- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Lieutenant
- Unit:
- No. 12 Commando, 1st Special Service Brigade, Combined Operations Headquarters, War Office, British Government
- Awarded on:
- July 5th, 1945
- Awarded for:
- Operation Chariot
"On 28 March, 1942, during the Commando Rid at ST. NAZAIRE, France.
Lieut. Purdon was in command of a demolition party whose duties were to carry out the destruction of the Main Dry Dock installations.
Although wounded, he led his men to their task and under intense fire carried through the work of destruction completely destroying an important part of the Dry Dock machinery.
Later in the street fighting, although suffering from severe loss of blood, his determination, coolness and dash were fine examples to his men and his action led to the destruction of many enemy and their equipment."