Lieutenant Albert Thomas Turrell

Albert T Turrell was born in Shoreham-By-Sea in 1919. Known by his family as 'Uncle Bert' was given an emergency commission with The Royal Regiment of Artillery 8 May 1942.

6 May 1943 he volunteered for the airborne forces and was parachute jump trained at RAF Ringway on Course 65. This course ran between 17 and 28 May 1943. His instructor noted this about his performance:

"An excellent example to his men"

After successfully completing this training he was posted to 1st Para Bn, HQ Coy. It is believed that he took part in operations in Italy before Op. Market Garden in September 1944. Fortunately he managed to return across the river (RAR) at the end of this operation. 

He commanded the 2nd Glider Lift Party and arrived at the battle of Arnhem on the night of 19 September. Albert's glider came down short. All the men made their way over the River via the Driel Ferry. He had 2 men with him. A driver, Pte. W Clarke (RAR) and despatch rider Pte M Donnelly (POW). Albert's glider, Chalk number 990 flown by 9 Flight 'G' Sqn, GPR flew out from RAF Fairford. 1st Pilot was S.Sgt G Cawthray (WIA/POW), 2nd Pilot Sgt L R Thomas (WIA/POW). 

Albert attempted to drive into Arnhem in a Jeep with a Vickers machine gun mounted but was forced back after facing heavy opposition and returned to the Battalion. Lt Turrell was then involved with heavy fighting 21 to 23 September. On the 24th he was detached to take over command of The 3rd Para Bn, who were without officers. His actions get mentioned in The 1st Para Bn war Diary. 

Lt Turrell was awarded a Dutch Bronze Cross for his part in the action. His awarded is listed in The Gazette 20 March 1947.  Please note on his medal citation he is recorded as Alan Terrence Turrell. His Citation reads:

"During the whole of the airborne operations at Arnhem 17th - 25th September, 1944, Lieutenant Turrell showed a high standard of leadership and initiative. He continually led small offensive patrols against enemy machine gun posts and snipers. In particular on 18th September, he accompanied Lieutenant Williams on a reconnaissance on a Jeep mounted with a Vickers machine gun. They went a mile out of the Battalion perimeter towards the Arnhem bridge, and in spite of heavy machine gun and mortar fire, they killed at least twenty Germans and gained most valuable information which later saved the Battalion heavy casualties. Throughout this Officer had no regard for his personal safety and his gallant example was an inspiration to all."

Some years after the War Albert emigrated to South Africa. He died there 24 September 1987.