Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

3rd Reconnaissance Regiment, Divisional Troops, 3rd Infantry Division, British Army

Awarded on:

July 12th, 1945

Recommendation:
"On 31st March 1945 'A' Sqn were some 25 miles WEST of MUNSTER and had received orders to continue the advance to that town.
Lieut. W.R. Dorrell in command of an Armd Car Troop was ordered to patrol as far forward as he could towards the objective. In view of other developments it was stressed that speed was essential and that more than normal risks must be accepted.
Good progress was made as far as a ridge of high ground WEST of the village of SCHAPDETTEN. At this place the Troop came under heavy small arms and PANZERFAUST fire from enemy well dug in at the side of the road.
Lieut Dorrell gave orders to withdraw a short distance. From this position the enemy were engaged with all available weapons in the most agressive and determined manner, severe casualties being inflicted on the enemy.
Although under heavy Arty Mortar and small arms fire Lieut Dorrell completely disregarding his own safety kept the enemy under constant observation and passed back to his Sqn Comd a very clear picture of the enemy strength and dispositions.
Owing to unavoidable circumstances it was not possible to reinforce this Troop for at least two hours. Although fully aware of this Lieut Dorrell was still determined to try and get on and again ordered his Troop forward.
The leading Armd Car was hit by PANZERFAUST but was able to withdraw under smoke, in so doing Lieut Dorrell's driver was blinded by the smoke and ditched his car.
The car had to be temporarily abandoned but after reorganising his Troop Lieut Dorrell himself went forward with another car and in full vieuw of the enemy and under very heavy fire succeeded in pulling the ditched car back to safety.
Later the Troop was heavily reinforced and the enemy was finally forced to withdraw.
Undoubtedly the agressive action taken and the valuable information passed back by Lieut Dorrell were largely responsible for the Sqns success.
The courage and supurb leadership displayed by this officer was quite exceptional."

WO 373/54/1311-1312.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

3rd Reconnaissance Regiment, Divisional Troops, 3rd Infantry Division, British Army

Awarded on:

August 9th, 1945

Citation (general):
"In recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North-West Europe."