Obituary: Roy Farran

* DSO, three MCs. Soldier. Died aged 85.

Roy Farran, one of Britain's most decorated World War II soldiers, who was closely involved with New Zealand's troops during the Battle for Crete, has died in Canada.

He was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO), three Military Crosses, the Croix de Guerre (France) and the Legion of Merit (US)

Indian-born Mr Farran was a member of C Squadron of the 3rd Hussars, who were transferred from the North African campaign in 1941 to reinforce the Commonwealth forces on Crete.

Mr Farran became forever linked with New Zealanders for his deeds with his three tanks during the battle for Crete. His tanks led the way in a bayonet charge into Galatas on May 25 after the Germans had finally claimed the strategic hilltop.

Mr Farran's tank was stopped halfway through the assault and he was injured, having to lie by his tank while fierce hand-to-hand fighting continued around him.

During this fighting he befriended a New Zealand officer, Lieutenant W.B. (Sandy) Thomas. They were taken prisoners of war but escaped to play significant parts in later campaigns.

Armour from the wreck of Mr Farran's tank is embedded as part of a wall just off the town square in Galatas.

Mr Farran rejoined the Hussars and fought in North Africa and later in Italy as a member of the SAS.