Military Cross - Signals Recipients
From RCSigs.ca
The Military Cross has been awarded to the following 67 Signals personnel. In addition, 7 Signals recipients have also been awarded the first bar.[1]
Name | Award Era | Award Date | Citation | Citation Image(s) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Lt R.F. Allen | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty as brigade signalling officer, during the advance from the Canal de l'Escaut during the end of October and first week in November, 1918. He organized a chain system of communications, which never failed, and by means of it brigade headquarters was in continuous touch with all battalions throughout the operations. He carried out his duties with the greatest courage and success, staying on duty day and night, even under the heaviest fire. Without his assistance it would not have been possible to force the passage of the Grand Honnelle river. [4th Divisional Signal Company attached to HQ 11th Infantry Brigade.] | |||
Lt F. Barber | For conspicuous devotion to duty and gallantry. As brigade signal officer he laid and maintained communication between brigade headquarters and battalions headquarters and report centre during the operations lasting eight days. On several occasions he, in order to relieve exhausted linesmen, personally proceeded under intense hostile fire to repair breaks. His coolness, energy and resourcefulness inspired all ranks and maintained uninterrupted communication with all advanced stations. [3rd Divisional Signal Company attached to HQ 7th Infantry Brigade.] | |||
Lt E.L.M. Burns | For conspicuous gallantry in action. In addition to organizing and running the signal lines, he personally laid and repaired armoured cables under very heavy fire. He displayed great courage and coolness throughout. (More medals - Engr? - DSO, OBE, * He was CE but worked with 3 Signal Coy in WW1) | |||
Lt A.M. Burslem | On 7 March 1945, the Algonquin Regiment with under command A Squadron 29 Canadian Armoured Reconnaissance Regiment, attacked enemy strong points at MR 103362 on the outskirts of VEEN, GERMANY. Lt Burslem, RCCS (attached to the Algonquin Regiment) directed the battalion intercommunication during this attack. During this period shelling was extremely heavy. It was impossible to prevent infiltration of enemy snipers or the resultant harassing of unit lines of communication. Drivers of supply vehicles and ambulance jeeps were continually being wounded and killed by sniper fire. In spite of this constant danger, Lt Berslem personally guided his line parties into the forward localities under heavy fire and methodical sniping and during a thirty-six hour period this officer made no less than eight trips personally repairing line and carrying batteries to the forward posts. During this action Lt Burslem also acted as guide to ammunition and supply forward localities and on one of these occasions the ammunition carrier he was leading was halted by strong anti-tank fire. Disregarding the fire his actions drew, this officer quickly transferred some badly need PIAT ammunition into his jeep and attempted to run it through to the forward company where supplies had been exhausted. He was again held up by sniper fire but successfully deadly with this situation by employing his Bren gun and eventually reached the beleaguered company. Throughout this whole action Lt Burslem carried out his hazardous work with a quiet efficiency which inspired confidence in all those who worked with him. The continuous gallant, unselfish, conduct of this officer is regarded as most worthy and in the highest interests of the service. | |||
Capt P.L. Cadegan | During the advance of the 3rd brigade toward Ortona Crossroads MR 322142 on the 12th and 13th of December the area was subjected to heavy shelling and portions of the brigade area covered by enemy snipers and machine guns. Captain P.L. Cadegan, his section reduced by casualties, personally supervised the establishment, and maintenance of line communications within the brigade area with complete disregard for his safety. His untiring work, his cheerfulness and cool efficiency under heavy shelling and small arms fire enabled efficient communications to be available at all times and was an inspiration to his section and all personnel of the brigade with whom he came in contact. | |||
Lt L.G. Cote | During the night 2/3 May 1953, C Company, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment, sustained a heavy attack by superior enemy forces accompanied by an intense artillery bombardment. At the time the attack was launched Lieutenant Coté was supervising the communications with a fighting patrol in the front of C Company. This patrol encountered the enemy and with the increased volume of traffic which occurred when it became apparent they had made contact with a large enemy force, it was necessary for this officer to remain on the position to supervise and assist the operators on the wireless and telephone communications, which he did in a most competent manner. As the attack developed, Lieutenant Coté assisted No.7 Platoon Commander of C Company to maintain his organization and visited section posts to report conditions of the defences. On one such tour he was twice blown from the trench into bunkers before he could return to the command post. In spite of this he carried on in a calm and confident manner, inspiring all concerned with his personal courage and coolness. At the height of the enemy assault, he left the command post to personally engage the enemy with pistol and Sten, and finally a Bren gun and grenades. He remained in the open trenches during the time that the Platoon Commander called for fire on the platoon positions and until the enemy had withdrawn, after which he once more toured the platoon locality and picked up four survivors whom he led to No.8 platoon position to the rear of No.7 platoon position. There is no doubt that his cool and courageous action in undertaking tasks for which he, as a Signals Officer need not have necessarily performed, contributed both directly and indirectly to the successful defence of the company locality. | |||
