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Bartholomew, Peter Ian "Barty"

Date of death:
October 24th, 1989
Service number:
73118
Nationality:
British (1801-present, Kingdom)

Biography

Peter Bartholemew was the last commander of No.3 Commando.

Promotions:
26 August 1950: Major
16 January 1954: Lieutenant Colonel (Honorary)

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Acting Lieutenant-Colonel
Unit:
No. 3 Commando, 1st Commando Brigade, 11th Armoured Division, British Army
Awarded on:
June 21st, 1945
General citation:
"In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North-West Europe."

Recommendation:
"Lt-Col Bartholomew was in command of No. 3 Commando during the crossing of the River Weser and the attack on Leese. he was ordered to probe to the northward to capture an important factory. He had in support one squadron of tanks.His leading infantry were approaching a group of houses when they came under intense accurate small arms fire.One officer was severely wounded and the remainder of the troop were pinned by fire in open ground. Lt-Col Batholomew saw that quick and decisive action was necessary, and immediately climbed on the commanders tank and brought the leading troop of tanks within close range of the houses.Here under close range sniper and automatic fire he personally directed the fire of the tanks onto the individual targets. His runner, who was riding beside him on the tank was severely wounded, but Lt-Col Bartholomew continued to direct the tanks fire until the enemy was completely destroyed.This officers prompt and gallant action was an inspiration to all under his command, and led to the complete rout of the enemy in this sector."
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Acting Lieutenant-Colonel
Unit:
No. 3 Commando, 1st Commando Brigade, 11th Armoured Division, British Army
Awarded on:
March 8th, 1946
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)

Second DSO received as bar.

Sources

Photo