The National Archives | DocumentsOnline | Image Details Atkinson, Arthur Edward Rank: Guardsman Service No: 2617477 Regiment: 3 Battalion Grenadier Guards Theatre of Combat or Operation: Italy Award: Military Medal Date of Announcement in London Gazette: 07 December 1944 Date 1944 Catalogue reference WO 373/8 1st Guards Brigade, 6th British Armoured Division, 10 Corps 2617477 Guardsman Arthur Edward ATKINSON, 3rd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS During the attack on the MT. GRANDE on 27th May / 28th May by the 3rd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS, Guardsman ATKINSON was acting as Bren Gunner in No. 1 Company. After reaching their objective the Company were counter-attacked by 150 Germans. Without further orders, and entirely on his own initiative, this Guardsman advanced along the ridge and whilst standing completely exposed to the enemy, fired his Bren-gun from the hip, killing an Officer and three Other Ranks, and pinning the rest to the ground. This prompt action enabled the position of the defenders to be re-adjusted, and apart from the damage inflicted on the enemy, saved many casualties among his comrades. [Some text struck out] Signed Lieutenant Colonel, Commanding 3rd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS Strongly recommended Signed HAYDON, Brigadier, 1st Guards Brigade Granted an Immediate M.M.