Lieutenant Douglas Russell MC

101 Troop 6 Commando. Photo courtesy of Colin Russell

Citation for the award of the Military Cross whilst serving with the North Staffordshire Regiment as part of the British Expeditionary Force in Belgium during operations at the River Dyle, near Roubaix, in May 1940.:

During operations on the River Dyle and south-east of Roubaix 2/Lt Russell acted with conspicuous gallantry. On the 16th May during a withdrawal from the River Dyle, this officer was in command of a rear party. Despite the fact that his position was very exposed, under continuous close range enemy fire and at one period practically surrounded by the enemy 2/Lt Russell held the position for exactly the period ordered and then successfully withdrew his party. On 24th May this officer with his platoon carried out a highly successful patrol well in advance of our line east of Roubaix. 2/Lt Russell on this occasion remained out from 20:00 hrs on 24th May until mid-day on 25th May during which time he successfully beat off an enemy patrol, killing two, bringing in one prisoner, and some very valuable information. Throughout these two operations 2/Lt Russell acted with coolness and determination of the highest order.