Lt R.C. Croly | Awarded on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday with no citation. | |||
Lt A.C. Davis | Throughout all the military operations in ITALY and HOLLAND, Lieutenant DAVIS has done a splendid job of providing first class communications for the Cape Breton Highlanders. On many occasions, during very crucial moments in this battalions battles, it has been the maintenance of communications which has won the day. This officer has performed his duties with outstanding efficiency and cheerfulness. He has always given his best and his spirit is reflected throughout his signal platoon. During the battle for SAN ALBERTO, ITALY in the first week of January, Lieutenant DAVIS had charge of the Cape Breton Highlanders communications from battalion headquarters to the fighting companies. The lines of communication were long and hazerdous because there was the ever present counter-attack threat to the Cape Breton Highlander's left flank. The enemy shelled the entire battalion area and communication routes constantly. It was a tremendous task for the signallers to maintain and repair the lines because they were constantly being blown out by shell fire. Everything that moved in the area was fired on by the enemy. The only troops permitted to go forward of Battalion Headquarters were the signallers on line maintenance duty. Time and again Lieutenant DAVIS and his men crawled forward and amid intense shelling repaired the lines. It was due to his personal example and leadership that his men were inspired to keep going for several days under these difficult circumstances. The ultimate success of this operation was largely due to this officers efforts in maintaining communications during the critical stages of this battle. [5 Canadian Armoured Divisional Signals attached to Cape Breton Highlanders.] | |||
Lt J.R. Donnan | For conspicuous gallantry and good work. With his cable section he worked night and day on a trunk route to the front line, often under heavy shell fire. He and his men worked continuously for several days without rest, but completed their work. | |||
Lt P.E. Earnshaw | For conspicuous gallantry in action. He established and maintained communications throughout the operations under very heavy fire, displaying great courage and determination. He set a splendid example to his men. | |||
Capt W.D. Egan | On the 18 Apr 45, 10 Cdn Inf Bde has secured a small bridgehead across the KUSTEN Canel NE of ALTENOYTHE in germany. This bridgehead and the SOUTH bank of the canel, being very open, were continually under heavy enemy fire from small arms, mortars and 88s to such an extent that it was impracticable to proceed with the bridging and rafting necessary to bring across the supporting arms that would be required before the bridgehead could be expanded. Foreseeing that a Tactical HQ would be required as soon as supporting arms could cross Capt Egan, with a two-man crew, proceeded to lay a line across the canal and forward almost to the forward defended localities to be used for communications reqrward from this Tactical HQ. Traffic on the narrow secondary road, which was the main Bde axis, was heavy and hte conditions of enemy fire, which forced the infantry to confine themselves to slit trenches, made cable laying a hazardous process. Nonetheless Capt Egan and his small line crew perservered until their job was completed. Their efforts were rewarded when, a few hours later, Tactical HQ did in fact move across the canal and found a means of communication immediately available. The devotion to duty and courage displayed by Capt Egan and the total disregard for his own personal safety in completing this important task materially affected the results of the operation and are worthy of the highest praise. [4th Canadian Armoured Divisional Signals] | |||
Lt R.G. Elliott | On the 26th of February 1945, 6 Canadian Infantry Brigade were to attack the last remaining high ground before the HOCHWALD forest defensive line. The Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada were to seize and hold the right of the feature, thus protecting the main attack from flank thrusts and infiltration. To achieve this purpose the complete battalion was lifted on armoured troop carriers in order that their objectives might be reached in the minimum time, and bypassing all intermediate resistance, which was to be taken care of later. Early in the action the armoured vehicle carrying the battalion communications was hit by enemy fire destroying the wireless set, killing the commanding officer, and wounding the intelligence officer. Lieutenant Elliott, the battalion signal officer, realizing that communicaitons were vital, dedided to set up in the nearest house, as his present position was untenable, seized a spare set and ran for the nearest house. Immediately enemy machine gun posts opened up and were successful in hitting the set rendering it useless. Again with complete disregard for his own safety he made his way from the house, over two hundred yards of open ground under heavy fire, to the artillery officer. He requested this officer to keep contact with the companies through his channels while he made his way to rear headquarters for new wireless equipment. Having ascertained communications would be maintained, he made his way by foot to rear headquarters, although the route took him over roads that were covered by intense enemy fire. At rear headquarters he quickly informed the second in command of the situation and collecting the necessary equipment made his way forward again. In order to return quickly he chose his jeep to travel in, at the same time bringing forward jeeps to evacuate causualties. On returning he set up the wireless contacting all companies and thus restoring full battalion communications. This officer's supreme devotion to duty, bravery, and determination to carry out his duty against seemingly unsurmountable odds was a definte factor in maintaining communications so vital to the successful completion of this extremely important operation. [Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada, 6th Candian Infantry Brigade, 2nd Canadian Infantry Division] | |||
