Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Dienstplichtig Soldaat (Enlisted Private)

Unit:

Wapen der Infanterie (Infantry)

Awarded on:

June 21st, 1949

Citation:
"Distinguished himself through courageous conduct against the enemy on the morning of May 10, 1940, while assigned to a machine gun company occupying Ypenburg airfield, during its invasion and partial capture by the enemy, despite the successive capture of several friendly battle positions, and the withdrawal of several soldiers in the area he occupied.
In particular, when left alone with his sergeant-gun commander, he successfully opened fire on landing enemy transport aircraft and, remaining alone, successfully continued the fire, continuing to defend the airfield until he was surrounded and taken prisoner. After being trapped in a hangar by the enemy with other Dutch soldiers, he was seriously wounded by artillery fire."

Royal decree No. 5, 21st June 1949.