Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Captain

Unit:

16th Punjab Regiment, Indian Army

Awarded on:

July 27th, 1944

The recommendation for Military Cross is dated 25th April 1944 and recommended and signed by General later Field Marshal Viscount Slim. “In the early morning of 13th April 1944 when the Bn was holding points Spit & Polish S.W. of Buthidaung a vague message was received at Bn HQ, that one of the forward Coys had been over-run by the enemy and requesting help. More detailed information was essential and T/Capt, Burton who was Adjt immediately volunteered to go forward in the dark over country in which enemy patrols were active and in which mines were laid. His carrier hit a mine and two men were wounded, however T/Capt Burton proceeded forward on foot with one man and eventually reached one of the forward posts. He found a small part of the position over-run, the Coy Comd wounded and some 25 enemy in 3 bunker positions in one corner of the main position. Having seen to the disposal of casualties T/Capt Burton then took command and organised and directed the eviction of the enemy from their bunker positions. It was impossible to use Arty as the posts were too close to our own. However after some 5 hours the entire enemy party had been exterminated and the position stabilised. This action took place under severe enemy mortar & MG fire, but under the leadership of T/Capt Burton was entirely successful, with comparatively few losses to our own troops. T/Capt Burton then reorganised the defences of the positions and held it against several determined enemy attacks and under enemy shell and mortar fire for 6 days and nights until relieved. The successful reoccupation and defence of these features was in great measure due to the coolness, powers of leadership and complete disregard for his own personal safety of T/Capt Burton who showed ability and assumed responsibility well above his rank”.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)