2721127 Alan DODDS, MM, 1 Irish Guards

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    The National Archives | DocumentsOnline | Image Details
    Name Dodds, Alan
    Rank: Lance Corporal
    Service No: 2721127
    Regiment: 1 Battalion Irish Guards
    Theatre of Combat or Operation: Italy
    Award: Military Medal
    Date of Announcement in London Gazette: 24 August 1944
    Date 1944
    Catalogue reference WO 373/7

    LG - Viewing Page 3924 of Issue 36668

    24th Guards Brigade, 1st British Division, 6 American Corps
    2721127 Lance-Corporal Alan DODDS, 1st Battalion IRISH GUARDS

    For the first week in the Bridgehead this Lance-Corporal was Intelligence Dispatch Rider. As such he was entrusted with numerous tasks of responsibility and importance all of which he carried out in an exemplary manner. He was constantly riding up and down roads under heavy shell fire and at all times he remained a model of coolness and willingness.

    On February 2nd he took over the duties of Intelligence Sergeant, and as such was at Battalion H.Q. when the Germans attacked on the night of 3rd February / 4th February. Throughout the whole of this action he displayed a courage and initiative that was remarkable and constant.

    Together with Major D.M.L. GORDON-WATSON and Lance-Corporal CROSS he fought his way out of Battalion H.Q. when it was surrounded and with his Tommy Gun did great execution amongst the Germans who had infiltrated into the gullies in the rear. By a quick snap shot he disposed of a German who suddenly appeared from a culvert, and following up his advantage he captured the remainder of the German section who were hiding in the culvert. He then reported to the Commanding Officer at the Farm which was to be the new Battalion position, having in the interval found and repaired a derelict M/C. [?motorcar]

    Lance-Corporal DODDS then immediately set out on numerous hazardous expeditions to meet and guide the small parties of men as they came back. He was a constant target for enemy snipers and Machine Guns but this did not deter him in the least and he continued to do his duty with complete disregard for his own safety.

    Lance-Corporal DODDS's reliability, gallantry and initiative were outstanding. I recommend him for the award of M.M.

    Signed C.A. Montagu-Douglas-Scott, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding 1st Battalion IRISH GUARDS
     

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    Last edited: Nov 8, 2019

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