Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

No. 5 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 Raid at ST. NAZAIRE, France.

Sgt. Carr was NCO IC in the demolition party commanded by Lieut. Robert BURTENSHAW.

Before reaching the demolition site, Lieut. Burtenshaw was killed and immediately Sgt. Carr took command and led the party, against heavy enemy opposition, to the Dry Dock gate.

Sgt. Carr then reported to Lieut. BRETT who commanded another demolition party also detailed to assist in destroying this gate. Lieut. Brett had been wounded in the Legs and could not only move with difficulty. Sgt. Carr assisted Lieut. Brett in supervising the two parties in their laying of the explosive charges on the Dry Dock gate. The charges were about to be fired when fighting broke out in the area, forcing the demolition party to take cover. Sgt. Carr then went forward alone and fired the charges which completely destroyed this gate.

Sgt. Carr then continued to assist Lieut. Brett in organising the withdrawal of both parties to the point of re-embarkation, Sgt. Carr throughout the entire action showed outstanding courage and devotion to duty. His leadership was magnificent."