"Gordon" WO 323 27

20 Aust Inf Brigade 9 Aust Division Western Desert Corps

Received Passed Army Form

Brigade 23 July 1941 W 3121 Division

25 Aust Inf Bde ……Brigade…….7………Division…..1.Corps Corps “Angus” Army

Schedule No. (to be left blank)

Unit

Regtl. No.

Rank and Name(Christian name must be stated)

Action for which commended (Date and place of action must be stated)

Recommended by

Honour or Reward

(To be left blank)

2/31 AustInf Bn Recommended

WX2437 Maj-Gen7 Aust Div

Pt. James Heather GORDON

“GREENHILL” – North of DJEZZINE – 10 July 41

On the night of 10 Jul 41, during an attack by“D” Coy on “GREENHILL”, the Coy came under intense M.G. fire and was held up in its advance. Movement by even single individuals seemed almost impossible as in each case when this was attempted that person became a casualty. At this juncture in the effort to advance, Lieut. M.G. Davis and Cpl. POLLARD were killed, Sjt. SMITH, Pte SCOTT and Pte LUFF seriously wounded (Pte Luff dying of wounds after being taken to hospital) The further advance of the two forward pls involved was impossible whilst the enemy M.G. post existed. The enemy position was fortified and completely covered the area on which Pte Gordon, and the remainder of the two pls were located. Pte Gordon, noting the situation, and on his own initiative, crept forward under fire, including grenades, and succeeded in approaching close to the post. He then charged it from the front and with the bayonet killed the four enemy machine gunners. His action completely demoralised the enemy in the area and was a magnificent inspiration to his comrades. The Coy, due to the gallant action of Pte. Gordon was able to advance and took the position. During the remainder of the action that night and the following morning, as on all previous occasions, Pte. Gordon fought with equal gallantry being constantly in close fighting with the enemy. The action of Pte. Gordon is considered worthy of the highest decoration that award of the Victoria Cross is strongly recommended. Recommended. John LararackBrig Comd 25 Aust Inf Bde

Lieut. L.T Hurrell Recommended Maj, Adm Comd 2/31 Aust Inf Bn.

V.C. Auckinlick 19.9.41 General Officer Commanding British Forces in Palestine & T.L.2022