St Nazaire, France

A Combined Operations raid on the dry dock at St Nazaire led by No.2 Commando who were supported by small detachments from Nos 1, 3, 4, 5, 9 and 12 Commandos. Embarked on board HMS Campbeltown which, packed with hidden explosives, rammed the dock gates, and a fleet of 18 smaller vessels, the Commandos stormed ashore and succeeded in demolishing much of the infrastructure of the dock operating mechanism. The explosives on HMS Campbetown later detonated causing severe damage to the dock and its gates.

Great gallantry was displayed by the raiders and there were many casualties amongst the Commando and Naval personnel. The following were awarded the Victoria Cross, the United Kingdom's highest gallantry award for bravery in the face of the enemy:

• Lieutenant Colonel Augustus Charles Newman, No 2 Commando
• Commander Robert Edward Dudley Ryder, Royal Navy
• Lieutenant Commander Stephen Haldane Beattie, Royal Navy
• Sergeant Thomas Frank Durrant, No 1 Commando
• Able Seaman William Alfred Savage, Royal Navy

• Nominal Roll - Commandos (Operation Chariot):  [ Commando Personnel.... ].
• Nominal Roll - Royal Navy   (Operation Chariot):  [ Naval Personnel............. ].
• Numerous images are in our Gallery here:            [ St. Nazaire Gallery ........ ].