Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

D Company, The Royal Winnipeg Rifles, 7th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, British Army

Awarded on:

August 31st, 1944

Awarded for:

Operation Overlord

Recommendation:
On 6 June 1944 – D Day – Lieutenant Mitchell was in command of the leading platoon of D Coy, the left forward company of his Battalion. Small enemy localities were scattered across the axis of advance and fire so heavy that Lieutenant Mitchell was compelled to move in advance of his leading section in order to maintain momentum.
Approaching Creully from the left Lieutenant Mitchell was crossing the River Seulles when he came under terrific cross-fire from two enemy MG on the opposite bank in the woods. The officer managed to cross the river but two men of the leading section were hit, causing the remainder to go to ground. Lieutenant Mitchell was, at this time, wounded in the hand.
Returning to the North bank of the river through a hail of fire, Lieutenant Mitchell managed to summon a tp of the 6 Canadian Armoured Regiment to his aid, gathered his platoon and charged across the bridge against the MG positions.
Lieutenant Mitchell’s gallantry, prompt action and cool disregard for his personal safety in neutralizing the enemy position contributed immeasurably toward maintaining the vital impetus of the advance and in gaining the company’s portion of the Battalion objective. Throughout this day’s action Lieutenant Mitchell’s skill, bravery and coolness in leadership were outstanding.