Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

Anti-Tank Platoon, The West Nova Scotia Regiment, 3rd Canadian Infantry Brigade, 1st Canadian Infantry Division, Canadian Army

Awarded on:

December 8th, 1945

Recommendation:
On 18 April 1945, the West Nova Scotia Regiment was advancing west from Apeldoorn in the area Map Reference 7099. The tail end of the Regimental column was suddenly subjected to heavy fire from a group of Germans who were dug in along the verges of the road. The anti-tank platoon commanded by sergeant John Edward Salsman was moving at the end of the column and was in great danger of being cut off from the remainder of the unit. Sergeant Salsman realizing the seriousness of the situation displayed outstanding initiative by organizing a force of drivers, despatch riders and gun numbers and attacking the enemy. As a result of this immediate attack three of the enemy were killed and five were taken prisoner.
The courage and initiative displayed by Sergeant Salsman gained sufficient time for a rifle platoon with flame throwers to put in a further attack which resulted in the capture of twenty additional prisoners and the complete clean out of the enemy position.

Royal Decree no. 2, 8 December, 1945.