Cambridgeshires: Conspicuous gallantry’

FORTY-one medals were awarded for gallantry to the Cambridgeshires for their part in the storming of the Schwaben Redoubt - almost certainly a record for a single day's action.

The commander, Lt Col Edward Riddell was awarded the DSO for "conspicuous gallantry in action".

His citation also said: "He showed the greatest skill and foresight in assembling his battalion and subsequently launching them to the attack without a casualty in broad daylight, on ground observed by the enemy,

"His personal bravery, energy and example exercised great influence over all ranks."

Local soldiers awarded the DCM for "conspicuous gallantry" in the action were:

* Cpl Fred Latham, a teacher at St Peter's School, Wisbech, who "took his platoon forward and dug an advanced strong point, keeping excellent control under heavy fire and most trying conditions".

* Pte James Smith, of Manea, who "went down the trench himself before the barricade was put across and drove off a party of the enemy by throwing bombs" and later "climbed on top of the barricade and shot four of the enemy".

* Cpl Joe Archer, of Wisbech, who "displayed great courage and skill in establishing and maintaining communication at a critical time" and "set a splendid example throughout".

* L/Cpl Frank Touch, of March, who "carried a message (for more grenades) through a very heavy artillery barrage" and later "again went out to establish touch with the unit on the right". The citation added that he set a splendid example to his men.

Among those to be awarded the Military Medal for their part in the action were:

* Sgt Robert Bushell, Wisbech;

* L/Cpl Mat Gilbert, Sutton St James;

* Pte Frederick Hailstone, Whittlesey;

* Pte Horace Johnson (company runner), Emneth;

* L/Cpl Edward Miller, Doddington;

* L/Cpl Alf Setchfield, Coates.