Captain Colin Rae was awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the advance to capture the Essel Bridgehead.

"On the night of 10/11 April 1945 during the advance to capture the Essel bridgehead Capt. Rae was at the head of the leading Commando with the duty of checking the route across country. He crossed the railway bridge under heavy fire from a German MG post situated one hundred yards to the far side of the bridge, and led the way skilfully and quickly towards the Canal bridge (302584) which was No. 3 Commando's next objective.

When the leading elements of the Commando were within forty yards of the canal, the enemy opened fire with Spandau and rifles from behind a formidable road block the far side of the bridge. Capt. Rae, realising that a delay at this point would jeopardise the whole operation, charged down the centre of the road firing his Tommy gun, and although wounded in the leg as he crossed the bridge, he assaulted right into the enemy position around the road block, killing two Germans, wounding three more, and capturing eight prisoners.

By this gallant charge Capt. Rae successfully liquidated the enemy position and thus cleared the route for the rest of the Brigade to pass through and capture the remaining objectives, before the enemy had time to reorganise his defences. Capt. Rae's splendid leadership was an inspiration to all".

30 Aug. 1939 to 149th Regiment R.H.A. (T.A).

14 Apr. to 6 Aug. 1940 - 121st O.C.T.U. R.A.

30 Aug. 1940 to Feb 1944 - 120th Field Regiment R.A. (HQ RA 61st Divn. and Battle School).

Feb. to July 1944 - Holding Commando and Commando Group Training Centre, Achnacarry.

4 July 1944 to 6 Dec. 1945 - No.3 Commando.

6 Dec. 1945 to 20 Jan. 1946 - RA Depot Woolwich.

20 Jan. to June 1946 - 70th Field Regiment R.A.