Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Gunner

Unit:

6th Field Regiment R.C.A., Divisional Troops, 2nd Canadian Infantry Division, British Army

Awarded on:

November 4th, 1944

Recommendation:
"Pearce - was acting as Observation Post Assistant during the attack by the Camerons of Canada on Fontenoy le Marmion which commenced on the night of 7-8 August 1944. His officer was wounded, but was able to carry on until hit a second time at about 1100 hours. From then, until relieved about eight hours later, Gunner Pearce took command of the Observation Post and maintained communication with the guns, engaged many hostile targets, kept contact with the infantry and throughout kept his Regimental Commander informed of the tactical situation. These duties of an O.P. Officer were performed by Gunner Pearce under heavy and continuous machine-gun and mortar fire, often under direct observation of the enemy. For several hours the position of the Camerons of Canada was completely surrounded, and all their means of communication had been put out of action. The fact that Gunner Pearce remained at his post and kept contact with his Regimental Commander, was the sole means by which the Brigade Commander was able to learn of the desperate situation and plan the necessary steps to restore it. The performance of Gunner Pearce was an outstanding example of the greatest courage, presence of mind, and ability to take responsibility in a most critical and dangerous situation. It was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Service and earned the admiration and gratitude of all ranks of the infantry, for whose ultimate safety he was largely responsible."

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)

With "OVERSEES" clasp.