PORTMAN, Irving

Known as: 
Bill
Rank: 
Troop Sergeant Major
Unit / Base: 
4 Commando
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Engineers
Service: 
Army
Number: 
1870112
Honours & Awards: 
Bill Portman MM 4 Commando
Lance Sergeant Irving Portman was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in the combined attack on Dieppe. 
Recommendation
Operation Jubilee, Dieppe Area 19th August 1942
Sgt Portman was the last Sgt left in the troop when Troop Sgt Major Stockdale and all the Troop Officers had become casualties. He took over command, and rallied the men prior to Capt Porteous's arrival. During the subsequent bayonet charge Sgt. Portman was the first British soldier in a German gun pit. Having disposed of the gun crews he proceeded with the demolition task which had been assigned to him. Sgt. Portman's good leadership and efficiency made the demolition of the battery a rapid and complete success.

Sources
London Gazette 35729, page 4328.
Award Recommendations / National Archives file WO373/93/836.
 
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