All The Victoria Crosses of World War Two

Discussion in 'General' started by Drew5233, Jun 6, 2009.

  1. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Charles Ferguson Hoey

    Rank: Captain Temporary Major

    Unit: 1st Battalion, Lincolnshire Regiment, British Army

    Awarded: ?

    Nationality: Canadian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 16th May 1944, gives the following details:

    In Burma, on the 16th February, 1944, Major Hoey's Company formed part of a force which was ordered to capture a position at all costs.

    After a night march through enemy held territory the force was met at the foot of the position by heavy machine-gun fire. Major Hoey personally led his Company under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire right up to the objective. Although wounded at least twice in the leg and head he seized a Bren gun from one of his men and firing from the hip, led his Company onto the objective. In spite of his wounds the Company had difficulty in keeping up with him, and Major Hoey reached the enemy strong post first where he killed all the occupants before being mortally wounded.

    Major Hoey's outstanding gallantry and leadership, his total disregard of personal safety and his grim determination to reach the objective resulted in the capture of this vital position.


    Additional Infomation:

    Also awarded a MC.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Taukkyan War Cemetery, Myanmar
     
  2. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    George Albert Cairns

    Rank: Lieutenant

    Unit: The Somerset Light Infantry (Prince Albert’s) Attached South Staffordshire Regiment, British Army

    Awarded: 26th July 1949

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 20th May 1949, gives the following details:

    On the 5th March, 1944, 77 Independent Infantry Brigade, of which the 1st South Staffordshire Regiment formed a part, landed by glider at Broadway (Burma).

    On the 12th March, 1944, columns from the South Staffordshire Regiment and 3/6 Gurkha Rules established a road and rail block across the Japanese lines of communication at Henu Block. The Japanese counter-attacked this position heavily in the early morning of the 13th March, 1944, and the South Staffordshire Regiment was ordered to attack a hill-top which formed the basis of the Japanese attack.

    During this action, in which Lieutenant CAIRNS took a foremost part, he was attacked by a Japanese officer, who, with his sword hacked off Lieutenant CAIRNS left arm. Lieutenant CAIRNS killed this Officer; picked up the sword and continued to lead his men in the attack and slashing left and right with the captured sword killed and wounded several Japanese before he himself fell to the ground.

    Lieutenant CAIRNS subsequently died from his wounds. His action so inspired all his comrades that, later the Japanese were completely routed, a very rare occurrence at that time.


    Additional Infomation:

    This was the last VC of WW2 to be Gazetted.

    The original citation was with General Wingate when he was killed this act of bravery was forgotten until the war was over.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Taukkyan War Cemetery, Myanmar
     
  3. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Nand Singh

    Rank: Sepoy Acting Naik

    Unit: 1/11th Sikh Regiment, Indian Army

    Awarded: 24th October 1944

    Nationality: Indian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 2nd June 1944 gives the following details:

    In Burma on the night of the 11th/12th March, 1944, a Japanese platoon about 40 strong with Medium and Light Machine-Guns and a Grenade Discharger infiltrated into the Battalion position covering the main Maungdaw7Buthidaung road and occupied a dominating position where they dug foxholes and underground trenches on the precipitous sides of the hill.

    Naik Nand Singh commanded the leading section of the platoon which was ordered to recapture the position at all costs. He led his section up a very steep knife-edged ridge under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire. Although wounded in the thigh he rushed ahead of his section and took the first enemy trench with the bayonet by himself. He then crawled forward alone under heavy fire and though wounded again in the face and shoulder by a grenade which burst one yard in front of him, took the second trench at the point of the bayonet.

    A short time later when all his section had been either killed or wounded, Naik Nand Singh dragged himself out of the trench and captured a third trench, killing all the occupants with his bayonet. Due to the capture of these three trenches the remainder of the platoon were able to seize the top of the hill and deal with the enemy. Naik Nand Singh personally killed seven of the enemy and owing to his determination, outstanding dash and magnificent courage; the important position was won back from the enemy.


    Additional Infomation:

    Later promoted to the rank of Jemadar.

    Also awarded MVC.

    Singh was killed in the post war troubles between India and Pakistan in 1947.

    Posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), the second-highest Indian decoration for battlefield gallantry making Nand Singh unique in the annals of VC winners.

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    Cremated at Uri, India. Ashes Location Unknown
     
  4. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Cyril Joe Barton

    Rank: Pilot Officer

    Unit: 578 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve

    Awarded: 5th December 1944

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 23rd June 1944 gives the following details:

    On the night of 30th March, 1944, Pilot Officer Barton was captain and pilot of a Halifax aircraft detailed to attack Nuremberg. When some 70 miles short of the target, the aircraft was attacked by a Junkers 88. The first burst of fire from the enemy made the intercommunication system useless. One engine was damaged when a Messerschmitt 210 joined the fight. The bomber's machine guns were out of action and the gunners were unable to return the fire.

    Fighters continued to attack the aircraft as it approached the target area and, in the confusion caused by the failure of the communications system at the height of the battle, a signal was misinterpreted and the navigator, air bomber and wireless operator left the aircraft by parachute.

    Pilot Officer Barton faced a situation of dire peril. His aircraft was damaged, his navigational team had gone and he could not communicate with the remainder of the crew. If he continued his mission, he would be at the mercy of hostile fighters when silhouetted against the fires in the target area and if he survived, he would have to make a 41/2 hours journey home on three engines across heavily-defended territory. Determined to press home his attack at all costs, he flew on and, reaching the target, released the bombs himself.

