71440 Joseph Gerald FITZGERALD, MC, 2 London Irish Rifles, RUR: 12/08/1943

Lieutenant (temporary Captain) (Acting Major) Joseph Fitzgerald, Infantry, was awarded the Military Cross.
This officer was commanding “F” Company in a two-company attack to secure a bridgehead over the River Simeto on the afternoon of August 5th, 1943. He led his company with great dash and gallantry throughout the attack. Some disorganisation was apparent after the bridgehead had been gained owing to the activity of enemy snipers and loss of officers and N.C.O.s during the attack. It was at this point that Major Fitzgerald, realising that the position might become serious, took charge and with great coolness and efficiency directed the reorganisation of the two companies, ensuring complete success of the operation. His personal courage and disregard for personal safety were of the highest order.

Major Fitzgerald has since been killed in action. His home was in Swords, Co. Dublin.


http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/...asp?Edoc_Id=7643737&queryType=1&resultcount=1
Name Fitzgerald, Joseph
Rank: Lieutenant
Service No: 71440
Regiment: 2 London Irish Rifles
Theatre of Combat or Operation: Sicily
Award: Military Cross
Date of Announcement in London Gazette: 18 November 1943
Date 1943-1944
Catalogue reference WO 373/3

London Gazette:
17 August 1943
http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/36139/supplements/3727
26 November 1943
http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/36265/supplements/5230
16 November 1943

http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/36251/supplements/5062
http://www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2075758
Major JOSEPH GERALD FITZGERALD M C, 71440, 2nd Bn. The London Irish Rifles, Royal Ulster Rifles who died age 39 on 12 August 1943
Son of Michael and Agnes Fitzgerald; husband of Kathleen Fitzgerald, of Brackenstown, Co. Dublin, Irish Republic. B.A., LL.B., Solicitor.
Remembered with honour CATANIA WAR CEMETERY, SICILY
Grave/Memorial Reference: III. F. 49.


See this thread for ref:
www.ww2talk.com/forum/research-material/19413-volunteers-eire-who-have-won-distinctions.html#post195852
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