Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

"A" Company, The Algonquin Regiment, 10th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 4th Canadian Armoured Division, Canadian Army

Recommendation:
On the night 12/13 September 1944 the Algonquin Regiment crossed the Leopold Canal at Moerbrugge, Belgium. Lt. Steenberg was in command of the first platoon to cross. He led his troops under the most intensive fire MG and mortar fire onto their objective where the consolidated. During the night the position was under constant enemy fire through which he moved about ceaselessly inspecting and organizing his platoon dispositions. At daylight it became apparent that the enemy still had posts in houses within the battalion area and Lt. Steenberg immediately organized me [ … ] ing-up operations. The last remaining post was in a house which dominated the br site. Lt. Steenberg organized and personally led a force of one NCO and a small covering party to mop up this post. Heavy resistance was immediately encountered and the NCO was killed. Lt. Steenberg reformed his few men and again attacked, this time he succeeded in knocking out the post killing or wounding every person in it. During the morning it was decided that the battalion position was untenable and orders were given to withdraw across the canal. Lt. Steenberg disengaged his platoon under heavy fire and brought them back without further casualties.
After his platoon had crossed the canal he remained at the br site on his own initiative organized boat parties to evacuate the remainder of the battalion. He continued at this task under the most intense enemy fire until all men has been brought across. The example set by this officer, his outstanding leadership and his complete disregard for personal safety were an inspiration to all ranks of the battalion.