| Surname: | Steel |
| Initials: | W A |
| Rank: | Lance Corporal |
| Army Number: | 2828056 |
| Notes: | CMP. From Milwall London E14. Formerly Seaforth Highlanders. 21/3/41 transferred to CMP. 12/6/46 discharged. BEM for gallant conduct in carrying out hazardous work in a very brave manner. Medal card not found. BEM. William Alfred Steel |
Decoration Record: | |
| Decoration: | British Empire Medal (London Gazette: 37341 Page: 5463 Nov. 6, 1945) |
| Citation: | Italy. Citation for BEM: When an explosion occurred at BARI Docks on 9th April, 1945, Lance-Corporal Steel immediately volunteered to leave the office where he was working to go on duty at the scene of the explosion. There, despite the danger caused by burning petrol, exploding ammunition and falling debris, he personally extricated and moved to safety two injured men who had been trapped by fallen masonry, Thereafter he assisted in the rescue of others and worked on into the evening assisting in the recovery of bodies. Throughout these activities Lance-Corporal Steel showed outstanding devotion to duty and courage in difficult and dangerous circumstances. His calm and determined demeanour was an inspirtation to others.National Archive WO373/69 Pt.1. |