| Surname: | Charles |
| Initials: | W I R |
| Rank: | WOI (RSM) |
| Army Number: | 2613946 |
| Notes: | CMP. From Glasgow. Formerly Grenadier Guards. 11/1/41 transferred to CMP. 12/7/46 to discharge. 28/10/48 He was awarded the MM, 1939-1945 Star, Africa Star with 1 army clasp, Italy Star, Defence Medal, War Medal. Address:- "Belmont" Ulcombe, Nr. Maidstone, Kent. William Ivor Russell Charles. |
Decoration Record: | |
| Decoration: | Military Medal (London Gazette: 36668 Page: 3926 Aug. 24, 1944) |
| Citation: | Military Medal Citation.SicilyBy his leadership and devotion to duty and by his determination to carry out his orders played a valuable part in the establishment of control on and in the vicinity of Sugar Amber Beach from 2 + 20 minutes and for the ensuing 48 hours until ordered to rest and be relieved. This NCO was landed from an LCI (Landing Craft Infantry) on the Sugar Beach at 2 + 20 minutes with 4 other NCO's with orders to establish as soon as possible after landing, personnel assembly areas and an Information Post at a point some 600 - 650 yards inland. After being landed approximately 1 mile south of the intended position he made his way in the general direction of the appropriate place, recognition of a building from aerial photographs he had seen gave him the guide he wanted and within a very short time he had carried out his orders and was assisting in every way possible to ensure that the fighting men and vehicles were reaching temporary rendezvous and marrying up with their units. His task was not made very easy by the fog of war or the enemy's continual mortar and 88 mm fire and sniping. He set a high example to those under him and surely to those to whom he gave information and help during a difficult critical 48 hours.Recommended for BEM but received MM. Recommended by Capt H Corrie OC 'S' Pro Coy. National Archive WO 373/7. |