Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Captain

Unit:

B Company, 14th Battalion Sherwood Foresters, 9th Independent Armoured Brigade, 2nd New Zealand Division, New Zealand Military Forces

Awarded on:

January 28th, 1943

In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the Middle East.
--
"On 23/24 October 1942 at MITTEREIYA RIDGE, Capt Richard DICK was in command of 'B' Company 14 Battalion Sherwood Foresters. Throughout the night he assisted in locating minefields under shell fire and at first light placed his company in position on the right flank. Throughout the day, under heavy shell fire he walked round the positions with great calmness showing complete disregard for his own safety and setting a fine example to others.

On 2 November 1942 the Company of the 14th Battalion Sherwood Foresters of which Capt DICK was 2nd i/c sustained very heavy casualties and by 09,00 hours were completely isolated from our own lines. After his Company Commander was wounded, Capt DICK was left in command. The position where his company was, was under continuous shell fire and machine gun fire from the enemy lines and from our own lines as well. With total disregard for his own safety Capt DICK went round the remnants of his company rallying his men, tending those who were wounded and reorganizing his defenses. By his example and courage he undoubtedly saved the lives of a number of men and managed to prevent the Germans from coming forward and destroying a number of our tanks which were disabled. Later in the afternoon when his left flank was attacked by two German tanks he himself manned and fired one of his two remaining anti-tank guns. He knocked out one of the German tanks and damaged another and continued to fire his gun until both were ultimately destroyed by enemy shell fire.

In the evening he withdrew in good order bringing all wounded personnel with him and all serviceable weapons that he had left. Throughout the entire day he was an inspiration and example to everyone with whom he came in contact."