Lt G.P. Farr | In two days' operations he showed the greatest initiative and personal courage in getting wires forward under heavy machine gun and artillery fire, and in establishing communication under circumstances involving the greatest personal danger. He kept his brigadier in touch with the forward battalions during the whole advance, and displayed efficiency, determination and gallantry of the highest order. [Signal Officer 5th Canadian Infantry Brigade.] | |||
Lt B. Faughnan | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an attack. As brigade signalling officer he planned and carried out the maintenance of a speaking line to each battalion engaged in the operation. He was continually working in an area swept by shell and machine-gun fire, and interruptions in the service occasioned by continuous breaks in the line were frequent, and immediately repaired. [4th Canadian Divisional Signal Company attached to a Canadian Infantry Brigade.] | |||
Lt C.O. Fellowes | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an attack. He worked unceasingly under fire in his endeavours to establish communication, and followed with his wires close behind the leading waves. He showed great determination and coolness under most difficult circumstances. | |||
Lt A.B. Fennell | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty as brigade signalling officer. All of his linesmen except one having become casualties, he personally with the remaining linesmen went out with reels of wire under intense artillery and machine-gun fire and got communication through at a critical time. During the operations he took no rest, but remained continually on duty in the shelled area. he accomplished splendid work all the time at great personal risk and under tremendous disadvantages. | |||
Lt W.W. Finlay | Lieutenant Warren William FINLAY has been in charge of the line section of 1 Canadian Infantry Divisional Signals since August 1944. In this capacity he has done consistently outstanding work. The responsibility of providing line communications within the Division during battle required a high degree of personal courage, leadership, resourcefulness, indefatigable purpose and continuous hard work under very trying conditions. As one example of his outstanding service Lieutenant FINLAY personally supervised the layin gof lines across the IJSSEL ????? at map reference 945024 Sheet 5 ZUTPHEN when 1 Canadian Infantry Division forced a bridgehead across the river on 11 April 1945. Lieutenant FINLAY led a small party of linemen to lay the lines across the river from boats one hour after the initial wave of infantry crossed in BUFFALOS. The first boat crossing the river with the line was destroyed by shellfilre. Lieutenant FINDLAY arranged for the provision of a BUFFALO to take the lines across the river and under shellfire carried two lines across. Seven and a half hours after H hour a bridge was completed. Lieutenant FINDLAY then laid new lines over the bridge to ensure adequate communications by these alternate routes. In addition to this immediate task Lieutenant FINLAY was at the same time responsible for two other parties of linemen, one on lines approaching the bridge site and the other extending the lines on the far side of the river. It was his responsibility to see that the complete system was coordinated and maintained. Lieutenant FINLAY has at all times throughout the campaigns in ITALY and NORTH WEST EUROPE shown himself to be of exceptional value both as a fine loeader of men and also as an outstanding example to all those who have worked with him. | |||
Lt J.C. Franklin | For marked gallantry and ability as lines officer during the operations against Bourlon Wood and north of Cambrai. On September 27th, 1918, he personally reconnoitred the forward area close behind the attacking infantry under heavy machine-gun and shell fire with a view to utilising the enemy telephone routes, with the result that satisfactory communication was greatly facilitated. Despite enemy shelling and bombing, he maintained almost uninterrupted telephone communication throughout. [Canadian Corps Signal Company] | |||
