Cpl. Charles Arnold Simister MM

RAMC and No. 2 Commando, Paignton, Jan. 1941. Photo from the collection of L/Cpl. John 'Ken' Emmerson SS Bde HQ (formerly No.2 and 12 Cdo)courtesy of his son John Emmerson. Posted by Pete R.

In March 1942, he took part in Operation Chariot, the raid on St Nazaire, being one of the few that made it back. Later he was awarded the Military Medal for his gallantry with No.2 Commando at Salerno. Post war he was attached to 43 Commando (ref. CA newsletter No.15) and in the 50's he was ordained and became Reverend of a parish in Glasgow. Reverend Simister MM died on 9th September 2010.

Citation for the award of the Military Medal to Corporal Simister (from the book Commando Gallantry Awards of WW2):

"This NCO acted as a troop medical orderly to No.3 troop during the actions at Liberatore, Dragone, and Piegolette on 10th, 13th, 16th, and 18th September 1943 respectively, performing his duties with complete disregard for his own personal safety. He was responsible for saving the lives of at least six badly wounded men. At Dragone he attended to wounded under direct mortar and machine gun fire from close range and by his actions and coolness of bearing encouraged the members of the troop to remain steady in their positions under heavy fire" (L.G.13.1.44)