Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

C Troop, 18 Canadian Anti-Tank Battery, Royal Canadian Artillery, (C Troop, 18 Canadian Anti-Tank Battery, Royal Canadian Artillery,)

Awarded on:

May 12th, 1945

Citation:
"On 20 February 1945, "C" Troop, 18 Canadian Anti-Tank Battery, Royal Canadian Artillery, was in support of the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry battalion in the Louisendorf sector, astride the Calcar-Goch road. At approximately 1430 hours the enemy launched a strong tank and infantry counter-attack against the right flank of the position.

Lieutenant D. Heaps, "C" Troop Commander, under very heavy enemy small arms, mortar and shell fire, personally went forward with two 17-pounder self-propelled anti-tank guns to engage the enemy tanks. Due to the excellent positions he selected, three enemy Panther tanks were destroyed with four rounds and the enemy immediately withdrew. Later, at 1515 hours in response to information that a fourth enemy tank had come into position among the three derelict tanks, Lieutenant Heaps went forward to establish its position. He then directed his third gun to its fire position, fired two rounds which set the tank on fire, and then quickly moved his own gun to a new covering position in time to prevent damage and casualties from shells fired by the enemy tank until its crew were forced to abandon it.

At 1800 hours the same day the enemy struck again, this time on the left flank of the position, employing strong forces of infantry and tanks. Lieutenant Heaps, in the face of the enemy and under heavy fire, personally directed two of his guns to their fire positions. Again, the enemy suffered heavily, losing three more tanks before being forced to withdraw their infantry with heavy casualties.

Throughout both actions, the Troop Commander demonstrated keen judgment and knowledge of counter-action necessary and exercised absolute control on the employment of his guns. His leadership, complete disregard for danger and resourcefulness were responsible for the retention of a vital position and caused severe casualties to the enemy. His gallantry contributed an outstanding measure to the success of the operation and his example was an inspiration to all ranks in furthering the subsequent advance."