Capt J.M. Galbraith | On 21 Dec 43, the L. Edmn R secured a foothold in ORTONA and moved it's B.H.Q. to the outskirts of the town at 334163. Command Post 2 Cdn Inf Bde HQ was established at 348133. The Seaforth Highlanders of Canada were ordered to move into ORTONA that night and to enable the Bde Comd to have first hand information of the situation, it was important that line communication be established between the Command Post and the L. Edmn R as soon as possible. Demolitions and danger to the line from shell fire made it impracticable to lay the line along the axis of the road. On the other hand, it was known that the approaches to the town were well mined and that to lay line across country would be an extrememly hazardous operation. The danger was increased by the fact that it was now dark and, since there was no moon, it was impossible to discern any indication of mines. Nevertheless, Capt. Galbraith with two linemen carrying two miles of cable and a telephone, set off. During the journey to L Edmn R the party passed through a minefield realizing they had done so only when they saw a sign warning them not to traverse the Area they had already crossed. On their return they again came in this minefield. It was too dark to ascertain its limits and time was too short to allow an extensive recce. Capt. Galbraith therefore, led his party again through the minefield, this time coming across the body of a soldier who, it was subsequently ascertained, had been killed by one of the mines with which the area was strewn. During this whole period the party was constantly under shell fire. Through the courage, determination and devotion, to duty of Capt Galbraith, line communication was established with the L Edmn R wihtin two hours and the conduct of the operation greatly assisted. ["K" Sec, 1st Canadian Infantry Divisional Signals] | |||
Lt D.N. Gardiner | This officer commands one of the cable sections allotted to the forward lines. His responsibility is to push cable as far forward as possible behind the leading infantry, so as to have communications waiting for formations on their move forward. This officer has discharged his duties in a most gallant and determined manner. On every move since this Corps came out of its rest period, lines have been waiting for formations when they have moved. Lt Gardiner has personally led his detachments close behind the leading infantry without regard to personal safety. He opened the MONTEMAGGIORE test point while shells were falling adjacent streets. Throughout the Gothic Line battles this officer has shown a high degree of bravery, resourcefulness and reliability, far in excess of that demanded in the normal course of his duties. [1 Canadian Corps Signals] | |||
Lt A.H. Garland | For conspicuous gallantry as brigade signalling officer during the operations around Bourlon Wood and north of Cambrai in September, 1918. He never rested in his efforts to maintain communication with the most forward troops. During the operation north of Cambrai a line was laid under his supervision which enabled a report centre to be established from close to the advancing troops, and owing to his fine example in face of heavy fire this line was maintained throughout the operation. [4th Divisional Signal Company attached to HQ 11th Canadian Infantry Brigade.] | |||
Capt J.E. Genet | For conspicuous gallantry in action. He personally successfully supervised and directed the maintenance of all signal communications to the rear, with great skill and determination, working under great difficulties and continual bombardments. | |||
Capt D.H. George | ||||
Lt R.B. Gibson | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty east of Arras from 26th to 28th August while in command of the signal company's cable detachments. The country over which it was necessary to build the lines was most difficult for cable carts, and was heavily shelled. In spite of all difficulties, he pushed ahead with his work, and, by his coolness, energy and fine example', accomplished what often appeared impossible feats. [3rd Divisional Signal Company ] | |||
Lt H.A. Golwynne | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during the attack on the Drocourt-Queant line on 2nd September, 1918. He was in charge of the Brigade Signal Section, and by his resource on all occasions maintained communications with the battalions, often personally repairing the lines broken by shell fire. His arrangements for visual communication were excellent: he also assisted a neighbouring brigade with its communications for the best part of a day. [4th Divisional Signal Company attached to HQ 12th Infantry Brigade.] | |||
Capt H.E. Good | Reference Map HOLLAND 1/25,000 Sheet 3703 BATHMEN. On 11 April 1945, 2 Canadian Infantry Brigade made an assault crossing of the IJSSEL River. Captian Hubert Ernest GOOD was in command of "K" Section, 1 Canadian Infantry Brigade Signals attached to headquarters 2 Canadian Infantry Brigade. Knowing good communication to be vitally important in an operation of this nature and knowing also that wireless communication was extremely unreliable due to the nature of the ground, Captian GOOD, on his own initiative, worked out in detail an ingenious plan whereby line communication could be maintained during battle. Captain GOOD's plan called for various lines to be carried over the 125 yard wide river on the heels of the assaulting waves, some lines being supported above water while others were sunk to the river bed. Crossing the IJSSEL with the assualt waves of intantry, Captain GOOD immediately pressed on to the locations of the two assualting battalion headquarters, and personally supervised the laying of the line, with the result that within fifteen minutes of crossing over the river both battalions were in communication again with Brigade Headquarters. During the night Captain GOOD was out constantly with his line crews laying lines and repairing those cut by the heavy enemy shell fire. Throughout this critical period, when one heavy counter attack was launched, communicaitons were maintained and restored in record time, although the lines were out time and again by shell fire and by our own "Buffaloes" in the off-loading area. Thus the Brigade Commander was able to maintain the close control so essential in an action of this type. As a result of Captain GOOD's skill and devotion to duty Brigade Headquarters was continually in communicaiton with the forward battalions throughout the battle. Had such excellent communication not been available, Brigade Headquarters would have been required to move across the river in order to maintain control of the battle, and a move at that time would have seriously disrupted all communications with the supporting arms and, as a consequence, prejediced the entire opereration. [1st Canadian Divisional Signals attached to 2 Canadian Infantry Brigade] | |||
