202740 Harold William CHESTNUT, MC, Royal Army Medical Corps attached 6 Grenadier Guards

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Chestnut, Harold William
Rank: Captain
Service No: 202740
Regiment: Royal Army Medical Corps attached 6 Grenadiers Guards
Theatre of Combat or Operation: Italy
Award: Military Cross
Date of Announcement in London Gazette: 27 January 1944
Date 1943-1944
Catalogue reference WO 373/4

201st Guards Brigade, 56th Division, 10 Corps
202740 War Substantive Captain Harold William CHESTNUT, ROYAL ARMY MEDICAL CORPS attached 6th Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS

During the attack by 6th Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS on TABORRA Hill, near SALERNO, on 26th September 1943, this Officer showed conspicuous gallantry and exceptional devotion to duty in operating his Regimental Aid Post under very difficult and trying conditions.

Situated on top of a high ridge and under almost continuous mortar and shell fire, he carried out major operations including leg amputations with no thought for himself, no rest or sleep whatsoever during a period of at least 48 hours, during which time he dealt with over 150 casualties at his Regimental Aid Post.

On account of the great difficulty of getting stretchers up the hill, all but walking wounded were forced to remain for period of 24 hours, but in spite of this handicap, owing to Captain CHESTNUT's resources, care and skill, only two died.

Throughout the whole action this Officer's conduct was an outstanding example of selfless devotion to others.

Signed Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding 6th Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS

Granted an Immediate M.C.