Lieut.M.J.Ephraums reports for duty.	Lieut.M.J.Ephraums from H.M.S. Cumberland.
Deal	17 Feb 42	a.m.	40 O.R.'s returned to units at own request. Most men were under impression (a) The unit would be formed for short time only or (b) There was extra pay when serving with R.M. Commando	Few of men returned, if any, worthy of retention.
		1700	Draft arrives from Portsmouth Division 11 O.R.'s. Draft from 12 R.M. and Sussex Bty, 2 C.A.Regt. 28 O.R.'s arrives. Lieut.N.E.S.Maude reports for duty.	Lieut.N.E.S.Maude from Holding Bn. Deal.
Deal	18 Feb 42	0800	Major.Phillipps and Major.Houghton visit R.M.Office to discuss formation of Signal Pl. and other administrative details. Arrangements are made for R.M.Commando to remain a Deal until 23 March 42.
		1800	Ty Lieut.(A/Ty Capt) R.K.Deveraux reports for duty.	Capt.R.K.Deveraux from 104 (Trg) Bde. 20 Bn R.M.
		2100	Major.Houghton returns.
Deal	19 Feb 42	a.m.	Draft G.1098 returned ammended to O.S.I.a for publication.
		p.m.	Major.Phillipps returns from London
		2100	Trg conference, arrangements made for Demolitions course at H.M.S. Pembroke.
Deal	20 Feb 42	p.m.	2nd/Lieu.I.C.McKellar and 10 O.R.'s. 8 Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders report for duty. Draft arrives from 102 Bde 38 O.R.'s.. Lieut.H.W.F.Grant-Dalton reports for duty.	S A & S.H. from 102 R.M. Bde. Lieut.H.W.F.Grant-Dalton from Portsmouth Division.
Deal	21 Feb 42	1100	Owing to many units not having given leave recently permission is sought and granted from R.M.Office for R.M.Commando to have one weeks leave in early March. 30 O.R.'s returned to Unit, they being no longer volunteers.
Deal	22 Feb 42	0900	R.M.Commando paraded for Forced march.	Route march carried out at a rapid rate. 128-130-paces/min. Route; DEAL-SHOLDEN-GT MONGEHAM-WALMER-DEAL.
		p.m.	Lieut.D.L.Barclay reports for duty.	Lieut.D.L.Barclay from H.M.S. Norfolk
			After one week chief difficulties appear to be mainly Administrative. They are due to (a) Lack of trained Administrative N.C.O.'s. (b) The fact that troops had arrived even before the nucleus of the staff. These factors caused a lag which was not caught up until the end of the first week.
Deal	23 Feb 42	0900	Close Sp.Pl. to instruction by 5 DORSETS. Loan of one 3" Mortar for training. Range programme agreed on with I. of S.A. Deal.
		1700	Lt.Colonel.Phillipps visits 130(Inf)Bde to arrange for Field Firing Range.
Deal	24 Feb 42	0800	Lt.Colonel.Phillipps visits R.M.Office to discuss methods of obtaining G.1098 equipment. Further increase of allocations from units to R.M.Commando. Ty/Lieut.E.W.Ecrepont reports for duty. Lieut.J.E.Stiebel reports for duty.	104(Trg)Bde. 60. O.R's. 12 R.M. Bn. 20. O.R's 103 Bde. 20. O.R's Ty/Lieut.E.W.Ecrepont from 9.R.M. Bn. Lieit.J.E.Stiebel from H.M.S. Nelson.
Deal	25 Feb 42	0800	Range courses begin. A Coy and Mortar Pl. Trg ammunition arrives from S.A.S.O. Chatham.
		p.m.	Ty/Lieut.J.W.E.Bradley reports for duty.	Ty/Lieut.J.W.E.Bradley from 15(M.G.) Bn. R.M.
Deal	26 Feb 42	0900	Lt.Colonel.Phillipps, Major.Houghton, and the Adjutant recce field firing range on SANDWICH flats. A Coy completes range course. Close Sp. Pl. fire 3" Mortar.
Deal	27 Feb 42	a.m.	Draft 20 O.R's arrive from 103 Bde. Draft 26 O.R's from R.M. Signal School comprising complete Signal Pl/ arrive. Pl. formed and trained for 5 days at R.M. Signal School.
Deal	28 Feb 42	a.m.	9 O.R's arrive from Chatham Division, these replace men returned earlier at own request. Lt.Colonel.Phillipps and 7 officers to view field firing range and makes final arrangements. X Coy complete range course.

Officer Commanding, Lt.Col.J.P.Phillipps.
Capt. J.C.Manners commanded on 18 Feb.
Major.R.D.Houghton commanded on the 19 Feb & 24 Feb respectively.

March

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	SUMMARY OF INFORMATION	REMARKS
Deal	1 Mar 42	0900	Lt.Colonel.Phillipps and 7 officers to view Field Firing Range. Target areas selected. "Commando Action" exercised with A and X Coys. B Coy commence range course.	A Coy. 10 minutes. 4.N.C.O.'s absent and turnout poor. X Coy. 11 Minutes. Present and correct. "Bogey" timing by day 5 minutes.
		1400	Court of Inquiry held on the loss of rifle belonging to PO/X. 101146. Mne.W.Duffy. Court declared Mne.Duffy responsible for loss while traveling on duty.
Deal	2 Mar 42	0800	Major.R.D.Houhgton visits R.M.Office and C.C.O.Office. B Coy completes range course.
		1400	Surgeon Lieut.H.E.Dunning-Gale. R.N.V.R. reports for duty	Surg-Lt.H.E.Dunning-Gale from R.M. Siege Regt.
Deal	3 Mar 42	0930 - 1130	A Coy Field Firing. Firing of all Coy weapons and includes support by two 3" Mortars (H.E. & Smoke)
		1200 - 1400	X Coy Field Firing. As for A Coy. One run only possible owing to fighter A/C requiring range.
		p.m.	Major.Houghton proceeds on leave.
Deal	4 Mar 42	0930 - 1130	B Coy Field Firing.
		1200 - 1400	H.Q. Fighting Troop and Demolition Pl. carry out T.M.C. and Grenade field firing.
Deal	5 Mar 42	0930	Lt.Colonel.Phillipps receives report if damage done to houses near Field Firing Range. Investigates damage done/	Houses property of Air-Commodore Critchley.
		1700	Court of Inquiry held on alleged damage at Shingle End near Sandwich.
		p.m.	Final arrangements for leave period completed.
Deal	6 Mar 42	0530	R.M.Commando proceeds on leave.
		0900	Capt.Deveraux and Adjutant inspect houses at Shingle End and receive letter from Caretaker in which he accepts all responsibility for an further damage.
Deal	7 Mar - 10 Mar 42		Stationary, Military Publications and some G.1098 stores arrive during this period.
Deal	10 Mar 42	1800	Major.Houghton returns from leave.
Deal	11 Mar 42	1000	Lt.Col.Phillipps visits section 9 & 12 under programme arranged by Major.Wyatt.R.E. for inspection of latest war weapons and inventions.
Deal	12 Mar 42		Arrangements made for O,C. Demolition Pl.(Lt.Maude) to attend course as suggested by Major Wyatt.
Deal	13 Mar 42	2359	R.M.Commando returns from leave.
Deal	14 Mar 42	0900	Embarkation order parade to check personal equipment.
Deal	15 Mar 42	1000	T.E.W.T. for all subaltern Officers and N.C.O's.
Deal	16 Mar 42	a.m.	16 Ranks Demolition Pl. attend course at R.N.Torpedo School, Chatham.
		p.m.	Major.Houghton to DORLIN HO. to arrange for accomodation.
		2245 - 2350	Battle proceeding for Night Attack excercised.
Deal	17 Mar 42		Date of move of R.M.Commando to DORLIN HO. fixed as Sun. 5 Apr. Letter to A.G.R.M. suggesting methods of obtaining reinforcements for R.M.Commando.
Deal	18 Mar 42		Arrangements made for Sec. Fd Firing in area HOPE POINT. PO/X.104116. Mne.R.G.Seth absent without leave awarded 168 hrs detention.
Deal	19 Mar 42		Lt.Maude attends Advanced Demolition course (4 days) Lt. Col.Phillipps visits R.M.Office and C.C.Office.
Deal	20 Mar 42		PLY/X. 2739. Mne.Caine, absent without leave, awarded 168 hrs detention.
Deal	21 Mar 42		R.M.Commando run and walk. 1 Cpl and 8 Mnes arr. from H.M.S. NORFOLK.
Deal	22 Mar 42	0900	R.M.Commando parades for route march. 12 O.R's for Demolition Course at R.N.Torpedo School detached to Chatham.
Deal	23 Mar 42	0800	A. Coy Sec Fld Firing. PO/X. 105973. Mne.Milne and PO/X. 105964. Mne.Simpson absent without leave. Awarded 14 days detention.
Deal	24 Mar 42	0800	B. Coy Sec. Fd Firing. Lt.Col.Phillipps visits R.M.Office on duty. 1 Cpl, 12 Mnes arr. from Chatham Divsion. 5 Mnes from Seige Regt.
Deal	25 Mar 42	0800	X. Coy Sec. Fd Firing. 1 Mne arr. from Seige Regt.
Deal	26 Mar 42	0800	7 Mnes from 18(Mob) Bn. 1 Mne Butcher from Portsmouth Division. EX. 1000. Mne.Underwood, 10 days detention, attempting to steal.
Deal	27 Mar 42	0800	1 Mne from R.M.School of Signalling. CH/X. 731. Sgt.H.F.Martin promoted A/Q.M.S.I. and appointed as Commando S.M.
Deal	28 Mar 42	0510	R.M.Commando Action. Battle Procedure exercised. Speed of assembly satisfactory. N.C.O's promotions made.
Deal	29 Mar 42	0930	National Day of Prayer. R.M.Commando Church Parade. 1 Sgt arr. from Plymouth Division
Deal	30 Mar 42	1400	Advance Party stores loaded.
London	31 Mar 42	0800	Lt.Col.Phillipps visits R.M.Office on duty.
Deal	31 Mar 42		Ex.5411. Mne.Fox and Ex.5326. Mne.Wild absent without leave awarded 28 days and 10 days detention.

