All The Victoria Crosses of World War Two

Discussion in 'General' started by Drew5233, Jun 6, 2009.

  1. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    John Thompson McKellar Anderson

    Rank: Lieutenant Temporary Captain Acting Major

    Unit: 8th Battalion, The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (Princess Louise’s), British Army

    Awarded: 14th June 1944

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 29th June, 1943, gives the following details:

    For conspicuous gallantry and outstanding devotion to duty during the attack on "Longstop" Hill, Tunisia, on the 23rd April, 1943.

    Over a period of five hours Major Anderson led the attack through intense enemy machine-gun and mortar fire. As leading Company Commander he led the assault on the Battalion's first objective, in daylight, over a long expanse of open sloping hillside and most of the time without the effective cover of smoke. Enemy infantry opposition was most determined, and very heavy casualties were sustained, including all other rifle Company Commanders, before even the first objective was reached.

    On the first objective and still under continual enemy fire, Major Anderson reorganised the Battalion and rallied men whose Commanders, in most cases, had been either killed or wounded. The Commanding Officer having been killed, he took command of the Battalion and led the assault on the second objective. During this assault he received a leg wound, but in spite of this he carried on and finally captured "Longstop" Hill with a total force of only four officers and less than forty other ranks. Fire had been so intense during this stage of the attack that the remainder of the Battalion were pinned down and unable to advance until Major Anderson had successfully occupied the hill.

    During the assault, he personally led attacks on at least three enemy machine-gun positions and in every case was the first man into the enemy pits; he also led a successful attack on an enemy mortar position of four mortars, defended by over thirty of the enemy.

    Major Anderson's force on the hill captured about 200 prisoners and killed many more during the attack. It is largely due to this officer's bravery and daring that "Longstop" Hill was captured, and it was the inspiration of his example which encouraged leaderless men to continue the advance.


    Additional Infomation:

    Anderson was a 25 year old acting Major.

    Also awarded a DSO.

    6months after earning his VC he was killed in Italy.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Sango River War Cemetery, Italy
     
  2. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Wilwood Alexander Sandys-Clarke

    Rank: Lieutenant

    Unit: 1st Battalion, The Loyal Regiment (Royal North Lancashire), British Army

    Awarded: 14th June 1944

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette for 29th June, 1943, gives the following details:

    For most conspicuous gallantry in action at Guiriat El Atach on the 23rd April, 1943.

    By dawn on that date, during the attack on the Guiriat El Atach feature, Lieutenant Clarke's Battalion had been fully committed. "B" Company gained their objective but were counter-attacked and almost wiped out. The sole remaining officer was Lieutenant
    Clarke, who, already wounded in the head, gathered a composite platoon together and volunteered to attack the position again.

    As the platoon closed on to the objective, it was met by heavy fire from a machinegun post. Lieutenant Clarke manoeuvred his platoon into position to give covering fire, and then tackled the post single-handed, killing or capturing the crew and knocking out the gun. Almost at once the platoon came under heavy fire from two more machine-gun posts. Lieutenant Clarke again manoeuvred his platoon into position and went forward alone, killed the crews or compelled them to surrender, and put the guns out of action. This officer then led his platoon on to the objective and ordered it to consolidate. During consolidation, the platoon came under fire from two sniper posts. Without hesitating, Lieutenant Clarke advanced single-handed to clear the opposition, but was killed outright within a few feet of the enemy.

    This officer's quick grasp of the situation and his brilliant leadership undoubtedly restored the situation, whilst his outstanding personal bravery and tenacious devotion to duty were an inspiration to his Company and were beyond praise.


    Additional Infomation:

    Sandys-Clarke was related to no less than 4 other recipients of the VC.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Massicault War Cemetery, Tunisia
     
  3. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Lord Charles Anthony Lyell

    Rank: Lieutenant Temporary Captain

    Unit: 1st Battalion, Scots Guards, British Army

    Awarded: 1st February 1944

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 12th August, 1943, gives the following details:

    From the 22nd April, 1943, to 27th April, 1943, Captain The Lord Lyell commanded his Company, which had been placed under the orders of a Battalion of the Grenadier Guards, with great gallantry, ability and cheerfulness. He led it down a slope under heavy mortar fire to repel a German counter attack on 22nd April, led it again under heavy fire through the Battalion's first objective on 23rd April in order to capture and consolidate a high point, and held this point through a very trying period of shelling, heat and shortage of water. During this period, through his energy and cheerfulness, he not only kept up the fighting spirit of his Company but also managed through Radio Telephony, which he worked himself from an exposed position, to bring most effective artillery file to bear on enemy tanks, vehicles and infantry positions.

    At about 1800 hours on 27th April, 1943, this officer's Company was taking part in the Battalion's attack on Dj Bou Arara. The Company was held up in the foothills by heavy fire from an enemy post on the left this post consisted of an 88 millimetre gun and a heavy machine gun in separate pits. Realizing that until this post was destroyed the advance could not proceed, Lord Lyell collected the only available men not pinned down by fire: a sergeant, a lance-corporal and two guardsmen and led them to attack it He was a long way in advance of the others and lobbed a hand grenade into the machine gun pit destroying the crew. At this point his sergeant was killed and both the guardsmen were wounded. The lance corporal got down to give covering fire to Lord Lyell who had run straight on towards the 88 millimetre gun pit and was working his way round to the left of it. So quickly had this officer acted that he was in among the crew with the bayonet before they had time to fire more than one shot. He killed a number of them before being overwhelmed and killed himself. The few survivors of the gun crew then left the pit, some of them being killed while they were retiring, and both the heavy machine gun and 88 millimetre gun were silenced

    The Company was then able to advance and take its objective.

    There is no doubt that Lord Lyell's outstanding leadership, gallantry and self-sacrifice enabled his Company to carry out its task which had an important bearing on the success of the Battalion and of the Brigade.


    Additional Infomation:

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Massicault War Cemetery, Tunisia
     
  4. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    John Patrick Kenneally

    Rank: Lance Corporal

    Unit: 1st Battalion, Irish Guards, British Army

    Awarded: 24th May 1944

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 13th August 1943, gives the following details:

    The Bou feature dominates all ground East and West between Medjez El Bab and Tebourba. It was essential to the final assault on Tunis that this feature should be captured and held.

