- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Captain
- Unit:
- 2nd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 13th Infantry Brigade, 5th Infantry Division, British Army
- Awarded on:
- December 20th, 1940
Citation:
"Throughout the period May 12th to 31st, Captain Shaw displayed exceptional courage, determination and power of leadership while commanding a company, and set a very fine example to those under him.
On May 23rd on R. Scarpe his company was holding a wide sector near Plouvain. During the night Captain Sharpe was heavily attacked, amd a part of his position was lost. He at onze led his very small available recerve, and unhesitatingly counter-attacked a much superior force. Several of his men were hit at once, but Captain Shaw and the handful of men now with him closed with the enemy, and inflicted sufficient losses with grenades and rifle fire to check the enemy's advance and restore the position. Though cut off for a considerable time Captain Shaw by skilful use of grenades, succeeded in breaking through the enemy, who had surrounded him, and rejoined his company.
His very gallant action enabled his company to carry out its task to the end."