Marine Derek Gadsden was awarded the Military Medal for gallant and distinguished service while operating with the Army in Normandy.

On 7th June, during the attack on Port-en-Bessin, Commando Headquarters and one weakened troop on Point 72 feature were over-run by an enemy counter-attack which was supported by mortar and machine-gun fire. Mne Gadsden, showing a complete disregard for his own safety, moved about bringing fire to bear from different positions for a long time deceiving the enemy as to our actual strength on the position. His gallant conduct and cool bearing were a great encouragement and inspiration to his comrades and materially assisted in frustrating the enemy's attempts to overcome the position.