    A Guards Brigade assaulted and captured a portion of the Bou on the 27th April, 1943. The Irish Guards held on to points 212 and 214 on the Western end of the feature, which points the 'Germans frequently counterattacked. While a further attack to capture the complete feature was being prepared, it was essential for the Irish Guards to hold on. They did so.

    On the 28th April, 1943, the positions held by one Company of the Irish Guards on the ridge between points 212 and 214 were about to be subjected to an attack by the enemy. Approximately one Company of the enemy were seen forming up preparatory to attack and Lance-Corporal Kenneally decided that this was the right moment to attack them himself. Single-handed he charged down the bare forward slope straight at the main enemy body firing his Bren gun from the hip as he did so. This outstanding act of gallantry and the dash with which it was executed completely unbalanced the enemy Company which broke up in disorder. Lance-Corporal Kenneally then returned to the crest further to harass their retreat.

    Lance-Corporal Kenneally repeated this remarkable exploit on the morning of the 30th April, 1943, when, accompanied by a Sergeant of the Reconnaissance Corps, he again charged the enemy forming up for an assault. This time he so harassed the enemy, inflicting many casualties, that this projected attack was frustrated the enemy's strength was again about one Company. It was only when he was noticed hopping from one fire position to another further to the left, in order to support another Company, carrying his gun in one hand and supporting himself on a Guardsman with the other, that it was discovered he had been wounded. He refused to give up his Bren gun, claiming that he was the only one who understood that gun, and continued to fight all through that day with great courage, devotion to duty and disregard for his own safety.

    The magnificent gallantry of this N.C.O. on these two occasions, under heavy, fire, his unfailing vigilance, and remarkable accuracy were responsible for saving, many valuable lives during the days and nights in the forward positions. His actions also played a considerable part in holding these positions and this influenced the whole course of the battle. His rapid appreciation of the situation, his initiative and his extraordinary gallantry in attacking single-handed a massed body of the enemy and breaking up an attack on two occasions, was an achievement that can seldom have been equalled. His courage in fighting all day when wounded was an inspiration to all ranks.


    Additional Infomation:

    Kenneally was born Robinson in Birmingham, his mother was sent to live with relatives in order to conceal her son's illegitimate birth.

    His father later married Elaine Marks, the Marks & Spencer heiress.

    Robinson joined the Royal Artillery TA on his 18th birthday.

    After going AWOL with this unit he was sent to Wellington Barracks for a period of detention.

    He was so impressed with the Irish Guards based at Wellington Barracks he asked for a transfer but was rejected.

    Robinson then deserted and joined a group of Irish labourers.

    When one of them returned to Ireland he obtained his identity card and used it to enlist in the Irish Guards.

    Robinson, now known as Kenneally, finished his military career in the newly formed 1st Guards Parachute Battalion. He bought himself out of the army in July 1948 in order to be with his wife and children.

    In 2000 he wrote to the Daily Telegraph rebuking Peter Mandelson for calling the Guards “chinless wonders”.

    Kenneally acheived the rank of Company Sergeant Major.

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    St. Micheals and All Saints Churchyard, Rochford, Worcestershire
     
  5. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Leonard Henry Trent

    Rank: Squadron Leader

    Unit: No.487 Squadron, Royal New Zealand Air Force

    Awarded: 12th April 1946

    Nationality: New Zealander

    The citation in the London Gazette of26th February 1946, gives the following details:

    On the 3rd May, 1943, Squadron Leader Trent was detailed to lead a formation of Ventura aircraft in a daylight attack on the power station at Amsterdam. This operation was intended to encourage the Dutch workmen in their resistance to enemy pressure. The target was known to be heavily defended. The importance of bombing it, regardless of enemy fighters or antiaircraft fire, was strongly impressed on the air crews taking part in the operation. Before taking off, Squadron Leader Trent told the deputy leader that he was going over the target, whatever happened.

    All went well until the 11 Venturas and their fighter escort were nearing the Dutch coast. Then one bomber was hit and had to turn back. Suddenly large numbers of enemy fighters appeared. Our escorting fighters were hotly engaged and lost touch with the bombing force. The Venturas closed up for mutual protection and commenced their run up to the target. Unfortunately, the fighters detailed to support them over, the target had reached the area too early and had been recalled.

    Soon the bombers were attacked. They were at the mercy of 15 to 20 Messerschmitts which dived on them incessantly. Within four minutes six Venturas were destroyed. Squadron Leader Trent continued on his course with the 3 remaining aircraft.

    In a short time 2 more Venturas went down in flames. Heedless of the murderous attacks and of the heavy anti-aircraft fire which was now encountered, Squadron Leader Trent completed an accurate bombing run and even shot down a Messerschmitt at point-blank range. Dropping his bombs in the target area, he turned away. The aircraft following him was shot down on reaching the target. Immediately afterwards his own aircraft was 'hit, went into a spin and broke up. Squadron Leader Trent and his navigator were thrown clear and became prisoners of war. The other two members of the crew perished.

    On this, his 24th sortie, Squadron Leader Trent showed outstanding leadership. Such was the trust placed in this gallant officer that the other pilots followed him unwaveringly. His cool, unflinching courage and devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds rank with the finest examples of these virtues.


    Additional Infomation:

    Also awarded a DFC

    Taken a PoW he was later involved in the 'Great Escape' but was re-captured.

    Later promoted to Group Captain.

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    Ref 42104/9005 North Shore Crematorium, Auckland, New Zealand
     
  6. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    John Wallace Linton

    Rank: Commander

    Unit: HM Submarine Turbulent, Royal Navy

    Awarded: 23rd February 1944

    Nationailty: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 21st May, 1943, gives the following details:

    From the outbreak of War until H.M.S. Turbulent's last patrol Commander Linton was constantly in command of submarines, and during that time inflicted great damage on the Enemy. He sank one Cruiser, one Destroyer, one U-boat, twenty-eight Supply Ships, some 100,000 tons in all, and destroyed three trains by gun-fire. In his last year he spent two hundred and fifty-four days at sea, submerged for nearly 'half the time, and his ship was hunted thirteen times and had two hundred and fifty depth charges, aimed at her.

