Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

5/11th Sikh Regiment, British Indian Army

Awarded on:

January 12th, 1940

Citation:
Major J. H. D. Parkin was in command of two companies which occupied BARRIER RIDGE by 0600 hrs on the 29th October 1939. The enemy were engaged at about 0630 hr's and by 0820 hrs three piquets on the South end of BARRIER were very heavily engaged by parties of enemy that had crept up close to them under cover of some very thick bushes close by. Major Parkin continually visited these piquets. By doing so, he was able to coordinate supporting fire and organise an attack on a party of enemy which was threatening one of the piquets. This restored an ugly situation. His strong and determined leadership was entirely responsible for inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy, restoring the situation, avoiding delay and thus enabling the two companies to be withdrawn without being followed up and suffering further loss. Major Parkin was wounded in the withdrawal but remained with his command until it was safely withdrawn. His devotion to duty, gallantry, leadership and complete disregard for his own safety throughout the action were most conspicuous."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

5/11h Sikh Regiment, 22nd Indian Infantry Brigade, 9th Indian Infantry Division, British Indian Army

Awarded on:

December 13th, 1945

Recommendation:
"Throughout the campaign, Lt. Col. Parkin, DSO, has displayed magnificent qualities as a commander. His enthusiasm and dauntless spirit infused his Battalion with the fine offensive spirit. It was his sound tactical sense, courageous determination, and skilful leadership which was responsible for the highly successful action north of Kluang on the 25th January 1942. On this occasion, his Battalion with a Field Battery under command, whilst carrying out a wide outflanking movement of ten miles to regain possession of an approach to the Kluang aerodrome, became surrounded by superior enemy forces. Lt.Col. Parkin so organised an attack that he inflicted very severe casualties on the enemy (150 enemy dead were counted on the ground) and forced the enemy to withdraw in disorder. Later, during the withdrawal of the 22nd Indian Infantry Brigade to the south of Rengan he displayed similar initiative and on two occasions his troops attacked successfully, though his men had no food for over 48 hours, and but little or no rest."

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:

First World War (1914-1918)

"Afghanistan N.W.F. 1919"

"Iraq"

"North West Frontier 1937-39"

"Kenya"