Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Recommendation:
"At 0930 hrs 21 jan 43 two Platoons of C Company attacked a strongly defended Japanese position on the beach between Sananada Point and Wye Point. After capturing two pill boxes both Platoons were held down by heavy MG fire and sniping from both flanks. 14 Platoon who had turned right were in an particulary dangerous position as the enemy had the advantage in ground and cover. Pte Allen who had moved left with 13 Platoon happened to notice their plight and immediately moved with his Bren gun to a position on the open beach from which he engaged the enemy post with fire. Anaother enemy post observed his move and opened fire on him with a LMG. In spite of this fire which tore his haversack and equipment to shreds, Pte. Allen continued to engage the post on 14 PI's in front and killed at least 3 of the enemy who were endeavouring to get an LMG into position. In addition he called warnings to 14 Platoon when he saw movements of snipers, enabling that Platoon to deal with them. He remained in his exposed position for more than one hour, the rising tide finally forcing to withdraw. In the meantime both Platoons although still unable to move forward had dug in and established fire superiority over the enemy posts.
But for Pte Allen's tenacity, inititive and utter disregard for personal safety, 14 Platoon would have suffered heavy casualties and probably both Platoons would have had to be withdrawn. As it was the position was held and troops of 2/9 Battalion were able to advance without casualties under our covering fire and mop up the resistance between C company and 2/9 Battalion.
Pte Allen's conduct was of the highest order and an inspiration to all who witnessed it."