Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

10th Battalion Highland Light Infantry, 227th (Highland) Infantry Brigade, 15th (Scottish) Infantry Division, British Army

Awarded on:

May 8th, 1945

"Lt Col BRAMWELL DAVIS commanded 10th Battalion The Highland Light Infantry in the operations EAST of NIJMEGEN from the 8 February to 25 February. Throughout the battle his leadership was outstanding.

On 8 February 1945 in the attack to capture KRANENBURG, his carrier with the Battalion control wireless set was put out of action on the Start Line. Immediately he moved forward into the battle on foot with his companies, and controlled the attack over three miles of difficult country. On the RIGHT, one Company was held up at an anti personnel minefield and lost the barrage. Without hesitation he went to this Company, organized a passage throughout the minefield, and by his efforts ensured that the Company closed up on the barrage, and continued the advance.

During the mopping up of KRANENBURG, Lt. Col. BRAMWELL DAVIS personally organized the clearing of the town. He moved about the battlefield exposing himself to enemy fire regardless of his own personal safety, and by his leadership and complete control of the battle, KRANENBURG was quickly captured and cleared, securing the LEFT flank of the Brigade which was essential for the advance of the Division.

Again on 15 February 1945, his Battalion was ordered to carry out a night attack in order to protect the flank of a neighboring division in the area of BEDBURG. A dense fog descended and shortly before E hour it was necessary to cancel the employment of the supporting tanks. Movement light was ineffective because of the fog. In spite of these difficulties the Battalion reached its objective in face of considerable opposition. Two enemy counter attacks were launched during the remaining hours of darkness, and one Company was overrun. Many enemy posts appeared within the Battalion locality. Throughout, Lt Col BRAMWELL DAVIS continually visited his companies and was personally responsible for extricating the remainder of the Company which had been overrun, and reorganizing his Battalion's dispositions. The next morning a threat developed on his LEFT flank which he successfully met.

Throughput the whole operation, Lt Col BRAMWELL DAVIS moved about under enemy fire encouraging his men, and displayed the highest qualities of leadership. His Battalion took a large number of prisoners, and killed many enemy. By his personal example and bravery he ensured the success of the operation and despite casualties which were not light, he maintained a high state of morale in his Battalion."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

10th Battalion Highland Light Infantry, 227th (Highland) Infantry Brigade, 15th (Scottish) Infantry Division, British Army

Awarded on:

June 7th, 1945

"On the night 13/14 April 1945, Lt-Col Bramwell Davis led his Battalion Group in a 15 mile advance through thickly wooded enemy held country into the centree of the enemy positions immediately SOUTH of URLZEN. This move completely surprised the enemy and over 200 prisoners were taken within the first hour. The Battalion was then counter attacked in the rear by 20 mm guns supported by infantry which was successfully beaten off. The following night, the Battalion attacked the wood and village of VEERBEN. The wood was captured after a sharp fight and 200 prisoners taken. On entering the village, the Battalion met an enemy counter attack supported by tanks and SP guns. Heavy and confused fighting ensued throughout the night and well into daylight next morning until the southern half of the village was taken and consolidated.

These successful operations were due to the magnificent leadership determination and courage of Lt-Col Bramwell Davis. He was always seen wherever there was trouble, quietly giving orders and encouragement. During the fight for the village, he twice organized and personally led attacks against enemy strong points holding up his advance. When organizing a section stalk to eliminate a SP gun, he was wounded. He refused to be evacuated until such time as the Battalion was consolidated and he had hand over to his Second in Command who had to be brought forward.

His leadership and personal bravery were of the highest order and an inspiration to all ranks."

Second DSO received as bar.

Rank:

Major-General

Awarded on:

January 1st, 1957