Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Trooper

Unit:

6th Armoured Regiment (1st Hussars), 2nd Canadian Armoured Brigade (6th Armoured Regiment (1st Hussars), 2nd Canadian Armoured Brigade)

Recommendation:
Trooper Helgi Stephen Runolfson of the 1st Hussars was the driver of a special assault tank which launched before H hour off the beach of Graye-sur-Mer on Mike Green sector. The tank drowned and the crew took shelter on the rear deck while the enemy brought down heavy mortar and machine-gun fire. The crew commander was wounded and washed overboard. Trooper Runolfson, without regard for his own safety, went after the crew commander and tried to save him, but was unsuccessful due to the rough sea. After two hours in the water, he was able to get ashore. He then picked up a German rifle with ammunition and, although suffering from the effect of immersion, fought his way forward with the leading elements of the infantry until he was able to rejoin his unit.

Supplement to the London Gazette, 31 August, 1944.