A squadron 2 SAS

galcock

Member
Can any body tell me what A squadron 2 sAS were up to at the time of Operation Archway. I know my father, SQMS J Alcock, was not on archway as I have read the new SAS war Diary which provides lists for archway. I seem to remember him telling me he was in Holland at some point. I suppose he may have been on leave after Operation pistol. Much later he was in Norway.In anticipation thanks.
 
I have added these 2 photos on behalf of Graham Alcock.The first is the first SAS reunion 1946.Can any members identify any of those present?
The second is SSM John Alcock on the left.Can anyone identify the other SSM ?
 
Hi John/Graham,
I have spotted 3 faces,(not full face but in the backgound) Johnny Holmes, Tommy Cummings and a possible glimpse of Bill Smith. All were on Operation Bulbasket. This was the first Regimental Reunion Dinner which was on the 16th December 1946 and held at the Connaught Rooms, Great Queen Street, London.
I would imagine a few war stories once things warmed up??
especially seeing Paddy Mayne was present and David Stirling,Major Poat and Fraser McLuskey also in attendance; with the band of the Welsh Guards playing in the background.....ohhh to be a fly on the wall that night!!

Regards,

Dave
 
Hi Dave,
a man called jack paley fron canada sent me this reuniom picture. he was my fathers friend. Jack also sent an overlay of tracing paper with a few names on it. he himself is on the extreme right middle. William Oakes father is there too and some others.
Graham
 
Adding another group photo on behalf of Graham Alcock
Colchester base,Wivenhoe 1945
left to right
unknown storeman
"Smokey" Luddington
SSM John Alcock
Sgt Clark
Sammy Gleed
 
Another photo added on request by Graham Alcock

These two men in the picture helped my father's patrol and at least one other one from 'Operation Pistol' by offering them food and shelter and some practical support. They were both farmers from different farms along his escape route. The man on the left hid my father for two nights and organised a guide for hm to get him to the front lines. The man on the right hid my father in his farm for two or three days. Dad slept in a bed that a German Sergeant Major slept in at night time. Ntice the rifle which is an American Carbine left by the SAS. He has it to this day.

My father wrote the letter in 1944 as a way of thanks. In 2009 I visited the farm and the family produced the letter which I photographed.



Without these mens help, they both had families with young children, me and my sons would not exist today - how can you put a value on that.
 
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