Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

71 Column Leicestershire Regiment, 16th Infantry Brigade, Long Range Penetration Groups (Chindits), British Indian Army

Awarded on:

July 27th, 1944

Recommendation:
"On 27th March ’44, 71 Column was heavily attacked by the Japanese. In our counter attack 1 Officer and 4 others were killed. Sergeant Chandler Platoon Sergeant 15 Platoon, took a Section to recover the five bodies. Despite very heavy enemy automatic fire and grenades Sergeant Chandler, by cool and
skilful handling of his Section succeeded in recovering all the bodies. Five Japanese were killed, Sergeant Chandler personally accounting for 2. His excellent example and leadership were an encouragement to his whole Column.
On 12th April ’44 an ambush party from 17 & 71 Columns were blocking the route NABA-MAWLU mile 602, Sergeant Chandler now commanding 15 Platoon, was heavily attacked by Japanese, first by automatic fire and grenades, then by assault. Sergeant Chandler’s personal leadership in the hand to hand fighting enabled the Platoon to withstand the assault. At least 15 Japanese were killed. During this action Sergeant Chandler was wounded, first by a bullet through his shoulder, but continued to lead his Platoon until again shot, this time through his side. He was then evacuated by pony when the ambush withdrew. Despite his painful journey on mule, he remained cheerful throughout. His leadership and courage throughout the action were magnificent and his cheerful determination once wounded a fine and effective example to all.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant