The National Archives | DocumentsOnline | Image Details Eaton, William Rank: Guardsman Service No: 2617559 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 Armoured Division, 10 Corps 2617559 Guardsman William EATON, 3rd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS During the attack by 3rd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS on Mt. GRANDI on 27th May / 28 May, Guardsman EATON was acting as Bren Gunner with No. 3 Company. After reaching their objective, the Company were counter-attacked by 150 Germans, and at one time almost surrounded. Firing single shots with great coolness and accuracy, Guardsman EATON killed or wounded 18 Germans, although he was continually being shot at by Machine Guns and Snipers. His steadiness and devotion to duty prevented the position being over-run, and was an inspiration to his Company. Guardsman EATON has been a Bren-gunner in the same Section since the start of the Tunisian campaign in November, 1942. Never once has he failed in his duty, and on several occasions he has been conspicuous by his outstanding courage and skill. [Some text struck out] Signed Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding 3rd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS Granted an Immediate M.M.
