St Nazaire Raid 28th March 1942

This message was edited 3 times. Last update was at 02/04/2010 17:29:43

James Dorrian met up with some from the Army and tells me that they intend to make it a regular visit. He says " After the army left, we hired a Pilot Boat and retraced the path of the various ships to the Old Mole and dock caisson. The day closed with Breton pipers playing for us on the Mole. Cool. AND the army intend to make the tour a regular thing."

More can be seen of the visit on James Dorrian's Operation Chariot blog

http://chariot-heroes.blogspot.com/

Maybe the CVA could link up with them and make it a joint trip ???

This message was edited 3 times. Last update was at 28/03/2011 16:15:34

Today is the 69th anniverary of the raid and this week events will have , or have been, taking place to remember those who took part in the raid, and especially the Fallen. I know that a few veterans of the raid such as Corran Purdon MC of 12 Commando were out there at the weekend, along with some members of the St Nazaire Society. On 1st April the CVA, in partnership with Green St Green School in Orpington will be holding an event at the school, to honour Tom Durrant VC, a former pupil. As we all will know Tom was in No.1 Commando and was one of the many Fallen that day. I understand the children have been learning about the raid and are very excited in anticipation of the day. I look forward to being sent some pictures for inclusion in the gallery of the days events to share with everyone.

So despite the passage of time the Fallen from this raid, and from all the others involving Commandos, will always be remembered.

Here is a link to a Roll of Honour for the Fallen at St Nazaire :

http://www.jamesgdorrian.com/Roll%20of%20honour.html

Just a reminder that this week is the 71st anniversary of Operation Chariot. The Roll of Honour can be found on this link:

http://www.jamesgdorrian.com/Roll%20of%20honour.html

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.

Thank you Pete.

- Janet

This message was edited 2 times. Last update was at 27/03/2013 19:41:17

I met Micky Burn at his home in Minfordd a few years before he died. Unfortunately he would not answer any questions about his Commando days, as he was in consultation with someone from America as regards to a book or a film about his life.
But I'll try an other avenue for more info.

Also Tommy Durrant V.C. is pictured, (I'm proud to say)with my father and others in this photo

http://gallery.commandoveterans.org/cdoGallery/v/units/1/1+cdo+grp/Copy+of+Stage+10-numbered+copy.jpg.html

Kevin

This message was edited 2 times. Last update was at 28/03/2013 14:29:30

Bill Bannister aged 95 attends the events that took place on the 24th in Falmouth for the 71st anniversary of the raid. Bill was Royal Navy and crew of MGB 314.

http://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/news/10308389.One_of_last_surviving_veterans_of_St_Nazaire_to_return_for_service_tomorrow/

Some pictures of the event itself can be found here:

http://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/news/photogalleries/st_nazaire_parade_gallery/

The family of Sergeant Tom Durrant VC shared their family collection with us and this can be viewed here:

http://gallery.commandoveterans.org/cdoGallery/v/units/1/Tom+Durrant+VC/

There are so many stories of gallantry that day. Here is just one that some may not be aware of :

Warrant Officer Class 1 Alan Moss - the first RSM of No.2 Commando:

http://gallery.commandoveterans.org/cdoGallery/v/units/2/RSM+Moss.jpg.html

and

http://www.commandoveterans.org/cdoForum/posts/list/1906.page#8072