Commanding Officer, Lt.Col.J.P.Phillipps
Capt.A.D.Comyn commanded from 7 - 10 Mar. (incl).
Major.R.D.Houghton commanded from 11 - 13 (incl), from 24 - 27 (incl). and on 31 Mar.
Capt.J.C.Manners commanded on 19 Mar.

April

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	SUMMARY OF INFORMATION	REMARKS
Deal	1 Apr 42	0550	Major.Houghton, Lt.Huntington-Whitely, Lt.Ephraums, Lt.Stiebel and 72 O.R's Advance party more to H.M.S. DORLIN.
	2 Apr 42	1030	Lt.Col.Phillipps moves to H.M.S.Dorlin. Snipers fire range course.
Deal	3 Apr 42		Final arrangements completed for move of Main Body.
Deal	4 Apr 42	a.m.	Stores loaded. Capt.Hellings, D.S.C. to C.C.C. office on duty by road and return. 1 Sgt arr. from H.M.S. King George V and 8 O.R's from Portsmouth Division. 3 O.R's from Beach Bn.
Deal	5 Apr 42	0715	Main Body parades, all stores turned over to Barrackmaster.Camp Q.M.S. left s rear party.
		0805	Main Body leaves Deal. Easter Sunday. After six weeks at Deal unit is at full strength. About 10 to 15% however medically unfit and a further 3% totally unsuited. Period at Deal has been invaluable owing to amenities available. Chief difficulties still Administrative. Lack of training in such duties of both Officers and N.C.O's apparent.
Edinburgh	6 Apr 42	0230	Train splits. A. Coy to Oban remainder to Glenfinnan.
Dorlin Area	6 Apr 42	1030	Main Body less A. Coy arrive Glenfinnan detrain thence by water and road to billets.
		1800	A. Coy arrive from Oban Commando split into 4 areas, distance between extreme areas is 15 miles. Time about 1½ hours by M.T.
Dorlin Area	7 Apr 42	a.m.	Adm. Work and settling in.
		1400	All Officers and N.C.O's attend lecture and practice boat work in R. Boats.
Dorlin Area	8 Apr 42	a.m.	All Coy Unit Trg. 2 Pl. start short Demolition course under Q.M.S.I. Royal Engineers H.Q. exercise by day and night.
Dorlin Area	9 Apr 42	a.m.	All Coys unit trg incl. Boatwork, Seamanship and Assault
		a.m.	H.Q. exercise
Dorlin Area	10 Apr 42	a.m.	All Coy unit trg and Rehearse night landings
		p.m.	Lt.Col.E.Brockman A.A. & Q.M.G. visits unit from R.M.Office. 2 Officers Sgt 3 Cpls 18 Mnes required to be detached to Special Service.
Dorlin Area	11 Apr 42	a.m.	All Coy unit trg. H.Q. exercise
Dorlin Area		p.m.	B. Coy Night landing exercise.
Dorlin Area	12 Apr 42	a.m.	Officer and N.C.O's less C.S.M's & C.Q.M.S's recce opposed Landing Exercise. Remainder clean billets.
Dorlin Area	13 Apr 42		Unit trg. H.Q.Exercise
Dorlin Area	14 Apr 42	0930	X. Coy opposed landing. Individual trg weak. Sec Comdrs. moderate only.	Lt.D.E.M.B.Tod promoted Acting Capt.
Dorlin Area	15 Apr 42		Unit trg. H.Q.Exercise. Lt.Col.Phillipps inspects B Coy. Lack of Administrative experience and knowledge of procedure revealed.
Dorlin Area	16 Apr 42	0930	A. Coy opposed landing. Weaknesses same as X. Coy.
		2359	B and X. Coys with CL.Sp. and Demolition Pl start 36 hr exercise on MULL.
Dorlin Area	17 Apr 42	all day	Exercise continues in very warm weather. ~~Three stragglers only.~~
		1600	Sgt.Frost arrives from Deal to take over duties of R.Q.M.S. ~~Mortars complete difficult journey but exhausted.~~
		1800	A. and H.Q.Coy employed fighting large fire.
Dorlin Area	18 Apr 42	0600	B. Coy achieve object mainly due to the faulty dispositions of X. Coy.
		1600	X.Coy return and continue fire fighting. ~~Coys although tired after long exercise do well.~~ Capt.Tod returns from London with details of Detached Special Unit.
Dorlin Area	19 Apr 42	0900	B. Coy continue fire fighting.
Dorlin Area	20 Apr 42	0900	B. Coy opposed landing. Same weaknesses as shown by A & X. Coys. More individual trg appears necessary.
		1400	Lt.Col.Phillipps inspects H.Q. Coy.
Dorlin Area	21 Apr 42	0001	A.Coy start 36 hr exercise. Approach march by night 16 miles.
		0800	R.M.Commando less A. Coy continue 36 hr ex. against A. Coy.
Dorlin Area	22 Apr 42	0600	36 hr exercise ends.
	23 Apr 42	0845	Capt. D.E.M.B.Tod. Lieut.H.F.Grant-Dalton and 36 O.R's designated as T Coy R.M.Commando and detached for Special trg at ACHNACARRY.	This leaves a shortage of 2 officers with a possibility of a 3rd if Major.Houghton is appointed to R.M.Division.
Dorlin Area	24 Apr 42	1200	R.M.Commando opposed landing ex. As the first full Commando landing this is satisfactory. PO/X. 2098. Mne.A.C.Gent. awarded 28 days detention. 5 O.R's from 5.R.M.Bn. 1 O.R. from 2 R.M. Bn.
Dorlin Area	25 Apr 42	1000	Lt.Col.Phillipps to London on Duty to visit C.C.C. and R.M.Office with reference to future moves of R.M.Commando, and to discuss personal problems with the A.G.R.M. due to ranks unfit and unsuitable and also losses due to creation of T Coy.
Dorlin Area	26 Apr 42		Adm. News received that Major R.D.Houghton will not be appointed to R.M.Division.
Dorlin Area	27 Apr 42		Unit trg continues. 2 S.N.C.O's, 1 J.N.C.O. and 27 O.R's returned to units as being unsuitable or unfit. Lieut.(Qr-Mr) A.M.Beffiff appointed as Qr-Mr R.M.Commando to date 5 May.
Dorlin Area	28 Apr 42		24 hr Exercise for all ranks to exercise bivouacs and Mountain cooking carried out. 2 O.R's from 12 R.M. Bn.
Dorlin Area	29 Apr 42		Adm. Large fire requiring B. Coy to be employed after 24 hr exercise.
Dorlin Area	30 Apr 42		Final arrangements for 4 Day Exercise completed.	See Appdx B for Operation Order No,3. for 4 Day.

Commanding Officer Lieut. Colonel. J.P.Phillipps.
Major.R.D.Houghton commanded from 25 - 29 April.
Capt.J.C.Manners commanded from 2 - 6 April.

