Huge WW2 Special Service Brigade, 1st Commando RE Archive To Major E T Gilbert

For sale is a Huge WW2 Special Service Brigade, 1st Commando RE Archive That Belonged To Major E T Gilbert of the 1st Commando Royal Engineers/ Royal Marines. Please note I’ve done my best to describe everything included in this grouping, and there is ephemera not mentioned or photographed, but if you would like any more photographs, please don’t hesitate to send me a message. 

Edward Thomas Gilbert was born on the 8th of May 1919 in Waterbeach, Chesterton. He married Gertrude Brown on the 27th of July 1940. Edward enlisted into the Royal Marines commandos on the 8th of March 1940 at the rank of lieutenant, and by 1946 he had made the rank of Major of the 1st Special Service Brigade which was a commando brigade of the British Army. Gilbert was entitled to a 1939-45 star, pacific star, France & Germany star, defence medal & war medal. 

The 1st Special Service Brigade was a commando brigade of the British Army. Formed during the Second World War, it consisted of Army Commandos and Royal Marines Commandos. The brigade's component units saw action individually in Norway and the Dieppe Raid (in France), before being combined under one commander for service in Normandy during Operation Overlord. On 6 December 1944, the Brigade was redesignated 1st Commando Brigade, removing the title Special Service and its association with the German SS.

Included in this grouping are the following items and folders, but please note there are thousands of documents and not everything is covered, but all belonging to Major Gilbert of the 1st commandos; 

A folder titled “Secret, Canadian flotation equipment trials at engineer commando 29th May to 1st of June.” This folder is one of the more interesting folders packed with original photographs of soldiers with Canadian flotation equipment in preparation for D-Day, on the 6th of June 1944 Canadian forces landed on Juno Beach in Normandy, France. This folder is about the preparation with documents, letters and original photographs. The first four green card sheets contains original photographs of Canadians wearing and holding all the equipment & uniforms, flotation devices, getting of the ships and into the water that the Canadians were going to land on Juno beach for D-Day. There are three cream card mounted photographs with a description of what’s in each photo these state; complete ferrying equipment (carried by 3 men), grapnel ready for firing, grapnel fixing one spike, cradle showing endless line, attachment for endless line at bow or stern, picket fixing at bank and pulley, grapnel fixing two spikes, grapnel special head attachment, special cradle, quick release pack charge, quick release pack charge showing individual charges, quick release pack charge as used for pole charge, quick release pack charge showing quick release. There is also a different set of 8 photographs to the ones mentioned above of the grapnel, specialist webbing etc. Also in this folder is photos of the inside of these 3 men carrying trunks with all the ordnance and equipment inside. All of these photos are exceptionally rare and a great insight into what was carried on to the beaches of Normandy by the Canadian troops. These photos have most likely never been seen before. The documents in this folder state what each piece of equipment is, the faults with them, what changes have been made etc. 

A folder containing letters, documents and naval messages from D-day all about LCOCU’s. Landing Craft Obstacle Clearance Units (LCOCUs) were specialized Royal Navy and Royal Marine "frogmen" teams in World War II tasked with clearing underwater, explosives-laden obstructions from beaches before D-Day landings. Trained at HMS Appledore, 120 personnel in 10 units operated as the first wave to ensure safe passage for landing craft. This folder contains naval messages describing what happened to Gilbert’s men during D-day one the paragraphs state “Subsequently in action on d-day 6th of June 1944 Sgt Jones Beam came under heavy fire whilst advancing up the beach. By his example and abundant leadership he prevented heavy casualties amongst his men abs attempted to carry out his duties of obstacle clearance until ordered to take over by the principals beach matter.” Letters also included promotions for decorations for several men within the LCOCU on D-Day- with written notes of what they did that day. Documents on modifications of the compressor trailers, hand written notes on positions of the Germans during D-day including hand drawn paper maps etc. also included in this folder is further information on Peter Henry jones and why he deserved a promotion. This letter states; “I have the honour to bring to your notice the outstanding qalities of loadership, powers of command and initiative displayed by sgt , Peter Henry Jones HM, commanding No.10 LCOCU. During training we heard he was a constant source of encouragement to his men, and on one occasion saved both his craft and his men in the following manner. Whilst dropping charges overboard from an L.C.P. (R) during training at Pendine, Salom, at the moment that the safety fuse of a charge had been ignited, the engine stalled, sgt. Jones prevented the charge from being thrown overboard into shallow water and removed the burning safety fuse and detonator which he then threw into the sea. Subsequently in action on 6 June (D-Day) Sgt.Jones team came under heavy fire whilst advancing up the beach, By his example and outstanding lendership he prevented heavy casualties amongst his men, and attempted to carry out his duties of obstacle clearance until ordered to take cover by the Principal beach master. In addition to the foregoing, sgt, Jones accepted the responsibility of commending an LCOCU Unit during the operation, throughout which he carried out his duties with the utmost efficiency and initiative. Signed lieutenant Cogger.” Also in this folder is another three page letter from later on in the war, mentioning the Japanese not being ready for mines etc, and that he would be a great candidate to lead the operation. 

