Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

Canadian Infantry Corps, The Regina Rifle Regiment (Canadian Infantry Corps, The Regina Rifle Regiment)

Awarded on:

August 11th, 1945

Citation:
"In the operations involved in crossing the River Rhine, the role of 7 Canadian Infantry Brigade was to break out of the initial bridgehead and seize the town of Emmerich to enable bridges for 2 Canadian Corps to be built.

The task of clearing out the central portion of Emmerich was allotted to the Regina Rifles Regiment. The enemy, realizing the importance of the position, offered stubborn resistance and had built numerous road blocks and fortified houses throughout the town.

The plan as evolved by Lieutenant-Colonel Gregory and the manner in which this officer directed his battalion resulted in at least half of the central part of the town being cleared by last light on the 29th March 1945, the day on which clearing had commenced. This was done despite determined opposition from infantry in prepared positions in houses supported by self-propelled guns. Lieutenant-Colonel Gregory, disregarding his own safety during the day had positioned himself in the town despite consistent enemy shelling and sniping.

During the evening, Lieutenant-Colonel Gregory quickly regrouped his battalion which was becoming fatigued at this stage after having continuously been advancing against or fighting the enemy for over 48 hours. The actions and energy of this officer proved to be an inspiration to the troops under his command and the task allotted to his battalion was completed when the town was cleared by the following day. This operation, accomplished with only light casualties to our troops, contributed to the early commencement by 2 Canadian Corps of bridging operations across the River Rhine.

The success which the Regina Rifle Regiment achieved and the aggressive eagerness displayed by this unit may be attributed to a great extent to Lieutenant-Colonel Gregory. This officer by his leadership, persistence, energy and coolness in action against the enemy was an example to all ranks."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant-Colonel

Awarded on:

April 4th, 1946

Citation (general):
"In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Western Europe."