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Cargill, William

Nationality:
British

Biography

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Warrant Officer class II
Unit:
2nd Battalion The Black Watch, 14th Infantry Brigade, Long Range Penetration Groups (Chindits), British Indian Army
Awarded on:
April 26th, 1945
Citation:
"During the action North of Nathkokyin on 8th May 1944, Warrant Officer Cargill displayed outstanding qualities of courage and resourcefulness in assisting to direct the immediate defence of the Command post. As casualties occured, he attended to them under frequently heavy fire in addition to his other duties.

Finally, with the complete disregard for his personal safety and by coolness in the handling of his weapons he was largely responsible for beating off the first enemy counter-attack.

Eventually, after the engagement lasting some 5 hours had been broken off, Warrant officer Cargill was a member of a party of appoximately 90 men, including eleven casualties, which was faced with an exeptionally arduous march through mountanous country. Throughout the 24 hour march, with complete indifference to personal fatigue, he maintained a very high standard of discipline amongst exhausted troops, largely as a result of which the party rejoined safely the main force as a formed body with no stragglers, and every man with his arms, ammunition and equipment as he left to the battle-field.

Throughout operations this Warrant Officer has shown the highest possible sence of duty, and his courage, determination and cheerfulness have been an inspiration to all. He has served with distinction, first as a corporal, and then as a sergeant, in Crete, Syria and Tobruk."

London Gazette dated 26th April 1945.
Citation dated on 22nd August 1944.
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)

Sources

  • - DCM citation
    - Decorations

Photo