Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Warrant Officer 1st Class

Unit:

The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry

Awarded on:

November 10th, 1945

Citation:
"This Warrant Officer has served with the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry throughout the entire campaign in Western Europe since he landed with his battalion in July 1944 as a Company Sergeant-Major in the Support Company.

He has displayed unusual leadership at all times and his handling of patrols under heavy fire and control of Support Company vehicles in the hard fought action at Verrieres, France won him the unstinted admiration of all ranks very early in the campaign.

At Woensdrecht in Holland the supply of ammunition was a vital problem as the mortar platoon was in constant action. During the entire period of the very exposed and hazardous operation this Warrant Officer, working long hours and disregarding the enemy fire to which he was so often exposed so organized the handling of ammunition that an adequate supply was forward at all times.

In the difficult operation at Xanten, Germany the excellent qualities of this Warrant Officer were again demonstrated. In spite of the intense enemy shell and mortar fire to which the battalion positions were subjected almost continuously during the action, Company Sergeant-Major Hibberd provided all needed ammunition and rations without any delays, inspiring all ranks with his coolness under fire and ensuring that the discomfort of the troops under difficult conditions was reduced as much as possible.

At Kranenberg Company Sergeant-Major Hibberd took over the post of Regimental Sergeant-Major with the unanimous acclaim of all ranks of the unit. His organizing ability has been outstanding all through the European campaign; his fortitude and cheerful outlook has many times raised the morale of troops greatly fatigued by heavy fire and adverse weather; he has been, in short, a source of inspiration and courageous example to all ranks."