A folder titled “Standing orders; standing orders, standing orders for duty officer, standing orders for duty Sgt, standing orders for guard, standing orders for commander grd, standing orders for coy HQ sentry, fire orders, defaulters routine, guard room stores, bugle calls, orders for duty section and standing security orders all for the 1st Royal Marines engineer commandos. This folder also includes Full breakdowns for parades etc. 

A folder titled “Army airborne transport development centre training wing” with sections split into the following areas; carriage of Bailey bridge in Dakota III C.47 aircraft, air transportation of truck g.s 15-cwt 4x2 Ford Model w.o.t 2.d in Dakota III (c47) aircraft, c47 loading aids, cradles, a.f.d.c heavy ramp, gyn & sheer legs, training expeditions for air portable warfare, load manifests, daily time tables and syllabus for air portable course type c modification and loading course ra and re 10 days etc. (these sections hold blue prints of the Dakota III, drawings for modifications, letters etc). 

A similar folder to the one above, presented in a stationary office book26 portfolio important documents also all relate to the Army airborne transport odevelopment centre training wing. These include reports on November as applied to air transport, preparation of load manifests, mathematical check of c of g of c47 aircraft, loading loading and balance, an introduction to the folder and reports which state in the first paragraph “Forces which can be transported and maintained by air can, in certain circumstances, achieve results which cannot be obtained by any other moans. In particular air transport enables land forces to be flown over highly organised defensive lines on beaches, river or mountain features and the term "air beachhead" has become of practical application. The prosent war situation indicates that operational movement and omployment of airtransported forces will be necossary in the Far East and porhaps also in Europo. Later, apart altogether from future war requiroments, such forcos may be required for intornal socurity purposes in any part of tho world, which, as the aftermath of the war, neods occupation and policing by the forces of the United Nations.” There are blue prints for the load stations of the C47, and lots of hand written notes for improvements on these aircraft’s, and weights of all the equipment and vehicles that needed to be carried by these aircraft’s for the 1st commandos. 

In a loose envelope marked “on his majesties service” is some documents and report surveys on an office named lieutenant David j smith of the 1st commandos dated the 18th of October 1944 and was put forward to being medically unfit for service and diagnosed anxiety neurosis, however he returned to duty after 7 days sick leave and was found ready for service again on the 25th of October 1944. 

