Major (temporary) Percy Hothersall MBE

This officer was appointed DADME [Deputy Assistant Director of Mechanical Engineering] on HQ Special Force.

During the equipping and training period before operations he had direction over 77 Indian Inf Bde and 111 Ind Inf Bde, where he performed his duties with outstanding merit.

In addition, a large amount of equipment of these Bdes had to be re-designed or adapted to comply with the special arrangements of the projected operations. Major Hothersall was successful in this, and as a consequence of his hard work and sound technical skill, both Bdes left the Training Area with serviceable equipment suited to their requirements.

On its formation Maj Hothersall was appointed DADME of the Airbase. The original plan of the operation was changed necessitating considerable increase in the scope and organisation of the Airbase. New types of equipment were received direct from aboard, and required special arrangements to be made for their inspection, maintenance, and modification. Demands were made for Light Anti-Aircraft and Field Equipment, and Armoured Fighting Vehicles to be flown into Burma. Major Hothersall personally determined and put into practice the methods whereby this could be done, and in some cases supervised their re-erection.

On all occasions, and with very limited facilities and time at his disposal, Major Hothersall coped with each unusual requirement as it arose, and doing this he showed personal ability, Engineering knowledge and adaptability, in excess of his ordinary duty.