Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Major

Unit:

B Company, 1st Battalion, The Seaforth Highlanders of Canada, 2nd Canadian Infantry Brigade, 1st Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army

Awarded on:

November 16th, 1944

Recommendation:
On 23 May 1944, "B" Company of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada commanded by Major Allan, took part in the storming of the Adolf Hitler Line in the area Map Reference 7419.
Early in the action, "B" Company sustained many casualties amongst senior ranks. Casualties coupled with breakdown of communications resulted in great difficulties with control. Reorganizing the remnants of platoons, Major Allan doggedly pushed forward fighting every inch of the way. Finally, the Battalion objective was captured. Here it soon became apparent that all other officers of the four rifle companies were casualties, and that there were less than one hundred survivors in all on the objective.
Quickly reorganizing these groups into a makeshift company, he put into effect a defense plan consolidating the position. At 1200 hours he reported to Battalion Headquarters that the objective had been secured. After continuous shelling until 1700 hours, the enemy counter-attacked with tanks and infantry and Major Allan was wounded. Refusing to be evacuated, he continued to exercise command, steadying his men in the face of a determined counter-attack. This enemy thrust was repulsed and heavy casualties inflicted.
Major Allan's cheerful resoluteness and organizing ability under fire was reflected in the stubborn spirit of his men in the face of strong German resistance.

Supplement to the London Gazette, 16 November, 1944.