The National Archives | DocumentsOnline | Image Details Armstrong, George Thomas Rank: Warrant Officer Class 2 Service No: 2022288 Regiment: 5 Battalion Grenadier Guards Theatre of Combat or Operation: Italy Award: Distinguished Conduct Medal Date of Announcement in London Gazette: 15 June 1944 Date 1944 Catalogue reference WO 373/6 LG - Viewing Page 2853 of Issue 36563 24th Guards Brigade, 1st Division, 6 Corps 2022288 Warrant Officer Cl. II (Drill-Serjeant) George Thomas ARMSTRONG, 5th Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS During the fighting on the ANZIO Bridgehead the 5th Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS was almost continuously in action from the 25 January - 9 February 1944 and this Warrant Officer was acting as R.S.M. Throughout the period Drill Serjeant ARMSTRONG was suffering severe pain from rheumatism, but refused to go sick. On the night 7/8 February the enemy broke through the front and heavily attacked Battalion H.Q., which was practically surrounded. This Warrant Officer led the defence with Tommy gun and hand grenades and by his extreme gallantry and powers of leadership succeeded in holding his position. He was twice blown over by enemy hand grenades, but this made no difference to his continuous disregard for his own safety and his ability to fight the enemy with the means at his disposal. Throughout the period that the Battalion was in close contact with the enemy Drill Serjeant ARMSTRONG's cheerfulness and devotion to duty were an inspiration to all with whom he came in contact, and his conduct is deserving of the highest commendation. Granted an Immediate D.C.M.