Career
Stokes was 30 years old, and a private in the 2nd Battalion, King"s Shropshire Light Infantry, British Army during the Second World War. Without waiting for orders Private Stokes dashed through the enemy fire, to disappear inside this building. The fire stopped, and he reappeared, wounded in the neck.
This valiant action enabled the platoon to advance to the next objective.
Private Stokes was ordered back to a Regimental Aid Post, but refused to go. The platoon then encountered heavy fire from a house on the left.
Again without waiting for orders, Private Stokes rushed the house by himself and all firing from it ceased. His gallantry enabled his platoon, which he subsequently rejoined bringing five prisoners, to continue the advance.
In the final assault Private Stokes, now severely wounded, once more dashed to the objective through intense fire.
He finally fell, firing his rifle to the last. lieutenant was found that he had been wounded eight times in the upper part of the body. Private Stokes"s one object throughout this action was to kill the enemy, at whatever personal risk.
His magnificent courage, devotion to duty, and splendid example inspired all around him, and ensured the success of the attack at a critical moment.
Moreover, his self-sacrifice saved his Platoon and Company heavy casualties.
