Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

39 Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment R.A., 62nd A.A. Brigade, IV Corps, British Army

Awarded on:

April 12th, 1945

At approx 0820 hrs on 17 Nov, 1944, the enemy in strength estimated at from 70 to 80 made a determined attack on an outpost at CASA FRANCIA, some 600 yards away from the main Troop Post at PIAN DEGLI ONTANI (M.R.374071 1:25,000 Sheet 97-II).
Lt Davies was ordered to organise a relief force from all available men of the garrison at PIAN DEGLI ONTANI. Lt Davies collected a patrol of 13 British O.Rs and 2 partisans and led them in the directon of C. FRANCIA. At an early stage the relief force was sublected to heavy mortar fire which wounded three O.Rs and isolated three others.
In spite of heavy mortar and S.A. fire Lt Davies led the remaning 7 O.Rs and 2 partisans to ?? (unreadable) DELLA QUERCIA, some 250 yards from CASA FRANCIA. At this point the patrol was pinned to the ground by heavy enemy fire, but Lt Davies ordered his British O.Rs to take up firing positions and himself with the two partisans advanced by bounds under continuous fire, in and endeavour to find a route to C. FRANCIA. During this phase one other O.R. was wounded. As a result of Lt Davies' devotion to duty and complete disregard of danger, the remainder of the patrol were at last able to reach C. FRANCIA, but by this time the enemy had retreated. Lt Davies showed outstanding courage and devotion to duty and his inspiring example in an endeavour to succour his comrades is worthy of the highest traditions of the service."

WO 373/10/507