Cpl. Harold 'Sam' Wells, 48RM Commando

Photos from the collection of Corporal Harold Wells, known as 'Sam', courtesy of his son Peter Wells who adds, "My Father, born on the 16th March 1922, joined the Royal Marines on the 24th July 1941 and was posted to the 17th Platoon of the 7th Royal Marine Battalion.

He served with them until the 7th Bn., was redesignated as 48RM Commando on the 2nd March 1944. After successfully completing his Commando training at Achnacarry he was we believe in 'Y' troop of 48RM Commando. He talked of their landing craft hitting objects way off the beach, many men drowning. Luckily he swam and was picked up by another landing craft and returned to UK. He rejoined the unit on June 8. At some point we know he met up with his brother, Sgt Fred Wells of the 22nd Independent Parachute Company, 6th Airborne Division. He also took part in operation 'Infatuate' landing at Westkapelle on Walcheren, Holland. On 21st June 1945 he was billeted in Winterswijk, Holland and we have a letter written by the local headmaster to his mother, Edith Wells, describing how helpful he was.

He was demobbed on the 5th May 1946. He married Kathleen Brookes who is still alive, had five children, Philip, Martin, Peter, Lee & Samantha, but sadly died in 1978. We are all incredibly proud of him and all his comrades who enable us to live the life we do today."

Some additional photos can be found in a forum entry in his name [go to forum ....]

Harold 'Sam' Wells
b. 16 March 1922
d. 10 February 1978.