Another folder with documents dated 1st of March 1945 outlines an operation carried out by No1 troop royal marine engineer commando and this letter states, a report for the second of March can be found in the next folder below this paragraph. The letter/ report for the 1st of March is as follows; “On the 1st of March, 1945, Troop H.Q. and No. 2 Section accompanied Brigade H.Q., 45 (RM) Commando and No. 6 Commando on the Advance from AFFERDEN to WELL. The main task allocated to the Troop was the opening of the rd from AFFERDEN (M/R:395388, Eastern Holland 1/25,000 Sheet 4302) to BERGEN Cross-Roads (M/R.: 831353, Eastern Holland 1/25,000 Sheet 4302) this rd had been extensively mined, cratered and blocked. For this Operation the Section were under Command 241 Fd Company. One D.6 Bulldozer and one D.4 Bulldozer were made available to the Section. This equipment proved of great value. The rd was of good macadam construction and visual. search for mines was possible. Clearance Parties checked the verges of the rd. Two other parties were employed in filling two large craters, These were filled by knooking down Bombed houses with a Bulldozer and transporting the rubble to the Craters by lorry and filling in. Subsequntly the Bulldozers were used to remove such trees as could not be removed by hand from the rd. The enemy having retreated rapidly the Section were able to make speed progress and the BERGEN Cross-Roads were reccied at approximately 1500 hours. Two large sized craters were found at this point surrounded by a barbed wire fence with "MINEN" Signs attached. A suitable divergence existed and it was decided that it would be quicker to sweep the divergence which monsisted of a rd surface than the crater itself. Two parties were employed on this clearance and Schu mines were discovered and lifted on the verge. During this operation some type of Booby Trap was initiated by the right hand clearance party resulting in the death of Ex. 4530 (T) Corporal Ronald BINNS and. Po.X. 101922 (T) Mne (L/Cpl) E.W. AMBLER; PO.X. 116223 Marine W.G. PALMER being severely wounded. Corporal. R. BINNS was thrown some 30 feet from the site of the explosion into the crater in the middle of the rd; I/Cpl. EW AMBLER was thrown sane 60 ft into an Orchard adjoining the rd; Mne. WG PALMER was thrown down a small Embankment into a Garden about 15 ft away. Marine WG PALMER was heard to cry for help and a Party proceeded to probe their way toward him when they had reached the foot of the embankment Lieut. J.J.A. MCLAREN appeared on the scene on his Jeep and proceeded to follow along the White Tape carrying first Aid Equipment. When Captain PWJ NEALE was within a few feet of WG PALMER an explosion occurred which had been caused by Lieut. J.J.A. MCLAREN treading upon a Schu Mine. The clearing Party ware thrown in various direction and minor injuries caused to Capt AB JACKSON RM and Marine G. DOWNING. Marine LJ PRICE who had Lieut. JJA MCLAREN RM was very severely wounded in the legs. Capt PWJ NEALE RM then directed further clearance of Schu Mines to enable Lieut JJA MCLAREN AND Marine WG PALMER to be removed from the Minefield. been following the party laying the Tape behaved with exemplary coolness despite the fact that he had been in close proximity to both explosions and had suffered a out in the face. The casualties were successfully removed from the Minefield The bodies of EXCpl. R. BINNS and and evacuated immediately by ambulance L/Cpl. EW AMBLER were recovered by TSM DJR MORSS FM and members of the Section and burial effected on the site, it was impossible to revover any documents. A detailed report of this incident has been rendered to the Brigade Commander. During the night Troop supplied Mine Clearance Party under Command Cpl. J. MCCORKINDALE to 45 (RM) Commando who reccied a Route from BERGEN Cross Rds to WELL. The remainder of the Section continued to maintain the AFFERDEN BERGEN Cross Rås road and improve the causeways made over the craters. A Bailey bridge at Afferden was also maintained.” Signed A.B Jackson capt R.M O.C no1 troop, arm engineer commando. Letters and documents following these days show further reports, summary’s of work, promotions of men. More reports and documents for the 1st of February 1945 on river crossing operations which also makes a very interesting read, as the first attempts were unsuccessful. There are also reports for January 1945 where weather impacted the operation of clearing booby traps, mines and ordnance heavily as most of these were frozen. But were marked out and cleared at a later date. The report starts with “. The Engr tp u/c First Commando Brigade arrived OSTEND 14 Jan 45 and from thence via ASTEN to theatre of operations in the HELLEN area 20 Jan 45. Owing to the short stay in this area, very little Engineer work was performed, although it had been foreseen and proposed that good use could have been made of Engr personnel in the construction of defence worka (excluding wiring) and mine clearance. Brigade was transferred to the ECHT area on 22 Jan and entered operations immediately- The It is in this area that most of the wor's covered in this report has been carried out.”there are also reports on 45 Royal Marines commandos on the attack on an adjacent to Linne 27/28 Jan 1945. This reports first paragraph states “Boat crews were provided to work with 45 RHM Cdo in the attack on an island adjacent to LINNE 27/28 Jan. It was intended to town line across the R MAAS in four places and provide four ferries using Mk III Assault boats. Crews consisted of three men to each boat. Lines were to be of Alpine rope. It was understood that the river was about 80 yards wide and the current 2½ knots speed. It was therefore decided to tow the line behind each boat with eight men paddling and allowing 250 yards of line to each boat. found, however, that the current was much faster than had been anticipated, it It was soon being at least 6-knots. The boats were unable to make headway towing the line and even after this had been detached, the boats were carried anything up to 300 yds off their course downstream. Repeated and varied efforts were made to establish a ferry but all failed.” This folder contains a good mix of very interesting and very detailed reports on each of the attacks and operations the 1st commandos carried out in early to mid 1945. 

