Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

No.3 Platoon, Support Company, 1st Battalion The Westminster Regiment (Motor), 5th Canadian Armoured Brigade, 5th Canadian (Armoured) Division, Canadian Army

Recommendation:
During the crossing of the Melfa River by the Westminster Regiment (Motor) on the 24th May 1944, Sergeant White's Platoon Commander was wounded. Sergeant White immediately took command and led the platoon with courage and determination. While digging in, the platoon came under heavy machine gun and mortar fire but, with complete disregard for his personal safety, Sergeant White moved from position to position encouraging his men and keeping their spirits up under most harassing conditions. Shortly afterwards the platoon was counter-attacked by enemy tanks and infantry, one section was overrun and Sergeant White was seriously wounded in the stomach by small arms fire. He continued to direct the action and it was due to his efforts that the platoon maintained its position. Sergeant White's courage and leadership, which were beyond the call of military duty, are an inspiring example of the will to put duty above all else with absolute disregard for personal danger or self-protection.