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Buell, Donald Bowie

Nationality:
Canadian (1931-present, Constitutional Monarchy)

Biography

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Lieutenant-Colonel
Unit:
The North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment, 8th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army
Recommendation:
On 6 June 1944, as Commanding Officer of the North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment, one of the assault battalions, this officer landed immediately behind his leading companies at Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer and continued to direct his battalion from among the forward troops during its advance inland.
As left assault battalion of the Brigade, North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment had an exposed flank and in view of the fact that the battalion was also forming a firm base for the operation of a Commando Group, its progress inland was slower than the remainder of the Brigade, which was advancing on its main axis.
From the time of landing, the opposition at all stages was greater than expected and in carrying out his tasks, the widespread action of his unit made the work of Lieutenant-Colonel Buell all the more difficult. In spite of this, the battalion successively captured each position until its advance was halted by the enemy position at the Radar Station. The battalion was later ordered to by-pass this opposition and carry on to its final objective.
Throughout, Lieutenant-Colonel Buell was well forward with the leading companies directing and controlling the widespread operation. In doing this, he was forced to make his own decision as communications with Brigade were frequently broken, but he pressed on and showed great determination to carry out his Commander's intention, thereby contributing greatly to the success of the operation. At no time did he spare himself in the performance of his duty and was an outstanding example to all ranks.
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)

The Canada Gazette, 9 March, 1946.

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