Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

"C" Company, 156th Parachute Battalion, 4th Parachute Brigade, 1st Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

November 9th, 1944

Awarded for:

Operation Market Garden

At Arnhem after his Commanding Officer had become a casualty, Major Powell took command of the remnants of the battalion. Up to this time he had conducted himself with the greatest gallantry. For the remaining six days he retained control of his unit and also of men of other units in the area under the most difficult conditions. Heavy fire from mortars, artillery and self-propelled guns never stopped his activity in getting round his section of the perimeter and encouraging his men to greater efforts.

Throughout the whole period of the Arnhem battle, in spite of being wounded, this officer showed himself to be a gallant leader of men and a most capable fighter and one whose bravery was a source of inspiration to the men under his command and to all those around him.