Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Captain

Unit:

2nd Special Service Brigade, Combined Operations Headquarters, War Office, British Government

Awarded on:

August 24th, 1944

Citation (general):
"In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy."

LG 36668/3927

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Major

Unit:

No. 3 Commando, 1st Special Service Brigade, 6th Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

March 1st, 1945

Awarded for:

Operation Overlord

Citation:
"Since the time of landing in Normandy on 6th June 1944 this officer had shown the same determination and gallantry and coolness when under fire which he had already shown in Agonone, Sicily and in Termoli, Italy on 14th July 1943 and 5th October 1943. On the 6th June 1944 when the 2nd i/c was wounded bringing the unit forward, Major Hopson took charge and led the troops across the bridges Benouville with great speed and skill, with slight casualties. Subsequently, although wounded in the head when the self propelled gun in which he was operating struck a mine, he insisted on proceeding out with another self propelled gun and completing his task, on the occasion of the attack on Breville he performed invaluable service by leading tanks up to the forward positions which the Commanders had not had time to recce. Several times during the heavy shelling of the Unit’s forward defended lines he again showed great courage and coolness in directing the bringing to shelter of the wounded although he himself again slightly wounded. His service with this Unit had always been an example of courage, coolness and efficiency and an inspiration to his fellow officers and men."

LG 36961/1173
WO 373/51/22

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Major

Unit:

1st Commando Brigade, 11th Armoured Division, British Army

Awarded on:

October 11th, 1945

Citation:
"Since January 1945 Major Hopson has been Brigade Major of the First Commando Brigade, and has taken an active part in all operations since that time. He crossed in the first wave both in the Battle of the Rhine and Weser Crossing. In the battle of Esseller Forest he particularly distinguished himself. The brigade encountered Strong Kreigmarine Fusilier Force of 3 battalion, two companies of SS Troops and a detachment of self propelled guns. The Brigade consolidation area was in the form of a tight bridgehead over the River Aller, which was one of the greatest importance to 11. Armoured Division. At about 1130 hrs on 11th April 1945 the brigade was heavily counter attacked from 3 sides. Brigade HQ was under mortar and small arms fire and several officers and men were killed by sniping, physical contact with units was impossible. Major Hopson was in a slit trench with a No.22 wirelss set and was very much exposed from one flank to enemy fire. Nevertheless, during the whole battle when vital messages were being sent, Major Hopson continually exposed himself to fire in order to ensure that there should be no fault or delay in the passing of orders. The whole battle was a great success and the bridgehead consolidated, allowing 11th Armoured Division to pass complete over the River Aller. Major Hopson’s complete disregard for his own safety, and his wholehearted devotion to duty materially contributed to the success of the operation. Both before and since that date Major Hopson has distinguished himself on every occasion the brigade has been in action, and has been an inspiration and an example to all members of the First Commando Brigade."

37302/4998
WO 373/55/13

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Major

Unit:

Royal Armoured Corps

Awarded on:

April 21st, 1950

LG 38889/1929

Rank:

Esquire

Unit:

Foreign Office

Awarded on:

June 10th, 1961

LG 42370/4147

Rank:

Esquire

Unit:

British Charge d'Affaires Peking

Awarded on:

January 1st, 1968

LG 44484/4