Canadian Virtual War Memorial

TK13384

35

Army

Royal Canadian Artillery

Military Cross with Bar - RCA (6 Canadian Anti-Tank Regiment) - awarded as per Canada Gazette dated 4 November 1944 dated 8 November 1944. "On 21 July 1944, Lieutenant Heath was acting as second in command 33 Canadian Anti-Tank Battery, 6 Canadian Anti-Tank Regiment, deployed in area St.Andre-sur-Orne in support of 6 Canadian Infantry Brigade. Heavy and accurate enemy fire was being brought down on the position and as there appeared to be a threat of attack by enemy armour, Lieutenant Heath moved two self-propelled troops back to more favourable positions. He remained forward with one self-propelled gun while he fought throughout the day in support of "D" Company, Essex Scottish Regiment, also assisting in the consolidation of the infantry anti-tank guns. When the infantry were forced to withdraw temporarily, Lieutenant Heath took part in the rear guard action, coming out of action with the last gun. He the reported to the Commander, 6 Canadian Infantry Brigade, and gave him a full account of the situation which was of great value. On the following day, Lieutenant Heath in the face of small arms and mortar fire, returned to the scene of the action and personally recovered one 3-inch M-10 equipment, the crew having become casualties. By his grasp of the situation and his vigorous action in support of the infantry, Lieutenant Heath materially assisted the defence of the area which led to the eventual capture of St. Andre-sur-Orne. Throughout the action, this officer acted with complete disregard of danger and displayed qualities of leadership and devotion to duty beyond that expected of him in the course of duty." 1939 - 1945 Star, France and Germany Star, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp, Korea Medal and United Nations Service Medal Korea

July 13, 1916
London, England

January 13, 1940
Toronto, Ontario