A folder titled “Operation round up”, the first letter in this folder states the following; “to be read by all ranks warning order; Enemy Parachute troops are expected to land in this country in order to disrupt communications by road, rail and telephone with the object of delaying or disorganising invasion plans. Such forces when dropped' are not expected to wage war in the normal sense of attempting to capture a village or piece of ground but are expected to sabotage communications to the best of their ability while they are free. To carry out this they will endeavour to keep out of trouble attacking and destroying under cover of darkness and laying up by day. Paratroops will most certainly be highly trained men, with a large number of English speakers among them. kind of uniform, British, Allied or Enemy being Home Guard. They may land in any the most likely uniform likely Wherever they land they must be destroyed by the quickest possible means to prevent them from carrying out their intentions. The unit is being organised so that immediate offensive action can be taken in the event of any enemy Airborne or Paratroop landings.” Dated 29th of May 1944, signed E.T Gilbert, Major RM, OC royal marine engineer commando. The next document in this folder is dated 7th of June 1944 and marked secret, the information given states “enemy paratroopers have landed or infiltrated info Steyning area with the intention to destroy any enemy forces in Steyning area in the quickest possible way.” There are monthly reports on the 1st commandos including hospital reports for some of the men, promotions and the troops morale levels. Also an important letter dated 7th March 1945 that shows extracts of the 1st commandos 2nd of March 1945 advance on the Siegfried line; Officer Lieutenant J.J.A McLaren was wounded on the second march along side marine W.G Palmer, with two casualties KIA on the 2nd of March 1944 Corporal Ronald Binns and Lance Corporal E W Ambler at the bottom of this letter the commendation states; “the following order of the day dated 2nd March 45 has been received from Commander 1 commando brigade; I am filled with admiration for the gallant conduct and devotion of the royal marine engineer commando in the advance today, they have been operating in mine infested areas of the Siegfried defences and have cleared many scores of mines and made supply to the forward troops possible, I am very proud of them. Sgd d mills-roberts.” In this folder are several demonstration & preparation letters for what they were doing on the Siegfried line on the 2nd of March 1945. 

Metal tin containing wooden markers (battleships) for map plotting for D-day, manufactured by Harold Thew, and an abbey & sons 66ft tape measure. 

A Stationary office book 136 notebook containing training notes and notes on men from various regiments that would have been brought into the 1st commandos. 

Army book 152 dated 1941, to lieutenant e t Gilbert titled “company commanders course”, lots of entries. 

Army book 152 undated- marked exercise Botra. For 1st commandos. Written notes on the training exercise, what was hoped to have been achieved, hour by hour notes etc. 

Stationary office book 135- addresses of training grounds, training notes etc.

A green folder titled “Royal Marines”, this folder doesn’t contain to many documents, however it does contain 5 royal marine engineer commando Christmas cards with embossed emblems, and regimental ribbons. Letters from the Finchley citizens advice bureau, and payslips, and scanned certificates of service for Major Gilbert. 

A folder containing documents for a demonstration titled “supply dropping demonstration RAF station old Sarum no3 intermediate course, Wednesday March 14tg 1945.” This folder contains load manifests, details on the demonstration etc. 

A green folder containing printed restricted training pamphlets including; 1943 enemy equipment and German mines and traps, royal engineers pocket book- bridging 1941 with amendments, royal engineers pocket book demolitions and mining 1941, royal engineers pocket book pamphlet VII roads 1941, royal engineers pocket book pamphlet VIII accommodation & installations 1941, royal engineers pocket book pamphlet XI railways 1941, royal engineers pocket book pamphlet XII survey 1941, royal engineers pocket book pamphlet XIII water supply 1941, royal engineers pocket book pamphlet XIV concrete work in the field 1941. 

A large envelope marked “on his majesty’s service”, with a hand written note stating “My farther kept the China Mail which includes letters from democrat and response letters from other was he one of them?”, this envelope contains 11 newspapers from China from 1945 to 1946. Major Gilbert was stationed in China and Japan during these years. Lots of interesting articles regarding the war etc. 

2 lots of field message books on courses of field training, reconnaissance, assembly positions, preparation and execution. Lists of soldiers with service numbers, ranks and names for each section of the 1st commandos. Multiple training exercises in the second book. With full descriptions. 

A marble paper styled book titled “no5 re officers field defences course”, every page is written on. 

Stationary office book 136- lots of training notes for the No. 14 (Arctic) Commando sometimes also called the Special Commando Boating Group.

Blue cover book with two sections titled “no2 re officers field defences course.” And “No2 section” every page filled with training notes and courses. 

Army signalling scribbling book- lots of notes, and codes with meanings. 

