Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private

Unit:

"B" Company, The North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment, 8th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army

Recommendation:
On 6 April 1945, the North Shore (new Brunswick) Regiment attacked the city of Zutphen at first light.
“B” Company led the assault along the railway which passes through the city. The Company reached a point near its final objective, when it encountered heavy opposition and was subjected to very heavy machine gun, sniper and mortar fire.
Private Watling, the operator of the “B” Company wireless set accompanied the Company Commander with the leading platoon, which became pinned down and cut off. A brisk hand to hand engagement ensued, resulting in bitter and confused fighting. The Company Commander and the Platoon Commander became casualties.
In spite of the continuous and direct fire brought to bear upon him, Private Watling with exceeding coolness, continued to send vital messages. At the fighting became more fierce he used his sten gun with great effect against the enemy, and at the same time kept the Battalion Headquarters informed as to what was happening.
When it became necessary to withdraw the leading Platoon, to a place of contact with the rest of the Company, Private Watling remained with the wounded officers to provide covering fire until the Platoon had withdrawn. Then with great presence of mind and courage he helped both the platoon officer and Company Commander to cross over an open and bullet swept piece of ground to safety, thereby permitting the Company Commander to get in a position to regain control of his Company in time to save a critical situation from becoming disastrous.
The courageous action in operating his set, the skilful and effective fighting which this soldier displayed over and above his normal duties, permitted his wounded Company Commander to retain control of the Company, and was instrumental in allowing the Company to hold its newly won positions, thus enabling the Battalion to continue its operation against the city of Zutphen.
The utter disregard for personal safety and the cheerfulness on the part of Private Watling was an inspiration and steadying influence on the whole Company.