Corporal Thomas Peck Hunter VC, 43RM Commando

This message was edited 2 times. Last update was at 04/04/2012 00:30:09

On Wednesday 3rd April 2012 it will be the 67th anniversary of the death of Corporal Thomas Peck Hunter VC of 43RM Commando during the battle at Lake Comacchio, Italy. There was a service in his honour at his former school, Tynecastle High School, Edinburgh on Sunday 1st April 2012 which was attended by Commando Veterans from the Royal Marines, and other Veterans. Photos of that service can be seen in an album located here:

http://www.commandoveterans.org/cdoGallery/v/events/Services/

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
43 RM Commando Royal Marines
who died aged 21 on 3rd April 1945
Remembered with honour Argenta Gap War Cemetery

We will remember them

Corporal Thomas Peck Hunter VC, 43RM Commando is buried at Argenta Gap War cemetery :

http://www.commandoveterans.org/cdoGallery/v/Commando+War+Graves+Memorials+and+Plaques/graves/War+Graves+Italy/Argenta+Gap/Cpl+T+Hunter+VC+43RM+Cdo.jpg.html