Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Unit:

102nd Reinforcement Group, Headquarters, 21st Army Group, British Army

Awarded on:

February 1st, 1945

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Brigadier

Unit:

16th L of C Sub-Area, Headquarters Line of Communication, Headquarters, 21st Army Group, British Army

Awarded on:

August 9th, 1945

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Brigadier

Unit:

16th L of C Sub-Area, Headquarters Line of Communication, Headquarters, 21st Army Group, British Army

Awarded on:

April 4th, 1946

"Since Sep 1944 this officer has commanded a Sub Area with the greatest distinction and efficiency. For nearly the whole of this time he has been at GHENT, and has been responsible for the efficient working of that great port and for the excellent relations that have always existed with the Americans with whom it is shared. In addition, there is a large Canadian reinforcement and leave commitment in GHENT, which has worked admirably, and the Sub Area includes rest areas for approximately two Divisions. Those were first brought into use at the shortbeat notice for the GOLDFLAKE movement of troops from the (...) and all formations with (...) and subsequently who have passed through these areas have gone out of their way to express their satisfaction at all arrangements made for them. Though his Sub Area was never designed or intended to run and organise a Port of the size of GHENT, it has been brilliantly successful due entirely to the example, hard work and great knowledge of Brigadier UNDERHILL.
This officer has constantly displayed unflagging zeal and inspiring devotion to duty of the highest order, and has provided an inspiring example to all with whom he has come into contact.

His distinguished service has been a material contribution to the acknowledged successful working of the L of C."

Recommended for a CBE, but downgraded to a MiD

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Brigadier

Unit:

16th L of C Sub-Area, Headquarters Line of Communication, Headquarters, 21st Army Group, British Army

Awarded on:

January 16th, 1948

"Brigadier William Ernest Underhill, O.B.E., British Army, while Commanding Officer, 16th Line of Communications Sub-Area, Belgium, Rendered exceptionally meritorious service to the American forces from January to June 1945. His sympathetic understanding and cooperative spirit contributed greatly to the success of the American port operations in this area. As Chairman of the Port Emergency Committee, he exerted every effort to assist the United States forces in their assigned port operations and was meticulous in seeing to a fair division of all port facilities. The success of American operations in this area is attributed in a large measure to the outstanding cooperation and assistance rendered by Brigadier Underhill. His foresight, sound policy and ability to reconcile two different administrative and operational systems of the British and American forces in this area has left its mark in the force of splendid relationships of the British and United States armed forces in that theatre."