Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Paid Acting Serjeant

Unit:

Movement Control, Railway Travel Office, British Army

Awarded on:

May 27th, 1949

General citation:
"For heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 21 January 1946, at Torre Anmanziata, Italy. When fire broke out in an ammunition train, endangering the lives and property of all in the area, he immediately began fighting the fire and, without regard for his safety, removed several of the wagons of ammunition to reduce possibility of the fire's spreading. Sergeant Wirth's personal courage and quick action in an emergency reflect great credit on himself and the military service."

Recommendation:
"For heroism at Torre Annunziata, Italy, on 21 January 1946. Upon hearing the first explosion of several ammunition wagons on a railroad siding at Torre Annunziata, Italy, P/A/Sergeant Wirth immediately rushed to the scene of the explosion and upon arrival found the ammunition on fire; endangering the entire port area. Realizing the possibility of a great conflagration he telephoned all fire services that were immediately available as well hospital and military police stations. He then advised his superiors what had happened and returned to detach as many wagons as possible from the burning train. At first the station master refused to assist in te operation, but after a third explosion agreed to dispatch a crew to help P/A/Sergeant Wirth detach five wagons of ammunition near the fire. When the trainmen refused to give more assistance, he returned without hem and in spite of the terrific heat and he went for an engine to remove the detached wagons the fourth explosion occurred, knocking him to the ground and injuring him. By his complete disregard for personal safety, his heroism and inspired devotion to duty, P/A Sergeant With reflected great credit upon himself, his organization, and upon the British Army."

Department of the Army, General Orders No. 4