Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lance-Corporal

Unit:

77 Assault Squadron, Royal Engineers, British Army

Awarded on:

December 20th, 1945

Citation:
"On the night 23 Mar 45 at approx 2215 hrs L/Cpl THORNDALE was a driver of an LTV in the assault across the RHINE, carried out in the area of WESEL by the 1st SS Bde (1st Special Service Brigade red.).
The craft came under heavy fire from Spandau early in the crossing. The driving department and hull were penetrated but L/Cpl Thorndale kept unswervingly on his course as ordered by the craft Comd. His determination in the face of great personal danger was an inspiration to all who were in his craft, and it was due to his coolness and skill that his passengers were landed in the appropriate place on the far bank.
L/Cpl THORNDALE is 41 years of age and has taken part in all his Sqn's actions since D Day."