Geoffrey Gordon-Creed

Geoffrey Anthony Gordon-Creed (born Harrison; January 29, 1920 – November 26, 2002) was a British Army officer and Special Operations Executive (SOE) operative renowned for his daring missions during World War II. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and the Military Cross (MC) for his valor in combat.

Early life and education

Born in Cape Town, South Africa, Gordon-Creed was the son of Wilbur Frederick Harrison and Mary Aurelia Creed. After attending a preparatory school in Kenya, he was educated at Downside School in England, where he excelled in rugby, playing for the first XV. He later changed his surname to Gordon-Creed by deed poll.

Military career In November 1940, Gordon-Creed was commissioned into the 2nd Battalion, Royal Gloucestershire Hussars. He saw action in North Africa as part of the 7th Armoured Division. On November 19, 1941, during the Battle of Bir el Gubi, he led his troop against the Italian Ariete Armoured Division, destroying two enemy tanks at close range before his own tank was hit. Despite sustaining injuries and his tank being disabled, he managed to rescue his wounded crew under heavy fire and return to Allied lines. For his gallantry, he was awarded the Military Cross