Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant (Lance-Sergeant)

Unit:

Royal Canadian Engeneers / 7 Canadian Infantery Brigade

On 22 April 1945, Lance-Sergeant Bryan with his section was in support of 7 Canadian Infantry brigade in a attack on Appingendam. He was with the leading company of the Royal Winnigep RIfles and responsible for the clearance of mines and other obstacles along their axis. A road block was met at the southem approach to the town and while the infantry provided covering gire Lance-Sergeant Bryan's party proceeded to clear the obstacle. The task was fifty precent complete when direct enemy shell and motar fire came down on the site. This Non Commissioned Officer ordered his men to take cover and then alone, under the same persistent fire, he continued to prepare ghe road block for demolition until he was wounded. At the same time his platoon commander and another Wapper were wounded and Lance-Sergeant Bryan insisted on aiding them until al three were evacuated. The remainder of the section, thus inspired bij this Non-Commissioned Officer's gallant action, completed the job and the route was opened, allowing soupporting armour to move op without serious deley. It was his cool determination and brilliant leadership which on this occasion resulted in the clearing of the road block, allowing tanks to take part in the copture of Appingdam, aoperation vital to the liberation of northern Holland.

Canadian Gazette van 22 dec. 1945