REMEMBERING CAPTAIN CHARLES P. DONOGHUE
D.L.I. – June 1933- January 1953
As Remembered By Alex McDonald
In April/May 1948 I was posted to Suez Base Transit Depot as a clerk. Amongst the Staff was the above officer. When the Depot closed in 1948 after the British troops left Palestine, Capt Donoghue took me to OC Troops Moascar Garrison (designation changed about this time from OC Troops Moascar) as his clerk. This position I held, finishing as Chief Clerk, still working with Capt Donoghue.
I recall that Capt Donoghue held the decoration MC and Bar. I also recall that he studied the Russian language. Other Officers that served in Garrison HQ at that time were Capt JJ West (RA?), Major Brynet and Lt Col Hayes Palmer.
After many years I tried to find out his history and finally found out that this brave man had such a sad end:
Donaghue, Lt Charles Patrick, 249371, DLI. Served in the ranks for over 8 years, after joining the Durhams on 20th June 1933. Promoted to unpaid L/Cpl 1st Sept 1934, Cpl 30th Oct 1937, Acting Sergeant 1st Sept 1939, Warrant Officer class 2 - 21st Sept 1940. He served with 1st DLI in China, Hong Kong and the Western Desert. He was in receipt of an Emergency Commission (2nd Lt) on the 26th April 1942 from the Middle East OCTU and was then posted to the 9th DLI. Lt Charles Patrick Donoghue was reported missing presumed Prisoner of War on the 27th July 1942 while serving with 9 DLI near Gazala. Awarded the MC for actions with 9 DLI on 27th June 1942 (London Gazette 24th Sept 1942). Temp Captain until 1946 held at Oflag 5A.
He was extra regimentally employed until 1950 when he once again rejoined 1st
DLI. Promoted to Major on 17th November 1950. He went to Korea with the 1st
DLI as ‘A’ Company CO. Whilst he was on a recce mission in front
of the Company positions he strayed into an enemy minefield. His wife was notified
that Charles had been ‘Killed In Action’ with the 1st DLI on the
2nd January 1953.