Bill Johnson, Sammy Ryder, and another

Bill with the sniper rifle, Sammy, his spotter, directly behind him,

This information from John Martin who provided the photo. John's uncle was Sgt Don Martin of 1 trp : "Pte Bill Johnson, one of the snipers in 1 Troop 4 Cdo. It was taken in Flushing, Holland on or about 3rd November 1944, after the successful assault. Bill died some years ago in Canada, but I met him two or three times in Normandy on visits with my late uncle. He rejoiced in being known as the scruffiest and dirtiest man in 1 Troop but that probably went with the job! "

Photo posted by Pete R.)

Update 13/8/2011 by Pete R.- Peter Ryder adds the following " The guy behind Bill is my dad, Sammy Ryder. I have this picture. Dad always told me that the third guy, lying down, had been sent out to bring Bill and Dad (his spotter) back to the unit. Dad dropped with David Haig Thomas who was the liaison officer with the 1st Canadian. David Haig Thomas was killed in an ambush shortly after the drop. Dad rejoined 4 commando approx. 3 days later. I'd appreciate any more information about his service."