Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private

Unit:

Royal Hamilton Light Infantry

Awarded on:

July 21st, 1945

Citation:
"On the morning of 7 March 1945, the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry took part in the attack on Xanten. "A" Company was successful in reaching its objective, a group of buildings in the town area.
Despite heavy enemy fire of every description and the constant threat of enemy sniping, Corporal Davidson went from post to post assisting in the consolidation.
When ammunition for the PIAT in one position was getting dangerously low, Corporal Davidson and another corporal volunteered to get some from a post in another building, which at present was occupied by the enemy. To reach the building, it was necessary to cross a piece of open ground which was swept by enemy fire from both flanks. Under covering fire from our Brens, the dauntless pair raced across the open ground throwing a grenade into the building as they neared it. The grenade killed two enemy paratroops. They succeeded in bringing back the sorely needed ammunition and Corporal Davidson used it with such effect that a troublesome enemy post in a house in rear of the company position was silenced.
When a Bren gunner became a casualty, Corporal Davidson manned his weapon and on one occasion thwarted an attempt on the part of the enemy paratroops to reoccupy the position in the building from which the PIAT ammunition was rescued.
On yet another occasion, Corporal Davidson assisted in evacuating casualties across open ground in the face of heavy enemy fire.
His bravery and resourcefulness throughout the action were an inspiration to all ranks and was directly responsible for the company being able to hold the position until the company was relieved approximately fifteen hours later.