Lt H.B. Hall | At Les Buissons and Vieux Cairn. From D day to D plus 6, Lt Hall with almost no rest worked indefatigably to maintain bn communications. During this critical and trying period while our posns were heavily counter-attacked, he maintained our communicaitons by his leadership and courage. On four separate occasions he took signallers out under fire to repair and lay line and on each occasion escaped by a very narrow margin. His coolness steadiness and personal courage inspired his men and were highly important in the success of the bn in holding its ground. [Stormont, Dundass & Glengarry Highlander's, 9th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Infantry Division] | |||
Capt A. Hartley | Awarded on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday with no citation. | |||
Lt D.B. Holman | For conspicuous gallantry from 2nd to 5th September, in the vicinity and forward of Triangle Wood. He was in charge of the line of communications in the forward area. He established the report centre at Triangle Wood. From these points he superintended the laying and maintaining of the forward lines to brigade headquarters. Throughout the operation he displayed great coolness under shell fire and bombing, and by his energy and devotion to duty set a fine example to his men. [4th Divisional Signal Company.] | |||
Capt S.B. Iler | New Year award; 1918. No citation. | |||
Lt H.H. Johnson | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During an attack this officer, with a party of twelve men, carried forward wireless instruments and heavy equipment through the enemy's counter-barrage for the purpose of erecting a station immediately in rear of the new front line. This party, with great determination, pushed forward and established their station under extremely difficult conditions. Through this officer's untiring an courageous efforts a satisfactory means of transmitting information to the forward areas was thus established. | |||
Lt F.H.M. Jones | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. On orders being received that a wireless station was to be dismantled and moved, he was sent forward on tis most difficult and important duty. He succeeded in dismantling the station and erecting it in its new position in spite of the difficult nature of the ground an heavy fire. He showed splendid courage and resource. | |||
Capt R.J.M. LaBrosse | Lieut. Labrosse volunteered to do secret service work abroad in 1943, and was parachuted into France together with another agent, to form a Prisoner of War escape organization. In March of that year, very shortly after their arrival, the chief was arrested by the Gestapo, and Labrosse found himself without a wireless set. In spite of this disaster, and although knowing that the Gestapo were looking for him, Labrosse got in touch with another organisation for whom he decided to stay and work. He remained working for this organisation until September 1943 then, owing to lack of technical equipment and other difficulties, he was obliged to return to this country. On arrival here he volunteered to return to France as a wireless operator. On this occasion he was sent over with another agent to form a new escape organisation for the evacuation of Allied Service personnel by sea from Brittany. After his return he performed most excellent work, maintaining a high standard of wireless contact with this country, and his associate has frequently spoken highly of him. During the course of their work together they organised the rescue of 150 Allied Service personnel by the very delicate method of evacuation by sea from the Brittany coast. When the supply of evaders dried up as a consequence of the transport limitations after the invasion, they organised a local Marquis in the Plouha area, and cleaned up the German forces in that region. | |||
Lt B. Lafleur | On the 3rd of March the Fusiliers Mont-Royal were attacking in the vicinity of the HOCHWALD forest to open the approaches to XANTEN. Early in the action connumications between the leading company and the tactical command post were severed due to a direct hit on the company's wireless set and it's operator. Lieutenant Lafleur, battalion signal officer, being unable to contact the company, immediately realized that communication must be restored, as the success of the operation must be known early, in order that the remainder of the plan could be put into effect. Carrying a replacement wireless set, he made his way forward towards the leading company. The area over which he had to travel was under heavy artillery and mortar fire, by observation from well sited enemy observation posts, and any movement brought down concentrations. Despite this he continued forward and was successful in reaching the company, installing the set and restoring commuincations. He personally operated the set, until a spare operator could be brought forward, passing the valuable information of the company's position and situation, which enabled the battalion commander to so appreciate the situation and launch the remainder of his plan. The superb courage and complete disregard for danger shown by Lieutenant Lafleur, enabled communications to be resotred against seemingly unsurmoutable odds, and was a large contribution toward the success of the operation. [Fusiliers Mont-Royal, 6th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 2nd Canadian Infantry Division] | |||
