Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second War ‘North West Europe’ B.E.M. awarded to Sergeant D. Lessard, Black Watch, Canadian Infantry Corps

British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (D.81186 Sgt. Dollard Lessard. C.I.) good very fine £200-£240

B.E.M. London Gazette 24 January 1946:
‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North-West Europe.’

The original Recommendation states: ‘Sergeant Lessard has served continuously with the Battalion since it landed in Normandy until VE Day as Intelligence Sergeant. During this period he has carried out his duties, which entailed a great deal of responsibility, admirably. At Laren, Holland, on 5 April 1945, after his officer had been wounded, he took over the duties of Intelligence Officer for a period of ten days. In performing this difficult task the great skill and determination that this non-commissioner officer showed under very trying conditions earned for him the respect and admiration of all. During his long period of service Sergeant Lessard has never failed to carry out his duties in a quiet and efficient manner often under direct enemy fire and under conditions of extreme physical discomfort.’

Dollard Lessard was born in Montreal in 1917 and attested there for the Canadian Active Service Force on 9 September 1939. He served with the 1st Battalion, Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) of Canada, Canadian Infantry, during the Second World War in North-West Europe from 6 July 1944, and was promoted Sergeant on 30 October 1944. For his services during the Second World War in North-West Europe he was awarded the British Empire Medal. He was discharged on 23 October 1945.

Sold with copied record of service and other research.