Lance Corporal William Waugh was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service on 19 March 1944 during operations at the Anzio Beachhead, Italy. Post war member of the Commando Association.

This NCO was a team leader during the commando attack on Wadi in sq 8230 on 19 March 1944. Although painfully injured form barbed wire gashes incurred in the original advance to the objective, L/C Waugh displayed a standard of leadership far in excess of that normally expected in an NCO of this junior rank.

During the initial stages of the attack L/C Waugh's troop became completely cut off from the rest of the Unit, and there existed no means of communication other than by a runner, who had to cross ground that was completely dominated by enemy fire.

L/C Waught twice volunteered to cross this open ground to contact other troops which he did with the utmost coolness and determination while under heavy LMG and Mortar fire. His self control and coolness which he displayed the whole day while under heavy mortar fire was a magnificent example to all ranks, and particularly to the team under his command, which drove off several determined enemy counter attacks which were delivered under strong support from enemy mortars.

When the commando broke up the final enemy counter attack, LC Waugh most gallantly led his assault team forward with determined dash and courage inflicting heavy casualties on the Boche.

Throughout the operation this NCO set a splendid example of fearlessness and leadership, and handled his team in a most determined and successful manner."