May

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	SUMMARY OF INFORMATION	REMARKS
Dorlin	1 May	0800	R.M. Commando embarks Dorlin proceeds to LOCH TORRIDON and LITTLE LOCH BROOM for prolonged Exercise.	Commando represents raiding force of Germans intention of whom is to destroy communications in Inverness Area. See attached Appendix.
		p/m/	3 Drivers arr.
Ross-shire	2 May 42		Exercise continues. 2 Cpls 43 Mnes arr 103 Bde. 7 Mnes arr from Chatham
Ross-shire	3 May		Exercise continues. Camp party move to ALNESS to prepare Camp for Main Body.
Ross-shire	4 May		Exercise continues. 2 Mnes arr from Plymouth. 7 Mnes arr from Portsmouth 1 Mne arr from 18(Mob)R.M. Bn.
Dingwall	5 May	0400	Exercise Ends.	Exercise carried out in very good weather. Physical fitness well up to standard. Exercise reveals however individual and section trg needs improvement.
Alness			R.M. Commando rests and prepares for return journey. 8 Mnes arr from Beach Bn. 3 Mnes arr from 1 R.M. Engineers Coy. 8 Mnes arr from Beach Ban.
Dorlin	6 May		Return to Dorlin by Road. 4 Mnes arr frm 20 (Trg)R.M.Bn. 6 Mnes arr from 1 Anti Tank Bty 1 Mne arr from 2 Anti Tank Bty
Dorlin	7 May	a.m.	Administration
		1400	Discussion on 4 day exercise.
Dorlin	8 May	a.m.	Lt.Colonel.Phillipps and Major Houghton visit Ardrossan to discuss future moves with Comd.S.S.Bde.	Capt. J.C.Manners commands 8 - 9 May.
		p.m.	Liet.K.D.Smale. joins R.M. Commando	Lieut. Smale from 2 R.M. Bn.
Dorlin	9 May	a.m.	Adm. Lieut.Col.Phillipps and Major Houghton return.
Dorlin	10 May	a.m.	Adm. Liet.Barclay goes to Greenock to recce lodgings for Commando.
Dorlin	11 May	a.m.	1 S.N.C.O., 2 J.N.C.O's, 16 O.R's return to Units Medically unfit or unsuitable. Difficulties reported in finding lodgings at Greenock. Po/x. 3341. Mne.E.Plowman awarded 14 days detention, absent without leave.
Dorlin	12 May	a.m.	5 O.R's returned to unit unsuitable. Instructions for cruise in H.M.S. Princess Beatrix received. Letter re W.E.. submitted to A.C.R.M. Changes due in Provisional W.E. due to difficulty of administering H.Q. Coy details with original complement.
Dorlin	13 May	a.m.	Cdo less B. Coy embark for exercise. 24 hr two sided exercise against B. Coy.
Dorlin	14 May	0500	Exercise ends. Admin. Lt.Col.Phillipps visits S.S.Bde at Ardrossan and S.O.A.S.C. at Largs to obtain details of cruise in H.M.S. Beatrix.
		1800	News received from Lt.Col.Phillipps that establishment for embarkation to be reduced.
Dorlin	15 May	a.m.	Preperations for Move, exact means Sea or Rail doubtful.
		p.m.	Lieut.D.G.Over joins R.M.Cdo. Lt.Col.Phillipps returns from Largs area.	Lieut.D.G.Over from 5 R.M. Bn.
Dorlin	16 May	a.m.	Arrangements to move by train made.
Dorlin	17 May	0800	Decision that move will be made by train. Stored loaded.
Dorlin	18 May	0830	R.M. Cdo moves to Greenock by three routes.
		p.m.	Embarkation in H.M.S. Princess Beatrix leaving Lieut.Barclay and Camp Staff with some stores to go by road and rail to Havant. This move carried out at 24 hrs notice under difficult conditions in which a risk of heavy loss of stores was incurred.
Greenock	19 May	0930	H.M.S. Princess Beatrix proceeds for Cowes Rds. Unit Trg and settling in.
At Sea	20 May		At Sea Unit trg. Weapon trg. P.T. unarmed combat. Anchor Cowes Rds. Staff Officer from S.O.A.S.C. informs Lt.Col.Phillipps of future employment of R.M. Cdo.
Cowes	21 May 42	a.m.	Lt. Col. Phillipps, Major Houghton call on S.O.A.S.C. H.Q. 2 Can. Div., 214 Ind Inf Bde. Decision that R.M. Commando will disembark into lodgings at Shanklin, Sandown and Ventnor.
I.O.W.	22 May	a.m.	Lodgings arranged; no difficulties. Adv. Party move in.	Cdo goes on subsistence allowance 6/8 a day and provides all food from civilian sources as individuals.
I.O.W.	23 May	0800	R.M.Cdo disembarked at Ryde, moves by march route. Stores by road to Sandown, Shanklin and Ventnor.	Although dispersed communications between Coys and H.Q. are a great improvement and distances less than at H.M.S.Dorlin. However dispersal within coys greater. This promotes (i) Individuality (2) A corresponding disadvantage of difficulty in Administration. The balance is advantageous.
I.O.W.	24 May	a.m.	Settling in. Trg Conference.
I.O.W.	25 May	a.m.	Lt. Col. Phillipps called on 214 Ind Inf Bde.
		p.m.	Lt. Barclay and Camp Staff details arrive from Havant.
I.O.W.	26 May	a.m.	Letter received approving promotion of Lt. Maude and provision of addl subaltern in H.Q. Coy. T.E.W.T. all officers and N.C.O's	Lt. Maude H.Q.Coy Comd has carried out duties with no officers to assist him since formation. Lt.Maude to be Acting Capt. 6 April 42.
I.O.W.	27 May	a.m.	Lt.Col.Phillipps visits G.S.O.I. 2 Can Div to discuss future employment R.M.Cdo.	R.M.Cdo is attacked to S.S.Bde, but for the present is working with but not under Comd of 2 Can. Div.
		2300	A.Coy Brading Dock area ex.
I.O.W.	28 May	a.m.	Lt.Col.Phillipps visits London. Remainder of stores arrive from Greenock.	Major R.D.Houghton commands 28/29 May
		2300	X. Coy Brading Dock area ex.
I.O.W.	29 May	0800	A and X Coy assault course.
		1800	Lt. Col.Phillipps returns from visit to C.O. H.Q. & R.M.Office. Mne.Hayman awarded 28 days detention. Absent without leave.
		2300	B. Coy Brading Dock area ex.
I.O.W.	30 May	a.m.	Unit trg.
		p.m.	Ty/Lt.H.G.Loe joins unit and appointed pl. Command 2 Pl.	Ty/Lt.Loe from 10 R.M. Bn.
I.O.W.	31 May	a.m.	Lt.Col.Phillipps and Major Houghton recce Cowes dock area.

Commanding Officer. Lt.Col.J.P.Phillipps.R.M.
Major. R.D.Houghton. commanded on 14/15 and 28/29 May.
Captain.J.C.Manners commanded on 8/9 May.

June

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	WEATHER	SUMMARY OF INFORMATION	REMARKS
I.O.W.	1 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Lt.Col.Phillipps visits C.V.O. Office.	Major.R.D.Houghton commands 1/2 June 42.
I.O.W.	2 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Lt.Col.Phillipps visits R.M.Office, returns from London.
I.O.W.	3 Jun 42		Fine	Coys carry out Sec Fd Firing
I.O.W.	4 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Lt.Col.Phillipps recces Portsmouth Dockyard Area for Cdo Exercise.
		p.m.		Trg Conference.
I.O.W.	5 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Lt.Col.Phillipps visits C.R.E. 2 Can Div.
		p.m.		Flight Lt. Durnford M.C. from M.I.9. gives lecture on evasion and escape to all Offrs and N.C.O's. 3 O.R's from Depot R.M.
I.O.W.	6 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Lt. Bevis attached tempy for duty with Sigs.	Lt. Bevis from 15 R.M. Bn.
I.O.W.	7 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Comds 'O' Gp recce Dockyard exercise.
I.O.W.	8 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Brigadier Laylock Comd S.S.Bde visits Cdo
I.O.W.	9 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Cdo carries out exercise in Portsmouth Dockyard.
I.O.W.	10 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Adm. L.M.G's Armourers Inspection. Capt. C.Hunt attached tempy for duty/	Capt. C.Hunt Staff Capt(Q) S.S.Bde and assists in getting priority orders through for G1098 stores. This has been held up owing to unit having no written authority for priority stores.
I.O.W.	11 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Order for additional Operational equipment incl 2" mortars, 18 addl L.M.G. and A/Tk grenades made.
I.O.W.	12 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Capt. Hunt returns to S.S.Bde.
I.O.W.	13 Jun 42	p.m.	Fine	Priority stores arrive. Owing to authority of S.S.Bde these stores arrive by return. Capt. B.M.Franks Staff Capt A. SS.Bde attached tempy for duty.	Capt. Franks acts in capacity of I.O. Lack of I.O. on W.E. is shown to be serious handicap.
I.O.W.	14 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Commando carries out exercise in Portsmouth Dockyard.
		p.m.		Ty Lt. A.M.Beriff joins as Qr-Mr Capt. Maude recces EAST SURREY DOCKS.	Lt. Berriff from H.Q. R.M. Div. Administrative Staff originally negligible has now been increased by 1 Lt.Qr-Mr, 1 R.Q.M.S., 1 C.Q.M.S. for H.Q.Coy 1 Clerk 2 Storemen. This increase has been entirely necessary and is due to change of role of Commando.
I.O.W.	15 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Unit trg. Trg conference. Intensive trg reduced to prevent all ranks going stale. T. Coy transferred from R.M. Cdo to H.M.S. Fidelity.
I.O.W.	16 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Unit trg. Lt. Col. Phillipps visits 2 Can Div.
I.O.W.	17 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	1 Sgt and 4 Mnes arr from Chatham Div.
I.O.W.	18 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Comd.R.E.D.Ryder. V.C. visits R.M.Cdo. Unit trg. Lt. Col. Phillipps visits R.A.C.O. Cowes 3 Mnes arr from Portsmouth Div.
I.O.W.	19 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Decision that Lt. Col. Phillipps, 2nd i/c, Coy Comd.A. Coy, Mortar dets will attend exercise 'Yukon 11' with 2 Can Div. Unit trg.
		p.m.		Special rubber boots arrive from S.S.Bde.
I.O.W.	20 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Pl. Fd Firing B & A Coys.
		p.m.		Capt. R.J.Batterton & 2 O.R's U.S.M.C. attached for Tempy duty with unit.
I.O.W.	21 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Pl Fd Firing X. Coy and Mortar Pl.
I.O.W.	22 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Lt. Col. Phillipps, Major Houghton, Capt.Hellings Sigs and Mortar details attend exercise 'Yukon11' with 2 Can Div in BRDIPORT area.
		p.m.		All Brens. A.A. shoot at drogue. 1 Cpl and 12 O.R's arr from Plymouth Div.
I.O.W.	23 Jun 42	p.m.	Fine	Major Houghton and other ranks return to unit from exercise 'Yukon 11'
I.O.W.	24 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Admin.
		p.m.		Lt. Col. Phillips visits A.G.R.M. and C.C.O. and returns to Shanklin.	Major. R.D.Houghton Commands.
I.O.W.	25 Jun 42	p.m.	Fine	R.M. Cdo carry out rehearsal for operation RUTTER in H.M.S.Locust and R.Boats. Cooperation with Navel Dock Parties and Boats crew of value. Capt.Astor attached.	Capt. Astor, Public Relations Officer. R.M. attached C.C.O.
I.O.W.	26 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Capt. Dunne S.S.Bde visits R.M. Cdo.
		p.m.		Decision that Cdo will concentrate at Upper Chine School. Intelligence Sgt S.S. Bde returns.	This necessary for security and will aid final issue of Amn and Stores.
I.O.W.	27 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Inter Coy Section and Individuals Competitions. On pl. B. Coy gain experience in Free French Chasseur Craft sailing to Newhaven with Convoy.	Won by X. Coy.
I.O.W.	28 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Upper Chine School Buildings allocated to Coys. Further pl. B. Coy embark in Chasseur for 24 hr cruise.	Chasseur are craft that will be used in Operation Rutter.
I.O.W.	29 Jun 42		Fine	Pl. X. Coy embark in Chasseur for 24 hr cruise.
I.O.W.	30 Jun 42	a.m.	Fine	Orders for concentration at Shanklin given.	To prevent curiosity necessity for economy is given as reason.