    As Pilot Officer Barton turned for home the propeller of the damaged engine, which was vibrating badly, flew off It was also discovered that two of the petrol tanks had suffered damage and were leaking. Pilot Officer Barton held to his course and, without navigational aids and in spite of strong head winds, successfully avoided the most dangerous defence areas on his route. Eventually he crossed the English coast only 90 miles north of his base.

    By this time the petrol supply was nearly exhausted. Before a suitable landing place could be found, the port engines stopped. The aircraft was now too low to be abandoned successfully. Pilot Officer Barton therefore ordered the three remaining members of his crew to take up their crash stations. Then, with only one engine working, he made a gallant attempt to land clear of the houses over which he was flying. The aircraft finally crashed and Pilot Officer Barton lost his life, but his three comrades survived.

    Pilot Officer Barton had previously taken part in 4 attacks on Berlin and 14 other operational missions. On one of these, two members of his crew were wounded during a determined effort to locate the target despite appalling weather conditions. In gallantly completing his last mission in the face of almost impossible odds, this officer displayed unsurpassed courage and devotion to duty.

    Additional Infomation:

    Barton is remembered in a variety of guises having several roads, a housing estate, a school and a annual prize at a college he attended.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Memorial, Selby Abbey, North Yorkshire
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    Bonner Hill Cemetery, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey
     
    Anne-Marie1 likes this.
  5. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Abdul Hafiz

    Rank: Jemadar

    Unit: 9th Jat Infantry, Indian Army

    Awarded: 24th October 1944

    Nationality: Indian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 25th July 1944 gives the following details:

    In Burma, in the early hours of the 6th April, 1944, in the hills 10 miles North of Imphal, the enemy had attacked a, standing patrol of 4 men and occupied a prominent feature overlooking a Company position. At first light a patrol was sent out and contacted the enemy, reporting that they thought approximately 40 enemy were in position. It was not known if they had dug in during the hours of darkness.

    The Company Commander ordered Jemadar Abdul Hafiz to attack the enemy, with two sections from his platoon, at 0930 hours. An artillery concentration was put down on the feature and Jemadar Abdul Hafiz led the attack. The attack was up a completely bare slope with no cover, and was very steep near the crest. Prior to the attack, Jemadar Abdul Hafiz assembled his sections and told them that they were invincible, and all the enemy on'- the hill would be killed or put to flight. He so inspired his men that from the start the attack proceeded with great dash. When a few yards below the crest the enemy opened fire with machineguns and threw grenades. Jemadar Abdul Hafiz sustained several casualties, but immediately ordered an assault, which he personally led, at the same time shouting the Mohammedan battle-cry. The assault went in without hesitation and with great dash up the last few yards of the hill, which was very steep. On reaching the crest Jemadar Abdul Hafiz was wounded in the leg, but seeing a machine-gun firing from a flank, which had already caused several casualties, he immediately went towards it and seizing the barrel pushed it upwards, whilst another man killed the gunner.

    Jemadar Abdul Hafiz then took a Bren gun from a wounded man and advanced against the enemy, firing as he advanced, and killing several of the enemy. So fierce was the attack, and all his men so inspired by the determination of Jemadar Abdul Hafiz to kill all enemy in sight at whatever cost, that the enemy, who were still in considerable numbers on the position, ran away down the opposite slope of the hill. Regardless of machine-gun fire which was now being, fired at him from another feature a few hundred yards away, he pursued the enemy, firing at them as- they retired. Jemadar Abdul Hafiz was badly wounded in the chest from this machine-gun fire and collapsed holding the Bren gun and attempting to fire at the retreating enemy, and shouting at the same time Re-organise on the position and I will give covering fire. He died shortly afterwards.

    The inspiring leadership and great bravery displayed by Jemadar Abdul Hafiz in spite of having been twice wounded, once mortally, so encouraged his men that the position was captured, casualties inflicted on the enemy to an extent several times the size of his own party, and enemy arms recovered on the position which included 3 Lewis Machine-guns, 2 grenade dischargers and 2 officers swords.

    The complete disregard for his own safety and his determination to capture and hold the position at all costs was an example to all ranks, which it would be difficult to equal.


    Additional Infomation:

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Imphal Indian Army War Cemetery, Imphal, India
     
  6. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    John Pennington Harman

    Rank: Lance Corporal

    Unit: 4th Battalion, The Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment, British Army

    Awarded: 26th March 1945

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 20th June 1944, gives the following details:

    In Burma at Kohima on 8th April, 1944, Lance-Corporal Harman was commanding a section of a forward platoon. Under cover of darkness the enemy established a machinegun post within 50 yards of his position which became a serious menace to the remainder of his Company. Owing to the nature of the ground Lance Corporal Harman was unable to bring the fire of his section on to the enemy machine-gun post. Without hesitation he .went forward by himself and using a four second grenade which tie held on to for at least two seconds after releasing the lever in order to get immediate effect, threw it into the post and followed up immediately. He annihilated the post and 'returned to his section with the machine-gun.

    Early the following morning he recovered a position on a forward slope 150 yards from the enemy in order to strengthen a platoon which had been heavily attacked during the night. On occupying his position he discovered a party of enemy digging in under cover of machine-gun fire and snipers. Ordering his Bren gun to give him covering fire he fixed his bayonet and alone charged the post shooting four and bayoneting one thereby wiping out the post.

