I'm in the process of finalising the transcription of my late father's diary from WW2 and publishing it on a WordPress blog. He was in the R.E.M.E and served in the Eighth army as it progressed through Africa, Persia (Iran) and on to Italy. In this diary entry he makes reference to a VC being awarded to an officer killed in action against an anti-tank gun Tuesday September 14th 1943 Unfortunately he doesn't mention the officer's name and I've been unable to find any record in the various official lists - which is surprising. Does anyone know the officer's name and have any more details? I'd like to add a reference in the blog to his valiant action. Any other information or background would be most welcome as I flesh out the diary entries. I've been particularly moved by two entries dated 16th May and 29th May 1944. (see in the blog). My father had formed a close friendship with an Italian family and he indicated he would contact them after the war was over. I don't know whether he ever did and if possible I'd like to trace the family. The surname is Gitto and the head of the family was Nino Gitto. If anyone has any knowledge of this aspect I'd also welcome that too.
No VCs were awarded for the Sicily Campaign. Had a look at the 5th Div history as they were involved in the fighting around Priolo but can't see any mention of an officer ramming an AT gun.
World War 2 Awards.com - United Kingdom nothing in the below List of Second World War Victoria Cross recipients - Wikipedia
The officer may have been nominated for a VC but it was not approved somewhere along the line. Chances are that he would have received an MiD instead (as he was KIA) - if he had survived the action he may have been awarded an MC or similar. I have a photo given to me by a veteran which has written the back of "this man was awarded the MC for his actions at XYZ" - as I had his name I researched it and I got a copy of the paperwork. As the nomination went through the approvals process the member was eventually awarded an MiD I would suggest checking CWGC for an officer of that unit being KIA during the relevant period and then seeing if you can find an MiD in the LG
Dave, Thanks for that analysis and information. I'll make further enquiries along the lines you suggest.
Richard. Thank you for posting your father's diary on Wordpress. Whilst he goes nowhere near the three battles that I am interested in: Salerno, Cassino and Anzio, it gives some terrific background information about the situation in Italy at the time. A really good read. Regards Frank
Thanks Frank. It's nice to know they are of more general interest. In the next couple of weeks I'll be adding the remaining diary entries up to July 1945 when the diary stops - with my Dad still in Italy! I have no idea when he finally returned to Blighty but I'm making further enquiries.
Richard, There are other references on this site to obtaining service records, but for info: Get a copy of military service records - GOV.UK Snap!!