Also included in this group is a large folder including around 65 commandos names, that Gilbert trained and commanded, with a record of their service and characters. We’ve done some research into some of these men which can be read below. The list of names included in these reports are the following men all from 1st special service brigade (later 1st commandos); CH/41178 cpl AB Pirie, 102072 cpl Alex brown, capt Peter wallir James Neale, Lieutenant Francis Eric handon, Captain Archibald Blair Jackson, lieutenant Denis Neville, lieutenant David John cogger, Lieutenant David Jonathon smith, lieutenant Raymond lidley booth, cpl Alex ogilvie, Captain David Edward bowgerman, Lieutenant Robert Lawrence Nicholson, lieutenant Henry Fleming Baxter, lieutenant John James McLaren, lieutenant Peter bond woodhouse, lieutenant Robert Antony Milligan, captain Francis Eric Hawdon, cpl Francis Davies, cpl f r Gilbert, Cpl l l dimes, cpl Edmond Davidson, cpl f p carolan, cpl g w turner, cpl e c parsons, cpl Alex ogilvie, Sgt d j r morss, col Sgt eugene king, Sgt j l loeber, cpl j f v greenwood, cpl d j Mitchell, Cpl thos Stevenson, cpl r f edwards, cpl c g wright, cpl h a morgan, cpl e c parsons, sgt eugene king, sgt j l loeber, cpl r f edwards, cpl g c wright, cpl h a morgan, cpl a b pearson, cpl john speakman, sgt h h hockings cpl Francis Davies, cpl f p carelan, cpl Edmond Davidson, cpl awg knight, cpl m e binley, cpl wm mcurday, sgt d j r merss, cpl j l leeber, cpl h a morgan, sgt h h hockings, sgt c e baker, sgt harry green, sgt w m Clifford, cpl Henry chew, cpl w h Barton, cpl thos heath, sgt c e baker, sgt harry green, Cpl Raymond Warrener, sgt Roy brook, Cpl John speakman, cpl w g turner. There maybe more men, so please look through the photos for more details. Some further research on each of these men can be found below; 

Some of the men under Gilberts command under the 1st commandos and the research on each can be found below. This can come with scans of each of there records too. If you’d like to see these please message me for further details; 

David E Bowerman; Born 16th of June 1916 in Bristol, Gloucestershire. Upon enlisting into the commandos he was a journalist. (1 scan). 

Archibald E Jackson; Born on the 24th of May 1911 in Ealing, Middlesex. His occupation upon enlisting was a bank clerk. (2 scans including newspaper article of his marriage). In his service report it’s said that he took lead of 1st commandos Royal Marines teams 7&8 for operation overlord (d-day) and that he had been recommended for decoration. 

Robert L Nickerson born 13th of October 1917, in Huddersfield. Before enlisting Robert was a van salesman. Robert was promoted to 2nd lieutenant on the 3rd of November 1941. NICHOLSON. -ROBERT LAWRENCE (Nick) NICHOLSON M.B.E., Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) for clearing obstacles of the beach in Normandy at operation overlord (D-day) as mentioned in service report. Peacefully in hospital on March 7. Major The Royal Marines (HO). Past Chairman The National Society of Conservative and Unionist Agents. He was a loved husband, father and grandfather. The Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) is a British military decoration awarded to officers and, since 1993, other ranks of the Royal Navy, Merchant Navy, and armed forces for gallant or meritorious service in the presence of the enemy at sea. Established in 1901, it is a key gallantry award, often recognized for bravery in naval operations. (4 scans inc photo). 

John J A McLaren born 4th of June 1920 in cookham. Upon enlisting into the British army 1st commandos he was a student. His mother was Catherine g McLaren. (1 scan). 

David Jonathan smith born 1st March 1924 in Eastbourne Sussex, passed away 2003. (1 scan).

Peter bond woodhouse born 14th July 1920 in Chigwell, Essex. He was a student at university college upon enlisting into the Royal Marines. Promoted to major on the 30th of June 1956. Awarded Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve Decoration for over 15 years of service. (Two scans). As described in the service report he was fluent in German and French. 

Herbert a Milligan born 6th of February 1922 in Durham. Upon enlisting he was an inmate in prison. Herbert passed away in Cheshire in September 1991. ONE of the North's fore- most gardeners and land- scaping artists, Mr Tony Milligan, has died at the age of 69. Tony had lived latterly at Callands, Warrington, but resided for nearly 40 years at the bungalow in the grounds of St Aiden's School, Norlands Lane, Widnes. He was associated with the school from the early 1950s where he lectured and took care of the grounds. His unique skills reached a wider audience through his many news paper articles and radio appearances. He was a regular guest contributor to the Weekly News group for many years. Tony originally hailed from the Lake District and became a member of the family gardening and landscaping firm until the arrival of the Second World War. He became a captain in the Royal Marines. There are many gardens in Widnes and the Merseyside area which revolutionised by the Milligan 'treatment". Many relatives and friends travelled from the Lake District to the Requium Mass at the Church of the Sacred Heart, Warrington. Cremation was at Walton Lea. (3 scans). 

