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Marais, Charles Andrew

Date of birth:
June 19th, 1914
Date of death:
May 16th, 1989
Service number:
85020, South African Forces
Nationality:
South African

Biography

Charles Marais served in the Royal Natal Carbineers in North Africa and fought at Al Alamein.


Promotions:
?: Second Lieutenant;
?: Temporary Lieutenant;
?: Captain.

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Temporary Lieutenant
Unit:
1st Royal Natal Carabineers, South African Forces (1st Royal Natal Carabineers, South African Forces)
Awarded on:
July 9th, 1942
Citation:
"For conspicious gallantry in action on 8th April, 1942, in a raid on the Gazala front.
Lieutenant Marais commanding a section of three armoured cars led the advance of an infantry Platoon. His section came under concentrated fire from Bofors, field guns and machine guns; two cars were temporarily disabled.
Continuing his advance with increased speed and covering the infantry, Lieutenant Marais moved on to the enemy position, attacked, and routed the Bofors crews and proceeded to engage the Field Guns. The Platoon was enabled to achieve the objective and consolidate its success, killing no less than thirty and taking ninety-nine prisoners on this position.
By his splendid dash and courage this officer was able to maintain and inspire the momentum of the attack at a critical juncture.
He displayed the offensive spirit in the highest degree and this and his disregard for danger were largely responsible for the success of the action."
Military Cross (MC)

Sources

  • - Supplement to The London Gazette of 7th July 1942, Issue 35624, dated 9th July 1942

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