100833 Richard Lovel COKE, DSO, MC, 2 Scots Guards & S Company Scots Guards attd 2 Coldstream Guards

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Name Coke, Richard Lovel
Rank: Captain
Service No: 100833
Regiment: 2 Battalion Scots Guards
Theatre of Combat or Operation: Italy
Award: Military Cross
Date of Announcement in London Gazette: 23 March 1944
Date 1944
Catalogue reference WO 373/5


201st Guards Brigade, 56th Division, 10 Corps
100833 War Substantive Captain Richard Lovel COKE, 2nd Battalion SCOTS GUARDS

Mt. CAMINO - Point 819, November 9th - 10th.

This Officer was Second-in-Command of 'F' Company SCOTS GUARDS sent to the assistance of Nos. 2 and 3 Companies GRENADIER GUARDS.

The position was overlooked by the enemy and continually sniped and shelled. After the initial night attack this force became isolated and was compelled to fight its own battle.

The Company Commander was killed an this Officer took command and displayed great gallantry, continually encouraging and leading his men over the most precipitous terrain.

November 10th these Companies having suffered 70% casualties it became necessary to regroup the force to hold a strong point. This Officer was entirely fearless, and showed personal leadership in occupying a fresh position whilst under constant Machine Gun fire. It was largely due to his courage and example that the position was held.

Captain COKE was in command of this Company for 3 days during which they were isolated and under heavy spandau and mortar fire from there sides. When his Company was eventually relieved he accounted for every single man to his Commanding Officer.

Signed HARRIS, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding 2nd Battalion SCOTS GUARDS

Granted an Immediate M.C.

 

The National Archives | DocumentsOnline | Image Details
Name Coke, Richard Lovel
Rank: Temporary Major
Service No: 100833
Regiment: Scots Guards attached Coldstream Guards
Theatre of Combat or Operation: Italy
Award: Distinguished Service Order
Date of Announcement in London Gazette: 10 May 1945
Date 1945
Catalogue reference WO 373/11