Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Corporal

Unit:

"A" Company, The Seaforth Highlanders of Canada, 2nd Canadian Infantry Brigade, 1st Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army

Recommendation:
During the daylight attack on the 600 foot dominating ridge West of Adrano, on 5 August 1943, by “A” Coy of the Seaforths of Canada, Cpl. McParlon was ordered to lead his section around the right flank to act as a cut off.
The section had only advanced some 300 yards when it was held up by observed fire from an enemy machine gun post, and Cpl. McParlon was wounded in the leg and back.
Despite his wounds and enemy action, this NCO, displaying gallantry and devotion to duty of a high order, continued to advance.
He detailed his section to give him covering fire; then, joined by Cpl. Donahue from another section, attacked the machine gun post. Together they advanced 500 yards in full view of the enemy and then, skillfully and courageously firing his Thompson submachine gun at point blank range, he and Cpl. Donahue cleared out the post and enabled the advance to continue.
Disregarding his wounds, and in spite of the pain he was suffering, Cpl. McParlon assisted in the evacuation of casualties. Only after the position had been consolidated and all casualties evacuated, did he accept treatment.