David John Cogger born 8th of March 1924 in Canterbury Kent. Died 6th of January 2008. David was promoted to lieutenant 12th of September 1944 of his operations associated with D-day whist serving in the 1st commandos Royal Marines. (3 scans). Awarded the military cross during D-day. 

Francis E Hawdon born 6th of April 1920 in Southampton England. He was a student on enlistment. He was promoted to temporary second lieutenant whilst serving with the Rita Marines at Portsmouth dockyard on the 14th October 1941. (3 scans). 

C E Baker, promoted to colour sergeant whilst serving with the 1st commandos Royal Marines. Also in 1942 he was awarded the long service & good conduct medal. (1 scan). 

Reginald William George John Smith born 27th December 1911 in Maidstone Kent. Before enlisting he was a master hairdresser. Whilst serving with the special service brigade, commando detachment in 1944 on operation overlord (D-day) he was wounded with multiple fracture of right arm and compound fracture to left arm. Reported as seriously wounded. On D-Day (June 6, 1944), the 1st Special Service Brigade, commanded by Brigadier Lord Lovat, landed on Sword Beach (Queen Red) to secure the eastern flank of the invasion. They were notable for fighting alongside French troops, rapidly clearing Ouistreham, linking with the 6th Airborne Division, and securing crucial Orne river bridges. Awarded war medal, defence medal, 1939-45 star. (3 scans). 

This is research on just some of the soldiers mentioned above, in which in this lot is there service reports. Each of the men have there full names, period of service and Major Gilbert’s general opinions about them. In there service reports all of these men were present during operation overlord (dday) and Operation Infatuate. 

Also in the folder mentioned above is a mix of paperwork, including 1st royal marine engineer commando nomina lists of NCO tradesman under new war establishment, documents in Bailey bridges in c47 aircraft’s, a report on “airborne forces development centre training wing, air transportation of tractor caterpillar d4 42” gauge complete with angle dozer and hyster winch model d4a in Dakota aircraft iii c47 aircraft”, a report on army airborne transport division centre training wing the light division. With the definition of a light div is a build up div who may be air transported to any theatre of war needing support, in such a case it would probably be transported in dakotas with heavier loads going in hamilcars. The light division takes 3000 Dakota’s with a possible addition of another 160 containing att tps (like a tank and med units), the radius of action is based on 450 miles. The light division will probably be used in the war against Japan, the experiences of jungle warfare have been incorporated in its W.E.” This report was in preparation for the invasion of Japan which never ended up taking place. This folder also includes a question paper for the army airborne transport development centre training wing. Documents on commando toggle worm fields. Also in this group are lots of transfer referees between officers of HQ SS group dated 1944. There are also a large amount of training reports for the headquarters special service group. Theres a printed file on report of officers of the rank of commander and below S.206. 

There’s multiple letters from various units, home guard and police stations conveying thanks to officers from Royal Marines engineering commando for teaching there men about mines, booby traps and ordnances. One of the letters dated 21st of june 1944 from West Sussex constabulary stating “Dear Sir, On behalf of the members of this Division, both Regular and Special Constabulary and also members of the Warden Services in the Borough of Worthing, I wish to thank you very much indeed for the realistic demonstration in search for anti-personnel bombs which was given by your Staff Sergeant Green and Sergeant Gomm. This demonstration was very instructive and those who witnessed it were full of praise for the pains which were taken in presenting it. I shall be glad if you will kindly convey my thanks to the Officers concerned, Yours faithfully.”

