Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lance-Sergeant

Unit:

No. 1 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.

L/Sgt. Butler was a member of a demolition party whose task it was to destroy the Pumping Station.

Immediately on landing, some of this NCO's party were wounded. Despite the fact that all the time the party was under intense enemy fire, Sgt. Butler disregarded his own personal safety and assisted the wounded members of the party to proceed to their objective. On arriving at the Pumping Station he managed, in the short time available, not only to complete his task, but also that of another wounded NCO who was unable to work.

In the ensuing street fighting L/Sgt Butler's cool bravery in overcoming by his own personal initiative many of the enemy pockets of resistance inspired many, though wounded, to continue the fight. Throughout the entire action his courage and cheerfulness were a great example to all. His untiring energy and devotion to duty were outstanding, and his own personal action in no small way assisted the eventual success of the whole operation."