Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Colonel

Unit:

Headquarters, 1st Airlanding Brigade, 1st Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

October 21st, 1943

Awarded for:

Operation Husky

Citation:
"Colonel Jones landed about five miles south of the appointed landing area in the barbed wire covering the beaches. Although attacked by Italians while in the wire he extricated his small force with the exception of a padre and one signaller who were captured.

He then led his party consisting of five officers and five other ranks inland and started to move towards the bridge south of Syracuse. After about two hours and a half, a platoon of the Border Regiment joined up and the augmented party proceeded. At about 0830 it was apparent that a coastal battery was in action close at hand. Colonel Jones halted his men and made a recce; he returned with a plan to destroy the battery which was obviously firing on the shipping assembled near the beaches.

The Battery was assaulted with complete success and no casualties. Colonel Jones with complete disregard for his own safety personally led the assault which resulted in 45 prisoners being captured and a considerable number of Italians being killed and wounded. The battery was blown up.

The skill, determination and offensive spirit shown by this small body of men under the leadership of Colonel Jones resulted in a five gun coast defence battery being put out of action at a critical time on the beaches. The action was made possible by the initiative and personal gallantry of Colonel Jones, who throughout the action inspired all ranks with the greatest confidence. Subsequently Colonel Jones rejoined the Brigade and assumed command until the arrival of the Brigade Commander."