There is another folder titled “Exercise Airborne” where the umpires were Major Gilbert & Sgt J Loeber, and the 1st commandos were split into six groups, with the full list of names under each section. The information given to the commandos were as followed: “The bridge over the R Adur MR 628298 carries the main orterial rd to the SE Forts of England. It is believed to be defended by Home Guard in strength app 1 Coy. Own Troops; The anti-invasion strategy of the German High Command is to deny the use of the Main Traffic arteries to the English 3.E.Ports. Accordingly the lat Coy of the Peter Holzhaus Parachute Rogt has boen ordered to attack & destroy the br. over the R. Adur at 628298.” In this operation order is a number of objectives and methods. Local home guard was brought into this excercise D company 4bn Sussex home guard. Included in this file is message forms from members of the public who whitenesses the exercise but were not let on that there was an exercise taking place. And were reported to 4th battalion Sussex home guard. These three messages are as followed; 1st message from farmer Giles- Wappingthorne farm “Thought you ought to Imow saw about 30 soldiers in a wood at the back of my farm. Secmed to be moving towards Steyning. My dogs barked something horrible.” The second message from Lord Horton, Horton Hall “My games keeper has just run in and informed me he has seen about 20 soldiers wearing peculier packs, He's an old soldier was with me at Ypres says he’s damed sure they are Jerries in fact said he heard then speaking German, Not very intelligent this chappie shouldn't bank on it, Probably those Commando Johnnies.” The third message from constable Bumm, Winding bottom Coombes “I beg to report whilst investigating a report on a stray dog at Conbehead barn at approx 7.30 p.m. I saw some troops in English Uniform which I did not recognise I know most of them in this neighbourhood.” The objective of this exercise was “to exercise one troop RM engineer Cdo in night Reece, patrolling, neutralisation of trip flares, mine alarms, silent sentries and attack and demolition of bridge. Also to exercise home guard in patrolling and defence as in operational role.” Remarks left by one of the umpires “Troops far too noisy whilst on the move. Not enough advantage taken of natural cover. Too much bunching when getting over or under stiles and fences. The fact that they should have been in line of file forgotten. When instructed to take up position, appeared to show themselves far too much to the enemy. Look outs at times seemed unaware of an ambush. Actual attack by Group 'A' from West Bramber appeared very good, by the fact they split up into parties and concealed themselves, seems to take the enemy by suppise.” It’s an interesting folder into one of the exercises carried out by the 1st commandos & Sussex home guard. 

Another large folder in this grouping all again belonging to Major Gilbert is from 1945 to 1947 when he and his men are serving in China & Japan. This folder includes a list of local resources- Hong Kong island from the 20th of September 1945. Multiple business cards from Japanese military personnel, engineers and hire ups. An interesting letter written by Major Gilbert where he narrowly avoids death, this letter states “It happened in Hong Kong shortly after the end of the War. We had arrived as Occupation Troops, and were billeted in civilian houses. We were about three to a room, and Chinese had been engaged for duties in the house. The man responsible for the room which I was in was named Soong. He was a very likeable fellow, and I came to know him very well. We had been in residence some weeks, and one evening when I returned I noticed he had moved my bed to a different wall. When I asked why, he pointed to the ceiling and sure enough there were ominous cracks which looked dangerous. That same night I was awakened by a loud crash. I realised what had happened, and in the morning it was found that a large chunk of masonry and plaster, weighing about a hundredweight, had fallen exactly where my bed had been. I had a light framework supporting a mosquito net, but this certainly would not have stopped this large chunk, and I feel certain had it not been for Soong I should have been seriously injured or even killed. Major Edward.” There are also multiple signed menus in this folder from Hong Kong and are signed by Major Gilbert and some of his officers of the 1st commandos all from shortly after the wars end in September and October of 1945. There are also multiple daily orders. There are also two very lengthy reports over 30 pages each on wartime Hong Kong and what facilities, buildings, military are left and can be used from September/ October 1945 by Major Gilbert, it has a long list of Japanese naval bases, airfields, and garrisons all situated in Hong Kong and how these are now being improved and changed by allied troops. These two reports are both marked secret. There are two invitation cards from high ranking military and Chinese officials; the first is on the occasion of the national day of the republic of China Major General pan hua kuo and members of the Chinese military delegation requesting the honour of the company of captain e t Gilbert to a cocktail party at peninsula hotel. The other invitation is from Brigadier H D Fellowes DSO and officers of H23 commando brigade requesting the pleasure of the company of Major Gilbert at 1 Chatham Road, Kowloon. In this folder is also a first pattern patch labeled on the back of the ”General HQ Chinese ground forces, Hong Kong 8th October 1945” in Major Gilbert’s hand writing, these patches are incredibly rare and very little record can he found online about them. There are also letters from the Chinese military delegation Hong Kong inviting Major Gilbert to an event. This folder has multiple Christmas cards to Major Gilbert from the Chinese delegation, from other prominent leaders and businesses in china in 1945. There is also an interesting and commercial letter from the 37Th Australian war graves unit in Hong Kong addressed to Major Smith (who’s mentioned quiet a lot within this grouping) the first part of the letter states “I trust that this will serve to introduce Major Ted Gilbert of the Royal Marines one of those awful British "types" who have made our stay in Hong Kong so very enjoyable. If it is at all possible I would esteem it a real favour were you to show him around SYDNEY and if possible, a trip down the SOUTH COAST. This chap is moderately? fond of beer, so I am sure that between you and Norm Lee he should be satisfied.” There’s a letter explaining more to why Major Gilbert was serving in Japan that states “TO WHOM IT MAY CONCEN; CAPTAIN GILBERT, R.M. is representing the Commander-in-Chief in the capacity of conducting officer to the Chinese Military Delegation, engaged on the survey of Japanese war equipment. You are requested to give him every assistance, and to ensure that the Chinese Officers are treated with the respect and courtesy to which, as senior officers of an Allied Army, they are entitled.” This letter is hand signed by the Major General, General Officer commanding Hong Kong. This folder also holds a selection of 7 negatives of Major Gilbert and his men whilst serving in Hong Kong. There is also a large Ariel photograph showing “principal installations Hong Kong- Kowloon area taken by the 14th air force this shows prisoner of war camps, radio stations, Royal Navy yards, oil storage, power plants and reservoirs. Finally in this folder are a number of documents from the orient line including programmes, signed menus, souvenir of radio entertainments and newspapers for March and April of 1946 presumably when Major Gilbert and his men were returning home. 