    When walking back Lance-Corporal Harman received a burst of machine-gun fire in his side and died shortly after reaching our lines.

    Lance-Corporal Harman's heroic action and supreme devotion to duty were a wonderful inspiration to all and were largely responsible for the decisive way in which all attacks were driven off by his Company.


    Additional Infomation:

    A plaque is displayed on a house in Shrewsbury Road, Beckenham, Kent.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:


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    Kohima War Cemetery, Kohima, India
     
  7. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Norman Cyril Jackson

    Rank: Sergeant

    Unit: No.106 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve

    Awarded: 13th November 1945

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 23rd October 1945 gives the following details:

    This airman was the flight engineer in a Lancaster detailed to attack Schweinfurt on the night of 26th April, 1944. Bombs were dropped successfully and the aircraft was climbing out of the target area. Suddenly it was attacked by a fighter at about 20,000 feet. The captain took evading action at once, but the enemy secured many hits. A fire started near a petrol tank on the upper surface of the starboard wing, between the fuselage and the inner engine.

    Sergeant Jackson was thrown to the floor during the engagement. Wounds which he received from shell splinters in the right leg and shoulder were probably sustained at that time. Recovering himself, he remarked that he could deal with the fire on the wing and obtained his captain's permission to try to put out the flames.

    Pushing a hand fire-extinguisher into the top of his life-saving jacket and clipping on his parachute pack, Sergeant Jackson jettisoned the escape hatch above the pilot's head. He then started to climb out of the cockpit and back along the top of the fuselage to the starboard wing. Before he could leave the fuselage his parachute pack opened and the whole canopy and rigging lines spilled into the cockpit.

    Undeterred, Sergeant Jackson continued. The pilot, bomb aimer and navigator gathered the parachute together and held on to the rigging lines, paying them out as the airman crawled aft. Eventually he slipped and, falling from the fuselage to the starboard wing, grasped an air intake on the leading edge of the wing. He succeeded in clinging on but lost the extinguisher, which was blown away.

    By this time, the fire had spread rapidly and Sergeant Jackson was involved. His face, hands and clothing were severely burnt. Unable to retain his hold, he was swept through the flames and over the trailing edge of the wing, dragging his parachute behind. When last seen it was only partly inflated and was burning in a number of places.

    Realising that the fire could not be controlled, the captain gave the order to abandon aircraft. Four of the remaining members of the crew landed safely. The captain and rear gunner have not been accounted for.

    Sergeant Jackson was unable to control his descent and landed heavily. He sustained a broken ankle, his right eye was closed through burns and his hands were useless. These injuries, together with the wounds received earlier, reduced him to a pitiable state. At daybreak he crawled to the nearest village, where he was taken prisoner. He bore the intense pain and discomfort of the journey to Dulag Luft with magnificent fortitude. After 10 months in hospital he made a good recovery, though his hands require further treatment and are only of limited use.

    This airman's attempt to extinguish the fire and save the aircraft and crew from falling into enemy hands was an act of outstanding gallantry. To venture outside, when travelling at 200 miles an hour, at a great height and in intense cold, was an almost incredible feat. Had he succeeded in subduing the flames, there was little or no prospect of his regaining the cockpit. The spilling of his parachute and the risk of grave damage to its canopy reduced his chances of survival to a minimum. By his ready willingness to face these dangers he set an example of self-sacrifice which will ever be remembered.


    Additional Infomation:

    Jackson's RAF career started as a engine fitter and he retrained to a flight engineer.

    Eventually promoted to Warrant Officer.

    In April 2004 Jackson's VC medal was sold at auction for £235,250.

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    Twickenham Cemetery, Whitton, Greater London
     
  8. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    John Neil Randle

    Rank: Lieutenant Temporary Captain

    Unit: 2nd Battalion, The Royal Norfolk Regiment, British Army

    Awarded: ?

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 8th December 1944, gives the following details:

    On the 4th May, 1944, at Kohima in Assam, a Battalion of the Norfolk Regiment attacked the Japanese positions on a nearby ridge. Captain Randle took over command of the Company which was leading the attack, when the Company Commander was severely wounded. His handling of a difficult situation in the face of heavy fire was masterly and although wounded himself in the knee by grenade splinters he continued to inspire his men by his initiative, courage and outstanding leadership, until the Company had captured its objective and consolidated its position. He then went forward and brought in all the wounded men who were lying outside the perimeter.

    In spite of his painful wound Captain Randle refused to be evacuated and insisted on carrying out a personal reconnaissance with great daring in bright moonlight prior to a further attack by his Company on the positions to which the enemy had withdrawn.

    At dawn on 6th May the attack opened led by Captain Randle and one of the platoons succeeded in reaching the crest of the hill held by the Japanese. Another platoon, however, ran into heavy medium machine gun fire from a bunker on the reverse slope, of the feature. Captain Randle immediately appreciated that this particular bunker covered not only the rear of his new position but also the line of communication of the Battalion and therefore the destruction of the enemy post was imperative if the operation was to succeed.

    With utter disregard of the obvious danger to himself Captain Randle charged the Japanese machine gun post single-handed with rifle and bayonet. Although bleeding in the face and mortally wounded by numerous bursts of machine gun fire he reached the bunker and silenced the gun with a grenade thrown through the bunker slit. He then flung his body across the slit so that the aperture should be completely sealed.

    The bravery shown by this officer could not have been surpassed and by his self sacrifice he saved the lives of many of his men and enabled not only his own Company but the whole Battalion to gain its objective and win a decisive victory over the enemy.