    His many and brilliant successes were due to his constant activity and skill, and the
    daring which never failed him when there
    was an Enemy to be attacked.

    On one occasion, for instance, in H.M.S. Turbulent, he sighted a convoy of two Merchantmen and two Destroyers in mist and moonlight. He worked round ahead of the convoy and dived to attack it as it passed through the moon's rays. On bringing his sights to bear he found himself right ahead of a Destroyer. Yet he held his course till the Destroyer was almost on top of him, and, when his sights came on the convoy, he fired.

    His great courage and determination were rewarded. He sank one Merchantman and one Destroyer outright, and set the other Merchantman on fire so that she blew up.


    Additional Infomation:

    Also awarded a DSO and DSC.

    Linton was responsible for sinking 100,000 tons of shipping and destroying three trains with deck guns.

    Turbulent was hunted 13 times and had approx 250 depth charges aimed at her.

    A pub was named after him in his home town of Newport

    Linton's body was never recovered.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Portsmouth Naval Memorial
     
  7. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Guy Penrose Gibson

    Rank: Acting Wing Commander

    Unit: No.617 Squadron, Royal Air Force

    Awarded: 22nd June 1944

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 25th May, 1943, gives the following details:

    This officer served as a night bomber pilot at the beginning of the war and quickly established a reputation as an outstanding operational pilot. In addition to taking the fullest possible share in all normal operations, he made single-handed attacks during his "rest" nights on such highly defended objectives as the German battleship Tirpitz, then completing in Wilhelmshaven.

    When his tour of operational duty was concluded, he asked for a further operational posting and went to a night-fighter unit instead of being posted for instructional duties. In the course of his second operational tour, he destroyed at least three enemy bombers and contributed much to the raising and development of new night-fighter formations.

    After a short period in a training unit, he again volunteered for operational duties and returned to night bombers. Both as an operational pilot and as leader of his squadron, he achieved outstandingly successful results and his personal courage knew no bounds. Berlin, Cologne, Danzig, Gdynia, Genoa, Le Creusot, Milan, Nuremberg and Stuttgart were among the targets he attacked by day and by night.

    On the conclusion of his third operational tour, Wing Commander Gibson pressed strongly to be allowed to remain on operations and he was selected to command a squadron then forming for special tasks. Under his inspiring leadership, this squadron has now executed one of the most devastating attacks of the war—the breaching of the Moehne and Eder dams.

    The task was fraught with danger and difficulty. Wing Commander Gibson personally made the initial attack on the Moehne dam. Descending to within a few feet of the water and taking the full brunt of the antiaircraft defences, he delivered his attack with great accuracy. Afterwards he circled very low for 30 minutes, drawing the enemy fire on himself in order to leave as free a run as possible to the following aircraft which were attacking the dam in turn.

    Wing Commander Gibson then led the remainder of his force to the Eder dam where, with complete disregard for his own safety, he repeated his tactics and once more drew on himself the enemy fire so that the attack could be successfully developed.

    Wing Commander Gibson has completed over 170 sorties, involving more than 600 hours operational flying. Throughout his operational career, prolonged exceptionally at his own request, he has shown leadership, determination and valour of the highest order.


    Additional Infomation:

    Also awarded DSO and Bar and DFC and Bar.

    Gibson also did a spell with Fighter Command getting four night kills.

    After receiving his VC he went on a lecture tour of the USA at a time when American crews came home after 25 operations.

    During questions one young lady asked `Wing Commander Gibson, how many operations have you been on over Germany?' 'One hundred and seventy-four.' There was a stunned silence.

    Barnes Wallis said of Gibson, 'A man born for War...But born to fall in War'.

    Bommber Harris described him as "As great a warrior as this island ever produced'.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Steenbergen-en-Kruisland Roman Catholic Cemetery, Netherlands
     
  8. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Lloyd Allan Trigg

    Rank: Flying Officer

    Unit: No.200 Squadron, Royal New Zealand Air Force

    Awarded: 28th March 1944

    Nationality: New Zealander

    The citation in the London Gazette of 29th October, 1943, gives the following details:

    Flying Officer Trigg had rendered outstanding service on convoy escort and antisubmarine duties. He had completed 46 operational sorties and had invariably displayed skill and courage of a very high order.

    One day in August 1943, Flying Officer Trigg undertook, as captain and pilot, a patrol in a Liberator although he had not previously made any operational sorties in that type of aircraft. After searching for 8 hours a surfaced U-boat was sighted.

    Flying Officer Trigg immediately prepared to attack. During the approach, the aircraft received many hits from the submarine's anti-aircraft guns and burst into flames, which quickly enveloped the tail. The moment was critical. Flying Officer Trigg could have broken off the engagement and made a forced landing in the sea. But if he continued the attack, the aircraft would present a "no deflection" target to deadly accurate anti-aircraft fire, and every second spent in the air would increase the extent and intensity of the flames and diminish his chances of survival.

    There could have been no hesitation or doubt in his mind. He maintained his course in spite of the already precarious condition of his aircraft and executed a masterly attack. Skimming over the U-boat at less than 50 feet with anti-aircraft fire entering his opened bomb doors, Flying Officer Trigg dropped his bombs on and around the U-boat where they exploded with devastating effect. A short distance further on the Liberator dived into the sea with her gallant captain and crew. The U-boat sank within 20 minutes and some of her crew were picked up later in a rubber dinghy that had broken loose from the Liberator.

    The Battle of the Atlantic has yielded many fine stories of air attacks on underwater craft, but Flying Officer Trigg's exploit stands out as an epic of grim determination and high courage. His was the path of duty that leads to glory.


    Additional Infomation:

    Trigg's award is unique, as it was awarded on evidence solely provided by the enemy, for an action in which there were no surviving Allied witnesses to corroborate his gallantry.

    The German commander Klemens Schamong who was one of eight survivors said of Trigg 'such a gallant fighter as Trigg would have been decorated in Germany with the highest medal or order'.

