Sergeant Francis Arthur Carr from New Cross, London, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his gallantry during Operation Chariot, the raid at St Nazaire. He was the senior NCO of a demolition party led by Lieuenant Burtinshaw on board HMS Campbeltown [1]. Reported missing after the raid later confirmed prisoner of war [1][2][3][3a][3b].

"28 March 1942 during the commando raid at St Nazaire, France.

Sergeant Carr was the N.C.O. in charge of the demolition party commanded by Lieutenant Robert Burtinshaw. Before reaching the demolition site Lieutenant Burtinshaw was killed and immediately Sergeant Carr took command, and led the party against heavy enemy opposition to the dry dock gate. Sergeant carr then reported to Lieutenant Brett who commanded another demolition party also detailed to assist in destroying this gate.

Lieutenant Brett had been wounded in the legs and could only move with difficulty. Sergeant Carr then assisted Lieutenant Brett in supervising the two parties in their laying of the explosive charges on the dry dock gate. The charges were about to be fired when fighting broke out in the area forcing the demolition party to take cover. Sergeant Carr then went forward alone and fired the charges which completely destroyed this gate.

Sergeant Carr then continued to assist Lieutenant Brett in organising the withdrawal of both parties to the point of re-embarkation. Sergeant Carr throughout the entire action showed outstanding courage and devotion to duty. His leadership was magnificent." [2].