On This Day 18 January 1944 - Italy 6 Seaforths

 On This day 18 January 1944 - Italy

6 Seaforths Citation: Bar to Military Cross for Major A.E. Low

Major A.E. Low’s Company was the leading Company in the assault crossing of the River Garigliano on the night of 17-18 Jan 44.   When moving forward to the riverbank, two of his subalterns and three of his Platoon Sergeants were seriously wounded by “S” mines.   He himself was also wounded, but he carried on and led his Company across the river under heavy shell fire and machine gun fire.   His calm courage and forceful leadership under most difficult circumstances were a magnificent example to his men and assured the subsequent success of the whole assault crossing by the Battalion.   In spite of being in great pain from the wound which had affected his sight, Major Low led his Company, now much depleted by casualties, forward from the river and continued to engage the enemy until the success of the operation.   Throughout the night and until about mid-day on 18 Jan 44, when he was ordered to hand over his Command and have his wounds attended to, this officer displayed magnificent courage and devotion to duty.

6 Seaforths Citation: Bar to Military Cross for Captain G.A. Falconer.

When the assault crossing of the River Garigliano began on the night 17-18 Jan 44, Capt. Falconer was Second in Command of “C” Company.   His Company Commander was severely wounded, and Capt. Falconer took command and got his Company across the river under intense enemy shell fire.   By first light 18 Jan 44 his Company had secured its first objective, and the first enemy counterattack which took place soon after dawn was successfully repulsed.   Shortly afterwards the enemy brought up three tanks and counterattacked again.   In this engagement Capt. Falconer was himself wounded and his Company suffered many casualties.   He continued in action however and conducted a successful withdrawal to more advantageous positions covering the bridgehead.   As a result of his fine leadership the enemy counterattack was successfully held.   Capt. Falconer’s courageous leadership was a magnificent example to his men and the success of the assault crossing was in no small measure due to this officer’s skill and courage.