Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

86th (East Anglian) (Hertfordshire Yeomanry) Field Regiment, 21st Army Group, British Army

Awarded on:

January 24th, 1946

Citation:
"Capt.Ash has been Troop Commander & F.O.O in this regiment throughout the whole campaign in Europe, except for a period in hospital in the latter half of March & April. He came ashore on 6 Jun 44 with the first assault wave of 6 Green Howards (50 Div) and in the bitter and continuous fighting in the Normandy bridgehead his coolness and disregard of personal danger became quickly apparent. In October and November 44 on three separate occasions the church tower or windmill from which he was observing was shot up by direct fire from German S.P guns. On each occasion he displayed the greatest efficiency and coolness in quickly organizing a new O.P. thereby enabling himself to continue to give quick and accurate support to the infantry. On Mar 45 Capt Ash was in support of 1 Coy 5 Coldstream Guards in their attack on the remaining German bridgehead to the WEST of the Rhine at WESEL. Throughout his attack and in spite of severe opposition, Capt Ash, from exposed positions which were heavily shelled and mortared, gave the best possible support in a most fearless manner. His conduct, his bravery and his devotion to duty throughout the whole campaign have been beyond all praise and have been an inspiration to those who have worked with him."