Andrew Keers

Hi,
I am looking for any information on my Grandfather Andrew Keers, 1924 Durham.
I know that he was in Sicily, Yugoslavia and possibly Egypt and
We have a group photograph with "H O. 170 squad, passed for duty 9th may 1942" written in the bottom.
I would be very grateful for any more information,
Thank you

Hi

Did your Grandfather have a middle initial of J.

http://www.commandoveterans.org/40RMCommandoNomRollE-K

Hi Pete,
Thanks for the reply. As far as we know he didn't have a middle name, 40 does ring a bell though so it could be him.

I have this tiny picture of him but can't make out the badge.

Hi Fiona (hope that is right)

I have found a little bit more on the A.J. Keers and I think it may be your Grandfather. His last known address was Chester le Street and I have note he was invalided out. Not sure if the latter is known to you ? The photo you described sounds like it is an initial Royal Marines, rather than Royal Marine Commando, training squad photo. The H.O. is Hostilities Only, ie. basically those joining for the war, although some stayed on after it. They did not all become Commandos in those days unlike today. Commando training followed basic training for those that did. 40RM Commando was formed in 1942 and served at Dieppe, Sicily, Italy and Yugoslavia.

That is the Royal Marines badge on his Commando beret.

Hi Pete, yes this is certainly him he lived in Chester Le Street. I didn't know he was invalided out but it fits with some of the stores he told me.
Thank you for your help,
Fiona

Hi Fiona

Here is the entry for your Grandfather now in our 40RM Commando gallery.

http://gallery.commandoveterans.org/cdoGallery/v/units/Royal+Marine+Commando+Units/40+RM+Cdo/Keers/

I have also added his name to our online Obituaries.