Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

"D" Company, The Stormont Dundas and Glengarry Highlanders, 9th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army

Recommendation:
At Grietherbusch in the Rhine bridgehead on 24 March 1945, Captain John Alexander Dure, Acting "D" Company Commander, Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry Highlanders, did so brilliantly and daringly lead his company as to overrun an enemy stronghold and thereby secure the left flank of the 9th Canadian Infantry Brigade.
After crossing the Rhine on 24 March 1945 the Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry Highlanders were assigned the task of securing and holding the left flank of the 9th Canadian Infantry Brigade. "D" Company was to assault and capture Grietherbusch, a vital link in the enemy defense line and a menace to the Allied bridgehead. Grietherbusch was strongly held by the enemy with infantry well positioned Medium Machine Guns and four mortars. Captain John Alexander Dure launched his attack in the face of intense fire from the enemy dug-in positions. Due to the terrific fire power of the enemy the leading platoon was pinned down. Captain Dure immediately and with complete disregard for his own safety worked his way forward, ordered the leading platoon to support him with fire and personally led the remainder of the company in an assault on the enemy's left flank. Cover was inadequate and fire was brought to bear on Captain Dure from both Grietherbusch in front and from Grietherbusch, an enemy defended locality one thousand yards to his left flank. Undaunted, Captain John Alexander Dure continued the advance, his exceptional courage an example that was followed by his men, and the enemy position was captured. Severe casualties were inflicted on the enemy. Killed and wounded numbered fourteen and twenty two prisoners were taken. All Medium Machine Guns and Mortars were destroyed.
It was due to Captain John Alexander Dure's magnificent leadership, personal bravery and steadiness under fire that "D" Company, Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry Highlanders was able to capture Grietherbusch and thereby ensure the safety of the left flank of the 9th Canadian Infantry Brigade.