Cpl 'Sam' Harold Wells (DOB 16/3/22) joined the Royal Marines (17 Platoon, 7th Royal Marines, middle row, 4th from the right) 24/7/41.
He served with the 7th Brigade (not sure where but photos suggest north Africa?) until 1/3/44.
From 2/3/44 until 15/2/46 he was in 48 Commando, Y troop we think. He talked of their landing craft hitting objects way off the beach, many men drowning. Luckily he swam and was picked up by another landing craft and returned to UK. He rejoined the unit on June 8. At some point we know he met up with his brother, Sgt Fred Wells of the 22nd Independent Parachute Company, 6th Airborne division (pathfinders on D-day).
He also took part in operation 'Infatuate' landing at Westkapelle on Walcheren, Holland. We know he was billeted in Winterswijk, Holland on 21/6/45, as we have a letter written by the local headmaster to his mother, Edith Wells, describing how helpful he was.
He was demobbed 5/5/46 and ten years later I was born. He married Kathleen Brookes who is still alive, had five children (Philip, Martin, Peter, Lee & Samantha) but sadly died in 1978. We are all incredibly proud of him and all his comrades who enable us to live the life we do today.
I have; a paper copy of his service record; a services postcard 'home'; various demob & tax(!) documents; a letter to his widow dated 15/10/2007 from the Naval Historical Branch (MOD), Portsmouth, outlining some of his service; plus other photos. I would be grateful if he could be added to the '48RM Commando Nominal Roll' if appropriate. Thank you, Peter Wells
|