James Valentine Clifton

I am searching for any information about my father who served with a commando unit in WW2. Unfortunately I do not know his unit or service number. I know that he trained in Scotland, went to Norway and served in North Africa, Sicily and Bari Italy. I believe he spent some time with the partisans in Italy, and possibly ended up in Austria. Any information would be gratefully received.
Thanks in advance.
Christine Manchester

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 11/07/2007 07:56:36

Hi Christine

With the information you have given I think this puts your father

in No 1 Cdo or No 6 Cdo as these were both in the 'Torch' landings in N/Africa.

Also No 6 earlier had been at Vaagso Norway. However in the earlier Independent companies personel from No1 had also been in Norway. No 1Cdo was formed with men from this earlier formation.

Men were often posted between Commando units and seconded for their specialist skills.

Soorry to seem to be confusing but it's all deduction really.........if we could throw light on the later part of his service things may come into focus.

Anyone out there to help here?

Best regards
John M

Hi Christine

Not to second guess John but, its possible your father may have been with #2Cdo as well . My Dad served in North Africa, Italy, and Sicily as well and he was with # 2Cdo. from there he went on to Yugoslavia and Albania.
I am sure that I heard him mention Bari on occasion as well.

Do you know if he went to Gibralter ?Here is a picture of #3 Troop #2Cdo dated 5,7,43. My Dad is second row from the back , third one in from the right with his shirt open at the neck.

I know its a wild chance but do you recognize anyone?