Officer Commanding Lt. Colonel. J.P.Phillipps
Major. R.D.Houghton Commands 1/2 & 24 June 42.
Capt. J.c.Manners Commands. 22/23. Jun 42.

July

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	WEATHER	SUMMARY OF INFORMATION	REMARKS
Upper Chine School	1 Jul 42	a.m.	Fine.	R.M. Cdo concentrates.	Crushed conditions - Army rationing, more suitable owing to Army service available.
		1700		All Officers briefed for Operation Rutter.
Upper Chine School	2 Jul 42	a.m.	Fine	Street Fighting. Briefing of N.C.O's. Issue of Amn.	During this period, lectures and demonstrations given by subaltern from 3 Cdo who fought in Vaagso raid.
		p.m.	Fine	Final checking of all stores.
H.M.S. Locust	3 Jul 42	0830	Dull changing to rain. Windy.	Cdo H.Q., A. Coy, 10 Pl.(X.Coy), 3 Pl, and No. 1. Demolition party embark in H.M.S.Locust for Operation Rutter. B. Coy X.Coy less 10 Pl, NO's 2 & 3 Demolition parties due to embark at 1700 hrs.	H.M.S. Locust 700 Tons armed 2 - 4" Pom-Poms.
		1110	Dull changing to rain. Windy.	C.C.O. (Vice-Admiral Lord Louis Mountbatten) address ships coy and R.M. Cdo ranks in LOCUST, says that operation cannot take place as arranged owing to weather preventing adequate fighter protection.
		p.m.	Rain	Cdo ranks in 'Locust' very crowded. Efforts made to return to camp at Shanklin which is secure.
Shanklin	4 Jul 42	1000	Cloudy Rain	Cdo details in 'Locust' return to Shanklin.	Disappointment of all ranks.
Shanklin	5 Jul 42	0900	Fair	Cdo details as above embuss for Cowes
		1015		Decision to postpone operation Rutter further 24 hrs as weather still unfavourable for fighting cover.	During this period Cdo is living in large Girls School but in crowded conditions, although far better than in a ship for exercise but not for victualling.
		1200		Arms inspection.
		1700		All ranks 40 mins P.T. followed by Pay.
		1800		Operation Rutter postponed till Tuesday 7 July at earliest.
Shanklin	6 Jul 42	0900	Fair but windy. Low clouds.	Cdo route march in loose order 10 miles.
		p.m.		All Magazines emptied ammunition and mags oiled.
		2100		Coms O Gp1. Operation Rutter amended. To be completed in one tide i.e. shortened by 4 hrs R.M. Cdo task approximately same except speed even more essential.
Shanklin	7 Jul 42	0915	Fair, Windy Low Clouds	ADMA force embuses for Cowes and embarkation in Locust.
		1030		Order is given to cancel Operation Rutter completely.
		1400		ADMA force disembarks. Returns to Shanklin.
		p.m.		Preparations for leave begun. Coys disperse to lodgings in same locations as before occupied.
Shanklin	8 Jul 42	a.m.	Fair, Windy	Stores and amn collected. Leave arrangements completed. Mne.D.Mcleod awarded 96 hrs detention.	As leave was due to unit this has enabled great disappointment to be over come and has prevented any large reaction or staleness.
Shanklin	9 - 20 Jul 42	a.m.	Fair. Only rain.	Adm. Rear parties left. Trg in S.A. of ranks ex Aux Bn, carried out. Arrangements for F.G.C.M. of Mne. John Darwin eventually completed. F.G.C.M. to take place 27 days after arrest.	Capt. A.D. Comyn commands during absence of C.O.
Shanklin	21 Jul 42	a.m.	Windy high clouds.	Capt. A.D. Comyn goes on leave. Second leave party goes no leave.	Lt.J.W.E.Bradley Acting Adjutant.
Shanklin	22 Jul 42	p.m.	Dull & cloudy with high wind and rain.	"O" Gp regarding future moves and trg.
		1800		Lecture by 2nd i/c to all officers on "Battle Procedure"
Shanklin	23 Jul 42	p.m.	Windy low clouds	Demonstration Battle Procedure conducted by C.O.
Shanklin	24 Jul 42	p.m.	Cloudy and Dull	C.O. confers with B.M. 214 Bde regarding 3 days exercise for 1st, 2nd, 3rd Aug.
Shanklin	25 Jul 42	a.m.	Windy and dull with spasmodic rain	Court Martial takes place at Eastney Barracks. Mne.Darwin guilty.	~~Prosecution wins.~~
Shanklin	26 Jul 42	a.m.	Rain with high wind	"O"Gp at Yaverland Range Ref.OS142 054052 for Coy advance under fire with dive bombing using soot as token bombs. Also making preliminary arangements for R.M.Cdo's operational role in defence of the I.O.W.
Shanklin	27 Jul 42	a.m.	Rain all forenoon. Fine in the afternoon.	Sigs exercise to test communication for the above mentioned scheme.
		p.m.		C.O. to 9.Inf.Bde. making arrangements for 3 day exercise.
Shanklin	28 Jul 42	a.m.	Sunny &	Coys adv. under fire.	Good value to tps. Exercise marred by aeroplace accident. No hits more practice required.
			Cloudless	Drogue Firing
Shanklin	29 Jul 42	p.m.	Rain	Court of Inquiry held by R.A.F. personnel on the place accident at yesterdays exercise. C.O. watches pl. in attack exercises observing standard of battle procedure in pls.
Shanklin	30 Jul 42	a.m.		C.O. & Capt. J.C.Manners to an "O" Gp at R.A.F. Station Ventnor with regard to a future night exercise.
		p.m.		Court of Inquiry on Aeroplane accident continues. C.O. carries out recce on the ground for 3 days exercise now know as exercise 'PORT' prepared.

Officer Commanding. Lieut. Colonel. J.P.Phillipps, R.M.
Capt. A.D. Comyn. R.M. commands 9/20 July 42.

August

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	WEATHER	SUMMARY OF INFORMATION	REMARKS
Shanklin	1 Aug 42	p.m.	Fine	Night Exercise raiding local R.A.F. station carried out.
Shanklin	2 Aug 42		Fine	Reccee for 3 Day exercise.
Shanklin	3 - 5 Aug 42		Wet & Dull	Lt.Col.Phillipps visits Combined H.Q. at Fort Soutwick.
			Fine	R.M. Cdo acts as enemy to 9 I.B. Value gained in acting as raiding party. Improvement on R/T shown. Ply.x.3515 Mne. Darwin to serve 112 days detention.	3.Aug. J.P.Class W.T.Week. It is discovered that disappearance from billet for two days excited little comment.
Shanklin	6 Aug 42	p.m.	Fine	Adm. Fd Firing Range prepared.
Shanklin	7 Aug 42	a.m.	Wet	28 O.R's returned to unit. B & X Coy Fd Firing by Pls. The Fd Firing by Pls. seems to be the best type of exercise for junior leaders and for maintaining interest of the troops.
Shanklin	8 Aug 42	a.m.	Wet	H.Q. & A. Coy Fd Firing Range
Shanklin	9 Aug 42	a.m.	Fair	Adm.
Shanklin	10 Aug 42	a.m.	Fair	Unit trg. J.P. Class Tactics week.
Shanklin	11 Aug 42	a.m.	Fair	T.E.W.T. Invasion Role.	R.M. Cdo allotted counter attack role by 214 Bde.
Shanklin	12 Aug 42	a.m.	Fair	Ex. Taking up Action Stations Posns and moving to alternate area. Full Scale load of amn carried. This is done as an Adm precaution for Operation Jubilee and provides good camouflage to tps.
		p.m.		Arrangements completed for Street Fighting area to be requisitioned in Cowes.
I.O.W.	13 Aug 42	a.m.	Dull	A & B Coy exercise Street Fighting.
		p.m.		Preliminary Adm arrangements for JUBILEE made by C.O. and Adjt.	For security reasons no one by C.O., 2i/c, Adjy, and Coy Comds is to know anything until embarking. For reason a dummy exercise ITCHEN on mainland is arranged.
I.O.W.	14 Aug 42	a.m.	Dull	X. Coy Street Fighting Ex. Cowes
		p.m.		Coy Comd. briefed for Operation JUBILEE and informed no one else to be informed.	Capt.Maude and Lt.Loe informed prepare Demolition Gear. For secrecy Storeman is sent on leave.
I.O.W.	15 Aug 42	a.m.	Rain	Coys arrange Adm parades to check stores for JUBILEE	JUBILEE can take place any date 18 - 23 Aug inclusive.
I.O.W.	16 Aug 42	a.m.	Heavy Rain	Message received that JUBILEE postponed 1 Day. This suits R.M.Cdo as tide more favourable Day 2.	Trg programme prepared for whole week with ITCHEN exercise at the end. This prevents suspicion by tps if exercise were delayed from day to day.
I.O.W.	17 Aug 42	a.m.	Rain	St fighting Demonstration. Message received that tanks embark today.
		p.m.		'O' Gp to clear up details of JUBILEE
I.O.W.	18 Aug 42	1800	Fine	Amn. parade all Coys. Stores packed and embussed for Cowes. 'O' Gp for all officers. R.M.Cdo left Cowes by sea at 1700 hrs.	A. Coy in LOCUST. B & X Coy in CHASSEURS
Dieppe	19 Aug 42	1800	Fine	ex. JUBILEE CARRIED OUT.	See Appdx 'A' for Operation Order and Officer remarks.
I.O.W.	20 Aug 42	1600	Dull & Rainy	Return of Main R.M. Cdo Gp.	Main part of Cdo still in Newhaven.
I.O.W.	21 Aug 42	1600	Rain	Recalled all G.1098 stores.	6 Offrs, 69 O.R's not returned from Dieppe.
I.O.W.	22 Aug 42	1600	Rainy	P.T. & Recreational Trg.	Reorganization and checking of losses throughout Coys.
I.O.W.	24 Aug 42	1600	Dull	Amn returned to Cgo H.Q.
Upper Chine School	25 Aug 42	1100	Dull, Cloudy with Rain	7 Offrs. report for Duty Ty 2nd Lieuts, Neale, Copsey, Chiverall, Beadle, O'Brien, Morgan and Laidlaw	Ty 2nd Lieuts, reported from R.M.M.S. Thurlestone after leave 2nd Lieut. Chiverall to B. Coy. 2nd Lieut. Neale and O'Brien to H.Q. 2nd Lieuts, Copsey, Beadle, Morgan and Laidlaw to A & X Coys.
Upper Chine School	26 Aug 42	1600	Dull and Cloudy	'O' Gb attended by 2i/c, Adjut, Capt.R.K.Deveraux, Lt.G.Formes, Capt.Maude to discuss re-organization of R.M. Cdo from Coy basis to Tp basis.
Upper Chine School	27 Aug 42	1300	Fine	R.M. Cdo proceeds on leave. Rear party consists of Lt. Bradley, R.Q.M.S. 4 Sgts. 5 Cpls. and 32 Marines.

