Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Corporal

Unit:

The Saskatoon Light Infantry, 2nd Infantry Brigade Support Group, 1st Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army

Recommendation:
"On 3 August 1943, Edmonton Regiment, with under comd. 1 Platoon M.M.G. (2 Cnd. Inf. Bde Sp. Gr.) (Sask.L.I.) was given the task of capturing a hill feature North of Regalbuto (Sicily).
The country to be crossed precluded the use of mechanical transport and supplies, ammunition and heavy weapons had to be carried on mules.
At daylight, 4 August, the mules carrying the weapons and ammunition for the Platoon of M.M.G. came under heavy enemy Mortar and M.M.G. fire; many of the mules were killed and most of the remainder dispersed.
While the platoon was being withdrawn to cover to reorganize, Cpl. Taje, in face of heavy enemy fire, made his way to the guns and removed the locks, thus rendering them valueless to the enemy.
Cpl. Taje was then unable to find his own Platoon and so reported to the Edmn. R. On arrival there he was informed that two enemy M.G. emplacements were holding up the advance.
Cpl. Taje returned to the location where the mules had been killed, despite the enemy fire which was being brought down, collected two guns and some ammunition which he-placed in position to engage the enemy. This undertaking required several trips on the part of Cpl. Taje and took about four hours.
Cpl. Taje then engaged both enemy M.G. emplacements preventing the enemy from firing and enabling the Edmonton Regiment to advance and silence the posts.
Cpl. Taje accomplished this feat single-handed and with complete disregard for his personal safety. His courage and determination under fire were an inspiration to all ranks taking part in the action."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Received with overseas clasp.