Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Canadian Corps of Chaplain Services attached to The North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment, 8th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Infantry Divisio (Canadian Corps of Chaplain Services attached to The North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment, 8th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Infantry Divisio)

Recommendation:
H/Captain Raymond Myles Hickey, Canadian Corps of Chaplain Services (RC), had been the Padre of the North Shore Regiment since the battalion had been mobilized.
He accompanied the Battalion Headquarters in the reserve company wave in the assault on the beach of St Aubin-sur-Mer at H plus 20 minutes on the 6th of June 1944.
Captain Hickey rendered first aid to the wounded and spiritual comfort to the dying without any apparent regard for his own safety. In one instance, two men hit by mortar fragments stumbled into and fell amongst a number of booby traps and mines. Although warned, Captain Hickey went into the field, applied first aid, and returned with these men despite the fact that fire on this exposed area was heavy. On another occasion, when stretcher bearers were called for, the Padre walked up and exposed himself as the quickest means of getting to the wounded men, again despite the cross fire. Having rendered first aid, he managed to make these men as comfortable and safe as the circumstances permitted, and then walked across the beach to a light section of the Field Ambulance, RCAMC, to notify them of the location of the wounded.
This conduct, courageous, effective and without thought of personal safety, was an inspiration to all ranks. Even in the strife and strain of our baptism of fire, our admiration for our Padre was further heightened.

Supplement to the London Gazette, 31 August, 1944.