Val was still with the Company at Arnhem, where he fought with distinction, often taking complete charge of the Platoon and ignoring enemy fire to look after his 'lads'. He suffered a slight wound in his foot, which he laughed off after makeshift surgery and dressing. Much to his Platoon's disgust, he was commissioned in the field shortly after the Company's return to the UK and was posted to 3rd Parachute Battalion. He was demobilized in the rank of Major after peacetime overseas service.