Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Company A, The Lincoln and Welland Regiment, 10th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 4th Canadian Armoured Division, Canadian Army

Awarded on:

January 20th, 1945

Recommendation:
"On the night of 28/29 October 1944 the Lincoln and Welland Regiment was ordered to establish a bridgehead over the canals on the north edge of Bergen op Zoom. The task was extremely difficult as the objective lay beyond two canals and a steep railway embankment. The water in the canals was deep and very cold and the banks were covered by wire obstructions. Captain Lambert was in command of “A” Company which was to lead the attack and in view of the difficult conditions he personally led his company to ensure that it would not become lost. The crossing was made in the face of intense mortar and MG fire and by the time the company reached the factory which was it’s objective only 15 men were left. It was soon discovered that none of the weapons would fire due to mud and water through which the men had passed. Captain Lambert decided that the position must be held even though it meant facing a numerically superior enemy with a force armed with only 36 grenades, bayonets and knives. At about 0130 hours the enemy attacked the factory with grenades, infantry anti-tank projectors and MG’s and continued to attack with increasing ferocity until the company was relieved at first light the following morning. Through it all the fifteen men led by Captain Lambert held firm. The 36 grenades were used with such care and accuracy that severe casualties were inflicted upon the enemy. When the relief was finally effected only two grenades were left. There can be no doubt that the example and inspired leadership shown by Captain Lambert resulted in the establish of this bridgehead against seemingly overwhelming opposition. The courage and complete disregard for personal safety exhibited by this officer was an example and an inspiration to all ranks of the battalion."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)