Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Captain

Unit:

No. 11 Platoon, "T" Company, 1st Parachute Battalion, 1st Parachute Brigade, 1st Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

July 9th, 1948

Awarded for:

Operation Market Garden

"On the 18th September, 1944 at Arnhem this officer was in command of a platoon. He was ordered to attack a factory which was holding up the advance of the battalion. The factory was covered from the rear by 20 mm dual purpose guns. Despite heavy fire this officer pressed home his attack with such vigour that he gained his objective, this despite heavy casualties. On advancing from here Lieutenant Hellingoe was wounded in both legs by a sniper, despite this he remained in an exposed position until he had discovered the snipers position. He would not be moved until he had personally directed the removal of the sniper. It was undoubtedly due to Lieutenant Hellingoe's outstanding courage at this stage that the battalion was able to advance along the main road, he set a fine example to his men throughout the action."

Royal Decree no. 1, dd. 9-2-1946