An Outstanding Italian Theatre DCM to SJT Taylor Argylls / who took an enemy MG position single handed

G.VI.R. Distinguished Conduct Medal, correctly impressed 2563362 SJT. W.S.Taylor. A.&S.H.

1939 to 45 Star

Italy Star

Defence Medal

War Medal

Condition NGVF

William Sutherland Taylor was a native of Edinburgh. As a Sergeant serving in Italy with the 1^st Bn Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders he was awarded an immediate DCM, announced in the London Gazette on the 12^th of April 1945.  

‘During the fighting East of Marradi on the 7^th October 1944. ‘A’ Coy. Attacked and captured the feature. PT.744. SGT Taylor was in command of No.8 platoon which he led with great dash and skill on the objective, despite the confusion caused by our own smoke and heavy mortar and Spandau fire. Just short of the objective Sgt. Taylor’s platoon came under direct fire from an enemy M.G. post at very close range. Though by this time, wounded, Sgt. Taylor attacked the post single handed with grenades and succeeded in knocking it out, killing one German, wounding a second and capturing a third. He then personally directed fire on to the fleeing enemy and rapidly reorganized his platoon (reduced to 14 strong) which was then sent forward to clear up a spur to which elements of the enemy had fled. The platoon succeeded in doing this but then came under fire from Spandau’s on both flanks. Sgt. Taylor was pinned down there for some hours but though unable to break out or attack either Spandau, he gallantly returned fire and kept the enemy at bay till his ammunition was exhausted. Sgt. Taylor then showing complete disregard for enemy fire moved about the remnants of his platoon instructing them to hold their positions at all costs, and tending the wounded. Sgt. Taylors platoon held on. ‘B’ Coy. Then attacked PT.685 in the late afternoon and this enabled Sgt. Taylor  to bring in the remainder of his platoon (now reduced to 9 strong) to Pt.744. He did not complain of the wound in his leg, and was indefatigable and invaluable in his efforts to assist in the organization of the defence of Pt.744 against counter attack. The next morning after his leg had been dressed he was most reluctant to leave the Coy. and had to be ordered to go back with a S.B. for evacuation. Throughout the whole operation Sgt. Taylor displayed outstanding leadership, coolness and determination to close with the enemy, and the capture of Pt.744 was to a great extent due to his gallant and inspiring behavior.