Officer Commanding up to P.M. 19/8/42. Lieut. Col. J.P.Phillipps, R.M.
Officer Commanding from A.M. 20/8/42 Capt. J.C.Manners. R.M.
Lt. J.W.E.Bradley commands from 27/8/42 during leave period.

APPENDIX A

Report on Events off Dieppe

Report on Events on 19 Aug 42, off Dieppe
of A. Coy, Royal Marine Commando
by Capt. P. W. C. Hellings, D.S.C. R.M.

HMS. LOCUST arrived uneventfully off Dieppe at about 0530 hrs, there had been a certain amount of firing and tracer seen on either bow previous to this. The sky was clear, but visibility was greatly reduced owing to the thick smoke resulting from the earlier landings.

At about 0610 hrs LOCUST attempted to enter the mole, but it immediately became apparent that the batteries to the EAST of the entrance had not yet been silenced. LOCUST received two hits whilst preparing to enter, resulting in two killed and about 6 wounded.

Commander Ryder seeing that the EAST batteries were still in control of the channel did not enter the harbour at the time, a Bombardment by destroyer and LOCUST being resorted to. It was very difficult in the following hours to get any clear picture as to what was happening owing to the thick smoke, destroyer bombarding and aerial battles overhead. It did however become apparent that the floating reserve in R. Boats of, I believe, about a Bn in strength was landed on BLUE beach.

Reports which I heard from Col. Phillipps on the initial landing stated that success was had at RED and WHITE beaches but that BLUE had not gone so well. I heard no report about Outer beaches.

After the floating reserve had been landed there was no news, until Commander Ryder returned from KELPIEE, when he reported that RED and WHITE beaches were clear of opposition and the General wished the marines to go in and support the ESSEX SCOTTISH through WHITE beach. The Colonel gave his orders from LOCUST, the idea being to pass through the beach to the town and there reform and report to the Colonel of the ESSEX SCOTTISH, the object of the force being to pass around the WEST and SOUTH of the town, and attack the batteries on the EASTERN cliff from the SOUTH.

The marines of Commando H.Q. and A. Coy were embarked in two M.L.C's, the force under Major Houghton from the chasseur consisting of X & B. Coy embarking in A.I.C. The Mortar Pl. & Demolition being left behind in LOCUST.

The Commando started to move toward the shore, it being about 1130 hrs, smoke was provided by the chasseur, who accompanied us within 500 yds.

Shell fire was opened on the boats almost immediately, at about 4000 yds, increasing in intensity as the range shortened. The fire appeared to consist of 3"-4" Mortar Bombs, or a similar size, intermingled with low angle gun fire of about 4" and a tracer shell of about 2 pds which may have come from tanks, up to date the range wasto great for S. A.

The fire was all coming from the EASTERN cliffs and the end and base of the mole, firing to the N.W.

The range was shortening and rifle and L.M.G. fire was become apparent, the chasseur, being now no longer able to support the force owing to the depth of waters.

At this stage I turn to the personal narrative of my Company. The M.L.C. in which we had embarked had done the main landing and was in need of repair, one engine being out of commission and the deck of the M.L.C. was washing down with water. Owing to one engine being out of commission and the other very hot, steering was difficult, and our speed reduced which resulted in in an ever increasing distance between boats; Just prior to reaching the shore and whilst in thick smoke we completely broke down, which may have been the result of a near miss or the overheating of our engine. The engine was started after about 2 mins. and we proceded on toward the shore out of the smoke in time to see the Colonel's M.L.C. and an A.L.C. containing Capt. Deveraux and one platoon and Major Hougton's A.L.C. arrive under heavy mortar and M.G. fire. Fire was intense and any attempt to reach the houses would have been most hazardous. Colonel Phillippe stood up in his M.L.C. and waved the remaining boats to return to the protection of the smoke, one A.L.C. was extracted, the Colonel M.L.C. turned broadside on and I believe from survivors reports, caught fire.

My M.L.C. at this stage received a hit close to the stern which finished any attempt at steering, leaving us some 300 yds off the shore, smoke was used in quantity and we were able to increase the distance by about 200 yds before the engine finally went. After some period a chasseur took the M.L.C. in tow and we returned to LOCUST where the company were placed on board and told to await orders. I reported to Commander Ryder who sent me to General Roberts whom I saw and reported the state of affairs and that WHITE and RED beaches were held by the enemy.

Any attempt to return to the LOCUST in a R. Boat proved fruitless as bombing had commenced and she was laying smoke at top speed, shortly after this organized attempts to evacuate ceased and the company returned to England in LOCUST.

sgd. P.W.C. Hellings,
Captain, R.M. D.S.C.
R.M. Commando

Statements made by surviving Officers i/c boats on JUBILEE

1. Statement by O.C. 'B' Coy, Capt. R.K.Devereaux, R.M.

The coy was represented by 7,8 and 9 platoons, with Advance and rear coy H.Q. No. 7. platoon was in Chasseur 13, 8 platoon and Advance Coy H.Q. in 43 Chasseur, and 9 platoon and rear Coy H.Q. in Chasseur 42. I was in with advance Coy. H.Q.

This force was standing off JUBILEE area at about 0530 hrs. 19 Aug 42. We were due to enter the harbour at 0620 hrs. At about 0730 hrs we received orders to trans-ship into A.L.C's. This was carried out forthwith. On checking up the chasseurs I discovered that No. 42 was missing. I made inquiries and was told that this chasseur had not been with the convoy since 0200 hrs. From the time of trans-shipment I never saw 7 platoon again during the operation. Advance Coy H.Q. and 8 platoon were now in A.L.C No. B.L.9.

I was told by Colonel. Phillipps that the whole force R.M. Cdo, was to move direct into the harbour. Being at that time under comand Major Houghton, I got in touch with him. He was in another A.L.C. I arranged to follow his craft in. There was considerable smoke put down during which I lost touch with Major Houghton. I then saw an M.L.C. with the C.O. on board, on my port bow. The C.O. then intimated that it would be impossible to make the harbour and that we were to land on the beach some 300 yds ahead. It was WHITE beach. We then became separated in the smoke. We were now coming under fire from a C.D. gun and a number of M.G. positions. About five to ten minutes later the smoke cleared and I say the beach about twelve feet away. The fire was still intense. There were many prone figures on the beach. Away to the left towards BLUE beach were many who appeared dead or wounded in reversed arrow head formation. To my front was an M.L.C. lying broadside on the bench with about twelve figures lying stretched out on the beach on the seaward side of the vessel. I then saw the C.O. standing in the M.L.C. He was signalling for us to withdraw. We then went half to starboard with an M.L.C. carrying A Coy colliding with us astern. Before we made this movement Mne Breen, L.M.G. gunner in the bow of my A.L.C. fired on enemy posts ashore. One post in the Casino was neutralised. As we went about again, through fresh smoke put down by my party, I saw a T.L.C. in an sinking condition and some men in the water, I came alongside T.L.C. 125. I took off two Naval ratings and then searched for the rest. I found Marine Cpl. Ply. 122590 Ryan who was taken in- board and found to be wounded slightly. We then moved under cover of smoke out to sea about a mile. We later discovered we were holed just above the engine room on the port side and we were making water fast. We then moved towards Chasseur 43 and boarded. All L.M.G's were then manned for A.A. on board Chasseur 43. We steamed around for some time and finally left in the last convoy at about 1400 hrs. From the time we re-boarded Chasseur 43 we were attacked by enemy aircraft many times.

The discipline and courage of the men, in particular Mne. Breen, was at all times exemplary.

sgd. R.K. Devereaux.
Captain. R.M.
C.C. 'B' Coy

2. Statement by Ply.x. 2505 Cpl. W.J.Harvey.

We were ordered to transfer from Chasseur No. 43 to and A.L.C. at about 0730 hrs. On the way in shore we were under shell and small arms fire. When the A.L.C. arrived at the beach and the doors were opened, Mnes Garland and Kettlewell were hit and were later taken off shore by the same A.L.C. When we cleared the A.L.C. we came under strong enemy M.G. fire so we took cover behind a tank which was still firing but unable to move. We were there until 1130 hrs. when we were ordered back to an A.L.C. Quite a number were wounded. These men were carried back to the A.L.C. by Lieut. Smale and Cpl. McDonald. Others with this party moved under cover of the smoke put down by them. The last time I saw Lieut. Smale was when he ran back to the cover of the tank. The party was now well split up. During this operation I was acting as platoon sergeant.

sgd. W.J.Harvey.
Corporal. Ply.x. 2505.
R.M. Commando

3. Report on Events on 19 Aug 42, off Dieppe
by Lieut. J. W. Bradley, No. 9. Pl.

I was in Chasseur No. 12. with B. Coy rear H.Q. (C.Q.M.S., 2 sigs, 2S.B's) When the convoy sailed we took our place in it and steamed with it until the Aapt. (Capt Parq) reported that we had lost the rest of the ships, and he was trying to locate than with the aid of Asdig apparatus.

