Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

No.17 Platoon, D Company, 1st Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment, 3rd Canadian Infantry Brigade, 1st Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army

Recommendation:
On 30 July 1943 at Hill 204 near Catenanuova, Sicily, Sgt. Drapeau, a platoon Sergeant, was forward with the leading section which was commanded by L/Cpl Gagnon.
Under the covering fire of this section, Sgt Drapeau and L/Cpl Gagnon rushed an enemy anti-aircraft post, throwing hand grenades as they went. They killed the crew who had been firing on our advancing tps & tpt.
Locating an enemy 105 mm gun, which was also firing on our troops, in position 100 yards South of them, Drapeau assisted Gagnon in trying to train the A/A gun on the 105 mm, but they were unable to do so owing to ltd traverse.
These two NCOs then advanced to within assaulting distance of the gun position, covering each other as they went. Sgt. Drapeau then skillfully furnished covering fire with his rifle, while L/Cpl Gagnon assaulted the position.
Throughout this entire action, Sgt. Drapeau was under enemy L M.G. fire. This N.C.O. displayed coolness, bravery and determination of high order.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant-Major

Unit:

B Company, 1st Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment, 3rd Canadian Infantry Brigade, 1st Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army

Recommendation:
Reference Map Italy 1/100,000 Sheet 160 Cassino.
On 19 May 1944 the Royal 22e Regt. Attacked the Adolf Hitler line in the area MR 746179. D-51078 Company Sgt.Major Drapeau was Company Sgt.Major of “B” Coy.
After the leading companies had secured the first objective, “B” Coy. passed through on the left and advanced, supported by armour, toward the Adolf Hitler line. They came under intense fire and three tanks were knocked out by a 105 mm gun in a concrete and steel pillbox. The company was being prepared to attack this post when the Coy. Commander was badly wounded. The three platoon commanders were also killed or wounded and Company Sgt.Major Drapeau took charge of the company.
Communications had been lost with Battalion HQ. This Warrant Officer, unable to get instructions, went forward and reorganized his platoons which were very disorganized as a result of the heavy fire. As he was preceeding with the task, a shell landed nearby killing one man and throwing this Warrant Officer several feet.
Although badly shaken, Company Sgt.Major Drapeau continued to reorganize his company personally visiting all section positions. At this stage an enemy counter attack developed which was repelled, due chiefly to the efforts of Company Sgt.Major Drapeau who moved continuously from post to post, encouraging his men and directing the fire. The company successfully held this position until communication was established with Battalion HQ and they were ordered to withdraw.
Tired and suffering from the effects of blast, Company Sgt.Major Drapeau led the company in an orderly withdrawal to the new area. Here he was evacuated suffering from exhaustion.
Throughout the attack Company Sgt.Major Drapeau set a courageous example for his men. His devotion to duty, cheerfulness and leadership were outstanding, and an inspiration to all who were with him.

This award was obtained in the form of an Bar to be attached on the ribbon of the first award.