Corporal Thomas Peck Hunter VC

Citation for the Victoria Cross
The London Gazette of 13th June, 1945, gives the following details: In Italy Corporal Hunter of "C" Troop of a Royal Marine Commando was in charge of a Bren group of the leading sub-section. Having advanced to within 400 yards of the final objective he realised that his troop had to cross open ground where enemy fire would cause heavy casualties. Corporal Hunter seized the Bren gun and charged across 200 yards of open ground, attracting most of the enemy fire. Showing complete disregard for this fire he alone cleared the enemy position, capturing six Germans. The remainder fled over the canal. The troop now became the target for fire from the opposite bank. In full view, Corporal Hunter fired and drew most of the enemy fire while the greater part of the troop gained cover. Shouting encouragement to the remainder he continued firing with great accuracy until finally he was hit and killed. There can be no doubt that Corporal Hunter offered himself as a target in order to save his troop. By the skilful and accurate use of his Bren gun he demoralised the enemy, and later silenced many of the Spandaus firing on his troop, so that many of the troop made their final objective before he was killed. Throughout the operation his magnificent courage, leadership and cheerfulness had been an inspiration to his comrades.

In Memory of Corporal Thomas Peck Hunter VC
43RM Commando Royal Marines
who died aged 21 on 3rd April 1945
Remembered with honour Argenta Gap War Cemetery

Click on the cemetery name to view images of the grave of Cpl.Thomas Hunter VC and many others.

nb. This photo of Cpl Hunter VC is located in his former school - Tynecastle High School, Edinburgh. There was a Service of Remembrance there on Sunday April 1st 2012. There is an annual service in his memory at a memorial at Ocean terminal, Edinburgh.