Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

1st Battalion Welch Regiment, 1st Guards Brigade, 6th Armoured Division, British Army

Awarded on:

November 10th, 1945

During the establishment of a bridgehead over the Po River, Major Lewis was ordered to seize and hold Faccenda, a small village in enclosed country, to protect the right flank of the bridgehead. On approaching the objective, the company was suddenly subjected to heavy machine gun and mortar fire, imposing a check on the whole advance. With speed and aggressive determination Major Lewis led a platoon to assault the strong German positions in and around farm buildings, and by his personal efforts and example successfully overran the enemy, who fled leaving seven dead and six prisoners. Later, an enemy counterattack formed south of Faccenda, with the evident intention of destroying Major Lewis' company. Again showing the highest qualities of leadership and initiative, Major Lewis gave the enemy no opportunity to launch his attack, but immediately placed himself at the head of the reserve platoon and assaulted the enemy who speedily withdrew. Throughout the day, Major Lewis' offensive spirit and total disregard for his own personal safety were an inspiration to his whole company, and a complete deterrent to the enemy's further efforts to threaten the bridgehead.