A WAR TROPHY RE-LOCATED
During the bloody Battle of Anzio, where No. 9 Commando was to see some of its toughest action against some of the best units that the German Army had, a German Flag was captured by one section of No. 3 Troop. At the hands of its captors, the trophy was embellished with the title: No.9 Commando, and Rothesays Own; plus the names of the members of the Section and with the old Combined Operations Badge, which was initially worn as a shoulder flash.

After the War in Italy ended, the flag was brought home. In 1946, it was handed to the care of the Reverend William Downie (the then officiating Naval Chaplain for the Port of Rothesay, a submarine base during the War), for safe keeping until a permanent place could be found for it. The flag remained with the Reverend until his death in 1980, after which it became the obligation of his son George Downie to safeguard it. In the hope of returning the flag, or finding a home for it, Major General R. M. Somerville, CB., OBE., Royal Artillery (retired), was contacted by George Downie and the item passed on. This old soldier was acquainted with Major Ronnie Williamson of Special Boat Section, who to quote the General's expression, had messed about with small boats during the War. Ronnie Williamson was asked for advice on the return of the flag. This very great friend of No. 9 Commando Old Comrades took on the task of accepting and returning it to the members of No. 9 Commando.

On the 8th November, 1987, at Fort William, the flag was displayed before the No. 9 Commando contingent. In remarkably good condition it was unfurled by Fred Reeves the only member present whose name was appended to it on its capture in 1944. Sadly, there are only five of these old comrades now remaining from the Section of 3 Troop. By popular choice it was agreed that the flag should be handed over to the West Highland Museum, Fort William. The Curator, though disturbed from his Sunday rest day, was delighted to accept it. The Museum was opened for the handing over of the flag by RSM. Jack Quarrie, BEM., on the understanding that the flag would eventually find a place in the Cameron Museum, presently being instituted by Sir Donald Cameron of Lochiel, at Achnacarry.

Our deepest thanks go out to Major General R. M. Somerville, CB., OBE., Major Ronnie Williamson and Mr. George Downie of Rothesay, for their very important participation in this historical event.