Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Major

Unit:

"A" Company, 3rd Parachute Battalion, 1st Parachute Brigade, 1st Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

September 20th, 1945

Awarded for:

Operation Market Garden

Citation:
"Major Dennison commanded a company of the 3rd Parachute Battalion which was dropped West of ARNHEM on 17th September 1944. During the advance on the town on the evening of 17th September the battalion was held up and shortly afterwards, Major Dennison's company in the rear came under small arms and heavy mortar fire from the flank. Major Dennison led two platoons of his company and over-ran three enemy machine gun posts which formed the nucleus of the opposition on the flank. On the following morning Major Dennison's company acted as rearguard to the battalion advancing on ARNHEM, but was cut off from the remainder of the battalion by strong enemy forces. Later the battalion got into serious difficulties and Major Dennison, with reserve ammunition, was ordered to fight his way through at all costs. This he did successfully against very strong opposition. Throughout both these actions Major Dennison showed a high standard of personal courage, leadership and determination. Even when severely wounded in both arms, he continued to encourage and inspire his men."