Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry (Wentworth Regiment), 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 2nd Canadian Infantry Division, British Army

Awarded on:

February 9th, 1946

Awarded for:

Operation Jubilee

Citation:
"Following the capture of the strong point at the northeast corner of the Casino the dangerous task of clearing the Casino itself was given to Captain Currie of the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry.
In this large strange building filled with Germans and with fighting still going on at other strong points behind him, Captain Currie's group fought for an hour. He was the first man to enter the building proper. He quickly sized up the situation and devised a plan for clearing it, then personally led his sub group into each room and passage and up each flight of stairs. The Germans fought like cornered rats, but thanks to Captain Currie's coolness, leadership and courage, the building was cleared. None got away.
Complete possession of the Casino was of vital importance to the operation. It stood between the beach and the town and in the centre of the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry front. Its capture gave a covered route most of the way across the esplanade through which surviving groups were able to enter and later withdraw from the town. It also provided protection for a Forward Regimental Aid Post and Collecting Centre for prisoners.
During the later stages of the withdrawal Captain Currie found himself on a landing craft which he considered to be overcrowded. To make room, he transferred to a stationary landing craft which was subsequently sunk. While in the water he was wounded and taken prisoner.
Captain Currie's skillful planning under fire and his leadership were of the highest order. He was at all times cool and the example he set was based on the highest Army traditions."

Awarded as per Canada Gazette dated 9 February 1946 and CARO/6377 dated 11 February 1946, "in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the combined attack on Dieppe."