    Additional Infomation:

    Randle was the Brother in Law of Flying Officer Manser VC.

    There is a memorial to Captain Randle in St. Peter's Church Petersham.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Memorial in a Church, Petersham, Surrey
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    Kohima War Cemetery, Kohima, India
     
  9. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Kamal Ram

    Rank: Sepoy

    Unit: 8th Punjab Regiment, Indian Army

    Awarded: 24th October 1944

    Nationality:Indian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 25th July 1944 gives the following details:

    In Italy, on 12th May, 1944, after crossing the River Gari overnight, the Company advance was -held up by heavy machine-gun fire from four posts on the front and flanks. As the capture of the position was essential to secure the bridgehead, the Company Commander called for a volunteer to get round the rear of the right post and silence it.

    Volunteering at once and crawling forward through the wire to a flank, Sepoy Kamal Ram attacked the post single handed and shot the first machine-gunner; a second German tried, to seize his weapon but Sepoy Kamal Ram killed him with the bayonet, and then shot a German officer who, appearing from the trench with his pistol, was about to fire.

    Sepoy Kamal Ram, still alone, at once went on to attack the second machine-gun post which was continuing to hold up the advance, and after shooting one machine gunner, he threw a grenade and the remaining enemy surrendered.

    Seeing a Havildar making a reconnaissance for an attack on the third post, Sepoy Kamal Ram joined him, and, having first covered his companion, went in and completed the destruction of this post.

    By his courage, initiative and disregard for personal risk, Sepoy Kamal Ram enabled his Company to charge and secure the ground vital to the establishment of the bridgehead and the completion of work on two bridges.

    When a platoon, pushed further forward to widen the position, was fired on from a house, Sepoy Kamal Ram, dashing towards the house, shot one German in a slit trench and captured two more. His sustained and outstanding bravery unquestionably saved a difficult situation at a critical period of the battle and enabled his Battalion to attain the essential part of their objective.


    Additional Infomation:

    Later promoted to the rank of Subadar.

    Kamal Ram was the youngest recipient of the VC during WW2 at the age of 19.

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    Cremated at Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan, India. Ashes Unknown
     
  10. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Richard Wakeford

    Rank: Lieutenant Temporary Captain

    Unit: 2/4th The Hampshire Regiment, British Army

    Awarded: 12th December 1944

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 11th July 1944 gives the following details:

    On 13th May, 1944, Captain Wakeford commanded the leading Company on the right flank of an attack on two hills near Cassino, and accompanied by his orderly and armed only with a revolver, he killed a number of the enemy and handed over 2O prisoners when the Company came forward. On the final objective a German officer and 5 other ranks were holding a house. After being twice driven back by grenades. Captain Wakeford, with a final dash, reached the window and hurled in his grenades. Those of the enemy, who were not killed or wounded, surrendered.

    Attacking another feature on the following day, a tank became bogged on the start line, surprise was lost and the leading infantry were caught in the enemy's fire, so that the resulting casualties endangered the whole operation. Captain Wakeford, keeping his Company under perfect control, crossed the start line and although wounded in the face and in both arms, led his men up the hill. Half way up the hill his Company came under heavy Spandau fire; in spite of his wounds, he organized and led a force to deal with this opposition so that his company could get on.

    By now the Company was being heavily mortared and Captain Wakeford was again wounded, in both legs, but he still went on and reaching his objective, he organized and consolidated the remainder of his Company and reported to his Commanding Officer before submitting to any personal attention. During the seven hour interval before stretcher-bearers could reach him his unwavering high spirits encouraged the wounded men around him. His selfless devotion to duty, leadership, determination, courage and disregard for his own serious, injuries were beyond all praise.


    Additional Infomation:

    Later promoted to the rank of Major.

    Thread on Wakeford VC here. Including original recommendation for VC , war diary entry & extracts from Regimental History.
    http://www.ww2talk.com/forum/italy/14628-wakeford-vc-original-recommendation.html


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    Cremated at Randall's Park Crematorium, Leatherhead, Surrey.
    Ref 12584 Ashes scattered in Garden of Remembrance.
     
  11. spidge

    spidge RAAF RESEARCHER

  12. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Francis Arthur Jefferson

    Rank: Fusilier

    Unit: 2nd Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers, British Army

    Awarded: 12th December 1944

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 11th July 1944 gives the following details:

    On 16th May, 1944, during an attack on the Gustav Line, an anti-tank obstacle held up some of our tanks, leaving the leading Company of Fusilier Jefferson's Battalion to dig in on the hill without tanks or anti-tank guns. The enemy counter-attacked with infantry and two Mark IV tanks, which opened fire at short range causing a number of casualties, and eliminating one P.I.A.T. group entirely.

    As the tanks advanced towards the partially dug trenches, Fusilier Jefferson, entirely on his own initiative, seized a P.I.A.T. and running forward alone under heavy fire, took up a position behind a hedge; as he could not see properly, he came into the open, and standing up under a hail of bullets, fired at the leading tank which was now only twenty yards away. It burst into flames and all the crew were killed. Fusilier Jefferson then reloaded the P.I.A.T. and proceeded towards the second tank, which withdrew before he could get within range. By this time our own tanks had arrived and the enemy counter-attack was smashed with heavy casualties.