We made contact with the convoy at about 0515 hrs. but had to fall out again owing to the failure of one of our engines. This was apparently due to the excessive speed we had done catching up the convoy. At 0400 hrs the best speed we could make was 5 knots, and I was given to understand that the captain was not altogether certain of his position at sea. Owing to the lateness of the hour and the fact the the ship was incapable of doing any towing we turned and made our way for the English coast. When we were about 10 miles out the engine was restarted and it was decided that we should again turn towards Dieppe in the hope of being able to lend some assistance. We had steamed for about an hour when we picked up with and S.G.B. carrying members of No. 3 Commando - she was not able to make any headway owing to the engine having been put out of action by enemy action, so we towed her into Newhaven - we received orders at this time to 'Return to Base' which we proceeded to do picking up with a convoy of T.L.C's. At about 2000 hrs the the T.L.C's were bombed by 5 Focke Wolf 190's - we lent all possible assistance and convoyed a B.P.C. back to the Spithead Boom leaving 4 T.L.C's to put in at Shoreham, because one was damaged. We then returned to Base.

sgd. J.V. E. Bradley.
Lieut. R.M.
R.M. Commando.

Statement by Lt. Loe i/c No. Demolition Party Chasseur No. 5.

There was no particular incident other than those general to the whole convoy until approximately 0830 hrs. on the 19th. At this time LOCUST had disappeared in the direction of Dieppe and we were stationary amongst a collection of landing craft. We received orders to cruise parallel to the shore and lay smoke approximately one mile off shore. This we did in company with one destroyer and under fairly regular fire from the coastal batteries.

During this time I posted my section on the A.A. guns both on the bridge and in the stern. Altogether the marines manned 6 Hotchkiss and 6 Lewis Guns. We were thus able to reply in force to any attention from enemy aircraft. After 20 minutes steaming we came to the end of our run and we were now well outside the area of the other naval craft. A large german two engined bomber came down to approximately 6,000 ft and then tried to hit us with a stick of bombs. Al guns were brought to bear and fire was opened with the result that there is an explosion inside the plane and a large part of the port wing fell off. The plane disappeared inland falling fast.

Immediately afterwards two F.W. 190 planes attempted to dive bomb us. Our fire caused them to pull out early and the bombe fell about 20 yds away.

Soon after this we were asked to pass a message to an A.L.C. to draw alongside LOCUST and take off R.M. Commando. We were given to understand that the Demolition Party was not to land and that we were to move inshore to support the A.L.C's which were about to go in.

Soon afterwards an M.L.C. with Major Houghton in charge passed us about 30 yds away. We decided to follow this craft inshore. This we did until we lost the M.L.C. in the smoke screen and then carried on until we were six hundred yards offshore opposite the west end of the promenade. We changed our course and did the run again. In all we fired 143 shells. The high rate of firing helped by Cpl. Cullerton who took up position in the magasine for ammunition supplies. During all this time enemy shells were falling all round us but by the time we had finished there were numerous fires fires burning on shore.

Nothing further transpired until we were ordered to embark troops from the beach. Sub.Lieut. Syms then took the Chasseur in until she was just grounding in front of the west jetty and troops began to swim out to us. Immediately several M.G. posts opened fire on the men in the water and on the bridge of the Chasseur. A battery on the cliff opened fire and after 12 shots they had us straddled. One shell fell alongside and made a hole below the water line abaft the engine room.

Mne. Bevan, My servant, was stationed on the rear port Hotchkiss and managed to locate one M.G. post on the left of the harbour. He engaged this target for approximately 30 seconds until a shell entered the engine room immediately below him and tore his gun from its mountings. He was injured in the legs and arms but managed to silence the post.

With the next salvo a shell landed on the bridge, tore one side away and damaged the steering, Sub.Lieut. Syms decided to withdraw from the beach and this was accomplished by putting the Demolition Section on a manual steering gear. We were taking water rapidly and none of the pumps would work, but members of the naval engine party who had been below all this time, worked hard and got the pumps going and after another hour or so they repaired the steering gear as well. We then made our way back to England with 50 survivors and an M.L.C. in tow.

sdg. H.G.Loe.
Lieut. R.M.
R.M. Commando

the Senior officer most close to my Comanding Officer before and as a spectator at his death, I should like to bring to your notice the following points.

My Commanding officer, when ordered to proceed to WHITE beach was not aware of the fact that the beach was held by the enemy, whilst proceeding shorewards it became apparent that the beach was held in considerable force and under heavy fire. The Colonel, immediately fire became intense, took up a prominent position sitting on the top of the M.L.C. in order to direct the reminder of the party, from their position, leading the boats, and open to most intense M.G. and mortar fire, he led his Commando into the beach. As the range shortened and the smoke cleared there was no doubt in any man's mind that an attempt to reach the town over that beach would mean certain death to the majority. In spite of all these facts my Commanding Officer refused to turn back until he had proved the uselessness of the adventure by his personal action. The M.L.C. reached the beach and realising now the futility of further action he stood in the stern in full view of all, placing his white string gloves on his hands and waving to the boats astern to return to the cover of the smoke.

His final order to his Commando undoubtedly saved the lives of a further 200 men. He was shot shortly after.

I cannot say more fully how the personal courage of this officer led and inspired his subordinate officers and men. He went cheerfully and happily to a death which he had said the night before could not be better.

Unknown
Capt. R.M.
R.M. Commando.

Statement by R.S.M. Martin.

Po.x. 107025. Mne. R.B.Singleton.
Ply.x. 105411. Mne. L.C.Bradshaw.
Whilst approaching the beach, we were engaged by heavy M.G. and rifle fire the C.O. ordered the buildings on the beach from where the fire was coming to be engaged by L.M.G. I passed the order forward and a gun opened up by Marine Bradshaw. I also ordered the H.Q. L.M.G. into action which was manned by Mne. Singleton. Both guns were kept continuously in action until such time as the targets were obscured by smoke. During this time the M.L.C. was repeatedly hit by bursts of M.G. fire and very accurate rifle fire from the beach. Owing to the position of this M.L.C. these men had to stand up to engage the targets, and Singletons gun was in action until all the ammunition at his disposal was used up. Both these men carried out their duties very courageously whilst under heavy fire and without thought to their own personal safety.

sgd. H.F.Martin. Q.M.S. R.M.

Mne. G.R.Bevan.

When there was no possibility of landing, my Chasseur was ordered to close into the beach to pick up survivors, whilst doing this, the survivors were being machined gunned in the water. Marine Bevan went aft, and located on M.G. on the East Cliff which he silenced, with L.M.G. fire, he continued to fire at others until the Chasseur was hit aft and his gun was blown off its mounting.

He showed great courage throughout.

H.G. Loe.
Lieut. R.M.
R.M. Commando.

September

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	WEATHER	SUMMARY OF INFORMATION	REMARKS
I.O.W.	1 Sep 42	1600	Fair	R.M. Cdo on leave. Rear party consists of Lt. Bradley, R.Q.M.S., 4 Sgts, 5 Cpls and 32 Mnes. 7 Officers from Thurlestone proceed on leave.	Lt. Bradley i/c until 4/9/42 then Lt. Barclay until 8/9/42
I.O.W.	8 Sep 42	1600	Dull to Fair	R.M. Cdo returned from leave. Rear party proceeds on leave.	Capt. Manners resumed command.
I.O.W.	9 Sep 42	1600	Fair	Conference regarding reorganization.
I.O.W.	10 Sep 42	1600	Fine	All Coys returned G.1098 gear to H.Q.
I.O.W.	11 Sep 42	1600	Fine	All Coys drew web gear etc.
I.O.W.	12 Sep 42	1600	Fine	Unit trg.
I.O.W.	13 Sep 42	1600	Sunny	Sunday routine.
I.O.W.	14 Sep 42	1600	Fine	R.T.Trg. All 2nd Lieut attend meeting at Adjts office.	Capt. Manners travelled to London and Capt Hellings took command.
I.O.W.	15 Sep 42	1800	Fair	Conference to discuss Ex. Sark attended by C.O., 2 i/c.	Capt. Manners returned and resumed command.
I.O.W.	16 Sep 42	1800	Fine and Windy	Visit by Brig. Laycock, Major Franks, Capt. Nunns and Capt. Waugh to see Cgo trg.
I.O.W.	17 Sep 42	1800	Fair	T.M.G. firing H.Q. Coy. Normal routine.	Lt. Huntington-Whitely moved to London on duty returned on completion.
I.O.W.	18 Sep 42	2400	Cloudy	"O" Gp attended by 2 i/c, Coy Comd. Admin Officer, I.O. & S.O. to discuss formation of troops. Ex. Sark begins 1700 hrs today. No trg during afternoon.	Copy of orders for Ex. Sark enclosed.
I.O.W.	19 Sep 42	1600	Fair	Ex. Sark ends 0800 hrs today. R.T. Trg.
I.O.W.	20 Sep 42	1600	Rainy	Sunday routine. Capt. Manners and Lt.H.O. Huntington-Whiteley to London.	Capt. Hellings in command.
I.O.W.	21 Sep 42	1600	Rainy	Rev. Maughan visits Cdo.
I.O.W.	22 Sep 42	1600	Rainy	All Coys unit trg and P.T. Capt. Manners returns.	Capt. Manners resumes command.
I.O.W.	23 Sep 42	1700	Cloudy & Rain	Unit trg including H.Q. 10 mile route march.	Capt. Devereaux to London.
I.O.W.	24 Sep 42	1600	Fair	Unit trg. Night Ex by H.Q. Coy.
I.O.W.	25 Sep 42	1600	Rainy	Capt. Hellings, Lt.Berriff, 5 O.R's to Recce billets at Yarmouth. Unit trg. Also security measures.
I.O.W.	26 Sep 42	1600	Cloudy & Rain	2nd Lieuts exercise (Indoor) Return of Capt Hellings and party. Area unsuitable. Football game A & X Coys v T Battery.
I.O.W.	27 Sep 42	1600	Fine	H.Q. Church Parade. Sunday Routine.
I.O.W.	28 Sep 42	1600	Fair	Ex. Jolly for Sigs and Tp H.Q's. "O" Gp attended by all troop comd. Admin Officer, I.O., & S.O. Official turnover to troop basis. Also invasion to be discussed.	Troop Comds. A. - Lt.M.J.Ephraums, R.M. B. - Capt.R.K.Devereaux. R.M. P. - Lt.J.E.Stiebel. R.M. Q. - Lt.J.W.E.Bradley. R.M. X. - Capt.N.S.E.Maude. R.M. Y. - Lt.I.C.McKellar. A & S.H.
I.O.W.	29 Sep 42	1800	Rainy	Unit trg.
I.O.W.	30 Sep 42	1800	Fair	Unit trg. Route March and cooking in the field.

