Both the Brothers are Royal Navy Stokers, on the left is an Able Seaman on the right a Petty Officer (rank equivalent is Sergeant), both wear one Long Service stripe showing 4 years under the Colours. The Stokers arm Insignia is a Ships’ propeller and the term dates back to coal fired ships.
Posted by PrichardDavid R L on Sat 12 Sep 2020 15:38:25 EDT
Sergeant Robinson is wearing the distinctive SAS Parachute Brevet (Winged Parachute) above his North Africa Star, later the badge would be worn on the right shoulder below any Regimental Title.
Posted by PrichardDavid R L on Sat 12 Sep 2020 15:32:13 EDT
This is a vey early Parachute photograph as the Commando is wearing the protective helmet designed to prevent head injury when exiting a Whitley converted Bomber, the only spare aircraft available. A circular hole was cut in the floor, the parachutist sat on the side ready to jump going thru the Red light/a Green light procedure. Many hit their heads on the other side of the hole which was not a good way to start the descent. The padded helmet was intended to prevent that kind of injury. A steel helmet designed for Para Troops’ use was soon issued and the introduction of the US made Douglas DC-3 ‘Dakota’ with side exit ended that problem.
Posted by PrichardDavid R L on Sat 12 Sep 2020 15:28:10 EDT
Operation Chess
Hi Graham
My father was on this raid and I'm pretty sure he is the commando in the middle at the back possibly making a V sign. I have no pictures of him, in uniform other than http://gallery.commandoveterans.org/cdoGallery/v/units/1/panorama/Numbered+No1+Panorama_.jpg.html. He is number 19 at the back again. Could I possibly have a professional copy of your photo or a more detailed scan if that is possible. I don’t care how much it would cost and would be very happy to pay.
I have a letter from Malcolm Parr, who should be in the picture too, who was probably a corporal at the time although later made sergeant. He talks about being fired on and grenading the German post as well as the fact that two were killed. I hope to hear from you.
Best Regards
Richard Allum
Posted by Richard Allum on Fri 21 Aug 2020 10:26:54 EDT
Leslie ‘Red’ Wright
I believe my Grandfather was on this raid. Would be good to discuss thing and maybe see a high res copy of this picture.
Posted by James Wright on Wed 27 May 2020 01:17:32 EDT
Photo updated
Thanks John
Posted by Pete Rogers (Admin) on Sat 07 Dec 2019 10:14:43 EST
Definitely No 12 Commando 2nd left back is Alf Perry (not Ferry) far right back is Bob Mewett (my father)
Posted by John Mewett on Thu 05 Dec 2019 14:19:14 EST
Ref previous comments
Site Admin have now put Graham in touch with Carol via email.
Posted by Pete Rogers (Admin) on Sat 27 Apr 2019 18:44:51 EDT
Hello Carol. I've responded on the other photo. I would really like to contact you to discuss this information which is really helpful to my research. Graham
Posted by Graham Robinson on Thu 25 Apr 2019 05:13:27 EDT
Jimmy Flint
Hello Carol. I haven't looked at this website for a year unfortuneately but have just seen your post which I'm really excited about. I have for some time been trying to identify all the men in the photo and also to identify beyond doubt those men involved in Operation Basalt. I have alot of information you may want and am happy to share it with you.
Posted by Graham Robinson on Thu 25 Apr 2019 05:08:56 EDT