Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Awarded on:

July 8th, 1943

Recommendation:
Captain Matthews has shown a splendid example of leadership and courage while he has been with his battalion. In his patrol work at Hunts Gap he was outstanding and in the battle of Bou Arada on the 22 April 1943 he was the only officer left in his company. Under extremely heavy fire he collected them together and with the remains of the other companies consolidated his position on the second objective when a counter attack seemed imminent. All the time the enemy shelled his position but he remained calm and collected and set an example to all.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

1st Battalion The Canadian Scottish Regiment, 7th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, British Army

Awarded on:

August 31st, 1944

Awarded for:

Operation Overlord

Recommendation:
On 6 June 1944, throughout the assault landing and the advance into the hinterland, Captain Matthews' conduct was an inspiring example to the men of his company. On two occasions when the advance was held up, he led parties of men to clean up centres of resistance, on both occasions under intense machine gun and mortar fire.
On the morning of 8 June 1944, a platoon of the company became pinned down by heavy machine gun fire. With utter disregard to his own safety, Captain Matthews went forward to liaise with Sherman and Honey tanks to procure assistance. Unable to gain the tank commanders attention, he walked around to the front of the firing tanks in full view and under fire of the enemy's guns and pointed out the position to be fired upon.
During the attack on the Royal Winnipeg Rifles position at Putot-en-Bessin on 8 June 1944, he was always forward urging and directing until on the final objective he was rendered unconscious by blast.
On regaining consciousness he carried on with his work. His advice, coolness, disregard for personal safety and inspiring leadership saved the situation on many occasions, won praise from all ranks, and were a deciding factor throughout the assault.


This award was obtained in the form of an Bar to be attached on the ribbon of the first award.