L/Cpl RICHARD HARDING 3 Cdo KIA 19 08 1942 Dieppe raid

Hello to all,

Did someone could explain to me, why the MM is not on L/cpl RICHARD HARDING 3 Cdo KIA 19 08 1942 Dieppe Raid, headstone in Dieppe cemetery.

He's got the MM from his action the 27th dec. 1942 on VAAGSO raid.

sincerely

stéphane

This message was edited 4 times. Last update was at 04/04/2019 00:01:47

Hi Stephane

7888531 Private Richard Harding RAC and No.3 Commando was recommended for the award of the Military Medal by Lt Col John Durnford Slater, his recommendation reading as follows:

As a Signaller ashore at Vaagso, Southern Norway, during operations on Saturday December 27th '41, Tpr. Harding maintained continual wireless touch throughout the operation although constantly under fire. His calmness and skill in finding new positions for his set during the street fighting were exceptional, and inspired a great feeling of trust and confidence amongst his fellow signallers. He was a fine example to all who worked either with or near him

The recommendation was submitted but on the Recommendation proforma it shows "Nil" in the section where approval is indicated or otherwise. As such it would appear the recommendation was not approved. Download the actual recommendation at the National Archives for £3-50 HERE.

The list of those awarded medals in No.3 Commando can be found at the back of John Durnford Slater's book Commando - Memoirs of a Fighting Commando in WW2, and his name also does not appear there.

On the National Archives "Recommendations for Honours and Awards" online database search facility result it indicates London Gazettes 3rd April 1942 as if the award had been approved.

However attached is a copy of that London Gazettes page and as can be seen his name is not included, and there is no additional London Gazette entry for any award to him.

http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/35510/supplements/1506

In Memory of Lance Corporal 7888531 RICHARD HARDING
Royal Armoured Corps and No. 3, Commando
who died age 22 on 19 August 1942
Remembered with honour at DIEPPE CANADIAN WAR CEMETERY, HAUTOT-SUR-MER

http://www.commandoveterans.org/RichardHarding3Commando

Just found this!

Must say how gutted we are to find out that Richard never got the MM. Just speaking to my mum (Richards niece) and we have both said we realise now we would have definately known if hed had it. Grandad wouldve told us for sure as would Richards other surviving siblings Aunty Molly and Uncle Jack.
But at least he was recommended!
Anyway Stephane! We are waiting for a reply from the Mayor about August. Nigel emailed him last month. Need to get our ferry booked. Hope we see you there!
Lorraine.

Hello LORRAINE.

I will be there like other years since long time ago, hope to see you there.

stéphane

Went to Alrewas on Sunday to look at the Commando Memorial. After Richards name it has MM. Very confused now. Why would they put MM after his name when it's thought he didn't get it?