Jock Lewes

Overview

John Steel "Jock" Lewes was a brilliant and daring British Army officer during World War II. Despite his short life, he left an indelible mark on the development of modern special forces. His innovative approaches to raiding tactics and explosives revolutionized commando operations and contributed significantly to the Allied war effort. This timeline highlights key moments in his life, tracing his evolution from a young man to a legendary figure in military history.

Main Milestones

Birth in Calcutta, India

December 21, 1913

John Steel Lewes, known as Jock, was born in Calcutta, India, to British parents. His early life was spent in a comfortable, colonial environment. Though born in India, he would later be educated in Britain and his early experiences likely instilled a sense of adventure and a familiarity with different cultures, traits that would later serve him well in his military career.

Education at Radley College

1927-1932

Lewes attended Radley College, a prestigious boarding school in Oxfordshire. He excelled academically and athletically, demonstrating leadership qualities and a strong sense of determination. His time at Radley shaped his character and provided him with a solid foundation for his future endeavors.

Study at Oxford University

1932-1935

Lewes matriculated to Oxford University, where he read Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) at Brasenose College. While at Oxford, he continued to excel, distinguishing himself not just through academic prowess but as a formidable boxer, representing the university and earning a Blue. This reflects his robust character and aptitude for combat, hinting at his later military success.

Brief Career in Business

Pre-WWII

Before the outbreak of World War II, Lewes briefly pursued a career in business. Although details are scarce, it is known that he was not satisfied with civilian life and sought a greater purpose, which ultimately led him to join the army.

Enlistment in the Welsh Guards

1939

With the outbreak of World War II, Lewes answered the call to duty and enlisted in the British Army, joining the Welsh Guards. This demonstrated his commitment to defending his country and signaled the start of his transformation into a skilled soldier.

Joining L Detachment, Special Air Service (SAS)

1941

Lewes volunteered for the newly formed L Detachment, Special Air Service (SAS), under the command of David Stirling. This was a pivotal moment, as it placed him at the forefront of unconventional warfare. His exceptional qualities and innovative thinking quickly made him an invaluable asset to the unit.

Development of the Lewes Bomb

1941

Recognizing the need for a more effective demolition charge for raids on enemy airfields, Lewes designed a new explosive device. The "Lewes Bomb" was a highly effective incendiary device made of plastic explosive and thermite, which was simple to manufacture, deploy, and very difficult to extinguish. This invention significantly increased the SAS's raiding capabilities and became a staple of their operations.

Operation Crusader Raids

November 1941

Lewes participated in several daring raids as part of Operation Crusader, targeting German and Italian airfields in North Africa. He demonstrated exceptional courage and leadership, personally leading attacks and inspiring his men. These raids inflicted significant damage on enemy aircraft and disrupted their operations.

Death in Action

December 30, 1941

During a raid near Nofilia, Libya, Lewes was severely wounded by enemy fire. Despite his injuries, he continued to direct his men until he succumbed to his wounds. His death was a significant loss to the SAS, but his legacy as a courageous warrior and innovative strategist lived on.