| Surname: | Hirst |
| Initials: | R A |
| Rank: | Sergeant |
| Army Number: | 929176 |
| Notes: | CMP (India). Sergeant Hirst transferred to CMP from 68 Medium Regt RA. 26/11/45 to discharge. 1/3/44 Sgt R A Hirst awarded immediate MM for distinguished Provost work at Cassino in March. Unit War Diary WO 169/18788. 9/3/50 MM, 1939-1945 Star, Africa Star with 8 army clasp, Italy Star, Defence Medal, War Medal. Address:-21g Wheelock Street, Middlewich, Cheshire. Reginald Aynsley Hirst. |
Decoration Record: | |
| Decoration: | Military Medal (London Gazette: 36668 Page: 3924 Aug. 24, 1944) |
| Citation: | CMP (I).Military Medal Citation.Cassino ItalyDuring the period 12 February to 27 March 1944, in the hills north of CASSINO, this NCO was in charge of a CMP section attached for duty to 7 Indian Infantry Brigade. Throughout a long and difficult period he set an example of courage and devotion to duty worthy of the highest praise.The tasks allotted to the section under Sergeant Hirst were to control traffic on the Brigade axis in the forward area, to assist in the evacuation of wounded and to act as guides whenever required. In order to carry out this work to best advantage it was necessary for the section to live in the area of Brigade "Jeephead". This area had been accurately registered by enemy artillery and mortars, and for the entire period of six and a half weeks was subject to intense concentrations of mortar and shell fire both by day and night. Indeed the whole of the forward part of the Brigade axis was continually under heavy fire throughout this period, particularly when there was any movement of men, mules or vehicles. Casualties in the area were heavy. Furthermore there was a constant stream of casualties moving back down the axis which would always attract additional enemy fire. The work of Sergeant Hirst during this very difficult period was quite outstanding. His duties of necessity caused him to move about when the enemy fire was heaviest. He never once failed in his duties either in organising and carrying out traffic control or in escorting ambulances and stretcher parties. He showed great courage, complete disregard of his own personal safety and was constantly moving about in his area of responsibility in order to encourage the other men of his section. Traffic at night time was normally heavy and it is largely due to the determination and untiring efforts of this NCO that the Brigade axis was never seriously blocked. His personal example was an inspiration to his section every man of which did splendid work under very hazardous conditions. The courage and powers of leadership of this NCO were of a very high order and were worthy of the finest traditions of the CMP.Awarded the MM. Recommended by Brigade Commander 7 Indian Inf Bde, 4 Ind Div. National Archive WO 373/7. |