Award of the Military Cross
to
Captain Christopher Munro Thomas, 28th June, 1944.

Citation
   0600 hrs – 1600 hrs 23 May 1944 – Adolf Hitler Line, Italy. In the action against the Hitler Line, Captain Thomas as Recce Captain of his squadron was supporting the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada. Early in the battle his squadron was involved in very heavy fighting in the course of which both his squadron leader and that of the flanking squadron were knocked out and out of 30 tanks in the area, he took command and re-organised the remaining 11 fit ones. This he did on foot under heavy fire and in full view of the enemy. Having re-organised this force of 11 tanks, he carried out the original plan for the two squadrons and against all opposition fought his way to the objective, losing three more tanks on the way, to emplaced anti-tank guns at 100 yards range. In the course of this action he destroyed one Mark V Panther emplacement, one Mark IV Special, one 75 m.m. anti-tank gun, one 20 m.m. anti-tank gun and over-ran a complete enemy infantry strong point. The fact of his forces penetrating the enemy line was largely instrumental in the rolling up of the complete Hitler Line. Whilst holding the objective his own tank and five others were destroyed. Despite this, Captain Thomas would not leave the objective until ordered so to do. His coolness, daring and determination were an inspiration to all his officers and men.

Transcribed from a copy of Army Form making the recommendation.

Recommended by
Lieutenant-Colonel E. V. Strickland, Commanding Officer North Irish Horse.

Endorsements by
Brigadier J. L. Tetley, Commander 25th Tank Brigade.
Commander 2nd Canadian Infantry Brigade.
Lieutenant-General O. W. H. Lesse, General Office Commanding 8th Army.

Approved by
General H. R. Alexander, Commander-in-Chief Allied Central Mediterranean Force.

London Gazette Record
Issue: 36668 Date: 24.8.1944 Page: 3923.
which view.

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