After the raid 228 men of the force of 611 returned to Britain ; 169 was killed and 215 became prisoners of war . German casualties was over 360 dead , some killed after the raid when Campbeltown exploded . To recognise their bravery , 89 decorations was awarded to members of the raiding party , including five Victoria Crosses . After the war , St Nazaire was one of 38 battle honours awarded to the Commandos ; the operation have since become known as The Greatest Raid of All within military circles .