Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private

Unit:

No. 51 Commando, Combined Operations Headquarters, War Office, British Government

Awarded on:

August 19th, 1941

“Before KEREN, ERITREA.
On 15th March 41 No. 7 Section was advancing over very difficult and exposed ground toward a ridge, the third objective. After advancing 300 yards up a Khor (water course, often dry) the section came under very heavy fire from Light Machine Guns. Under cover of the fire from the rifle sub-section and making use of what poor cover the Khor gave Raider DAB accompanied by two others proceeded still further to within 150 yards of the base of the objective. Here the Khor bank was only one foot high.
On being shown the enemy positions Raider DAB quite regardless of his own safety opened fire with rifle grenades. Owing to the stony nature of the ground the butt of the rifle broke with the firing of the fourth grenade. In spite of the heavy fire Raider DAB slipped back into the middle of the Khor away from the little cover available, chose a sandy bed for his rifle butt and continued firing most effectively whilst lying out in the open completely overlooked by the enemy. Bursts were observed close to the enemy posts and the fire diminished considerably.
At this time the tactical situation on the right, owing to the arrival of heavy enemy machine guns caused a withdrawal. Before the withdrawal was completed, however, it was seen that one enemy light machine gun was out of action with dead round it. Owing to the difficult nature of the ground it was not possible to see the full results of the grenade fire.
Raider DAB by his coolness under fire, his devotion to duty, his disregard for his personal safety and the magnificent example that he set to all his comrades is deserving of an immediate award.”