    Trigg has no known grave.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Malta Memorial
     
  9. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Arthur Louis Aaron

    Rank: Acting Flight Sergeant

    Unit: No.218 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve

    Awarded: 25th February 1944

    Nationality: British


    The citation in the London Gazette of 2nd November, 1943, gives the following details:

    On the night of 12th August, 1943, Flight Sergeant Aaron was captain and pilot of a
    Stirling aircraft detailed to attack Turin.

    When approaching to attack, the bomber received devastating bursts of fire from an enemy fighter. Three engines were hit, the windscreen shattered, the front and rear turrets put out of action and the elevator control damaged, causing the aircraft to become unstable and difficult to control. The navigator was killed and other members of the crew were wounded.

    A bullet struck Flight Sergeant Aaron in the face, breaking his jaw and tearing away part of his face. He was also wounded in the lung and his right arm was rendered useless. As he fell forward over the control column, the aircraft dived several thousand feet. Control was regained by the flight engineer at 3,000 feet. Unable to speak, Flight Sergeant Aaron urged the bomb aimer by signs to take over the controls. Course was then set southwards in an endeavour to fly the crippled bomber, with one engine out of action, to Sicily or North Africa.

    Flight Sergeant Aaron was assisted to the rear of the aircraft and treated with morphia. After resting for some time he rallied and mindful of his responsibility as captain of aircraft, insisted on returning to the pilot cockpit, where he was lifted into his seat and had his feet placed on the rudder - bar. Twice he made determined attempts to take control and hold the aircraft to its course but his weakness was evident and with difficulty he was persuaded to desist. Though in great pain and suffering from exhaustion, he continued to help by writing directions with his left hand.

    Five hours after leaving the target the petrol began to run low, but soon afterwards the flare path at Bone airfield was sighted. Flight Sergeant Aaron summoned his failing strength to direct the bomb aimer in the hazardous task of landing the damaged aircraft in the darkness with undercarriage retracted. Four attempts were made under his direction; at the fifth Flight Sergeant Aaron was so near to collapsing that he had to be restrained by the crew and the landing was completed by the bomb aimer.

    Nine hours after landing, Flight Sergeant Aaron died from exhaustion. Had he been content, when grievously wounded, to lie still and conserve his failing strength, he would probably have recovered, but he saw it as his duty to exert himself to the utmost, if necessary with his last breath, to ensure that his aircraft and crew did not fall into enemy hands. In appalling conditions he showed the greatest qualities of courage, determination and leadership and, though wounded and dying, he set an example of devotion to duty which has seldom been equalled and never surpassed.


    Additional Infomation:

    Also awarded the DFM.

    He died from wounds nine hours after the aircraft touched down.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Bone Military Cemetery, Annaba, Algeria
     
  10. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Richard Kelliher

    Rank: Private

    Unit: 2/25th Battalion, Australian Imperial Force

    Awarded: 9th July 1946

    Nationality: Australian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 28th December 1943, gives the following details:

    During an attack by this soldier's platoon on an enemy position at Nadzab, New Guinea, on the morning of 13th September, 1943, the platoon came under heavy fire from a concealed, enemy machine-gun post approximately 50 yards away. Five of the platoon were killed and three wounded and it was found impossible to advance without further losses.

    In the face of these casualties Private Kelliher suddenly, on his own initiative, and without orders, dashed towards the post and hurled two grenades at it, killing some of the enemy but not all.

    Noting this, he then returned to his section, seized a Bren gun, again dashed forward to within 30 yards of the post, and with accurate fire completely silenced it.

    Returning from his already gallant action Private Kelliher next requested permission to go forward again and rescue his wounded section leader. This he successfully accomplished, though under heavy rifle fire from another position. Private Kelliher, by these actions, acted as an inspiration to everyone in his platoon, and not only enabled the advance to continue but also saved his section leader's life.

    His most conspicuous bravery and extreme devotion to duty in the face of heavy enemy' fire resulted in the capture of this strong enemy position.


    Additional Infomation:

    Born in County Kerry, Ireland, he immigrated to Australia in 1929.

    He was later court martialled for cowardice in the face of the enemy.

    Kelliher claimed his platoon commander had sent him back for information.

    The commander had been killed in the battle and Kelliher had no witnesses to his version.

    He was acquitted and after rejoining his unit and stated he would prove he was no coward and went on to win a VC.

    In 1944 he was declared medically unfit for active service and discharged.

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    Springvale Botanical Cemetery, Victoria, Australia
     
  11. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Donald Cameron

    Rank: Lieutenant

    Unit: X.6 (Midget Submarine), Royal Navy Reserve

    Awarded: 22nd June 1945

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 18th February 1944, gives the following details:

    Lieutenants Place and Cameron were the Commanding Officers of two of His Majesty's Midget Submarines X 7 and X 6 which on 22nd September 1943 carried out a most daring and successful attack on the German Battleship Tirpitz, moored in the protected anchorage of Kaafiord, North Norway.

    To reach the anchorage necessitated the penetration of an enemy minefield and a passage of fifty miles up the fiord, known to be vigilantly patrolled by the enemy and to be guarded by nets, gun defences and listening posts, this after a passage of at least a thousand miles from base.

    Having successfully eluded all these hazards and entered the fleet anchorage, Lieutenants Place and Cameron, with a complete disregard for danger, worked their small craft past the close anti-submarine and torpedo nets surrounding the Tirpitz, and from a position inside these nets, carried out a cool and determined attack.

    Whilst they were still inside the nets a fierce enemy counter attack by guns and depth charges developed which made their withdrawal impossible. Lieutenants Place and Cameron therefore scuttled their craft to prevent them falling into the hands of the enemy. Before doing so they took every measure to ensure the safety of their crews, the majority of whom, together with themselves, were subsequently taken prisoner.

    In the course of the operation these very small craft pressed home their attack to the full, in doing so accepting all the dangers inherent in such vessels and facing every possible hazard which ingenuity could devise for the protection in harbour of vitally important Capital Ships. The courage, endurance and utter contempt for danger in the immediate face of the enemy shown by Lieutenants Place and Cameron during this determined and successful attack were supreme.


    Additional Infomation:

    Later promoted to Commander.

    Cameron has no known grave.


