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Cooper, John Murdoch "Johnny"

Date of birth:
June 6th, 1922 (Leicester, United Kingdom)
Date of death:
July 12th, 2002
Service number:
2698113 / 303854
Nationality:
British

Biography

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Sergeant
Unit:
'L' Detachment, Special Air Service (SAS), British Army
Awarded on:
November 26th, 1942
"Feb 1942. On returning from the 2nd raid against Buerat aerodrome the raiding party was ambushed by a strong and well-armed enemy force. This force was aligned along the road in an ideal position to throw grenades and to open fire with automatic weapons.

The ambush was a complete surprise but so quick was Sgt Cooper in getting his gun into action and so accurate was his aim in the face of intense fire from the automatic weapons of the enemy that the ambushers were seriously disconcerted. At least five of them were killed at point blank range by his fire. His quickness and courage on this occasion undoubtedly saved his companions. This NCO has taken part in 13 raids and performed many acts of gallantry comparable to the one described."
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Awarded on:
1946
Mentioned in Dispatches
Rank:
Temporary Major
Awarded on:
April 28th, 1959
Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Awarded on:
1959
Mentioned in Dispatches

Sources