Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Captain

Unit:

No. 2 Commando, 1st Special Service Brigade, Combined Operations Headquarters, War Office, British Government

Awarded on:

July 5th, 1945

Awarded for:

Operation Chariot

"On 28 March, 1942, during the Commando Raid at ST. NAZAIRE, France, Captain BURN was in command of an Assault Group.
Following a direct hit on the Assault Launch carrying his Group, the ship was put out of action and most of his Assault Group were killed or wounded. Capt. BURN, after being nearly drowned and pulled ashore by one of his men, quickly recovered and proceeded alone to his objective, after ascertaining that the gun positions were not in action. Entirely alone he carried out the destruction these positions, setting them on fire with incendiaries.
He continued causing enemy casualties with handgrenades until all his ammunition was expended, when he was taken prisoner.
This action of Capt Burn's showed his determination to carry out his task, although his men were out of action; his courage and initiative being an example deserving the highest praise."