    Fusilier Jefferson's gallant act not merely saved the lives of his Company and caused many casualties to the Germans, but also broke up the enemy counter-attack and had a decisive effect on the subsequent operation. His supreme gallantry and disregard of personal risk contributed very, largely to the success of the action.


    Additional Infomation:

    Later promoted to the rank of Lance-Corporal.

    Jefferson's medal was stolen in 1982 and has not been recovered.

    Jefferson was cremated in 1982.
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    Cremated at Overdale Crematorium, Bolton Lancashire.
    Ashes scattered in the Memorial Garden at Wellington Barracks, Bury.
     
  13. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    John Keefer Mahony

    Rank: Major

    Unit: The Westminster Regiment (Motor), Canadian Army

    Awarded: 3rd December 1944

    Nationality: Canadian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 11th July 1944 gives the following details:

    On the 24th May, 1944, "A" Company of the Westminster Regiment (Motor), under the command of Major Mahony, was ordered to establish the initial bridgehead across the river Melfa.

    The enemy still had strong- forces of ranks, self-propelled guns and infantry holding defensive positions on the East side of the river. Despite this, Major Mahony personally led his Company down to and across the river, being with the leading section. Although the crossing was made in full view of and under heavy fire from enemy machine gun posts on the right rear and left front, he personally directed each, section into its proper position on the West bank with the greatest coolness and confidence. The crossing was made and a small bridgehead was established on ground where it was only possible to dig shallow weapon pits. From 1530 hours the Company maintained itself in the face of enemy fire and attack until 2030 hours, when the remaining Companies and supporting weapons were able to cross the river and reinforce them.

    The bridgehead was enclosed on three sides by an 88 mm. self-propelled gun 450 yards to the right, a battery of four 2 cm. A.A. guns 100 yards to the left, a Spandau 100 yards to the left of it, to the left of the Spandau a second 88 mm. self-propelled gun, and approximately a Company of infantry with mortars and machine-guns on the left of the 88 mm. gun. From all these weapons, Major Mahony's Company was constantly under fire until it eventually succeeded in knocking out the self-propelled equipment and the infantry on the left flank.

    Shortly after the bridgehead had' been established, the enemy counter-attacked with infantry supported by tanks and self-propelled guns. The counter-attack was beaten off by the Company with its P.I.A.T.'s, 2" Mortars and Grenades, due to the skill with which Major Mahony had organised his defences. With absolute fearlessness and disregard for his own safety, Major Mahony personally directed the fire of his P.I.A.T.'s throughout this action, encouraging and exhorting his men. By this time, the Company strength had been reduced to 60 men, and all but one of the Platoon Officers had been wounded Scarcely an hour later, enemy tanks formed- up about 500 yards in front of the bridgehead and in company with about a Company of infantry, launched a second counter-attack. Major Mahony, determined to hold the position at all costs, went from section to section with words of encouragement, personally directing fire of Mortars and other weapons.

    At one stage, a section was pinned down in the open by accurate and intense machinegun fire. Major Mahony crawled forward to their position, and by throwing Smoke Grenades, succeeded in extricating the section from its position with the loss of only one man. This counter-attack was finally beaten off with the destruction of three enemy self-propelled guns and one Panther tank.

    Early in the action, Major Mahony was wounded in the head and twice in the leg, but he refused medical aid and continued to direct the defence of the bridgehead, despite the fact that movement of any kind caused him extreme pain. It was only when the remaining Companies of the Regiment had crossed the river to support him that he allowed his wounds to be dressed and even then refused to be evacuated, staying instead with his Company.

    The forming and holding of a bridgehead across the river was vital to the whole Canadian Corps action, and failure would have meant delay, a repetition of the attack, probably involving heavy losses in men, material and time, and would have given the enemy a breathing space which might have broken the impetus of the Corps advance.

    Major Mahony, knowing this, never allowed the thought of failure or withdrawal to enter his mind, and infused his spirit and determination into all his men. At the first sign of hesitation or faltering, Major Mahony was there to encourage, by his own example, those who were feeling the strain of battle. The enemy perceived that this' officer was the soul of the defence and consequently fired at him constantly with all weapons, from rifles to 88 mm. guns. Major Mahony completely ignored the enemy fire and with great courage and absolute disregard, for personal danger, commanded his Company with such great confidence, energy and skill that the enemy's efforts to destroy the bridgehead were all defeated.

    The great courage shown by Major Mahony in this action will forever be an inspiration to his Regiment and to the Canadian Army.


    Additional Infomation:

    The Westminster Regiment is still part of the Canadian Army today with the added honour of Royal in the title.

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    Mount Pleasant Cemetery and Crematorium, Ontario, Canada
     
  14. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Stanley Elton Hollis

    Rank: Warrant Officer Class II (Company Sergeant Major)

    Unit: 6th Battalion, The Green Howards (Alexandra, Princess of
    Wales's Own Yorkshire Regiment) (Middlesbrough), British Army

    Awarded: 10th October 1944

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 15th August 1944 gives the following details:

    In Normandy on 6th June, 1944, during the assault on the beaches and the Mont Fleury Battery, C.S.M. Hollis's Company Commander noticed that two of the pillboxes had been by-passed, and went with C.S.M. Hollis to see that they were clear. When they were 20 yards from the pillbox, a machine-gun opened fire from the slit and C.S.M. Hollis instantly rushed straight at the pillbox, firing his Sten gun. He jumped on top of the pillbox, re-charged his magazine, threw a grenade in through the door and fired his Sten gun into it, killing two Germans and making the remainder prisoner. He then cleared several Germans from a neighbouring trench. By his action, he undoubtedly
    saved his Company from being fired on heavily from the rear and enabled them to open the main beach exit.

