19152 Norman Wilmshurst GWATKIN, GCVO KCMG DSO, Coldstream Guards & 5 Guards Armoured Brigade

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Gwatkin, Norman Wilmshurst
Rank: Temporary Brigadier
Service No: P/19152
Regiment: Headquarters 5 Guards Armoured Brigade
Theatre of Combat or Operation: North West Europe 1944-45
Award: Distinguished Service Order
Date of Announcement in London Gazette: 21 December 1944




P/19152 Major, War Substantive Colonel, Temporary Brigadier, Norman Wilmshurst, GWATKIN, MVO, HQ 5 Guards Armoured Brigade (Staff Late COLDSTREAM GUARDS)

Guards Armoured Division, 8 Corps

On 2 August 1944, 5 GUARDS ARMOURED BRIGADE was ordered to advance from LE TOURNEUR towards VASSY. From the very beginning heavy opposition was encountered.


Brigadier GWATKIN directed a series of attacks and outflanking moves with the greatest ability. In spite of heavy mortar and Machine Gun fire at close range, his Brigade succeeded in forcing a crossing over the river at CATHEOLLES and gaining a foothold on the high ground, which dominated the axis of advance. This success was largely due to the skilful way in which the Brigade Commander handled the situation. He was constantly forward under heavy fire directing the operations, and was a magnificent example and inspiration to all those under his command.


Immediate DSO.

 

Recommendation for Award for Gwatkin, N W Rank: Major Regiment: Coldstream... | The National Archives
Reference: WO 373/89/495
Name Gwatkin, N W
Rank: Major
Regiment: Coldstream Guards
Theatre of Combat or Operation: B E F 1939-40
Award: Mention in Despatch
Date of announcement in London Gazette: 20 December 1940


‘Z’ Brigade, Beauman Division
Major N W GWATKIN, MVO, Coldstream Guards

This officer was Brigade Major of the brigade on its formation and retained this post ill the disbandment of the brigade. A most efficient Staff Officer and invaluable help. His knowledge of modern organisation and adaptability in overcoming difficulties due to very inadequate equipment of the brigade were of the greatest value.

Downgraded from OBE to Mention in Despatches

 

The reference to the "Two sons (both KIA)" is incorrect. They were the sons of Sir Frederick Gwatkin:

Taukkyan War Cemetery (Burma) - Capt F C N Gwatkin & Lt A W Gwatkin, both died 14 Mar 1945.