Officer Commanding, Capt. J.C.Manners, R.M.
Lieut. J.W.E.Bradley commanded from 1/9/42 to 4/9/42.
Lieut. D.L.Barclay commanded from 5/9/42 to 8/9/42.
Capt. J.C.Manners commanded from 8/9/42 to 13/9/42 and from 15/9/42 to 19/9/42
and from 22/9/42 to 30/9/42.
Capt. P.W.C.Hellings, D.S.C. commanded on the 14/9/42 and from 20/9/42 to 21/9/42.

October

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	WEATHER	SUMMARY OF INFORMATION	REMARKS
I.O.W.	1 Oct 42	1800	Fine	Unit Trg.
I.O.W.	2 Oct 42		Fine	Unit Trg. A.O., IO & 24 N.C.O's to Weymouth	Major Hellings to London.a.m. 2nd. Lt. Ecrepont to Eastney.a.m. 2nd. Capt. Devereaux to Fort Cumberland.a.m. 2nd.
I.O.W.	3 Oct 42	1800	Fine	Unit Trg and R.T.	1 N.C.O. & 5 O.R's to London. Capt. Devereaux assumes duties of Adjutant. Capt. D.L.Barclay to sick list.
I.O.W.	4 Oct 42	1800	Fair	A & X Troops move to Weymouth as advance party to Commando.	Move carried out in denim suits as a security measure.
I.O.W.	5 Oct 42	1400	Foggy	Main body moves to Weymouth via Yarmouth with transport.	Accomodation Stores remain at I.O.W.
Weymouth	6 Oct 42	1800	Misty	Moving of Stores. Billets arranged. R.T. Trg.	Essential stores, Amn &c., stored here.
Weymouth	7 Oct 42	1800	Misty & Rain	Unit & R.T. Trg.	C.O. moves on duty returns on completion. p.m.7Oct.
Weymouth	8 Oct 42	1800	Fine	Rear Party arrives from I.O.W.	Capt. Barclay resumes duty as Adjutant.
Weymouth	9 Oct 42	1800	Overcast	R.T. & Unit Trg.	Major Hellings & Lt Berriff to I.O.W.
Weymouth	10 Oct 42	1700	Fine	Unit Trg.
Weymouth	11 Oct 42	2400	Fair	Tp. night exercises and wireless Trg.	Movement across country.
Weymouth	12 Oct 42	2400	Rainy	Route Marches. Cdo night exercises.	All commando working as one unit to exercise control.
Weymouth	13 Oct 42	2400	Rainy	Unit Trg. Tp exercises at night.	2/Lt. Chiverall to Light Duty. Capt. Devereaux to S.S. as Liaison Officer.
Weymouth	14 Oct 42	2400	Foul	a.m. Unit trg. p.m Rest after evening exercises. Cdo night exercises including B Commando.	As from 12/10/42. Major B.J.D. Lunsden R.M. and 3 troops (B,P,Q) u/c of A Commando.
Weymouth	15 Oct 42	1800	Fine	Unit trg. "O" Gp attended by Adjt. Tp Comd.,I.O.,S.O., & Tp Comd. of B. Commando regarding Ex.BLACKMORE.	Lt. Berriff to Exton on duty return on completion.
Weymouth	16 Oct 42		Fine	Route March and River Crossing.
Weymouth	17 Oct 42	2400	Fair	Ex. BLACKMORE commences today. "O" Gp attended by Tp. Comd. A & B Cdo, Adjut, I.O., S.O. to discuss same.
Weymouth	18 Oct 42	1800	Fine	Ex. BLACKMORE ends at 1230 hrs. Return at 1500 hrs.
Weymouth	19 Oct 42	1800	Fine	Sunday Routine.	Lt. Berriff moves to London with Major. Lumsden.
Weymouth	20 Oct 42	1800	Cloudy	Trg Conference attended by Adjt, all Tp Comd. A & B Cdo also S.O. & I.O.	Lt. Epraums absent on duty.
Weymouth	21 Oct 42	1800	Fair	Unit trg including swimming Weymouth harbour.
Weymouth	22 Oct 42	1800	Fair	Unit trg. C.O. Major Lumsden, All Tp Comd. I.O. & S.O. to conference at S.S. Bde regarding Ex. BLACKMORE.	Ordinary soldiering and section work needs improving.
Weymouth	23 Oct 42	1800	Fair	Unit & R.T. Trg.	Major Lumsden and Lt. Berriff to Pembroke. Major Hellings and Capt Devereaux to Portsmouth return on completion.
Weymouth	24 Oct 42	1800	Fair	Unit Trg.
Weymouth	25 Oct 42	1800	Rainy	Sunday Routine.
Weymouth	26 Oct 42	1800	Rainy	Visit by Major Gen.Beith. Demonstration of street fighting by X Tp.	Commencement of snipers trg. Green Berets now part of dress.
Weymouth	27 Oct 42	1800	Foul	Unit trg and R.T.
Weymouth	28 Oct 42		Rainy	Night exercise. Very successful.	Exercise in speed and control at night.
Weymouth	29 Oct 42	1800	Fair	Unit Trg.	Return of Major Lumsden and Lt. Berriff.
Weymouth	30 Oct 42	1800	Fair	Commencement of move to I.O.W. 2/Lt. Neale & I. Sec to Recce Bournemouth area.	Capt. Barclay to I.O.W. Lt. Bradley assumes duty as Adjt.
Weymouth	31 Oct 42	1800	Fair & Rainy	Stores packed and arrangements for move made.

Commanding Officer. Lieut. Colonel. J.C. Manners, R.M.

November

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	WEATHER	SUMMARY OF INFORMATION	REMARKS
Weymouth	1 Nov 42	1800	Rainy	A party consisting of P & Q tps u/c of Lt.Stiebel leave Weymouth and arrive Wareham.	Transport moves stores.
Weymouth	2 Nov 42	1800	Fair	A party marches through Bournemouth to Christchurch. B party reached Wareham A,X & H.Q. u/c Capt. Maude.	Many bad feet in A party.
Weymouth	3 Nov 42	1800	Fair	A party arrives Lymington. B party marches through Bournemouth to Christchurch.	B party in good condition.
On Move	4 Nov 42	1800	Rainy	A party arrives I.O.W. B party to Lymington. 2nd/Lt. Neale, I.Sec & Sigs arrive I.O.W. Col. Manners and party of five march from Weymouth.
I.O.W.	5 Nov 42	1800	Rainy	B party arrives I.O.W. Col. Manners & party to I.O.W.	Arrival of 25 marines from R.M.I.T.C. Dalditch.
I.O.W.	6 Nov 42	1800	Rainy	Move completed. Settling in billets. Talk by C.O. to all officers & men of Cdo.	More road marching essential.
I.O.W.	7 Nov 42	1800	Fair	Unit Trg.	Capt. Barclay i/c during absence of Col. Manners and Major Hellings on leave.
I.O.W.	8 Nov 42	1800	Fair	Sunday Routine.	Arrangements made for leave.
I.O.W.	9 Nov 42	1800	Fair	1st Party moves on leave. Unit trg.	Cdo to leave in 3 parties, to avoid congestion on ferry and rail coming back also in 3 parties. A,X & Y. Mon. 9/11/42. B,P & Q. Tues. 10/11/42. H.Q. Wed. 11/11/42.
I.O.W.	10 Nov 42	1800	Fair	2nd Party to leave.
I.O.W.	11 Nov 42	1800	Fair	3rd Party to leave.	Rear party of Lt Ecrepont and other ranks for admin. purposes.
I.O.W.	17 Nov 42	1800	Fair	Cdo on leave.	Co. Manners resumes command.
I.O.W.	18 Nov 42	1800	Fair	1st Party returns from leave.	Major Hellings returns from leave resumes as 2 i/c. Capt. Barclay returns from leave resumes as Adjt.
I.O.W.	19 Nov 42	1800	Fine	2nd Party returns from leave.
I.O.W.	20 Nov 42	1800	Cloudy	3rd Party returns from leave.	Lt. Ecrepont to leave 18/11/42.
I.O.W.	21 Nov 42	1800	Fair	Unit trg.	Rear Party to leave p.m. 21/11/42
I.O.W.	22 Nov 42	1800	Cloudy	"O" Gp attended by Adjt, all tp Comds, S.O., Q.M. & I.O. to discuss future trg.	Security Cpl. attached to Cdo from S.S. Bde.
I.O.W.	23 Nov 42	1800	Fair	Unit Trg and R.T. Trg.	C.O., 2i/c., and Capt. Devereaux to demonstration. Arrival of 5 Officers from Thurlestone, 2/Lt. Chapman, G.M.Russell, J.H.Tarry, B.P.Hill, L.Cross. Also 38 men from R.M.I.T.C.
I.O.W.	24 Nov 42	1800	Fair	Unit Trg.
I.O.W.	25 Nov 42	1800	Cloudy	Night Exercise by X tp & I. Sec as enemy 41 Cdo.
I.O.W.	26 Nov 42	1800	Cloudy	Night Ex."Kangol" finishes 0830. Unit Trg.
I.O.W.	27 Nov 42	1800	Cloudy	Unit Trg and P.T.	Lecture by Adjt to young officers that joined on 23/11/42.
I.O.W.	28 Nov 42	1800	Dull	Unit Trg.	Lecture by Lt. Manning M.I.9 on Security.
I.O.W.	29 Nov 42	1800	Dull	Sunday Routine.
I.O.W.	30 Nov 42	1800	Fair	Unit Trg.	Major. Leahy arrives from S.S. Bde Sigs. Lecture by Capt Barclay to all subalterns on "R" boat trg.

