Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

"A" Company, 7th (Galloway) Battalion, 1st Airlanding Brigade, 1st Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

February 9th, 1946

Awarded for:

Operation Market Garden

In the Arnhem operations Major Buchanan's Company was on a detached mission from the time of landing, and he showed outstanding leadership and initiative throughout. On 17th September he found his objective occupied by an enemy force, including an Armoured Car. Without hesitation he led his Company into the attack, killing or capturing all enemy in the vicinity. On 18th September he was subjected to repeated enemy attacks, all of which he beat off with heavy losses to the enemy. On 19th September having moved to a new position, his Company was heavily shelled and mortared and then strongly attacked. Again on this, as on previous occasions, this officer inspired his men to deal out death to the enemy and to meet any eventuality, which came their way without flinching. His coolness and disregard of danger were an example to all.

Royal decree no.1 of 9 February 1946.