Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Corporal

Unit:

Divisional Provost Company, 1st Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

March 20th, 1947

Awarded for:

Operation Market Garden

"After landing by parachute in the Arnhem area on the 18th September 1944, Corporal Dale, not withstanding the fact that the Drop Zone was swept by enemy fire, showed complete disregard for his personal safety by searching the area and rendering first aid to the wounded. Subsequently on the night of 25/26th September, Corporal Dale volunteered to remain behind to guard 200 prisoners of war and thus prevented any possibility of their escape interfering with the withdrawal of the Division. He remained under increasingly heavy fire. Only when the last parties were well clear at 2330 hrs Corporal Dale made his own way down to the river through the enemy lines and swam to the South Bank as no boats were then available. During the whole of this very exacting operation his coolness and cheerful disposition were an inspiration to those around him."

Royal Decree no. 29, dd. 31-7-1945.