Fred Harris 45 RM commando

Can anyone help?

Pat Orchard writes in:

I am trying to trace an old comrade of my late father a Mr. Fred Harris. Him and my father Mr. William (Bill)James Noakes (M.M.)were in 45 commandos during ww2. I write to Mr Harris and my last correspondence has been returned so I do not know what has happened. He was an active supporter of the veterans as far as I know so I thought I could find out through the association.

posted for Pat by John M

This message was edited 2 times. Last update was at 04/01/2013 01:27:39

Hi John

I have a note of a CH//110192 Marine F.L. Harris of 45RM Commando, last known address somewhere in Wickford.

I also have seen reference to him here in the account of Derrick Cakebread, 45RM Commando:

http://www.modern-day-commando.com/Rivers-Of-Fire.html

I will make some enqs to see if I can find anymore. In the meantime could you ask Pat to contact me should he have any photos of his father, William Noakes MM, Fred, or any of their other 45RM Commando comrades

Finally from London Gazettes:

ADMIRALTY, Whitehall, 12th January, 1946. The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders to approve the following awards:?

For gallant and distinguished services in North West Europe.

The Military Medal

EX/977 Sergeant William James Noakes
45RM Commando, Royal Marines
Award: Military Medal

http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/37464/supplements/910

Many thanks Pete

I have passed on your details to Pat.

Regards

John M

John

Had a nice long chat with Fred Harris just now. Very nice chap. When Pat contacts me I'll put her in touch

Pete

Obliged to you Pete.....

John M

Pat.

I have identified my grandfather from one of your dads photographs taken in Germany in 1945. He is in an unidentified photo posted by you and your brother. I also have a photo of my grandfather in B troop photo stood next to a bloke who looks like your father.
My grandfather is Corporal Jack Thomas Williams (PO/X 111957). He died young aged 55 in 1977 and rarely mentioned the war to many. He did mention Lovat and the piper, A concentration camp and training in Scotland. My gran told me more. I cannot upload the photo as it is too big.

If you reply to this message I will email you a colour copy to see if it?s your father.

Regards Craig.