VI COMMANDO

Gnr. Leslie “Pop” Hooke, formerly of the Royal Artillery, served with No.3 Troop of No. 6 Commando from, at least, 5^th June 1944 until his death on 21^st/ 22nd June 1944, aged 37 years.

George Jowett noted that Gnr. Leslie “Pop” Hooke always wore three upside down stripes – denoting that he was a professional soldier with over 12 years service under his belt.

Leslie “Pop” Hooke was Killed In Action (KIA) during the conduct of a fighting patrol when a supporting Allied artillery bombardment fell short of its intended target and onto the men of No.3 Troop.  This unfortunate incident also resulted in Gordon Fleming sustaining serious injuries, forcing hime to be medically evacuated back to the UK.

He was laid to rest in Ranville War Cemetry (Calvados, France), Grave IVA.J.12.