To Trooper Samuel Johnston
In recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Tunisia

The award of a Bar to Trooper Johnston's Military Medal is possibly one which is unique in British Military history. As will be seen, it was awarded for an event that took place prior to that for which he was awarded the Military Medal.

The Military Medal, 21st May, 1943.

Citation
   On the afternoon of 22 April Captain Mackean, “A” Squadron Recce Officer was commanding a troop when his tank hit a mine at 593432. Trooper Johnston got down and in spite of machine-gun fire made a full investigation and report. The suspected machine-gun position was then engaged and many attempts were made to restart work. Eventually the machine-gunners surrendered.
    Trooper Johnston then proceeded to work on the track in the middle of a German minefield and after doing the final work in the dark it was mended by 2130 hrs.
    The tank was then driven out of the minefield but broke down again 300 yards further on with the final drive trouble. Trooper Johnston again gave every possible assistance to prepare the tank for fitters by breaking the track and stripping down as much as possible. This work was carried out under shell fire and on the following morning under long range machine-gun fire. Trooper Johnston displayed throughout, the utmost coolness while under fire and by his devotion to duty and skill he helped very materially to get the tank back into harbour by 26 April. Trooper Johnston had no thought for his personal safety and his only aim was to help to recover his tank at all costs. His conduct was exemplary in every way.
    Trooper Johnston was recommended by me for the M.M. on 9 March 1945 for evacuating under fire his Squadron Leader out of a tank that had been hit by an 80 m.m. anti-tank gun. Up to the present this award has not been granted and I would like this second recommendation to be taken in conjunction with the first if it has been turned down.

Bar to the Military Medal, 12th July, 1943.

Citation
   On 28 February part of “A” Squadron were returning to take up their position at first light in the area 3247 (Tunisia, Sheet 4), when Major W.H. Ketchell’s tank was hit through the turret at close range. The operator and gunner were killed and Major Ketchell seriously wounded.
    Trooper Johnston and Lance-Corporal Moriarty, the two drivers, immediately jumped out of the tank and succeeded in rescuing their Squadron Leader from the turret and carrying him to safety. This action was performed under considerable machine-gun fire and in full view of the enemy who were approximately 300 yards away.
    They undoubtedly saved the life of Major Ketchell as his tank was subsequently set on fire and totally destroyed by enemy fire. Their conduct was most inspiring to their comrades.

Transcribed from copies of the Army Forms making the recommendation.

Recommended for both awards by
Lieutenant-Colonel D.Dawnay, Commanding Officer North Irish Horse.

Endorsed by
Brigadier B. Howlett, Commander 25th Tank Brigade.

Approved by
Lieutenant-General K. Anderson, General Officer Commmanding 1st. Army

London Gazette Record - Military Medal
Issue: 36083 Date: 8.7.1943 Page: 3088.
which view.

London Gazette Record - Bar to Military Medal
Issue: 36180 Date: 23.9.1943 Page: 4218.
which view.

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