Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second World War 1945 ‘North West Europe’ M.M. awarded to Sergeant W. H. McPherson, Royal Canadian Corps of Signals, attached 4th Canadian Armoured Division

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (C36045 Sjt. W. H. McPherson. R.C. Sigs.) mounted as worn on investiture pin, scratches in obverse field, otherwise good very fine £700-£900

M.M. London Gazette 11 October 1945:

‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North West Europe.’

The original recommendation states:

‘Sergeant McPherson landed in France with the advanced party of the 4th Cdn Armd Div Sigs on *** July 45. Since that time he has worked continuously on line building, maintenance and trouble-shooting in all types of weather, both day and night. These line communications are of the most vital importance to the successful planning of operations. Despite the rapid advances and the sudden moves of Main Div HQ, this NCO, has at all times made these line communications possible with little or no delay. Due to his skilful and determined efforts, his line detachment has time after time, completed important lines from Main Div HQ to a fwd fighting Bde HQ. In order to plan line communications in advance of Main Div HQ, Sgt. McPherson has repeatedly laid line forward of Bde to the Bn areas. Under mortar and shell fire this NCO has been cool and resourceful, never for one minute letting the enemy’s fire deter him from completing the job in hand. On one occasion, when his sqn commander was wounded by mortar fire, Sgt. McPherson doggedly continued to lay line and ultimately completed a very vital communication artery from Main Div HQ to 4th Cdn Armd Bde HQ. During operations, this NCO has worked under the most trying conditions, willingly and cheerfully. Lack of sleep and the resultant fatigue have never dulled his conscientious determination to do a job and do it well. This attitude on the part of Sgt. McPherson has not only set a superlative example to the men under his command but has won for him the admiration and respect of all ranks in his unit.’

William Henry McPherson served during the Second War with the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals attached to the 4th Canadian Armoured Division.