Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

114 Royal Armoured Corps

Awarded on:

December 21st, 1944

Recommendation:
"On 19th August 1944 Sergeant Ashness was put in command of a troop of tanks during the absence of his troop leader and given the task of clearing the orchards at 419827, fire from which was holding up the advance of the infantry. This he did, taking a number of prisoners and killing several more. Just as he had reported this area clear of enemy, he was sent to assist the 1st Battalion, Black Watch on the right who were held up and unable to gain their objective on top of the hill at 429828 owing to strong enemy machine gun fire. Sergeant Ashenss took his troop forward and found the hill almost impassable to tanks. He led the way and at the third attempt managed to get his tank onto the crest. The hill was so steep that his remaining tanks were unable to get up. Sergeant Ashness advanced over the crest and silenced the opposition by himself, killing and capturing a number of the enemy. The infantry through his action were then able to move over the crest of the hill and consolidate their objective. Sergeant Ashness, during this action, accepted the responsibility normally carried out by a subaltern officer and showed outstanding ability in the discharge of these duties. During the whole of the period from 7th to 30th August 1944 when the regiment has been almost continually in action from Caen to the Seine, Sergeant Ashness has been a fine example of courage, cheerfulness, initiative and a ready acceptance of responsibility."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)