OFFICER’S HEROISM.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LXI, Issue 137, 12 May 1941, Page 7

OFFICER’S HEROISM.

( British Official Wireless.) RUGBY, May 9. An instance of how one man s individual courage and ability can materially affect large-scale operations is seen in the award of the D.S.C. to Major (temporary lieutenant-colonel) J. M. S. Renton, of the Rifle Brigade. This officer, the official announcement runs, held a line three and a half miles long, defended only by three and a half companies of infantry and one battery, for 36 hours against great odds. Four separate night attacks and several attacks hv day. all supported by artillery fire and led by medium tanks, were beaten off and eventually 15,000 of the enemy, including generals and their staffs, were made prisoners. In addition, 27 medium tanks and large numbers of guns, Bren guns and armoured ears wore destroyed. Major Renton displayed great ability in selecting the position to he hold, and in the use I of oovw and cross fire, and in expert! tactical handling of the situation as it developed. His personal courage in difficult circumstances was a splendid example to tlip men under liis command. Further awards to United Kingdom end Australian personnel in the same list include three D.S.O.’s. one har to tho M.C.. two M.U.’s. four T4.r M.’s, one har to the M.M. eight M.M.’s.