There are multiple letters from 1944 from commanding officers to Major Gilbert of inappropriate behaviour, to mention a few not saluting at commanding officers, men from special service group behaving in a very unseemly manner in April 1944, officers missing visits etc. 

There are several Hythe wing, small arms school officers certificates on instructors course in platoon weapons. 

More documents & reports from the special service brigade on rehearsals for D-day covering the following areas “Canadian flotation equipment, 2 mortar grapnel, line carrying, river crossings, flotation of jeeps, waterproof suits, shallow water diving and weasel. 

Confidential reports on Maplay code for concealing map references. This map reference code is based on the standard playfair code which once the method is understood is simple and quick to work. There’s confidential reports on “the conviction of officers by civil power” sent to engineer corps marine commando. 

Top secret detailed reports on equipment to be used for D-Day including reports on “petroleum warfare department R.T portable lifebuoy & flame throwers.” More secret reports on “loading of 10 cwt trailer on car 5-cwt 4x4” from Sore Hq SS Group. 

In this grouping is an important report on the proposed plan for the invasion of Japan stating “Mechanical equipment for the Beach group in the war against Japan.” The problem states “ the problem is to clear a path in land on the beach so that the beach maintenance area can function efficiently. This may involve; clearance of underwater obstacles, clearance of jungle extending down to the beach, construction of roads.” In this file is pre tested methods by the United States Army and which options may be more suitable for the British to undertake. There’s a letter dated 4th of August 1944 from the headquarters of first battalion 358th engineer general service regiment commentating the officer in charge at the Royal Marines engineer commando “expressing appreciation in teaching members of my command the principles of foreign mines and booby traps. The corporation of every member of your unit there was superior and is deserving of the highest praise.” 

There is also an important report for D-day titled “Report on work of LCOCU no2 period 6th of June to 11th June 1944. The opening paragraph states “LCOCU 9 & 10 were unsuccessful in clearing a gap during the assault phase and subsequently reverted to the role of assault field coys RE, working on both low waters during each 24 hours commencing first EBB tide after 11 hours.” This is a rather detailed report.

There are reports from the special service brigade for D-day rehearsals dated 25th of April 1944. Quite a few documents relating to these reports. The reports are broke down into sections; loading of trailers (airborne) on jeep for landing craft stowage, use of schermuly pistol and 2 inch mortar grapnel, Reece of minefield and obstacles, detection, clearance and marking of minefield, breaching wire and anti-tank ditch, neutralisation of pill boxes, follow up with stores and complete marking of minefield. Also demonstrations of various types of booby traps, exhibition of British, allied and enemy demolition equipment, mines and mechanisms. With a note at the bottom “steel helmets are advised.” Rehearsals for D-Day (Operation Overlord) in 1944 involved large-scale, live-fire training exercises on British coasts, most notably Exercise Tiger at Slapton Sands in April 1944, which simulated the Utah Beach landing. These exercises, meant to maximize realism, resulted in significant casualties, with 749 US servicemen killed during a German E-boat attack, a tragedy kept secret for decades. However these reports show real insights into what happened during these rehearsals. 

Lots of loose letters between Major Gilbert and his men, making an interesting read. 

This huge archive that belonged to Major E T Gilbert of the 1st Commando brigade, covering the start of the war with the formation of the special service brigade right up until 1946 with him and his unit serving in Hong Kong with the 1st commandos. This is an incredible archive of Major E T Gilbert, the special service brigade and the commandos, with documents, training exercises, operation plans & reports, training books, photographs, commando Christmas cards etc. The research still to be done on this grouping will be invaluable to the winner of the auction, of this truly amazing lot. 

This grouping will be sent via Royal Mail special delivery and dispatched within two working days.