Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Awarded on:

December 8th, 1945

"Major bright was staff officer Royal Engeineeers, Headquarters 1 Canadian Corps during the period of the Corps operations in werstern Holland. The engineer plan for the assault crossing of the IJssel River and the capture of Arnhem was bold and required skilful handing from the outset. In spite of several late changes in plan, Major Bright was able to get both wquipment and men regrouped and in position for each successive phase of the battle. With the shortage of transport and men, this was a most difficult task and vital to success. This was followed, on 5 May, bj the collapse of the 25th German Army in Holland. German engineers were, with a matter of hours, organized and set to work clearing roads, minefields and prpared charges. A complete sysstem of intercommunication and intelligence was set up with the result that some 200.000 mines were lifted and all the main routes in western Holland cleared of obstacles.. The officer's untiring offorts in the organization of this task and in his handing of other Engineer problems connected with the rehabilitation of Holland are worthy of the highest praise, and have led to the saving of many Dutch lives and the restoration of considerale areas of valuable farm land."

Royal decree no.2.
Canadian decree no.22 dec. 1945