Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel

Awarded on:

May 23rd, 1947

"During the whole of the fighting in HOLLAND this officer was Second-in Command of 49 Recce Regt. Between JAN and APR 45 the Regt were continuously in the line on the River WAAL at DRUTEN, and by his untiring efforts Major TAITE succeeded in maintaining a high standard of morale and efficiency during this period of watching and waiting in very hard weather conditions and in the face of constant enemy shelling and patrols. During this time this officer was also responsible for the administration and training of two companies of Dutch H.P., who were placed under command 49 Recce Regt, and the subsequent success of these companies as infantry in the line was largely due to Major TAITE’s zeal and efficiency. In the assault on ARNHEM in APR 45, a Squadron Leader was wounded and Major TAITE took over the Squadron, which he commanded with skill, determination and courage until the end of the campaign in HOLLAND. Following the capture of ARNHEM he led his Squadron with conspicuous success in offensive sweeps against the GREBBE line, when his unsparing devotion to duty were an inspiration and example to his men. In MAY 45, when the surrender of the German troops in HOLLAND was being negotiated, Major TAITE performed valuable services in personally organizing the surrender of the troops in HILVERSUM and BUSSUM and later, by leading a detachment of his Squadron into AMSTERDAM on the evening of 7 MAY 45, he was largely instrumental in quelling disturbances caused by German S.S. troops who were shooting at the civilian population. The personal courage, resourcefulness and energy of this officer were of the highest order and greatly contributed to the successful part which his Regt played in the liberation of HOLLAND."

Royal decree no. 29, dd. 24-4-1946

Period:

Korean War (1950-1953)

Awarded on:

July 1953

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)