Name: |
GAVIN |
Given Name: |
DAVID BASIL |
Initials: |
D B |
Service No: |
6612V |
Rank: |
SergeantOther Casualties of this Rank |
Regiment: |
Royal Durban Light Infantry, S.A. Forces |
Date of Death: |
1945-04-18Other Casualties on this
Date |
Date of Birth: |
1921-10-14 |
Age: |
23 |
Cause of Death: |
Killed in action, at Mt. Sole |
Decorations: |
M M |
Citations: |
LG Sup 8 February 1945 pg. 800 - "On 22 July T/Sgt. Gavin was in command of a 4.2 in. Mortar position behind Monte Domini and engaging enemy infantry and mortars during an advance to high ground by a battalion of a Guards regiment. As a result of his platoon's fire the mortars came under continuous and accurate enemy shell and mortar fire, but this NCO ordered his platoon to continue firing ignoring all enemy attempts to silence them. As a result the telephone lines between his position and the OP were cut. He went forward on his own initiative and repaired the breaks showing complete contempt for the enemy shelling and mortaring. Later, in the night, under a renewed enemy concentration brought down by continuous fire from this mortar platoon the lines were cut again and this NCO once more without orders made his way under heavy fire to the breaks and re-established communications. He returned and resuming command continued firing in support of the infantry despite the enemy fire directed on his position. By his devotion to duty and total disregard for his personal safety this NCO not only maintained communications under conditions of extreme danger, but maintained too, essential support of the infantry despite the enemy's accurate attempts to neutralize his position. His determination, initiative and coolness under fire could not be surpassed." |
Additional
Information: |
Son of David Samuel and Natalie Emily Gavin, of 372 Umbilo Road, Durban. |
This information was last verified for accuracy: 2016-01-09
