Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Major

Unit:

2nd Battalion Coldstream Guards, 24th Guards Brigade, 56th (London) Infantry Division, British Army

Awarded on:

October 18th, 1945

"For outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty.
On 14 Apr 1945, North of FILO, Major Toler's Company was ordered to attack and capture a strong enemy position which was holding up the advance and which had already beaten off two previous attacks by another unit. Major Toler had under his command a troop of tanks and one troop M.10's. There was considerable enemy shelling and mortaring during his reccs, and when the attack started heavy small arms fire held up the leading platoon. Major Toler immediately went forward to find out the exact enemy positions so that he could reposition his tanks and M.10's for a fresh attack. During all this time there was heavy enemy shelling and small arms fire whic made any movement dangerous and attracted increased shelling. Having completed his plan, Major Toler led his Company in the assault on the position, capturing 80 prisoners and killing others. It was by Major Toler's example and complete disregard for his own personal safety both during the advance to the position and during the assault on th position that made thos success possible. Major Toler exposed himself to all dangers and by his coolness under heavy fire, inspired confidence into the men under his command.
On 19 Apr 1945, Major Toler's Company were again ordered to attack and capture a bridge over the canal near PORTOVERRARA. The canal bank was strongly held but under strong covering fire Major Toler advanced to within 100 yards and succeeded in getting one platoon over the canal. Again he showed complete disregard for his own personal safety under intense small arms fire and mortaring on his headquarters. His example again was beyond all praise and his determination was instrumental in driving the enemy away from his front.
He has proved himself to be a leader of the highest order on these and other occasions and shows the greatest coolness when under heavy fire."

Rank:

Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

2nd Battalion Coldstream Guards

Awarded on:

January 1st, 1963

Commanding Officer,