Commanding Officer Lieut. Colonel. J.C.Manners. R.M.
Capt. D.L.Barclay commanded from 7th to 9th Nov 1942.
Lieut. E.W.Ecrepont commanded from 10th to 18th Nov 1942.

December

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	WEATHER	SUMMARY OF INFORMATION	REMARKS
I.O.W.	1 Dec 42	1800	Fair	Unit Trg. 3" Mortar Shoot. 15 mile Route March by whole Cdo.	Visit by Brig. Laycock & Major Franks
I.O.W.	2 Dec 42	1800	Fair	Unit & R. Boat Trg. 5 Offrs on M.G.B.	Lt.Col.Manners to London on duty. Major Hellings i/c. Capt. Barclay to Portsmouth. Surg Lt. Pryde to London.
I.O.W.	3 Dec 42	1800	Fine	Night Ex. Anti Invasion. "I" Sec. & Sigs ex. took place.	Capt. Barclay returns.
I.O.W.	4 Dec 42	1800	Fair	Unit Trg. Trg conf. attended by 2i/c, Adjt, all Tp Comds, I.O., S.O., & M.O.	Evening lecture by C.O. to all junior officers on handling of men.
I.O.W.	5 Dec 42	1800	Rainy	Unit Trg and mortar firing. Street Fighting.
I.O.W.	6 Dec 42	1200	Fair	Sunday Routine. Church parade by P, Q & H.Q. Tps at Shanklin.	Lt.Steibel Lt.Ephraums to be A/Capt 1/10/42. Lt.Bradley to be A/Ty/Capt 1/10/42.
I.O.W.	7 Dec 42	1600	Fair	Unit Trg, Street Fighting and swimming.
I.O.W.	8 Dec 42	1600	Fair	Admin & Unit Trg.	2/Lt. Neale to Cambridge on duty.
I.O.W.	9 Dec 42	1600	Rain	Night exercise Cdo. "ANSON".
I.O.W.	10 Dec 42	1600	Fair	Arrival of 29 Mnes from R.M.I.T.C. Unit Trg	Lt.Wildey joins unit as A.O.
I.O.W.	11 Dec 42	1600	Fair	Trg Conference attended by 2i/c, Adjt, S.O., M.O., and Tp Comd.
I.O.W.	12 Dec 42	1200	Fair	Unit Trg & Admin. Demonstration of Demolition.	Lt. Waterworth joins unit as Sigs Officer in place of Lt. Loe.
I.O.W.	13 Dec 42	2400	Fair	Demonstration of night attack on Coastal battery and showing use of flares.
I.O.W.	14 Dec 42	1800	Fair	Admin and Unit Trg.
I.O.W.	15 Dec 42	1800	Fair	Route March, Mass P.T. and Hammock practice.
I.O.W.	16 Dec 42	1800	Fair	Night Vision tests for all ranks. Admin.	2/Lt. Neale returns from Cambridge.
I.O.W.	17 Dec 42	1800	Rain	Demolition demonstration. Unit Trg.	Lt. Wildey proceeds on leave.
I.O.W.	18 Dec 42	1800	Rain	Unit Trg. Trg conference attended by Adjt, S.O., M.O., I.O., & all Tp Comd.
I.O.W.	19 Dec 42	1800	Fair	Unit Trg. R.T. & Admin
I.O.W.	20 Dec 42	1800	Fair	Sunday Routine.
I.O.W.	21 Dec 42	2400	Rain	Unit Trg. Night Exercise "DRYSHOD" Demonstration for Lord Louis Mountbatten.
I.O.W.	22 Dec 42	1800	Fair	H.Q. Exercise movement and control in the field. Route march. Inspection of H.1098 stores of "A" Tp.
I.O.W.	23 Dec 42	1800	Fair	Unit Trg, Night Exercise "Diesel" Object to practice fast movement, demolition & withdrawal.	One casualty. Fell over cliff. Carriers practically useless at night.
I.O.W.	24 Dec 42	2000	Fair	Rope bridging demonstration. Route march. Trg conference attended by S.O., I.O., M.O., & all Tp Comd.
I.O.W.	25 Dec 42	1800	Fair	No Training carried out.
I.O.W.	26 Dec 42	1800	Fair	Unit Trg. Semaphore.
I.O.W.	27 Dec 42	1800	Fair	All troops equipped with new assault respirators. Sunday routing.
I.O.W.	28 Dec 42	2400	Dull	Unit Training. Cdo. Night Exercise "LOBSTER"	A,X,Y & Cdo H.Q. attacked. P & B Tps defended.
I.O.W.	29 Dec 42	1800	Rain	Cliff Climbing. Battle "Inoculation"	Lt. Willey from leave p.m. 28/12/42
I.O.W.	30 Dec 42	1800	Rain	Unit Trg & Admin	Lt.Col.Manners moved to London on duty. Major. P.W.C.Hellings commands.
I.O.W.	31 Dec 42	1800	Mild	Battle Drill. Motor Inf. Drill & unit trg.	Lt. Col. Manners resumes command.

Commanding Officer. Lt. Col. J.C.Manners, R.M.
Major P.W.C.Hellings, R.M. commanded on 2/12/42 & 30 Dec 42.

Awards (op.Jubilee)

Military Cross

Houghton, Robert Dyer

On the 19th August 1942 Major Houghton who was 2 i/c Command 40 (RM) Commando during operation 'Jubilee' was ordered to land party from an LCA onto the main beach at Dieppe. On the run in, the LCA in which he was travelling, came under heavy enemy fire, but in spite of this proceeded towards the beach He eventually grounded about 100 yards out. Major Houghton, with complete disregard for his personal safety, was the first to attempt to land. He found the water too deep to achieve a landing, so under heavy fire he re-embarked and gave orders for the LCA to be beached on another position of its shore. This second attempt was successful and on landing Major Houghton immediately organised his party and engaged the enemy with all weapons at his disposal. In spite of overwhelming enemy fire, he only gave up when all other troops in the vicinity had surrendered. After capture, Major Houghton behaved in a manner which exemplified the highest traditions of the Royal Marine Corps. He maintained a high standard of discipline while acting as a company commander in OKay VIIB and by his personal example, stimulated the morale of all troops with whom he came in contact. He was always ready to give every assistance to potential escapees and it was only as a result of medical advice that he did not himself partake in any attempts to escape. By his devotion to duty, personal example, courage and untiring efforts he rendered to his country and corps a service which can seldom have been surpassed.

Smale, Kenneth William Ridley

For bravery, endurance and inspiring devotion to duty whilst serving in Commando operations in the raid on Dieppe, 19th August 1942, and later as a prisoner of war in Germany, August 1942 - May 1945.

Military Medal

Bevan, George Reginald

When there was no possibility of landing, his boat was ordered to close into the beach to pick up survivors, whilst doing this, the survivors were being machine gunned in the water. Marine Bevan went aft and located one Machine Gun on the East Cliff which he silenced, with L.M.G. fire. He continued to fire at others until the boat was hit aft and his gun was blown off its mounting.

He showed great courage throughout.

Bradshaw, Leslie Charles

Whilst approaching the beach his boat engaged by heavy Machine Gun and rifle fire, the C.O. ordered the buildings on the beach from where the fire was coming to be engaged by L.M.G. A gun was opened up by Marine Bradshaw who also ordered the H.Q. L.M.G. into action. Both guns were kept continuously in action until such time as the targets were obscured by smoke. During this time the M.L.C. was repeatedly hit by bursts of M.G. fire and very accurate rifle fire from the beach. Owing to the position of this M.L.C. the men had to stand up to engage the targets. Bradshaw carried out his duties very courageously whilst under heavy fire and without thought to his own personal safety.

Breen, Terence Edward

During the approach to the beach in L.C.A. under a continuous and withering fire, Marine Breen took up a position with his Bren gun on the port side of his craft. He continued to fire with accuracy and effect at the German positions and succeeded in neutralising the German gun position on the Casino. During this time the craft was being continually hit by small arms and mortar fire but Marine Breen continued undaunted until all his ammunition had been expended.

Croix de Guerre

Manners, James Calvert (Not listed in London Gazettes)

In the action at DIEPPE on 19th August, 1942, Lt Col. MANNERS was senior surviving Officer of the Commando. His boat was sunk, and he spent over two hours in the water. During this time, regardless of his own safety he devoted himself to encouraging his men, and seeing them into rescue boats. He personally saved the lives of two of his men. On finally leaving the water, he assumed command of survivors setting a fine example of endurance and devotion to duty.

Mention in Despatches

Stockley, Gordon Herbert

Roll of Honour

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RM CDOS 40 Commando 1942

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