Lt W.G. Lawson | Near Vis-end-Artois, August 26th/28th, 1918, for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When communication with the firing line was broken he wen forward and under heavy fire superintended the completion and maintenance of communications for some hours during a critical period. He has on previous operations displayed great courage and tenacity of purpose in the performance of hazardous duties. [2nd Divisional Signal Company attached to 4th Infantry Brigade.] | |||
Maj A.G. Lawson | Awarded on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday with no citation. | |||
Maj A. Leavitt | New Year award; 1917. No citation. | |||
Capt S.A. Lee | Awarded on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday with no citation. [Fort Garry Horsey attached Canadian Cavalry Brigade Signal Troops] | |||
Capt J.H. Leeson | New Year award; 1917. No citation. | |||
Capt D.H. MacFarlane | New Year award; 1917. No citation. | |||
Lt A.I. MacMillan | On 2 Mar 45, 10 Cdn Inf Bde was given the arduous task of dislodging enemy paratps from strongly def posns in the gap between the HOCHWALD and TUSCHENWALD in GERMANY. For this phase Tac HQ 10 Cdn Inf Bde was situated in a cellar in UDEMERBRUCH. It was absolutely vital to the success of this op that line comns be est and maint from this Tac HQ to Main Div HQ. Lt MacMillan, lines offr, Sigs 4 Cdn Armd Div, was given the difficult job of laying this extremely important artery. At the time the approaches to UDEMERBRUCH and the town itself, were under unrelenting enemy observation and extremely hy mortar fire. Ignoring this danger, Lt MacMillan made a personal and detailed recce of the route the cable was to follow. Later he returned with a cable det and under hy enemy mortar fire superintended the building and maintaining of this necessary line. Under his skillful and courageous direction, this tele link to Main Div HQ was successfully est, and repeatedly maint until the op was finished. Lt MacMillan's complete disregard for his own safety and his stubborn determination to est and maint this vital line comn despite all the enemy's efforts to prevent it, set an inspiring example to the men of his cable det. [4th Canadian Armoured Divisional Signals] | |||
Capt M.L. Maitland | For conspicuous gallantry and untiring work in keeping up communications during an attack. On several occasions he got news through to brigade headquarters from the front line, when the infantry lines were down, making trips into heavily shelled areas to supervise and maintain communications which were absolutely essential to the success of the operations. [5th Canadian Divisional Signal Company.] | |||
Maj F.G. Malloch | New Year award; 1918. No citation. | |||
Lt H.T. May | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He went forward with the assaulting troops and established a report centre and telephone connection. He repaired the lines under heavy fire, going without food or rest for many hours, maintaining communication throughout. | |||
Capt W.J.A. May | Captain W J A May commanded 5 Canadian Line Section throughout the campaign in FRANCE, BELGIUM, HOLLAND and GERMANY until April 1945. During the battles for CAEN, TILLYLA COMPAGNE and the FALAISE GAP, this section was responsible for providing line communications from Headquarters 2 Canadian Infantry Division and 3 Canadian Infantry Division including divisional artillery, and later, to 4 Canadian Armoured Division. The ground over which lines had to be laid in these areas was mostly open so that both tracked and wheeled vehicles were constantly breaking cables and poles. In addition, the roads were subject to continuous shellfire resulting in numerous broken lines. Inspired by Captain May's leadership, the men of his section followed his personal example by working night and day under shellfire, and often without relief. In particular, at CAEN, in July, two lines to 3 Canadian Infantry Division and 2 Canadian Army Group Royal Artillery, had to be maintained form a cable test point which was in full view of the enemy on the EAST bank of the river ORNE. Movement at this test point drew immeidate shellfire. On one day alone, thirty breaks had to be repaired on these lines, but in spite of this, Captian May and his detachments kept the lines in working condition. Later, at CORMELLES on 8 Auguest 1944, Captain May and two of his detachments were subjected to intense aerial bombing. The line that they had been constructing was completely destroyed. Proceeding with the detachments which had been depleted by casualties from the bombing, Captain May personally supervised the reconstruction of the line, building it in some places past burning lorries loaded with exploding ammunition. By his determined leadership, communicaiton was thus restored to the command post at 4 Canadian Armoured Division. Again, at LE GROS THIEL, on 26 August 1944, one of the vehicles of a detachment working under command of Captain May, drove onto a mine in an un-marked minefield, killing one man and severly wounding another. Captain May, without thought of personal danger carried out the wounded man, cleared a path through the minefield, and went on with the construction of the line. Throughout the whole campaign Captain May was invariably to be found where the going was most dangerous and difficult, directing and encouraging his men to ensure that operational communications were maintianed. [5 Canadian Line Section, 2 Canadian Corps Signals] | |||
Capt M.R. McCracken | New Year award; 1918. No citation. | |||
Capt K.R. McKinnon | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He gallantly led his signallers to the objective under heavy fire, and quickly established communication. Throughout the action, by his courage and tenacity, these communications were maintained, thereby rendering invaluable service. | |||
