HOLLAND, William Anthony
Primary tabs
Known as:
Dutch
Rank:
Private
Unit / Base:
2 Commando
Regiment/Corps:
Border Regiment
Service:
Army
Number:
3602596
P.O.W. number:
18686
Honours & Awards:
Born:
Wednesday, December 3, 1919
Birthplace:
Preston, Lancashire
Died:
1995
Operations:
Private William Holland, 3 Troop, received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the raid on St. Nazaire on the night of 27/28th March, 1942. Embarking on board HMS Campbeltown he was reported missing after the raid but later found to be a prisoner of war.
Recommendation
"Pte. Holland displayed magnificent courage and devotion to duty in a small assault group whose task it was to destroy three enemy medium AA gun positions.
These guns were silenced in very quick time, and their crews destroyed, thus enabling the demolitions on land in the Dry Dock area to proceed.
Throughout this action Pte. Holland's example was outstanding."
Sources
London Gazette 37162, page 3494.
National Archives file WO373/46/288.
London Gazette 37162, page 3494.
National Archives file WO373/46/288.
Casualty Lists 1939-45 /National Archives file WO417/43.
Prisoners of War / National Archives file WO392/1 (Stalag 8B).
Germa Record Cards of British PoW's / National Archives file WO416/180/446 (Stalag 133).
St. Nazaire Society website.
St Nazaire Society 75th anniversary newsletter.
[Image] Denise Orzell, daughter.
St Nazaire Society 75th anniversary newsletter.
[Image] Denise Orzell, daughter.
Photo of Commando in Gallery:
Yes
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