Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry attached 7 Battalion Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Light Infantry

Awarded on:

August 19th, 1943

Middle East (Egypt and Libya)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry posted to 7 Battalion Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry

Awarded on:

January 13th, 1944

Citation:
"After the landing at SALERO BAY, 7 Oxf Bucks held the area St LUCIA 8120, a key position on the right flank on the divisional sector, where they were subjected to constant attacks.
About 2000 hrs on 11 Sep 43, the enemy attacked the Bn position frontally and from the right flank supported by artillery and heavy MG fire. Owing to the darkness the situation was at first very obscure until it was established that the enemy had broken through on the left flank leaving it exposed.
Lt. Col. Crudas directed arty fire on the German forming up positions and gave clear orders to his Coys as to their action throughout the battle, until about midnight the enemy were forced to withdraw and the position was restored by linking up the front with the Bn on the left.
It was mainly due to Lt Col Crudas' coolness and sound judgement and the excellent control and tactical handling of hisBattlion that a critical situation was averted. His leadership inspired all ranks and contributed greatly to theur steadiness and fighting spirit."

Second DSO awarded as a BAr.
WO 373/4/3

Rank:

Major-General

Awarded on:

June 1st, 1953