Capt W.H. McMurray | For conspicuous gallantry in action. He maintained communications with the frontline during our successful attack and the subsequent enemy bombardment. He was under heavy fire, and, when most of his lines-men had become casualties, he personally maintained the lines with total disregard of his own safety. | |||
Capt F.S. McPherson | Awarded on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday with no citation. | |||
Lt F.S. Merry | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He has always shown the utmost energy and resource in performing his duties as signal officer. He personally carried out a valuable reconnaissance under heavy fire to obtain information as to the situation, when, owing to circumstances, visual and telegraphic communication was impossible. He set a very fine example to his men. | |||
Lt G.H. Mills | For conspicuous gallantry and perseverance in laying and maintaining corps communication for three weeks, especially on one night, when he worked all night under heavy bombing to restore communication. Existing communication at the outset were almost nil, and new lines were constantly wrecked by tanks, transport traffic and hostile bombing, so he had many difficulties to overcome. [Canadian Corps Signal Company.] | |||
Lt S.R. Parker | Awarded on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday with no citation. | |||
Lt H.S. Quigley | For conspicuous gallantry and good work in maintaining communications. On one occasion during an attack he maintained an advanced report centre in spite of intense shelling. [1st Divisional Signal Company.] | |||
Lt F.A. Ritchie | For conspicuous gallantry during operations. He established telephonic communication between two Battalion headquarters under very heavy shell-fire and in very difficult circumstances personally assisted in maintaining the line. He has done other fine work. | |||
Lt A.F. Shaw | Awarded on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday with no citation. | |||
T/2Lt C. Shergold | ||||
Capt S.M. Smith | New Year award; 1919. No citation. | |||
Capt W.A. Steel | Awarded on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday with no citation. | |||
Capt A.E. Stewart | New Year award; 1918. No citation. | |||
Capt A.S. Todd | Captain TODD has served as Signals Officer at headquarters 5 Canadian Armoured Brigade since July 1944. During this period he has performed his duties with energy and persistence and the excellent reputation established by his squadron in and out of action is due almost entirely to his outstanding leadership and organising ability. In action Captain TODD is a fearless worker and by his personal example has inspired his men to perform superhuman tasks to ensure constant communications within the Brigade. During the advance to Lake CAMACCHIO, ITALY from 2 to 5 January this officer worked day and night without relief. He constantly refused to leave his post until he had ensured himself that communications were established with each regiment regardless of distance or time involved. On 2 January 1945, when wireless reception was limited, this gallant officer and his cable crews maintained line commuincations with armoured regiments throughout the fast moving battles. On 4 January, during the advance to CONVENTELLO, this officer displayed initiative and devotion to duty of the highest order. One squadron of an armoured regiment had succeeded in penetrating a distance of 3 miles behind enemy lines and had captured a bridge intact. By this time the squadron was out of communicaitons with the regiment. Despite the fact that there were enemy pockets of resistence along the route, Captain TODD laid a line to the squadron. Throughout the night he personally patrolled the cable to ensure constant communications until the remainder of the regiment reached the vital bridge. Throughout the operations in HOLLAND, Capt TODD has rendered invaluable service to the armoured Brigade. In the rapid advance from ARNHEM to the ZULDER ZEE this officer maintained vital communications under difficult conditions. By his courageous actions and determination under intense artillery and small arms fire Captain TODD has personally contributed to the successful concusion of the many battle in which 5 Canadian Armoured Brigade has participated. [5th Canadian Armoured Divisional Signals] | |||
Lt R.E. Turnbull | He showed marked devotion to duty throughout the operations in front of Amiens after 8th August, 1918, and in the Drocourt-Queant operations in September, 1918. during the Bourlon Wood operations he carried lines forward under heavy fire to establish a divisional report centre east of the Canal du Nord, near Sais en marquin Village. It was mainly due to his example and grit that these lines were successfully put through, thus enabling information to be got back early. [1st Divisional Signal Company.] | |||
Lt H.D. Waters | Awarded on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday with no citation. | |||
Lt E.G. Weeks | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When in charge of the buried cable system in the forward area, he displayed the greatest coolness and disregard of personal safety, making several reconnaissances through heavy fire, and sparing no effort to secure valuable information for his brigade headquarters. He set a splendid example to his men. | |||