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    Cremated at Portchester Crematorium, near Portsmouth.

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    Ashes were scattered at sea off Portsmouth from the deck of HM Submarine Thule.
     
  12. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Basil Charles Godfrey Place

    Rank: Lieutenant

    Unit: X.7 (Midget Submarine), Royal Navy

    Awarded: 22nd June 1945

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 18th February 1944, gives the following details:

    Lieutenants Place and Cameron were the Commanding Officers of two of His Majesty's Midget Submarines X 7 and X 6 which on 22nd September 1943 carried out a most daring and successful attack on the German Battleship Tirpitz, moored in the protected anchorage of Kaafiord, North Norway.

    To reach the anchorage necessitated the penetration of an enemy minefield and a passage of fifty miles up the fiord, known to be vigilantly patrolled by the enemy and to be guarded by nets, gun defences and listening posts, this after a passage of at least a thousand miles from base.

    Having successfully eluded all these hazards and entered the fleet anchorage, Lieutenants Place and Cameron, with a complete disregard for danger, worked their small craft past the close anti-submarine and torpedo nets surrounding the Tirpitz, and from a position inside these nets, carried out a cool and determined attack.

    Whilst they were still inside the nets a fierce enemy counter attack by guns and depth charges developed which made their withdrawal impossible. Lieutenants Place and Cameron therefore scuttled their craft to prevent them falling into the hands of the enemy. Before doing so they took every measure to ensure the safety of their crews, the majority of whom, together with themselves, were subsequently taken prisoner.

    In the course of the operation these very small craft pressed home their attack to the full, in doing so accepting all the dangers inherent in such vessels and facing every possible hazard which ingenuity could devise for the protection in harbour of vitally important Capital Ships. The courage, endurance and utter contempt for danger in the immediate face of the enemy shown by Lieutenants Place and Cameron during this determined and successful attack were supreme.


    Additional Infomation:

    Also awarded CB, CVO and DSC.

    In 1950 he transfered to the Fleet Air Arm.

    Gaining his wings in 1952 he saw service in Korea later that year.

    Later promoted to Rear Admiral.

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    Corton Denham Cemetery, Somerset
     
  13. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Peter Harold Wright

    Rank: WOII (CSM)

    Unit: 3rd Battalion, Coldstream Guards, British Army

    Awarded: 22nd November 1944

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 5th September 1944, gives the following details:

    In Italy on the 25th September, 1943, the 3rd Battalion, Coldstream Guards, attacked the Pagliarolli feature, a steep wooded hill near Salerno. Before it reached the crest the right hand company was held up by heavy Spandau and mortar fire and all the officers had become casualties.

    C.S.M. Wright, seeing that his company was held up, went forward to1 see what could be done. Finding that there were no officers left he immediately took charge and crawled forward by himself to see what the opposition was. He returned with the information that three Spandau posts were holding them up. He collected a section and put it into a position where it could give covering fire. Singlehanded
    he then attacked each post in turn with hand grenades and bayonet and silenced each one. He then led the company on to the crest but realised that the enemy fire made this position untenable. C.S.M. Wright therefore led them a short way down the hill and up on to the objective from a different direction.

    Entirely regardless of enemy fire, which was very heavy, C.S.M. Wright then reorganised what was left of the company and placed them into position to consolidate the objective.

    Soon afterwards the enemy launched a counter-attack which was successfully beaten off. Later, with complete disregard of heavy enemy shell-fire on the area of company headquarters and the reverse slopes of the hill and of machine-gun fire from the commanding slopes on the left flank of the position, he brought up extra ammunition and distributed it to the company.

    It is due to this Warrant Officer's superb disregard of the enemy's fire, his magnificent leadership and his outstanding heroism throughout the action that his battalion succeeded in capturing and maintaining its hold on this very important objective.


    Additional Infomation:

    Wright spent most of his post war life farming in Suffolk.

    peter wright photographs

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    [​IMG]
    All Saints Church, Ashbocking, Suffolk
     
  14. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Gaje Ghale

    Rank: Havildar

    Unit: 2nd Battalion, 5th Royal Gurkha Rifles (Frontier Force), Indian Army

    Awarded: 6th January 1944

    Nationality: Nepalese

    The citation in the London Gazette of 28th September 1943, gives the following details:

    In order to stop an advance into the Chin Hills of greatly superior Japanese forces it was essential to capture Basha East hill which was the key to the enemy position.

    Two assaults had failed but a third assault was ordered to be carried out by two platoons of Haviidar Gaje Ghale's company and two companies of another battalion.

    Haviidar Gaje Ghale .was in command of one platoon: he had never been under fire before and the platoon consisted of young soldiers.

    The approach for this platoon to their objective was along a narrow knife-edge with precipitous sides and bare of jungle whereas the enemy positions were well concealed in places, the approach was no more than five yards wide and was covered by a dozen machine guns besides being subjected to artillery and mortar fire from the reverse slope of the hill.

    While preparing for the attack the platoon came under heavy mortar fire but Haviidar Gaje Ghale rallied them and led them forward.

    Approaching to close range of the well entrenched enemy, the platoon came under withering fire and this. N.C.O. was wounded in the arm, chest and leg by an enemy hand grenade.

    Without pausing to attend to his serious wounds and with no heed to the intensive fire from all sides, Haviidar Gaje Ghale closed his men and led them to close grips with the enemy when a bitter hand to hand struggle ensued.

    Haviidar Gaje Ghale dominated the fight by his outstanding example of dauntless courage and superb leadership. Hurling hand grenades, covered in blood from his own neglected wounds, he led assault after assault encouraging his platoon by shouting the Gurkha's battle-cry.

    Spurred on by the irresistible will of their leader to win, the platoon stormed and carried the hill by a magnificent all out effort and inflicted very heavy casualties on the Japanese.

    Haviidar Gaje Ghale then held and consolidated this hard won position under heavy fire and it was not until the consolidation was well in hand that he went, refusing help, to the Regimental Aid Post, when ordered to do so by an officer.

    The courage, determination and leadership of this N.C.O. under the most trying conditions were beyond all praise.


    Additional Infomation:

    Later promoted to Hon. Captain.

