Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Captain

Unit:

8th Battalion Rifle Brigade, 29th Armoured Brigade, 11th Armoured Division, British Army

Awarded on:

March 1st, 1945

"On the 18th August 1944, Capt. May was in command of the vanguard, consisting of a section of carriers and a Motor platoon of 'H' Company, 9 R.E. supported by a troop of tanks of 23rd Hussars. WEST of LAUNAY enemy positions was met and heavy fire from artillery was opened on the vanguard. There was also considerable small arms fire. CAPT MAY organized an attack on the village by the infantry supported by the tanks. During the attack CAPT MAY saw that the supporting fire from the tanks was ineffective and immediately jumped into the Troop Commander's tank to secure better supporting fire.

All this time the tanks were under machine gun fire and CAPT MAY was completely exposed.

Shortly after this, two riflemen were killed in a farmyard. Disregarding his own safety and in spite of enemy small arms and mortar fire CAPT MAY went forward by himself to see whether the men were wounded or dead.

The infantry under CAPT MAY's command continued to attack and harass the enemy with great effect until ordered to withdraw by his Company Commander.

Heavy casualties were suffered by the vanguard in this action and CAPT MAY's gallantry and complete disregard of danger were an inspiration to the men under his command.

7 Sept 44"