Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

1st Battalion, 8th Gurkha Rifles, Indian Army

Awarded on:

February 6th, 1940

Citation:
"While on Road Protection duty at Razmak on the 14th November, 1939, Captain M.E. Ovans was sent up with his company, at about 16.15 hrs., to reinforce the Rear Party of the 1st Leicestershire Regiment who were holding GAJ RIDGE. On arrival he took over part of the Ridge and organised a covering party for the wounded. Later on he also took over the duty of Rear Party Commander.

By this time there had been several other casualties on the right flank, and another company of the 1st Battalion 8th Gurkha Rifles had come up under his command.

Darkness was rapidly approaching, and this officer, displaying great energy and power of command, organised a defensive position and thereby enabled the casualties to be evacuated. He moved about under heavy fire personally giving orders to his various platoon commanders.
The other company of the 1st Battalion, 8th Gurkha Rifles had by this time lost its company commander, thereby making Captain Ovans' task more difficult.

He eventually succeeded in withdrawing all troops from this area, surrounded by enemy and in complete darkness, without the loss of a single casualty.

This officer displayed great skill, leadership and courage in carrying out this difficult operation."