986278 Gunner William THORNTON - Recommendation for Military Medal

[Guest Bob Agg]

Our very own William Thornton was one of only 19 members of the Scottish Horse Regiment to be awarded the Military Medal during World War 2.

 

The Battle of Sferro Hills on Sicily, in which Mr. Thornton's actions saw him awarded the Military Medal, claimed the lives of 124 officers and 1,312 ' other ranks.' You can read more on the Battle of Sferro Hills on this link http://51hd.co.uk/history/sicily_sferro

 

Below is the recommendation for his Military Medal, purchased from the National Archives.

 

" On the night of 31st/1st, 986278 Gunner Thornton, accompanied his Battery Commander as Signaller to an O.P. on Point 224. He retained constant communication for 18 hours and passed down Fire Orders often under heavy shelling and mortar fire.

By his coolness and devotion to duty Gunner THORNTON gave great assistance to his Battery Commander in bringing down his fire on the enemy."

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Memorial at Sferro Hill being dedicated on 4th November 1943, 8 days before William Thornton received his Military Medal, and how it is today.

 

 

 

 

Of course there are more Rangers World War Heroes, some of which are detailed in an article I wrote last summerÂ…

 

http://www.therangersstandard.co.uk/index.php/articles/club-history/265-armed-forces-day-rangers-world-war-heroes

[Frankie 8,154]

Brilliant stuff mate - very apt today!

[Little General 80]

great article Bob.

 

Thanks for that.