Award Military Cross Lt. G.L. Pearson, 6th Parachute Regiment (Italy)

brithm · Sep 15, 2023

Lt. Gerald Lionel Pearson,
Award: Military Cross
Service Number.: 103095
Unit: 6th Bn (Royal Welsh) Parachute Regiment

Starred in The Undefeated (1951) short film with Rev Treglown on Post War amputees

On 24th April at MONTE CROOCE(?) Lt. PEARSON with a patrol of 3 Royal Engineers and one Fusilier was ordered to find a gap through the minefield in front of his platoon position, in order to carry out offensive patrolling. The party entered the minefield and shortly afterwards No. 4 of the patrol was wounded by a mine. Lt. Pearson concluded that the mine detector mist be unserviceable and decided to withdraw. Almost immediately a second mine was detonated, blowing both Lt. Pearson’s legs and wound and stunning all members of the patrol.

3911012 Sgt. Jones, W.D. of Lt. Pearson’s platoon heard the explosion and immediately came to the spot, entered minefield and came to Lt. Pearson’s side. Lt. Pearson’s first words were “Get the others if you can, but don’t risk moving me through the field, both my legs are gone, and I’m done for anyway.” He then proceeded to direct the search for the other wounded members of the party.

Lt. Pearson was eventually removed from the minefield and fully conscious proceeded to indicate to the stretcher bearers the easiest route over the difficult terrain. At arrival at Platoon H.Q. and although fully aware of his terrible injuries, he maintained his outward good cheer and encourage d and heartened both wounded and rescuers. After a further carry of 1½ hours, Lt. Pearson reached Company H.Q. where he expressed his regret to Company Commander that the accident had happened. 6½ hours after the accident occurred, Lt. Pearson reached R.A.P. from where he was taken back on a mile to the A.D.S.

Seldom can such a magnificent example of courage, fortitude and stoicism have been show. I feel that his conduct is worthy of recognition.
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WO 373/8/66

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Award Military Cross Lt. G.L. Pearson, 6th Parachute Regiment (Italy)

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Award Military Cross Lt. G.L. Pearson, 6th Parachute Regiment (Italy)

brithm Senior Member

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