Award of the Military Medal
to
Sergeant William John Maxwell, 28th June, 1944.
0600 – 1600 hrs 23 May 44. Adolf Hitler Line, Italy.
In the action resulting in the forcing of the Hitler Line, Serjeant Maxwell, as Troop Serjeant was supporting a platoon of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada. At 1300 hrs. his tank was hit by a heavy caliber anti-tank gun and put out of action. The area around the tank was being subjected to very heavy enemy shelling and mortaring. Serjeant Maxwell ordered his gunner to dismantle the Besa 7.92 mm machine-gun and to set it up in a fire position on the ground. When this had been done, Serjeant Maxwell ordered the rest of the crew to take cover in the tank while he continued to fire the Besa at the enemy. His action was instrumental in pinning down a complete enemy strong point. This so angered the enemy that a heavy mortar concentration was put down on his position as a result of which his Besa was put out of action and he himself severely wounded. His devotion to duty has been an inspiration to the Regiment and courage cannot be over-recommended.
Recommended by
Lietuenent-Colonel E. V. Srickland, Commanding Officer North Irish Horse.
Endorsements by
Brigadier J. L. Tetley, Commander 25th Tank Brigade
Brigadier Wilson, Commander 2nd Canadian Infantry Division.
Approved by
Lieutenant-General O. W. H. Leese, General Officer Commanding 8th Army.
London Gazette Record
Issue: 36668 Date: 24.8.44 Page: 3924.
which view.
World War Two Awards and Decorations
or to the Citations Index