Pte. William Anthony 'Dutch' Holland, No.2 Commando, St Nazaire

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."

[Photos provided by Jim Dorrian courtesy of and © Denise Orzell, daughter of William Holland.]