Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Colonel

Unit:

Headquarters, 2nd Armoured Brigade, 1st Armoured Division, British Army

Awarded on:

September 27th, 1940

For Galant and distinguished services in action in connection with operations in the field
--
"Conspicuous gallantry and leadership in command of an armoured brigade.

Brig. McGreery, in command of the 2nd Armoured Brigade during the operations on the Somme on May 27th, and in conjunction with the French 5th Division Légère Mécanique, May 28th-31st showed entire disregard of personal danger, and by his tireless energy and uneding endurance gave the most inspiring example to the units of his brigade in circumstances of great difficulty.

His coolness and determination under fire were particularly remarked by the G.O.C. 5th French D.L.M. who especially recommended him for the Croix de Guerre - an award which, presumably, will not be made in view of the present situation.

Later, Brig. McGreery organised his few remaining tanks and improvised lorry - troops south of the R.Seine and remained in support of the French until it became essential to withdraw him on account of the mechanical exhaustion of his vehicles."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Brigadier

Unit:

Headquarters, 8th Armoured Division, British Army

Awarded on:

April 29th, 1941

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Lieutenant General

Unit:

Chief of General Staff, Headquarters, Middle East Command, British Army

Awarded on:

February 18th, 1943

"As my Chief of General Staff since August 42, Lt-Gen McGREERY has been actively engaged, in general, in the re-organisation of the Middle East Forces and, in particular, in the preparation of the plans for the successful Eighth Army offensive which commenced in October. That the re-organisation has been completed rapidly and smoothly is, in a large degree, due to the leadership which he has give the whole staff both general and administrative.

The preparations for the plans for the battle of Egypt threw a heavy load of responsibility on him for a considerable period beforehand and it is no exaggeration to say that its success was greatly influenced by the completeness and exactness of the preliminary arrangements. General McGREERY during this period was the guiding planner and controlling co-ordintor. He worked strenuously and advised wisely. He relieved me of much anxiety.

When operations started he continued to be of the greatest assistance to me, displaying qualities of forethought and patience which has meant so much, especially during the critical opening days of the offensive. I have no hesitation to saying that by his work and influence he contributed greatly to the victory of the Desert Army

Previous to this distinguished service General McGREERY rendered invaluable service as adviser in Armourer matters for a period of 5 month, from 30th Mar 42, to 23rd Aug 42."

Recommended for an CBE.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major-General

Unit:

Headquarters, X Corps, British Army

Awarded on:

August 5th, 1943

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major-General

Unit:

Headquarters, X Corps, British Army

Awarded on:

August 10th, 1943

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major-General

Unit:

Headquarters, X Corps, British Army

Awarded on:

January 13th, 1944

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major-General

Unit:

Headquarters, X Corps, British Army

Awarded on:

June 20th, 1944

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant-general

Unit:

Headquarters, Eighth Army, British Army

Awarded on:

July 5th, 1945

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant-general

Unit:

Headquarters, Eighth Army, British Army

Awarded on:

August 2nd, 1945