Sgt. Jack Stanley Aubertin MM, 45 Commando RM, 1952

[Photo credit: Coventry Evening Telegraph 29 April 1952].

Sergeant Jack Aubertin from Coventry was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished service in Malaya during the period May to November, 1951 [1][2].
Jack attended Holbrooks School, Coventry, and joined the Royal Marines in 1937 aged 16 on a 15 year regular engagement. He had previously served on HMS Malaya, HMS Valiant, and HMS Vengeance, and had been with 3 Commando Brigade RM in Malaya for a year [3].
Award recommendation
PERAK, MALAYA.
During the last six months Sergeant Aubertin has commanded a sub section which has on two occasions killed bandits. He has consistently set a fine example by his personal courage, coolness, cheerfulness, and determination.
On 22nd August 1951 he was part of a larger force being led by a surrendered bandit to a bandit camp known to be strongly defended. The only approach to this camp was along a single track, covered by slit trenches and bren gun positions, and his sub section was detailed to lead for the final approach. In the circumstances it was not possible to provide covering fire. Sergeant Aubertin acted as leading scout for this difficult and dangerous approach; he successfully stalked and wounded the enemy sentry, and opened the way for an assault on the camp.
In all ways and at all times his example, his enthusiasm, and his outstanding leadership, have been an inspiration to the men under his command, and in no small measure responsible for their successes [2].

Sources
[1] London Gazette 39507, page 1880.
[2] National Archives file WO373/130/123.
[3] [Image] Report in the Coventry Evening Telegraph 29 April 1952.