    [​IMG]
    Cremated at Almoda, Dehradun, India. Ashes Scattered
     
  15. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    William Reid

    Rank: Flight Lieutenant

    Unit: No.61 Squadron, Royal Air Force Reserve

    Awarded: 11th June 1944

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 10th September 1944, gives the following details:

    On the night of November 3rd, 1943, Flight Lieutenant Reid was pilot and captain of a Lancaster aircraft detailed to attack Dusseldorf. Shortly after crossing the Dutch coast, the pilot's windscreen was shattered by fire from a Messerschmitt no. Owing to a failure in the heating circuit, the rear gunner's hands were too cold for him to open fire immediately or to operate his microphone and so give warning of danger, but after a brief delay he managed to return the Messerschmitt's fire and it was driven off.

    During the fight with the Messerschmitt, Flight Lieutenant Reid was wounded in the head, shoulders and hands. The elevator trimming tabs of the aircraft were damaged and it became difficult to control. The rear turret, too, was badly damaged and the communications system and compasses were put out of action. Flight Lieutenant Reid ascertained that his crew were unscathed and, saying nothing about his own injuries, he continued his mission.

    Soon afterwards, the Lancaster was attacked by a Focke Wulf 190. This time, the enemy's fire raked the bomber from stem to stern. The rear gunner replied with his only serviceable gun but the state of his turret made accurate aiming impossible. The navigator was killed and the wireless operator fatally injured. The mid-upper turret was hit and the oxygen system put out of action. Flight Lieutenant Reid was again wounded and the flight engineer, though hit in the forearm, supplied him with oxygen from a portable supply.

    Flight Lieutenant Reid refused to be turned from his objective and Dusseldorf was reached some 50 minutes later. He had memorised his course to the target and had continued in such a normal manner that the bomb-aimer, who was cut off by the failure of the communications system, knew nothing of his captain's injuries or of the casualties to his comrades. Photographs show that, when the bombs were released, the aircraft was right over the centre of the target.

    Steering by the pole star and the moon, Flight Lieutenant Reid then set course for home. He was growing weak from loss of blood. The emergency oxygen supply had given out. With the windscreen shattered, the cold was intense. He lapsed into semi consciousness. The flight engineer, with some help from the bomb-aimer, kept the Lancaster in the air despite heavy anti-aircraft fire over the Dutch coast.

    The North Sea crossing was accomplished. An airfield was sighted. The captain revived, resumed control and made ready to land. Ground mist partially obscured the runway lights. The captain was also much bothered by blood from his head wound getting into his eyes. But he made a safe landing although one leg of the damaged undercarriage collapsed when the load came on.

    Wounded in two attacks, without oxygen, suffering severely from cold, his navigator dead, his wireless operator fatally wounded, his aircraft crippled and defenceless, Flight Lieutenant Reid showed superb courage and leadership in penetrating a further 200 miles into enemy territory to attack one of the most strongly defended targets in Germany, every additional mile increasing the hazards of the long and perilous journey home. His tenacity and devotion to duty were beyond praise.


    Additional Infomation:

    After recovering from his injuries, William Reid returned to active duty and because of his skill and determination was rewarded with a posting to No. 617 ( Dambuster ) Squadron.

    Reid did a tour with C Flight 617 Sqn in 1944.

    On one mission dropping a Tallboy bomb his aircraft was hit by one of these bombs dropped from another aircraft 6,000ft above him.

    He bailed out and became a PoW.

    After the war he followed a career in agriculture.

    He was interviewed in the BBC 'World at War' Series.

    Reid's Wife was completely unaware of his VC until they were married in 1952.

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    Creiff Cemetery, Perthshire, Scotland
     
  16. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Thomas Currie Derrick

    Rank: Sergeant

    Unit: 2/48th Battalion, Australian Imperial Force

    Awarded: 7th May 1947

    Nationality: Australian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 21st March 1944, gives the following details:

    For most conspicuous courage, outstanding leadership and devotion to duty during the final assault on Satelberg in November, 1943.

    On 24th November, 1943, a company of an Australian Infantry Battalion was ordered to outflank a strong enemy position sited on a precipitous cliff-face and then to attack a feature 150 yards from the township of Satelberg. Sergeant Derrick was in command of his platoon of the company. Due to the nature of the country, the only possible approach to the town lay through an open kunai patch situated directly beneath the top of the cliffs. Over a period of two hours many attempts were made by our troops to clamber up the slopes to their objective, but on each occasion the enemy prevented success with intense machine-gun fire and grenades.

    Shortly before last light it appeared that it would be impossible to reach the objective or even to hold the ground already occupied and the company was ordered to retire. On receipt of this order, Sergeant Derrick, displaying dogged tenacity, requested one last attempt to reach the objective. His request was granted.

    Moving ahead of his forward section he personally destroyed, with grenades, an enemy post which had been holding up this section. He then ordered his second section around on the right flank. This section came under heavy fire from light machine-guns and grenades from, six enemy posts. Without regard for personal safety he clambered forward well ahead of the leading men of the section and hurled grenade after grenade, so completely demoralising the enemy that they fled leaving weapons and grenades. By this action alone the company was able to gain its first foothold on the precipitous ground.

    Not content with the work already done, he returned to the first section, and together with the third section of his platoon advanced to deal with the three remaining posts in the area. On four separate occasions he dashed forward and threw grenades at a range of six to eight yards until these positions were finally silenced.

    In all, Sergeant Derrick had reduced ten enemy posts. From the vital ground he had captured the remainder of the Battalion moved on to capture Satelberg the following morning.

    Undoubtedly Sergeant Derrick's fine leadership and refusal to admit defeat, in the face of a seemingly impossible situation, resulted in the capture of Satelberg. His outstanding gallantry, thoroughness and devotion to duty were an inspiration not only to his platoon and company but to the whole Battalion.


    Additional Infomation:

    Nicknamed Diver for exploits in the Port River before he joined the Army

    Also awarded the DCM.

    Derrick also fought at the siege of Tobruk.

    He later achieved the rank of Lieutenant.

    His death in 1945 was such a shock to the Australian Military one soldier commented it felt as if "the whole war stopped".

