"[1] Prior to joining 'L' Detachment Sgt Lilley along with Jock Lewes was seconded to Layforce and took part in operations.

Subsequently, when Layforce was disbanded Sgt Lilley was attached to 30 Commando and thereafter selected along with Jock Lewis by David Stirling to become part of 'L' Detachment.

[citation needed] Lilley had served in the SAS since it was first formed in 1941 and won numerous awards for his bravery and service during his time in the British army.

Lilley won the Military Medal in November 1942[3] for his heroism during a daring raid before continuing to serve the SAS until his discharge in 1958.

In May 1942 Stirling wrote a recommendation for an award of the Military Medal: Lance Sergeant Ernest Thomas Lilley, 'L’ Det S.A.S.

[5]In his commendation his GOC Commander Lieutenant Colonel A.C. Newman, called him: … a legendary soldier greatly deserving the medal for his services to the 21st SAS Regiment.

His name is legendary throughout the Regiment and since taking over RSM of 21st SAS Regiment, his qualities of tact, understanding and unswervable loyalty combined with firmness, have been invaluable in a unit combining the SAS role with the previous traditions of the Artists Rifles and containing ranks representative not only of all corps of the Army but of other services and other countries and including a high proportion of ex officers.

[8] Lilley was a member of the British Commando team who were parachuted into Norway to destroy the heavy water facility.

[citation needed] Post-war, Lilley continued to serve with the SAS, including at least two operational tours in Malaya, his parent unit changing to the South Staffordshire Regiment.

After his service Lilley retired to Folkestone, Kent and set up a Guest house where many of his old SAS comrades would come and enjoy spending many a happy weekend reminiscing.