The National Archives | DocumentsOnline | Image Details Name Easter, Thomas Rank: Guardsman Service No: 2733442 Regiment: 3 Battalion Welsh Guards Theatre of Combat or Operation: Italy Award: Military Medal Date of Announcement in London Gazette: 03 August 1944 Date 1944 Catalogue reference WO 373/7 1st Guards Brigade, 6th Armoured Division, 13 Corps 2733442 Guardsman, Lance-Corporal Thomas EASTER, 3rd Battalion WELSH GUARDS 2nd / 3rd April 1944. CASSINO. Map Ref: 867197, Sheet 160, 1/100,000, ITALY. This N.C.O. was in command of cable laying party on the night 2nd / 3rd April when lines were required to two forward patrol positions and a M.M.G. Section position. These lines had to pass through an area which was one of the enemy's normal harassing targets both with artillery and mortars. Consequently the lines were frequently being cut. Having carried out his task with the greatest coolness on the first night, and although it was not his turn, he volunteered to go out again on the following night and again the night after in order to keep these vital communications open. This entailed spending most of each night in the are of enemy bombardment and it was entirely due to his great courage, and magnificent example that these communications remained open. On one occasion he was out in front of our patrols in order that the line should be open as soon as the patrol was in position. I cannot speak too highly for the example this N.C.O. showed on these occasions and has always shown in the past. He is first to volunteer for these highly dangerous tasks and he is an inspiration to all those who work with him in the field. Signed Lieutenant-Colonel W.V. MAKINS, Bart., 3rd Battalion WELSH GUARDS [Additional hand-written comment] Forwarded and strongly recommended. This N.C.O. has been brought to notice on previous occasions for distinguished conduct. Signed J.C. HAYDON, Brigadier, 1st Guards Brigade. Granted an Immediate M.M.