    The 'Tokyo Rose' also broadcast taunts over 'Terick's' death.

    Historian Michael McKernan later remarked that, for his war service, Derrick had arguably deserved "a VC and two bars ... at El Alamein, at Sattelberg and now at Tarakan"

    In a 2004 interview the Chief of the Australian Defence Force was asked who was the best soldier of all time. After a short pause he replied, 'Diver Derrick'.

    Derrick is well remembered in Australia and amongst over things has a bridge named after him.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    [​IMG]
    Labuan War Cemetery, Malaysia
     
  17. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Paul Triquet

    Rank: Captain

    Unit: Le Royal 22e Regiment, Canadian Army

    Awarded: 27th March 1944

    Nationality: Canadian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 3rd March 1944, gives the following details:

    For determined leadership and example.

    The capture of the key road junction on the main Ortona-Orsogna lateral was entirely dependent on securing the hamlet of Casa Berardi. Both this and a gully in front of it had been turned by the Germans into formidable strong points defended by infantry and tanks.

    On 14th December, 1943, Captain Triquet's company of the Royal 22e Regiment with the support of a squadron of a Canadian Armoured Regiment was given the task of crossing the gully and securing Casa Berardi. Difficulties were encountered from the outset. The gully was held in strength and on approaching it the force came under extremely heavy fire from machine guns and mortars. All the company officers and 50 per cent, of the men were killed or wounded. Showing superb contempt for the enemy Captain Triquet went round reorganizing the remainder and encouraging them with the words “Never mind them, they can't shoot". Finally when enemy infiltration was observed on all sides shouting "There are enemy in front of us, behind us and on our flanks, there is only one safe place—that is on the objective" he dashed forward and with his men following him, broke through the enemy resistance. In this action four tanks were destroyed and several enemy machine gun posts silenced.

    Against the most bitter and determined defence and under heavy fire Captain Triquet and his company, in close co-operation with the tanks forced their way on until a position was reached on the outskirts of Casa Berardi. By this time the strength of the company was reduced to 2 sergeants and 15 men. In expectation of a counter-attack Captain Triquet at once set about organizing his handful of men into a defensive perimeter around the remaining tanks and passed the “mot d'ordre. Us ne passeront pas".

    A fierce German counter-attack supported by tanks developed almost immediately. Captain Triquet, ignoring the heavy fire, was everywhere encouraging his men and directing the defence and by using whatever weapons were to hand personally accounted for several of the enemy. This and subsequent attacks were beaten off with heavy losses and Captain Triquet and his small force held out against overwhelming odds until the remainder of the battalion took Casa Berardi and relieved them the next day.

    Throughout the whole of this engagement Captain Triquet showed the most magnificent courage and cheerfulness under heavy fire. Wherever the action was hottest, he was to be seen shouting encouragement to his men and organizing the defence. His utter disregard of danger, his cheerfulness and tireless devotion to duty were a constant source of inspiration to them. His tactical skill and superb leadership enabled them, although reduced by casualties to a mere handful, to continue their advance against bitter resistance and to hold their gains against determined counter-attacks. It was due to him that Casa Berardi was captured and the way, opened for the attack on the vital road junction.


    Additional Infomation:

    Also awarded a CD.

    Achieved the rank of Brigadier General.

    [​IMG]
    [​IMG]
    Cremated at Mount Royal Crematorium, Quebec.
    Ashes are interred behind a memorial plaque, Vimy Building (Royal 22nd Regiment chapel) in The Citadel, Quebec, Canada
     
  18. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Alec George Horwood

    Rank: Lieutenant

    Unit: 1/6th Battalion, The Queen’s Royal West Surrey Regiment attached Northamptonshire Regiment, British Army

    Awarded: 5th December 1944

    Nationality: British


    The citation in the London Gazette of 28th March 1944, gives the following details:

    At Kyauchaw on 18th January, 1944, Lieutenant Horwood accompanied the forward company of the Northamptonshire Regiment into action against a Japanese defended locality with .his forward mortar observation post. Throughout that day he lay in an exposed position, which had been completely bared of cover by concentrated air bombing, and effectively shot his own mortars and those of a half troop of another unit while the company was manoeuvring to locate the exact position of the enemy bunkers and machine gun nests. During the whole of this time Lieutenant Horwood was under intense sniper, machine-gun and mortar fire, and at night he came back with most valuable information about the enemy.

    On 19th January he moved, forward with another company and established an observation post on a precipitous ridge. From here, while under continual fire from the enemy, he directed accurate mortar fire in support of two attacks which were put in during the day. He also carried out a personal reconnaissance along and about the bare ridge, deliberately drawing the enemy tire so that the fresh company which he had led to the position and which was to carry out an attack might see the enemy positions.

    Lieutenant Horwood remained on the ridge during the night I9th-aoth January and on the morning on 20th January shot the mortars again to support a fresh attack by another company put in from the rear of the enemy. He was convinced that the enemy would crack and volunteered to lead the attack planned for that afternoon. He led this attack with such calm, resolute bravery, that the enemy were reached and while standing up in the wire, directing and leading the men with complete disregard to the enemy fire which was then at point blank range, he was mortally wounded.

    By his fine example of leadership on the 18th, 19th and 20th, January when continually under fire, by his personal-example to others of reconnoitring, guiding and bringing up ammunition in addition to his duties at the mortar observation post, all of which were carried out under great physical difficulties and in exposed positions, this officer set the highest example of bravery and devotion to duty to which all ranks responded magnificently. The cool calculated actions of this officer, coupled with his magnificent bearing and bravery which culminated in his death on the enemy wire, very largely contributed to the ultimate success of the operation which resulted in the capture of the position on the 24th January.


    Additional Infomation:

    Also awarded a DCM.

    Horwood has no known grave.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

    [​IMG]
    Rangoon Memorial, Myanmar
     
  19. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    George Allan Mitchell

    Rank: Private

    Unit: The London Scottish (Gordon Highlanders), British Army

    Awarded: 17th July 1945

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 8th August 1944 gives the following details:

    In Italy on the night of 23rd and 24th January, 1944, a Company of the London Scottish was ordered to carry out a local attack to restore the situation on a portion of the main Damiano ridge.

