Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private

Unit:

No. 3 Commando, 1st Special Service Brigade, Combined Operations Headquarters, War Office, British Government

Awarded on:

January 13th, 1944

During the operations in Calabria between the 28th August and 5th September 1943, Pte Leech took a prominent part in ambushing an Italian army lorry on the night of 30th-31st August and in capturing an Italian post on ther night 30th-31st August.this was despite his having malaria at the time ,which fact he concealed.While escorting 3 Italian prisoners on the 31st August he fainted and was lost until the next day, when his party being pursued by a Company of Italian parachutists , rather than risk the safety of his companions he left them and concealed himself in a farm.On 2nd September 1943,being somewhat recovered, he and a sailor joined themselves to a party under Cpl Davison and the same day he, alone, captured 6 Italians in Bova Marina.This soldier though sick , did more than many a man in perfoiect health and was a great asset to both patrols he found himself with.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private

Unit:

No. 3 Commando, 1st Special Service Brigade, 6th Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

August 31st, 1944

Awarded for:

Operation Neptune

On Queen Red Beach on 6th June 1944 Sgt Leech's section Officer was wounded and he immediately took command and re-organised.casualties and wounded had occured in the boat.During the counter attack at Le Plein woods on the morning of 8th June 1944, he led the sectionwith great distinction, and he himself killed several of the enemy, and hsi section took numerous prisoners.Although wounded he continued to lead the section until the operation was successfully completed.he displayed powers of leadership, military knowledge and courage of the highest order.

Second MM received as bar.