Smith and Jetley – Special Forces
In November 1944, Gilbert and Cyril, again part of a small patrol, were sent to the tiny island of Ist off the coast of Croatia to monitor enemy shipping movements. The dozen patrol members were billeted in three houses on the island belonging to the local inhabitants.
In early January 1945, the LRDG men were attacked during the night by Ustashi (Croatian fascists allied to the Nazis) saboteurs who placed time bombs in and around the buildings they occupied. Ken Smith, the patrol signaller, fearing for the safety of his comrades and the civilian occupants attempted to take one of the bombs outside. Whilst doing so it exploded, killing him instantly. He received a posthumous George Cross for his actions. Several LRDG men were wounded including Cyril. Gilbert, by now a Sergeant, organised evacuation of the wounded.