    Later the same day, in the village of Crepon, the Company encountered a field gun and crew armed with Spandaus at 100 yards range. C.S.M. Hollis was put in command of a party to cover an attack on the gun, but the movement was held up. Seeing this, C.S.M. Hollis pushed right forward to engage the gun with a P.I.A.T. from a house at 50 yards range. He was observed by a sniper who fired and grazed his right cheek, and at the same moment the gun swung round and fired at point-blank range into the house. To avoid the fallen masonry C.S.M. Hollis moved his party to an alternative position. Two of the enemy gun crew had by this time been killed, and the gun was destroyed shortly afterwards. He later found that two of his men had stayed behind in the house and immediately volunteered to get them out. In full view of the enemy who were continually firing at him, he went forward alone using a Bren gun to distract their attention from the other men. Under cover of his diversion, the two men were able to get back.

    Wherever fighting was heaviest, C.S.M. Hollis appeared and in the course of a magnificent day's work, he displayed the utmost gallantry and on two separate occasions his courage and initiative prevented the enemy from holding up 'the advance at critical stages. It was largely through his heroism and resource that the. Company's objectives were gained and casualties were not heavier, and by his own bravery he saved the lives of many of his men.


    Additional Infomation:

    Hollis worked in his fathers Fish and Chip shop after leaving school.

    He learned to be a Navigation Officer with a Whitby Shipping Company.

    He fell ill IN 1930 with blackwater fever which ended his merchant navy career.

    Turning his hand to lorry driving and in 1939 he enlisted as a territorial in 4th Battalion, Green Howards

    At the outbreak of WW2 he was mobilised into the 6th Battalion and went to France.

    At Dunkirk he was promoted to Sergeant from Lance Corporal.

    Hollis went on to serve in North Africa and Italy where he was promoted again to CSM before D-Day.

    Hollis was awarded the only Victoria Cross during the Normandy landings.

    After the war, he spent several years as a sandblaster in a local steelworks.

    Later in life Hollis went into the bar trade and one of the pubs was renamed The Green Howard.

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    Acklam Cemetery and Crematorium, North Yorkshire
     
  15. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Hanson Victor Turner

    Rank: Sergeant

    Unit: 1st Battalion, The West Yorkshire Regiment (The Prince of Wales’s Own), British Army

    Awarded: ?

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 15th August 1944 gives the following details:

    In Burma, at Ningthoukong soon after midnight on the night of 6th-7th June, 1944, an attack was made by a strong force of Japanese with medium and light machineguns. In the first instance the attack largely fell on the S.W. corner of the position which was held by a weak platoon of about 20 men of which Sergeant Turner was one of the Section Commanders. By creeping up under cover of a nullah the enemy were able to use grenades with deadly effect against this portion of the perimeter. Three out of the four light machine-guns in the platoon were destroyed and the platoon was forced to give ground. Sergeant Turner with coolness and fine leadership at once reorganised his party and withdrew 40 yards. The enemy made determined and repeated attempts to dislodge them and concentrated all fire they could produce in an effort to reduce the position and so extend the penetration. Sustained fire was kept up on Sergeant Turner and his dwindling party by the enemy for a period of two hours. The enemy, however, achieved no further success in this sector. Sergeant Turner with a doggedness and spirit of endurance of the highest order repelled all their attacks, and it was due entirely to his leadership that the position was ultimately held throughout the night.

    When it was clear that the enemy were attempting to outflank the position, Sergeant Turner determined to take the initiative in driving the enemy off and killing them. The men left under his command were the minimum essential to maintain the position he had built up with such effect. No party for a counter-attack could therefore be mustered and speed was essential if the enemy were to be frustrated. He at once, boldly and fearlessly went forward from his position alone armed with all the hand grenades he could carry, and went into the attack against the enemy single handed. He used his weapons with devastating effect and when his supply was exhausted he went back for more and returned to the offensive again. During all this time the enemy were keeping up intense small arms and grenade fire. Sergeant Turner in all made five journeys to obtain further supplies of grenades and it was on the sixth occasion still single handed, while throwing a grenade among a party of the enemy, he was killed.

    His conduct on that night will ever be remembered by the Regiment. His superb leadership and undaunted will to win in the early stages of the attack was undoubtedly instrumental in preventing the enemy plant from succeeding. The number of enemy found dead the next morning was ample evidence of the deadly effect his grenade throwing had had. He displayed outstanding valour and had not the slightest thought of his own safety. He died on the battlefield in a spirit of supreme self sacrifice.


    Additional Infomation:

    Halifax Council purchased Turner's VC when it was put up for sale and they donated it to the Duke of Welligton's Regimental Museum in Halifax.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Imphal War Cemetery, India
     
  16. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Michael Allmand

    Rank: Lieutenant Acting Captain

    Unit: Indian Armoured Corps Attached 6th Gurhka Rifles, Indian Army

    Awarded: 17th July 1945

    Nationality: British


    The citation in the London Gazette of 24th October 1944 gives the following details:

    Captain Allmand was commanding the leading platoon of a Company of the 6th Gurkha Rifles in Burma on 11th June, 1944, when the Battalion was ordered to attack the Pin Hmi Road Bridge.