Lt H.N. Westwood | As signal officer of the brigade he advanced, following the batteries in close support of the infantry in the storming of the Canal du Nord on 27th September, 1918. Frequently under fire, he maintained good communications throughout both that and the day following in the attacks on Abancourt. he remained continuously at work during the two days, setting a splendid example of devotion to duty to his men. [1st Canadian Divisional Signal Company attached to 2nd Brigade CFA.] | |||
Capt F.R. Wiggs | Capt Frank Ryder WIGGS was posted to HQ 8 Canadian Infantry Brigade to command K section 3 Canadian Infantry Divisional Signals in early October 1944 and has performed this duty throughout the remainder of the North West European campaign. This officer has performed his arduous duties most cheerfully and often under the most difficult conditions. It is to his credit that never once during the entire campaign was brigade headquarters out of touch with the units, and in many instances this was due to this officer personally going forward, at times for protracted periods without sleep. Capt WIGGS has continually set the example to his line crew, going forward under shellfire to ensure good communications. The day prior to the attach on KEPPELN 9844, the 25th February 45, Capt WIGGS spent more than 24 hours in the forward defence localities under heavy enamey shell and mortar fire to establish a forward signal centre that would ensure contant line communication with the units during the entire attack. This officer's tireless efforts and cool performance of duty under the most trying conditions and under enemy fire have been an inspiring example to his men. ["K" Sec, 3rd Canadian Infantry Divisional Signals] | |||
Lt H.K. Wyman | For great gallantry and devotion to duty in operations near Cambrai on 9th, 10th, and 11th October, 1918, in charge of the brigade signalling section. For three days he worked indefatigably, practically without sleep, and often under heavy fire, organizing and maintaining his lines of communication. He rendered valuable service. [2nd Divisional Signal Company.] | |||
Lt J.A.M. Young | Awarded on the occasion of His Majesty's Birthday with no citation. |
A bar (representing a second award of the Military Cross) has been awarded to the following Signals personnel.
Display Name | Award Era | Award Date | Citation | Citation Card(s) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Lt F. Barber | For marked gallantry and devotion to duty during the operations near Cambrai, 28th September to 1st October, 1918. He was in charge of the brigade signal section, and remained constantly at duty without any sleep during the whole period. He repeatedly went forward under heavy fire, and constant touch was maintained between all units of the brigade at all times, and valuable information as to the situation was speedily transmitted to brigade headquarters. [3rd Divisional Signal Company attached to HQ 7th Infantry Brigade.] | |||
Lt J.C. Franklin | New Year award; 1919. No citation. | |||
Capt A. Hartley | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty at Inchy between September 27th, 1918, and October 2nd, 1918. As second in command and as O.C. of his company, he was in charge of the construction and maintenance of all forward divisional lines, frequently carrying out his work in the face of great danger and difficulties. Prior to the attack on September 27th, a successful reconnaissance was made by him of the forward area for the purpose of locating prospective headquarters and the non-shelled areas for lines, thus assuring the safety of communications. [4th Canadian Signal Company.] | |||
Lt M.R. McCracken | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He supervised the maintenance of communications throughout the operations in a most efficient and capable manner, personally visiting the captured area to reconnoitre positions for visual stations. His efforts met with marked success, and the energetic and indefatigable manner in which he carried out his duty for four days without rest or sleep, and many times under heavy shell fire, materially contributed to the success of the operations. | |||
Lt K.R. McKinnon | For conspicuous gallantry and outstanding good work with divisional artillery signals during the operations August 8th, 1918 to August 18th, 1918 (on the Amiens front), and again during the operations from August 28th to September 6th, 1918 (on the Cambrai front). Time and again when his lines were cut he took charge of parties himself and worked night and day under heavy machine-gun and Shell fire to keep up almost impossible communications. The success of the divisional artillery was largely due to his tenacious work. On several occasions his lines were the only ones working, and the division was dependent on the information sent in by him. [2nd Divisional Signal Company attached 2nd Divisional Artillery.] | |||
Lt E.G. Weeks | During the Bourlon Wood operations his example of cheery devotion to duty and utter disregard for personal safety has been most marked. His work through the Amiens operation. 8th-11th August, 1918, and through the Drocourt-Queant operation, 28th August - 4th September, has been splendid, and successful maintenance of lines in both these operations was largely due to him. [1st Canadian Divisional Signal Company.] | |||
Lt J.A.M. Young | For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He superintended the laying and maintenance of wires over a considerable distance to the advanced positions, under heavy fire, and performed the duties of Brigade Signalling Officer with great ability. The courage and coolness with which he kept up communication during the battle contributed in no small degree to the success of the operation. |
References
- ↑ Data compiled from multiple sources including The London Gazette, Library and Archives Canada, History of the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals 1903-1961 and Semaphore to Satellite