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Head, Charles Searle

Service number:
74290
Nationality:
British (1801-present, Kingdom)

Biography

Military career:
11 October 1945: Retired as war invalid.
11 October 1945: Major (honorary)

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Temporary Captain
Unit:
No. 3 Commando, 1st Special Service Brigade, Combined Operations Headquarters, War Office, British Government
Awarded on:
October 21st, 1943
Awarded for:
Operation Husky
In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Sicily.
On the night 13th-14th July 1943,after the landing at Argoneue and during the advance to Punta Dei Malati,Captain Head was all the time moving up and down the column exposing himself under fire and encouraging the men. At Punta Dei Malati under heavy mortar, machine gun and shell fire he walked continually in the open from post to post, delivering messages and sighting weapons.He was badly wounded but although unable to walk continued to assist in the withdrawal arangements .He sent on the men assisting him, so as to avoid having them captured.While lying in the open for the next 5 or 6 hours he kept advising and directing parties he saw. After being captured he kept up the spirits of those with him and endeavoured to organise their escape.Later he was recaptured by our troopsCaptain Head was also outstanding on the night 9th-10th July during the attack on the CAsibile Battery.

Recommended for DSO awarded immediate MC.
Military Cross (MC)
Period:
After War Period (1945-now)
Rank:
Major
Awarded on:
October 19th, 1951
Efficiency Medal / Territorial Decoration

Sources

Photo