Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private

Unit:

A Company, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment, 1st Canadian Infantry Brigade, 1st Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army

Recommendation:
On 10 July 1943 “A” Coy The Royal Canadian Regiment of which Pte Gardner was a member, was operating against a coastal defense battery North of Pachino Airfield. The Sec of which Pte Gardner was a member managed to work forward under heavy fire breach the perimeter wire, enter the battery position and assault three concrete enemy posts. The assault by the rifle group was led by Pte Gardner whose personal courage was an inspiration to those taking part in the assault. His personal bravery and leadership resulted in the rapid destruction of the posts and in the subsequent surrender of the complete garrison of two hundred men.