Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Major

Unit:

Hospital Carrier 'St David', Royal Navy

Awarded on:

December 20th, 1945

Citation:
"Major (then Captain) PRICE was appointed surgeon to the Hospital Carrier 'St David' in June 1943. The 'St David' was directed to the Mediterranean and almost at once Major PRICE was called upon to operate on the first casualties from the Sicily beaches. He showed himself then to be capable of great skill in dealing with many difficult cases in the cramped space of the ship. His organising of the operating theatre enabled the maximum of work to be accomplished and all those who had to work with him immediately recognised his ability. Many men evacuated during the Sicily campaign owe their recovery to his care.
The 'St David' was chosen to be the first carrier at the Salerno beaches and on that occasion Major PRICE although overwhelmed by many serious surgical cases in a few hours, worked for three days and nights in extremely trying circumstances. During this period he did magnificent work and did not spare himself in bringing his surgical skill to the assistance of so many patients.
When the Anzio landing was decided upon the 'St David' again had the honour of being the first Carrier to arrive at the beach head. Here Major PRICE shoed his ability to carry on his work confidently despite numerous interruptions due to enemy air attacks on the shipping and ourselves. The 'St David' was attacked and sunk the following day and Major PRICE and myself were the only RAMC officers to be saved.
Major PRICE found himself as acting OC to the survivors and at this point I cannot speak too highly of the way in which he set out to arrange for the welfare of all and collect information of those lost.
After a few days it was clear that the medical resources were being strained and he volunteered to form a surgical team which was sent back to Anzio and was immediately called upon to deal with heavy casualties. Major PRICE continued to work with very little rest and despite frequent air attacks, one of which wrecked the operating tent in which the team were at work. His confidence and coolness at this time when working and living under difficult conditions were exemplary."

Recommended by
W.C Hartgill
Major-General

Originally recommended for a MC but changed into a MBE.