KING, Alfred William

Known as: 
Bill
Rank: 
Lance Sergeant
Unit / Base: 
1 Commando
Regiment/Corps: 
Norfolk Regiment
Service: 
Army
Number: 
5774460
P.O.W. number: 
18631
Honours & Awards: 
Died : 
January, 2010
AlfredKing1Commando
Lance Sergeant Alfred King received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the Commando raid at St Nazaire on 28/29 March 1942. He embarked on board HMS Campbeltown. Taken prisoner after the raid he was transported to Stalag 383 at Hohen Fels, Bavaria, Germany.
Recommendation
"L/Sgt King was a member of a demolition party detailed for duties in the Pump House. This involved a descent of some 40 feet to the bottom of a very dark well and the laying of a short delay charge and immediate evacuation.
Despite the fact that the well was surrounded by the enemy and the whole area was under intense fire, this NCO gallantly carried out his duty under the most adverse circumstances.
In addition to completing his own task in the Pump House, he also completed the task of another man who had been wounded, and by his cool actions and outstanding skill he contributed in no small way to the successful destruction of the Pumping Station and the consequent success of the operation. 
At all times during the action his untiring energy and devotion to duty, courage and zeal were worthy of high recommendation."
 
Sources
London Gazette 37162, page 3494.
National Archives file WO373/46/287.
Prisoners of War 1715 -1945 / National Archives WO392/1.
St Nazaire Society website.
[Image] His son Graham.
 

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