Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

No. 4 New Zealand Field Regiment, 2nd New Zealand Division, New Zealand Military Forces

Awarded on:

July 20th, 1944

Citation:
"On 23rd December, 1943, Captain White had to establish an observation post in the Arielle Area. Despite continuous shelling, mortaring and machine-gun fire he pushed forward on foot in full view of the enemy, past the infantry-position, to find the best observation in a small house well in front of the forward defended localities.
The house was obvious and was hit often in the shelling, but Captain White maintained his observation for three whole days and nights with such good effect that he was able, by his direction of fire, to break up two counter-attacks. Owing to the flat nature of the ground in the sector, his observation post was the only position from which he could observe, and the information sent back by him was of the utmost importance.

During the fighting about Cassino on the 5th February, 1944, Captain White was required to establish an observation post area, although it was under enemy shelling and mortaring, before digging his own observation post.
He stayed in this position for forty-eight hours under trying conditions, aggrevated by continuous rain, maintaining his own communications, directing fire and passing basisc information.

The maintenance of these observation posts continuously called for endurance and courage of an outstanding quality. The personal demeanour of cheerfulness of this officer and his example of leadership, together with his outstanding devotion to duty were a constant inspiration to his men."