    The Company attacked with two platoons forward and a composite platoon of London Scottish and Royal Berkshires in reserve. The Company Commander was wounded in the very early stages of the attack. The only other officer with the Company was wounded soon afterwards.

    A section of this Company was ordered by the Platoon Commander to carry out a right flanking movement against some enemy machine guns which were holding up the advance. Almost as soon as he had issued the order, he was killed. There was no Platoon Sergeant. The section itself consisted of a Lance-Corporal and three men who were shortly joined by Private Mitchell, the 2-inch mortar men from Platoon Headquarters and another private.

    During the advance, the enemy opened heavy machine gun fire at point blank range. Without hesitation, Private Mitchell dropped the 2-inch mortar which he was carrying, and seizing a rifle and bayonet, charged, alone, up the hill through intense Spandau fire. He reached the enemy machine gun unscathed, jumped into the weapon pit, shot one and bayoneted the other member of the crew, thus silencing the gun. As a result, the advance of the platoon continued, but shortly afterwards the leading section was again held up by the fire of approximately two German sections who were strongly entrenched. Private Mitchell, realising that prompt action was essential, rushed forward into the assault firing his rifle from his hip, completely oblivious of the bullets which were sweeping the area. The remainder of his section followed him and arrived in time to complete the capture of the position in which six Germans were killed and twelve made prisoner.

    As the section was reorganising, another enemy machine gun opened up on it at close range. Once more Private Mitchell rushed forward alone and with his rifle and bayonet killed the crew.

    The section now found itself immediately below the crest of the hill from which heavy small arms fire was being directed and grenades were- being thrown. Private Mitchell's ammunition was exhausted, but in spite of this he called on the men for one further effort and again led the assault up the steep and rocky hillside. Dashing to the front, he was again the first man to reach the enemy position and was mainly instrumental in forcing the remainder of the enemy to surrender.

    A few minutes later, a German who had surrendered, picked up a rifle and shot Private Mitchell through the head.

    Throughout this operation, carried out on a very dark night, up a steep hillside covered with rocks and scrub) Private Mitchell displayed courage and devotion to duty of the very highest order. His complete disregard of the enemy fire, the fearless way in which he continually exposed himself, and his refusal to accept defeat, so inspired his comrades that together they succeeded in overcoming and defeating an enemy superior in numbers, and helped by all the Advantages of the ground.


    Additional Infomation:

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    [​IMG]
    Minturno War Cemetery, Lazio, Italy
     
  20. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    William Philip Sidney

    Rank: Captain Temporary Major

    Unit: 5th Battalion, Grenadier Guards, British Army

    Awarded: ?

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 28th March 1944, gives the following details:

    For superb courage and utter disregard of danger in the action near Carroceto, in the Anzio Beach Head, in February, 1944. The period 6th-10th February, 1944, was one of critical importance to the whole state of the Anzio Beach Head. The Germans attacked a British Division with elements of six different divisions and a continuous series of fierce local hand-to-hand battles was fought, each one of which had its immediate reaction on the position of other troops in the neighbourhood and on the action as a whole. It was of supreme importance that every inch of ground should be doggedly, stubbornly and tenaciously fought for. The area Carroceto-Buonriposo Ridge was particularly vital.

    During the night 7th-8th February, Major Sidney was commanding the support company of a battalion of the Grenadier Guards, company headquarters being on the left of battalion headquarters in a gully South-West of Carroceto Bridge. Enemy infantry who had by-passed the forward rifle company North-West of Carroceto, heavily attacked in the vicinity of Major Sidney's company headquarters and successfully penetrated into the wadi. Major Sidney collected the crew of a 3 inch mortar firing nearby and personally led an attack with Tommy guns and hand grenades, driving the enemy out of the gully. He then sent the detachment back to continue their mortar firing while he and a handful of men took up a position on the edge of the gully in order again to beat off the enemy who were renewing their attack in; some strength. Major Sidney and his party succeeded in keeping the majority of the Germans out but a number reached a ditch 20 yards in front, from which they could outflank Major Sidney's position. This officer—in full view and completely exposed—dashed forward without hesitation to a point whence he could engage the enemy with his Tommy gun at point blank range. As a result the enemy withdrew leaving a number of dead.

    On returning to his former position on the edge of the gully, Major Sidney kept two guardsmen with him and sent the remainder back for -more ammunition and grenades. While they were away, the enemy vigorously renewed his attack, and a grenade struck Major Sidney in the face, bounced off and exploded, wounding him and one guardsman and killing the second man. Major Sidney, single-handed and wounded in the thigh, kept the enemy at bay until the ammunition party returned five minutes later, when once more they were ejected. Satisfied that no further attack would be made, he made his way to a nearby cave to have his wound dressed, but before this could be done the enemy attacked again. He at once returned to his post and continued to engage the enemy for another hour, by which time the left of the battalion position was consolidated and the enemy was finally driven off. Only then did Major Sidney, by that time weak from loss, of blood and barely able to walk, allow his wound to be attended to.

    Throughout the next day contact with the enemy was so close that it was impossible to evacuate this officer until after dark. During that time, as before, although extremely weak, he continued to act as a tonic and inspiration to all with whom he came in contact.

    Throughout the engagement Major Sidney showed' a degree of efficiency, coolness, gallantry and complete disregard for his personal safety of a most exceptional order, and there is no doubt" that as a result of his action, taken in the face of great odds, the battalion's position was re-established with vitally far reaching consequences on the battle as a whole.


    Additional Infomation:

    Also awarded KG GCMG GCVO KSTJ and PC.

    Educated at Eton and Cambridge he became a Chartered Accountant.

    In 1929 he joined the Grenadier Guards Reserves.

    Prior in earning a VC in Italy Sydney served in France.

    When asked where he was shot he would joke, 'In Italy' mainly due to him being shot in the buttocks.

    The ribbon for his VC was made from his father in law Lord Gort's uniform.

    Sydney became a MP for Chelsea in 1944.

    Appointed Governor General of Australia in 1961.

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    St. John the Baptist Churchyard, Penshurst, Kent.

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    Buried in family vault.
     

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