Sgt. Bill 'Chalky' White, Essex Regt. and No.2 Commando

[Photo courtesy of Gary Cootes].

No.6010917. Prior to joining No.2 Commando Bill White had also served with No.3 Independent Company and taken part in operations in Norway. Mentioned in Despatches in recognition of distinguished service during operations in Norway. [Source: London Gazette 35020, page 7202].

Eric Buckmaster No.2 Cdo. adds "I did know Sgt Chalky White, I believe that he was in HQ Troop. I also recall that I thought that he was closely linked to Colonel Newman. They both worked for W & C French, Civil Engineering Contractors, at Buckhurst Hill, Essex. before and after the War. However, Sgt Chalky White was with us, in Italy, and was wounded like me at Salerno. we were evacuated to Phillipville in North Africa. When we were realeased from the field hospital, we made our way to Bizerta, Tunis to get a boat back to Sicily. Chalky White went down with Malaria and we had to leave him behind again in Bizerta."