Name: |
ERLANK |
Given Name: |
THEODORE PAUL |
Initials: |
T P |
Service No: |
21561V |
Rank: |
Warrant Officer Class IIOther Casualties of this Rank |
Regiment: |
South African Artillery |
Unit: |
1/11 Anti-Tank Regt.Other Casualties from this Unit |
Unit 2: |
2/23 Bty.Other Casualties from this Unit |
Date of Death: |
1944-08-23Other Casualties on this
Date |
Date of Birth: |
1919-09-18 |
Age: |
24 |
Cause of Death: |
Died of wounds |
Decorations: |
M M |
Citations: |
LG Sup 14 October 1943 pg. 4548 - "In the initial attack at El Alamein on the night of 23rd October 1942, T/WO/2 T. P. Erlank was the Sergeant-Major of a troop of anti-tank guns. His troop commander was severely wounded early in the attack, and the command of the troop devolved on him and, owing to delays and damage to his porte vehicles, dawn broke before Miteiriya Ridge could be crossed and the forward infantry positions reached. With great courage he went forward under considerable shellfire to reconnoitre positions for his guns, and thereafter led his troop to these positions, again through shellfire and directly in view of the enemy. His coolness and efficiency was a magnificent example to his troop which he continued to command for the following week. His action was reported upon by an officer of another unit." |
Additional
Information: |
Son of Paul Johan and Jessie Melise Erlank, of Port Elizabeth, Cape Province, South Africa. |
This information was last verified for accuracy: 2024-11-01
