HOKITIKA NOTES

Grey River Argus, 10 November 1949, Page 2

HOKITIKA NOTES

(Our Own Correspondent) Lance Sergeant Oswald Lionel Howat, son of Mr E. Howat, of Hampden Street, Hokitika, at present a patient in th? Westland Hospital was unable to proceed to Greymouth to receive his Military Medal from the Governor-General at Ihe recent investiture at the Regent Theatre. Greymouth. Two of his brothers also served overseas, one in the Air Force and one in the Army. Lance Sergeant Howat’s citation stated:—On the night of (he llth to 12th of April. 1945, Lance Sergeant Howat’s company crossed the Santerno River to attack across the main railway embankment towards S. Agata and capture a strongly held road junction. During the night the company attacked the railway embankment to clear a start line for the main operation. This preliminary attack met with heavy opposition and was unsuccessful. A second attack was made ak 8 a.m. on 12th of April. Lance Sergeant Howat as section leader of the forwardingassaulting section exhibited outstanding leadership and bravery. In the face of intense spandau fire, he stood in the open directing the fire and advance of his men and even when painfully wounded in the leg persisted, with gallantry of the highest order, until 40 enemy were forced to surrender their position and ho himself was again wounded more seriously. This superb action not only was an inspiration to all ranks but also enabled the company to continue its advance. Throughout the whole action, Lance Sergeant Howat displayed skill, determination and gallantry of the highest order. The Governor-General forwarded him the following letter:—“l am sorry to know that, as you are at present a patient in the Westland Hospital, you will be unable to attend the investiture to receive in person the Military Medal awarded to you for your gallantry and skill as a section leader' at the crossing of the Santerno River on the night of llth April, 1945. In order that there should, be no further delay in your receiving the medal, I am arranging for it to be forwarded to you by registered post. I send you also my warmest congratulations on this recogntion of your bravery and my good wishes for a complete recovery.