ELLIS, Derek Charles

Rank: 
Sergeant
Unit / Base: 
'Special Boat Section'
6 Commando
Regiment/Corps: 
King's Shropshire Light Infantry
Service: 
Army
Number: 
4032370
Honours & Awards: 
Corporal Derek Ellis, formerly 101 Troop No. 6 Commando [1], was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service whilst attached to No. 2 Special Boat Section during operations at Oran harbour, North Africa [2][3].
Served with 2SBS since its formation, was a parachutist, and later promoted Sergeant [1].
Award Recommendation
Oran Landings. Assault on port by HMS Walney and HMS Hartland - 8th November 1942.
Was Captain Holden-White's partner in the folbot, he displayed coolness and courage in directing his Officer on to the target and later, when by himself, he salvaged and re-floated the damaged folbot, almost under the eyes of a French sentry [3].
 
Sources
[1] Timeline of the Special Boat section (Home) (below).
[2] London Gazette 36486, page 1927.
[3] National Archives file WO373/2/405.
 

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