Why I Became an X Troop Commando: The Life of Colin Anson
Join acclaimed historian and author Helen Fry, as she launches her newest book, telling the incredible story of Colin Anson. Born Claus Ascher, Colin was a German-Jewish refugee who fought for Britain with X Troop, a commando force made up mostly of German and Austrian citizens who had fled Hitler's Germany.
Following Helen Fry's talk, take the opportunity to have your questions answered before enjoying an after-hours viewing of IWM London's Second World War Galleries.
About 'Why I Became an X Troop Commando'
The amazing true story of a German refugee who became a British Commando against the Nazis.
Claus Ascher’s father, a German Jew, was one of Hitler’s political opponents during the 1930s, which led to his arrest, imprisonment and murder in Dachau in 1937.
Claus managed to escape to Britain where he joined the British Army and changed his name to Colin Anson. He was one of around a hundred Germans in X-Troop (or 3-Troop) of No.10 Inter-Allied Commando in the Second World War.
Attached to the Royal Marine Commandos, he took part in the invasions of Sicily and Italy in the summer of 1943, surviving a life-threatening head wound when shrapnel penetrated his skull, and underwent brain surgery in a field hospital. Nine months later after recovery, he was determined to re-join his Commando comrades. He went on to fight in Corfu, Greece and Yugoslavia.
At the war's end, Colin returned to Germany with the British Army. While there, he discovered his father’s betrayer but decided not to take revenge. It is a powerful story.
About Helen Fry
Meet Dr Helen Fry, a diverse historian and author. She specialises in Second World War history, notably the 'Secret Listeners,' and offers consultancy to prominent TV networks.
Beyond her writing, Helen is a fervent advocate for the National Centre for Military Intelligence and a devoted trustee of the Medmenham Collection. As an honorary member of The Association of Jewish Refugees, she engages in broader historical initiatives, including school curriculum development.
About Your Ticket
As a charity, your ticket purchase helps IWM continue to tell stories for future generations.
Tickets cost just £20 per person (including IWM members) and include:
- Helen’s talk within the impressive surroundings of IWM London’s exclusive Roof Terrace
- A Q&A with Helen
- The talk culminates in a book signing for a personal meet and greet with Helen
- Then enjoy exclusive after-hours entry to IWM London's Second World War Galleries.
In addition to your ticket booking, if you can, please purchase your copy of the book from our IWM pop-up shop on the evening. Every purchase you make supports the work we do.
