Medals and insignia of Private Robert Rose Urquhart
Date: 31/03/2008
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Owner: Pete Rogers (Admin)
Captain John Alderson MC
Captain Alderson served with the Seaforth Highlanders before he volunteered for the Commandos. This photo courtesy of his son Christopher Alderson.
John Alderson was Captain of 6 troop No.3 Commando. He was awarded the Military Cross "In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Normandy.
On the morning of 8th June 1944, this Officer was holding a position astride the Le Plein - Languemare Road with one Officer and forty-seven men. The Troop was attacked by a company of German Infantry which established itself in front of the position. Captain Alderson attacked with great determination leading the assault with a T.S.M.G. He himself accounted for a number of the enemy and his men were so inspired by his leadership that they carried on after he was wounded and cleared the entire wood which remains in our hands. Besides approximately 15 enemy killed there were 36 prisoners. Owing to Captain Alderson's skill and courage our own losses were no more than one killed and nine wounded. This success was largely due to Captain Alderson's fine leadership." L.G.31.8.44
He died of wounds in the action at Leese in Germany on the 8th April 1945. He had rejoined No.3 Commando after being wounded in the knee at Amfreville during the Normandy landings.
In Memory of 113655 Captain John Alderson MC
Seaforth Highlanders and No. 3, Commando
who died age 29 on 08 April 1945
Remembered with honour at RHEINBERG WAR CEMETERY.