    The enemy had already succeeded in holding up our advance at this point for twenty four hours. The approach to the Bridge was very narrow as the road was banked up and the low-lying land on either side was swampy and densely covered in jungle. The Japanese who were dug in along the banks of the road and in the jungle with machine guns and small arms, were putting up the most desperate resistance.

    As the platoon come within twenty yards of the Bridge, the enemy opened heavy and accurate .fire, inflicting severe casualties and forcing the men to seek cover. Captain Allmand, however, with the utmost gallantry charged on by himself, hurling grenades into the enemy gun positions and killing three Japanese himself with his Kukrie.

    Inspired by the splendid example of their platoon commander the surviving men followed him and captured their objective.

    Two days later Captain Allmand, owing to casualties among the officers, took over command of the Company and, dashing thirty yards ahead of it through long grass and marshy ground, swept by machine gun fire, personally killed a number of enemy machine gunners and successfully led his men onto the ridge of high ground that they had been ordered to seize.

    Once again on June 23rd in the final attack on the Railway Bridge at Mogaung, Captain Allmand, although suffering from trench-foot, which made it difficult for him to walk, moved forward alone through deep mud and shell-holes and charged a Japanese machine gun nest single-handed, but he was mortally wounded and died shortly afterwards. The superb gallantry, outstanding leadership and protracted heroism of this very brave officer were a wonderful example to the whole Battalion and in the highest traditions of his regiment.


    Additional Infomation:

    Allmand studied at Oxford until the end of 1942 when he joined the British Indian Army.

    After the fall of Singapore he volunteered for service with the Chindits where he was attached to the Gurkhas.

    He is remembered in a memorial window at the St Edward the Confessor Catholic Church in Golders Green, London.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Taukkyan War Cemetery, Myanmar
     
  17. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Ganju Lama

    Rank: Rifleman

    Unit: 1st Battalion, 7th Gurhka Rifles, Indian Army

    Awarded: 24th October 1944

    Nationality: Indian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 5th September 1944 gives the following details:

    In Burma, on the morning of the 12th June, 1944, the enemy put down an intense artillery barrage lasting an hour on our positions north of the village of Ningthoukhong. This heavy artillery fire knocked out several bunkers and caused heavy casualties, and was immediately followed by a very strong enemy attack supported by five medium tanks. After fierce hand to hand fighting, the perimeter was driven in in one place and enemy infantry, supported by three medium tanks, broke through, pinning our troops to the ground with intense fire.

    "B" Company, 7th Gurkha Rifles, was ordered to counter-attack and restore the situation. Shortly after passing the starting line it came under heavy enemy medium machine-gun and tank machine-gun fire at point blank range, which covered all lines of approach. Rifleman Ganju Lama, the No. I of the P.I.A.T. gun on his own initiative, with great coolness and complete disregard for his own safety, crawled forward and engaged the tanks single handed. In spite of a broken left wrist and two other wounds, one in his right hand and one in his leg, caused by withering cross 'fire concentrated upon him, Rifleman Ganju Lama succeeded in bringing his gun into action within thirty yards of the enemy tanks and knocked out first one and then another, the third tank being destroyed by an anti-tank gun.

    In spite of his serious wounds, he then moved forward and engaged with grenades the tank crews, who now attempted to escape. Not until he had killed or wounded them all, thus enabling his company lo push forward, did he allow himself to be taken back to the Regimental Aid Post to have his wounds dressed.

    Throughout this action Rifleman Ganju Lama, although very seriously wounded, showed a complete disregard for his own personal safety, outstanding devotion to duty and a determination to destroy the enemy which was an example and an inspiration to all ranks. It was solely due to his prompt action and brave conduct that a most critical situation was averted, all positions regained and very heavy casualties inflicted on the enemy.


    Additional Infomation:

    Strangely Ganju became a Gurkha but he was from India not Nepal.

    Later promoted to the rank of Hon. Captain.

    Also awarded MM.

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    Cremated at Sangmo, India. Location of ashes unknown
     
  18. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Andrew Charles Mynarski

    Rank: Pilot Officer

    Unit: No.419 Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force

    Awarded: ?

    Nationality: Canadian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 8th October 1946 gives the following details:

    Pilot Officer Mynarski was the mid-upper gunner of a Lancaster aircraft, detailed to attack a target at Cambrai in France, on the night of 12th June, 1944. The aircraft was attacked from below and astern by an enemy fighter and ultimately came down in flames.

    As an immediate result of the attack, both port engines failed. Fire broke out between the mid-upper turret and the rear turret, as well as in the port wing. The flames soon became fierce and the captain ordered the crew to abandon the aircraft.

    Pilot Officer Mynarski left his turret and went towards the escape hatch. He then saw that the rear gunner was still in his turret and apparently unable to leave it. The turret was, in fact, immovable, since the hydraulic gear had been put out of action when the port engines failed, and the manual gear had been broken by the gunner in his attempts to escape.

    Without hesitation, Pilot Officer Mynarski made his way through the flames in an endeavour to reach the rear turret and release the gunner. Whilst so doing, his parachute and his clothing, up to the waist, were set on fire. All his efforts to move the turret and free the gunner were in vain. Eventually the rear gunner dearly indicated to him that there was nothing more he could do and that he should try to save his own life. Pilot Officer Mynarski reluctantly went back through the flames to the escape hatch. There, as a last gesture to the trapped gunner, he turned towards him, stood to attention in his flaming clothing and saluted, before he jumped out of the aircraft. Pilot Officer Mynarski's descent was seen by French people on the ground. Both his parachute and clothing were on fire. He was found eventually by the French, but was so severely burnt that he died from his injuries.

