Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

5th Field Regiment, 2nd Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army

Recommendation:
On the morning of 31st October 1944, the Régiment de Maisonneuve attacked the causeway at the east end of Walcheren Island. Lieutenant Innes was Artillery Forward Observation Officer in support of this infantry Battalion and moved with the leading Company.
In spite of the intense shell, mortar and small arms fire, which was sweeping the causeway and the fact that three of his five signalers became casualties immediately, this officer calmly carried on with his task. As our advance progressed he continued to bring down accurate artillery fire on the enemy positions.
A short time later, Lieutenant Innes himself was wounded and both his wireless sets were destroyed by shellfire. He nevertheless remained at his post and kept his vital artillery support by means of the Company Commander’s wireless set.
After advancing some distance along the causeway, our leading troops were pinned by the incessant enemy fire. On seeing this, Lieutenant Innes went forward to an exposed position and directed our artillery onto the enemy defences with such accuracy that their fire was completely neutralized and our advance permitted to continue.
The personal gallantry and devotion to duty of Lieutenant Innes, although wounded and under the heaviest fire, was of first importance as a direct contribution to the success of this initial land assault on the Island of Walcheren.