Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

No. 9 Platoon, "T" Company, 1st Parachute Battalion, 1st Parachute Brigade, 1st Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

March 20th, 1947

Awarded for:

Operation Market Garden

"On the 18th September 1944 at Arnhem Sergeant Edwards took over command of a platoon when his officer had been severely wounded, he had been commanding a section. For thirty six hours he fought his way forward with the Battalion. On one occasion he personally attacked a slit trench with seven enemy holding it - by a courageous and skilful approach he was able to lob a grenade inside, killing two and wounding others. In the last attack the Battalion carried out this Sergeant undoubtedly played a large part in keeping up momentum of his company's advance on the right of the battalion. He was constantly seen in the very forefront of the attack urging his men forward, paying no attention to the murderous short range fire of both enemy tanks and infantry. Eventually near the objective he was wounded, despite this he fought on with his men until only two were left alive. This man's courage and high example were largely responsible for the progress and high morale attained by this Company."

Royal Decree no. 1, dd. 9-2-1946