Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

No. 653 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

September 27th, 1945

Citation:
"Received in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North West Europe."
Recommendation:
"In April, 1945, this Officer was detailed to make a reconnaissance of the bridges over the Dortmund—Ems Canal which were held by the enemy. This entailed flying, in some cases, directly over the bridges and in the face of intense enemy opposition. His aircraft was hit several times and damaged ; nevertheless, Captain Hargreaves completed his mission successfully and the information he obtained was of the greatest value to the army. Later in the same month this officer was again detailed to reconnoitre twelve bridges over the river between Alfhausen and Bramache. The weather was very misty and the bridges were 5,000 yards in enemy territory, but after making sorties lasting 2 hours, Captain Hargreaves reported their condition accurately and, as a result of the information he obtained, the Divisional plan was completed many hours before expected and much patrolling was saved."