Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Corporal

Unit:

No.7 Platoon, "A" Company, The Highland Light Infantry of Canada, 9th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army

Recommendation:
On 4 February 1945, Corporal Sherman Walter Erison, a section leader in 7 Platoon, "A" Company, The Highland Light Infantry of Canada, displayed outstanding courage and devotion to duty.
7 Platoon was given the task of occupying Eindjeshof, a large group of farm buildings in enemy territory, at night, in order to provide a firm base from which to launch a first light attack.
At 0330 hours, 5 February 1945, while approaching Eindjeshof, 7 Platoon encountered a thick anti-personnel minefield, suffering two casualties. The Platoon Commander detailed Corporal Erison to return to the start line for stretcher bearers. Corporal Erison led the stretcher bearers into the minefield to the casualties. A stretcher bearer stepped on a mine, and Corporal Erison was painfully wounded about the face and eyes by the explosion. Despite his own wounds, he assisted and directed the evacuation of the casualties from the minefield. When it became evident that the launching of the first light attack was imperilled by the delay in the minefield, Corporal Erison refused evacuation, and guided the attacking force quickly and safely through the minefield. He then rejoined his section and remained on duty until the operation was complete.
Corporal Erison's devotion to duty and courageous disregard for his own safety were directly responsible for the success of the operation.