Nelson John Alexander Pte 7264102
Personnel Entry
Name Nelson John Alexander
Army number 7264102
Rank Pte
Decorations M.M.
Date of birth
Age 0
Unit Royal Army Medical Corps, Durham Light Infantry 18/5/1939, Posted ? 9th Bn DLI, Posted ? 12th Bn DLI, Trf Black Watch 1/2/1940, Posted 1 TS, Trf Army Air Corps 10/10/42, Auth:- Records, Perth P/1671/4B/42 dated 6/10/42. No trace of this transfer in the records of the Glider Pilot Regiment.
Company/Battery
Platoon or other sub-unit
Task or role
Joined Brigade Probably 1/9/1939 via 12th Bn DLI
Promotions
Wounded
Prisoner of War
Died/Killed in action
Home address Little Bittaford, Ugborough Nr Ivybridge, Devon
Source table 1TS
Could not be traced in RAMC records so it is not clear whether he transferred to the DLI, was recalled from the Reserve or re-enlisted in the TA. His Military Medal citation, gazetted in the London Gazette of 11 July 1940 and the Edinburgh Gazette of 17 July 1940, while he was a member of 1st Tyneside Scottish, reads as follows:-
"For courage and devotion to duty in the period of six days from 20th May to 28th May 1940 during which he attended to wounded at MONCHY, BOULOGNE and CALAIS.
Although not a Medical Orderly he utilised knowledge gained in civilian life and cared for, and helped to evacuate, over 100 wounded.
On 25th May, while at CALAIS, he volunteered to assist in bringing in six wounded who were in the open under heavy shell fire. His disregard for his own safety undoubtedly saved their lives.
I have investigated and verified the above facts. Signed, Brigadier Kirkup, Commander 70th Infantry Brigade".
Given that John Nelson had at one time served in the RAMC - and was issued an RAMC Number, it is a little surprising that the citation makes no reference to this - unless he was in the TA and that was equated to "knowledge gained in civilian life".
The Archivist of the Glider Pilot Regiment did find a trace of a J Nelson in their records, but the details above were not a match. More information on this man's Service Record would be most welcome.
