Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A fine Second World War ‘Operation Goodwood’ immediate M.M. group of six awarded to Private G. T. Munroe, Queen’s Own Highlanders of Canada, for his gallantry during the attack on St. Andre sur Orne, Normandy, 19 July 1944 - during which he was severely wounded

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (L.2992 Pte. G. T. Munroe. C. Inf. C.) suspension claw re-affixed and loose; 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence Medal, Canadian issue in silver; Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, with overseas clasp; War Medal 1939-45, Canadian issue in silver, mounted for display, generally nearly very fine (6) £1,200-£1,600

Dix Noonan Webb, December 2003.

M.M. London Gazette 21 December 1944. The original recommendation states:

‘During the attack on St. Andre, Private Munroe was with a leading platoon of the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada. His platoon was held up, in a very exposed position and where unable to get forward without covering fire. Quickly realising the urgency of the situation, Private Munroe placed himself under heavy enemy fire and cooly commenced to give covering fire so that his platoon could go forward. Although badly wounded, he refused to be evacuated and went forward with his platoon to the objective giving covering fire during the whole consolidation. The cool, courageous, action of Private Munroe enabled his platoon to reach their objective.

Date of Action: 19 July 44.’

The above date proved to be a costly day for the Canadians, a series of assaults against well defended French towns and villages resulting in total casualties of 1,500 men, Private Munroe among them. The opposition included the Panzer Group West, which mounted ferocious counter-attacks with 1 and 9 S.S. Panzer Divisions.

George Thomas Munroe served during the Second War with the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada as part of the 6th Canadian Infantry Brigade.