Australian Military Cross Citation, W.W.II - Henry Gordon Fyffe

Date: 17 Jul 1942 to 19 Jul 1942
Location: Battle of El Alemien

MILITARY CROSS CITATION

Awarded immediately (in the field) to Captain H.G. Fyffe at Battle of El Alemien

During the operations of an Australian Infantry Brigade to the south of Tell El Eisa Railway Station between 17-19 July 1942, Captain Fyffe, whilst in command of a composite squadron of Crusader Tanks and Universal Carriers of this Regiment attached to the Army Tanks Brigade, displayed exceptional leadership, courage and devotion to duty. This was the first tank action ever fought by an Australian unit and much depended on Capt. Fyffe's leadership.

At dawn on the 17th July under direct enemy observation and anti-tank fire, Capt. Fyffe successfully manoeuvred his squadron to its objective, knocking out anti-tank guns and machine gun posts and generally assissting the advance and consolidation of an Australian Infantry Battalion by engaging the enemy with machine gun and two pounder fire, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy.

When enemy shelling became intense he calmly directed troop dispositions, sometimes on foot, and during the period of tank casualties he personally organised the evacuation of the wounded.

In general during the whole of the operation, Capt. Fyffe, by his cheerful example and willingness to take many personal risks inspired his squadron to achieve a very fine and successful effort.