Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

HQ British Army Staff PARIS, Headquarters Line of Communication, 21st Army Group, British Army

Awarded on:

October 11th, 1945

Awarded for:

Operation Goldflake

"Lt Col DAYBELL has served on HQ British Army Staff PARIS since its formation in August 1944 first as AAG and subsequently as AA & QMG. He was one of the first officers to arrive in PARIS after the liberation and was largely responsible for opening the HQ which was he only British authority in PARIS. In this capacity he had to deal with numerous tasks outside the normal duties which would normally be dealt with by Embassy or Consular officials. At the same time he had to deal with US and French authorities and organise the opening of the disciplinary and welfare arrangements for 21 Army Group leave parties. Subsequently after the reorganization of the HQ as AA & QMG during March and April considerable organisational powers have been necessary in connection with Operation GOLDFLAKE. In all this period LT Col DAYBELL has shown outstanding zeal, organising ability and initiative and shown unfailing tact in dealing with the complex and difficult situations arising when dealing with Allied military and civil authorities, situations which were outside the normal scope of his duties."
4 May 1945.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

HQ British Army Staff PARIS, Headquarters Line of Communication, 21st Army Group, British Army

Awarded on:

November 14th, 1947

"Lt Col Dennis DAYBELL, the Life Guards, British Army, for duty as Assistant Adjutant General and Acting Chief of Staff of British Army Staff, PARIS, for the period September 1944 to 8 May 1945. He was in charge of all administration affecting British personnel, and was responsible for determining policies governing welfare programmes which involved the joint use by United States and British personnel of all entertainment and welfare facilities. The housing of British personnel was also one of his responsibilities. He cooperated in the expeditious handling of Recovered Allied Military Personnel by assisting in the evacuation of British and other Commonwealth troops. His untiring energy and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the British Army, and have been of material assistance to the United States Army and the accomplishment of its mission."