Jemadar GODWILLER was one of a party of 20 which was transported
into BURMA by glider on the night of 5th March, 1944
The glider in which he was travelling was jettisoned over enemy
territory and landed on a sandbank on the East bank of of the
IRRAWADDY some 50 miles short of its destination. Firing and
shouting at once broke out from the opposite bank, and boats were
heard crossing the river.No one in the party was able to pin
point the location but with characteristic devotion to duty, JEMADAR
GODWILLER undertook to guide the party to its destination. Although
he knew that the enemy had heard the glider land, and were now
combing the area, the following day he took it upon himself to be
the first to enter a village. Here he learned the exact location of
the party, and ascertained that the enemy were actively patrolling
the whole area.
Undaunted, and with unerring skill, the Jemadar guided the party
for a further three days through enemy infested territory. The going
through swamp and thick jungle was undoubtedly fatiguing but his
cheerfulness never failed to predominate, and by his example and
determination he inspired the whole party. When one of his men fell
sick with fever, he carried his pack and encouraged him to continue.
Failing in his first attempt to cross the party over the IRRAWADDY
on rafts, he entered a village and obtained boats, and himself rowed
one boat over the whole stretch of the river.
Although enemy footprints were seen in the area, he continued to
enter villages and so obtained vital information and supplies for
his party.
Finally, after nine days, the party reached its destination and
rejoined its column.
This G.C.O. who also served in the first BURMA campaign and in the
Wingate expedition of 1943, has shown courage, initiative and
determination of a very high order. He is therefore recommended for
the award of the M.C.
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