Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

Royal Marines

Awarded on:

June 12th, 1945

Recommendation:
"On the 3rd March 45 during the advance of 52 (L) Division along the EAST bank of the MEUSE, a mine party was detailed to clear the axis of the advance SOUTH to the BERGEN cross roads. Capt. Neale as SORE (Senior Officer Royal Engineers red.) went down to supervise the clearing of the cross roads.
Just as the work had alomst been completed, a booby trap attached to an R Mine was set off and resulted in three casualties.
One of these casualties was blown over the bank at the road side and landed in an orchard, which was known to be mine infested.
Capt Neale immediately organised a small party of Sappers to act as stretcher bearers and led them through the mine field towards the wounded man, clearing the way by prodding and laying tape along the lane. As they neared the wounded man, another Officer joined the party and exploded a mine which blew Capt Neale and his party a distance of ten yards clear over the casualty into the orchyard.
Although dazed from the explosion, Capt Neale retained complete control. Ordering his men to remain where they lay, he proceeded to clear the area and removed more mines. He then carried the wounded man ?ated by the stretcher bearers and returned once more to lift the Officer who was also seriously wounded

Throughout the whole period Captain Neale remained completely calm and displayed a cool courage which was an inspiration to all that witnessed it. Through this prompt action two lives were saved."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)