Eight: Sergeant J. W. Smith, Reconnaissance Corps (Royal Armoured Corps), later R.P.C., who won an immediate M.M. for bravery in Italy in June 1944

1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals; General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Palestine 1945-48 (4975709 W.O. Cl. 2, R.A.C.); Army Meritorious Service Medal, E.II.R. (LS/4975709 Sgt., M.M., R.P.C.), the last two with contact marks and edge bruising, otherwise generally very fine, the remainder rather better (8) £400-500

John William Smith, a native of Stamford, Lincolnshire, was awarded the M.M. for bravery in Italy in June 1944, while serving in 1 Reconnaissance Regiment, R.A.C., a component of 1 British Division, V British Corps (London Gazette 26 October 1944). The original recommendation states:

‘For outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty in action near Acquabuona Ridge, Campoleone, Italy on 4 June 1944.

Lance-Sergeant Smith was in command of three Bren gun groups and a two-inch mortar group, part of a force holding a defensive position between the right flank of the 2nd Infantry Brigade and the 81st U.S. Reconnaissance Battalion. Prior to the attack of the 3rd Infantry Brigade this N.C.O. was given orders to assist the forward movement of the attacking battalion by covering fire on to the enemy from a position some 300 yards forward.

Whilst moving into a new fire position the troop came under very heavy mortar and shell fire which destroyed two Bren groups. Sergeant Smith continued to work his remaining section and two-inch mortar forward and engaged the enemy at a range of under 300 yards. Having got his section into action, he then carried a wounded Corporal across 400 yards of open ground under heavy mortar and small arms fire. He further succeeded in getting three more wounded men under cover across a road.

Smith then rejoined his section and applied his fire with such good effect that the enemy withdrew two platoons from the area, heavy casualties being caused to them en route by the remaining Bren group and supporting three-inch mortar group.

By his complete disregard for his own safety and by determined leadership there is no doubt that this N.C.O. materially assisted in keeping the enemy engaged at the same time inflicting considerable casualties and forcing him to give ground.’