Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Second-Lieutenant

Unit:

Long Range Desert Group (LRDG), Eighth Army, British Army

Awarded on:

December 30th, 1941

"During the period June 1st 1941 to July 5th 1941, this officer has led several small motorized patrols from SIWA to JEBEL EL AKHDAR region, to obtain information and to transport agents. These patrols have been operating 20 miles behind the enemy lines, and have been very successful in all their enterprises.

They destroyed at least 12 enemy vehicles. 2/Lieut Easonsmith has displayed daring, initiative and a high power of leadership in avoiding detection and in completing successfully the tasks allotted to him. I recommend the award of a Military Cross to this officer."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Major

Unit:

Long Range Desert Group (LRDG), G.H.Q. Troops, Middle East Command, British Army

Awarded on:

November 26th, 1942

"Maj. EASONSMITH commanded a LRDG Squadron which, on the night 13/14 September 1942, destroyed 20 aircraft and damaged 12 others on BARCE L.G., inflicted casualties to the garrison, and destroyed petrol dumps. Maj. EASONSMITH himself on one vehicle caused damage to vehicles and casualties to personnel in an attack on a M.T. Park.

On the return journey the Squadron was ambushed by 150 troops. By his cool leadership and example under fire Major EASONSMITH fought the Squadron through the ambush with few casualties. Later, when all vehicles save two had been destroyed by fighter aircraft he despatches the wounded by car to LG 125 where they were flown to CAIRO and himself led a walking party 70 miles across country to a RV with another LRDG patrol. The safe return of the majority of his personnel and the success of the operation can be largely attributed to Major EASONSMITH's personal courage and untiring devotion to duty."

(Owing to the secret nature of these operations, it is requested that no publication be made)