    The rear gunner had a miraculous escape when the aircraft crashed. He subsequently testified that, had Pilot Officer Mynarski not attempted to save his comrade's life, he could have left the aircraft in safety and would, doubtless, have escaped death.

    Pilot Officer Mynarski must have been fully aware that in trying to free the rear gunner he was almost certain to lose his own life. Despite this, with outstanding courage and complete disregard for his own safety, he went to the rescue. Willingly accepting the danger, Pilot Officer Mynarski lost his life by a most conspicuous act of heroism which called for valour of the highest order.


    Additional Infomation:

    Mynarski was a son of recent Polish immigrants to Canada.

    In 1940 he joined the Royal Winnipeg Rifles before joining the RCAF.

    Mynarski is remembered with a school named after him, two Canadian Legions and a Air Cadet Squadron.

    One of the only two flying Lancasters in the world is known by his name.

    Andrew Mynarski is also remembered at the Saint George Hotel in Middleton St. George by the "Mynarski Bar".

    RAF Middleton has a larger than life statue of Mynarski and his home town is raising funds to have a replica made in Winnipeg.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Meharicourt Communal Cemetery, Somme, France
     
  19. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Tulbahadur Pun

    Rank: Rifleman

    Unit: 3rd Battalion, 6th Gurhka Rifles (Frontier Force), Indian Army

    Awarded: 1st January 1945

    Nationality: Nepalese


    The citation in the London Gazette of 7th November 1944 gives the following details:

    In Burma on June 23rd, 1944, a Battalion of the 6th Gurkha Rifles was ordered to attack the Railway Bridge at Mogaung. Immediately, the attack developed the enemy opened concentrated and sustained cross fire at close range from a position known as the Red House and from a strong bunker position two hundred yards to the left of it.

    So intense was this cross fire that both the leading platoons of "B" Company, one of which was Rifleman Tulbahadur Pun's, were pinned to the ground and the whole of his Section was wiped out with the exception of himself, the Section Commander and one other man. The Section Commander immediately led the remaining two men in a charge on the Red House but was at once badly wounded. Rifleman Tulbahadur Pun and his remaining companion continued the charge, but the latter too was immediately badly wounded.

    Rifleman Tulbahadur Pun then seized the Bren Gun, and firing from the hip as he went, continued the charge on this heavily bunkered position alone, in the face of the most shattering concentration of automatic fire, directed straight at him. With the dawn coming up behind him, he presented a perfect target to the Japanese. He had to move for thirty yards over open ground, ankle deep in mud, through shell holes and over fallen trees.

    Despite these overwhelming odds, he reached the Red House and closed with the Japanese occupants. He killed three and put five more to flight and captured two light machine guns and much ammunition. He then gave accurate supporting fire from the bunker to the remainder of his platoon which enabled them to reach their objective.

    His outstanding courage and superb gallantry in the face of odds which meant almost certain death were most inspiring to all ranks and were beyond praise.


    Additional Infomation:

    Later promoted to the rank of Hon. Lieutenant.

    Pun has been awarded 10 other medals, including the Burma Star.

    He was refused entrance to the UK by British officials in Nepal as it was claimed he "doesn't have strong enough ties with the UK" for him to be allowed to settle there.

    On 1st June 2007 this decision was overturned.

    As of 2007 Pun received a British Army pension of £132 (GBP) per month.

    Pun arrived at Heathrow in July 2007 and was met with an official guard of honour. Col David Hayes, head of the Gurkha Rifles, saluted him and said: "I wish to emphasise the manner in which he's revered by serving Gurkhas. His reputation goes before us into battle."

    Pun commented, "I have never had so much respect as in these two days, leaving Kathmandu and arriving in Britain."

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  20. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Sefanaia Sukanaivalu

    Rank: Corporal

    Unit: 3rd Battalion, Fijian Infantry Regiment, Fiji Military Forces

    Awarded: ?

    Nationality: Fijian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 31st October 1944 gives the following details:

    On June 23rd, 1944, at Mawaraka, Bougainville, in the Solomon Islands, Corporal Sefanaia Sukanaivalu crawled forward to rescue some men who had been wounded when their platoon was ambushed and some of the leading .elements had become casualties.

    After two wounded men had been successfully recovered this N.C.O., who was in command of the rear section, volunteered to go on farther alone to try and rescue another one, in spite of machine gun and mortar fire, but on the way -back he himself was seriously wounded in the groin and thighs and fell to the ground, unable to move any farther.

    Several attempts were then made to rescue Corporal Sukanaivalu but without success owing to heavy fire being encountered on each occasion and further casualties caused.

    This gallant N.C.O. then called to his men not to try and get to him as he was in a very exposed -position, but they replied that they would never leave him to fall alive into the hands of the enemy.

    Realising that his men would not withdraw as long as they could see that he was still alive and knowing that they were themselves all in danger of being killed or captured as long as they remained where they were, Corporal Sukanaivalu, well aware of the consequences, raised himself up in front of the Japanese machine gun and was riddled with bullets.

    This brave Fiji soldier, after rescuing two wounded men with the greatest heroism and being gravely wounded himself, deliberately sacrificed his own life because he knew that it was the only way in which the remainder of his platoon could be induced to retire from a situation in which they must have been annihilated had they not withdrawn.


    Additional Infomation:

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Rabaul War Cemetery and Memorial, Papua New Guinea
     

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