Bob Lilley (British Army soldier) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ernest Thomas "Bob" Lilley
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Sgt Ernest Thomas Lilley taken during World War II in Libyan desert
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| Nickname(s) | "Bob” |
| Born | 10 February 1914 Wolverhampton, England |
| Died | 14 August 1981 (aged 67) Folkestone, Kent |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom/British Empire |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1939–1958 |
| Rank | Warrant Officer Class I (Regimental Sergeant Major) |
| Unit | Coldstream Guards South Staffordshire Regiment |
| Commands held | Special Air Service |
| Battles/wars | |
| Awards | Military Medal British Empire Medal Mention in Despatches (2) |
Ernest Thomas "Bob" Lilley (born February 10, 1914 – died August 14, 1981) was a very brave soldier in the British Army. He was one of the first people to join the famous Special Air Service (SAS) Regiment. Before that, he was part of the Coldstream Guards. Bob Lilley was chosen by Colonel David Stirling to be one of the first four members of 'L Detachment' 1st S.A.S. in 1940. He went on many secret missions behind enemy lines in Libya during World War II.
A Special Soldier
Bob Lilley was born in Wolverhampton, England, on February 10, 1914. When World War II began, he joined the Coldstream Guards in September 1940. He quickly became known for his bravery.
Joining the SAS
In September 1941, Bob Lilley became one of the first members of 'L' Detachment, which later became the SAS. He joined from No. 8 Commando. He was one of the "Tobruk Four," a group of four brave soldiers. These four were known for their courageous actions during the battle for Tobruk in North Africa.
Bob Lilley was chosen by David Stirling to be part of this new, special unit. He served in the SAS from its very beginning in 1941. He earned several awards for his bravery and service. These included the Military Medal and the British Empire Medal.
Brave Missions
Bob Lilley took part in many important missions during World War II. Most of these were in North Africa. One of his most famous actions happened in 1941. He was in a truck with Jock Lewes and David Stirling. Suddenly, Bob Lilley smelled something burning. He quickly realized that a timer on an explosive bomb had started. He yelled for everyone to jump out of the truck. Just seconds after they got out, the truck exploded. Bob Lilley's quick thinking saved their lives.
Lilley also helped with a very important mission in Norway. He was part of a British Commando team that parachuted into Norway. Their goal was to destroy a special facility. After completing this dangerous mission, he returned to the UK by submarine. In December 1945, he received a special thank-you certificate from King Olav of Norway.
Life After War
After World War II, Bob Lilley continued to serve with the SAS. He completed at least two tours of duty in Malaya. He also served seven years with the 21 Special Air Service Regiment. He retired from the army in 1958.
After leaving the army, Bob Lilley moved to Folkestone, Kent. There, he opened a guest house. Many of his old SAS friends would visit him there. They would spend weekends together, sharing stories and memories. Bob Lilley passed away in August 1981 at the age of 67 in Folkestone. His funeral was attended by Colonel David Stirling and other original members of the SAS.
Today, a portrait of Bob Lilley hangs in the Officer's Mess at the SAS headquarters in Hereford. This shows how much he is respected. In special forces, the term boblilley is sometimes used to describe a quick, surprise attack.
Awards and Recognition
Bob Lilley received several important awards for his service:
- Military Medal: He earned this award in November 1942 for his heroism during a daring raid.
- British Empire Medal: He was awarded this in 1952 for his services.
- Mention in Despatches: He was mentioned twice for his brave actions, first in January 1944.
