Major David Liddell, MC (9 January 1917 in Hankou, China – 20 March 2008) was a Scottish soldier, insurance broker and farmer.
[1][2] A British Army World War II commander awarded an immediate MC for his outstanding service in Italy while serving with the 12th Battalion Cameronians (Scottish Rifles).
On 23 December 1943, he commanded the reinforcements to the Essex 5th Battalion Regiment, which was sent to capture the Italian village of Villa Grande, near Termoli, which was being held by the German 1st Parachute Division.
Liddell charged the machine-gun post single-handed, knocked it out with hand grenades and enabled his men to continue the advance.
Wearing gym shoes in order not to be overheard by the Germans in the next building, Liddell reported to his CO and refused to be evacuated until his men were in good defensive positions and had been fed.