Corps of Military Police

Cap Badge of the Corps of Military Police (King George VI)
Soldier Details:
Surname: Gadsden
Initials:   W.J.
Rank:   Sergeant
Army No.:  6198473
Notes:   CMP. Formerly Middlesex Regt. 25/11/44 Killed in Action, Venray Holland. Unit War Diary 15 Scottish Division Pro Coy. WO 171/476. 25/11/1944 1 Sgt (Gadsden) 1 Cpl (Thomas) killed by enemy mine. Inscription on gravestone: To he world he was only a part, to me he was all the world. Casualty List 1625, North West Europe, killed in action, 25/11/1944. Wilfred James Gadsden, MM.

Decorations/Medals/Awards (1)
  1. Decoration:   Military Medal Gazette Date: 1945-02-01 Gazette Issue: 36917 Gazette Page: 679
Citation:   Military Medal Citation North West Europe On 28 June 1944 during the action in which 15 (s) Division was engaged in securing the crossing over the RIVER ODON No6198473 Sergeant Gadsden, with his section of 15 (S) Division Provost Company, was on traffic duty in CHEUX and the roads leading south. During the evening of that date when the enemy threatened a breakthrough in this sector, Sergeant Gadsden held his section together and personally directed traffic over a period of several hours, although subjected to heavy fire from enemy snipers and shelling. During the period 15 - 18 July 1944, when 15 (S) Inf Div was engaged south of the RIVER ODON, Sergeant Gadsden and his section of 15 (S) Div Pro Coy was again on duty controlling traffic over the river on 4 bridges. During this period the river crossings were subjected to considerable shelling and mortar fire. In spite of numerous casualties amongst personnel of his company Sergeant Gadsden visited all his men on all the bridges encouraging them in their work and actively assisting in the control of traffic. By his example he ensured the smooth flow of traffic at all times over the river and inspired his men in the execution of their duties. 1 Sgt (Gadsden) 1 Cpl (Thomas) killed by mine. War Diary WO 171/476. Awarded the MM. Recommended by APM 15 Div. National Archive WO 373/50.
Casualty Details:
Date Killed: 25th November 1944
Company: 15 DIV PRO COY
Cemetery: VENRAY WAR CEMETERY   NETHERLANDS
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