Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lance Sergeant

Unit:

No.13 Platoon, C Company, 1st Battalion, 48th Highlanders of Canada, 1st Canadian Infantry Brigade, 1st Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army

Recommendation:
At 1130 hours, 17 September 1944, “C” Company, 48th Highlanders of Canada was attacking enemy positions in the area of a track junction at MR 873939 about 900 yards Northwest of the Rimini Airport. This objective was on flat open ground and was overlooked by a strong enemy position on the high feature known as Kestrel 861936. The approaches to this objective were covered by well sited and concealed enemy MG positions. B-73900 Corporal (Lance Sergeant) Andre Joseph Gauthier commanded 13 Platoon of “C” Company which was leading the attack.
As the company crossed the start line they came under very heavy aimed MG and mortar fire, which temporarily pinned the company down. In the face of this withering fire, Lance Sergeant Gauthier moved across this open ground and led his platoon forward to a position from which the final assault on to the objective could be made. During this time the company commander had been seriously wounded and the remainder of his company were still pinned down and unable to get ahead. In spite of the fact that there was only one platoon in a position to attack the objective, Lance Sergeant Gauthier organized the final assault and led it himself, personally killing one German Paratrooper and wounded at least five others, during the process of clearing the position. Although still under heavy enemy fire, Lance Sergeant Gauthier organized his platoon in a strong defensive area prior to the arrival of the remainder of the company.
Throughout the whole action, this NCO’s gallant leadership, calm control and complete disregard for his own personal safety were an inspiration and example to the men of his platoon. His quick, determined action and skillful leadership were largely responsible for the success of the attack.