Award of The Military Medal B63919 Warrant Officer Class II (Company Sergeant-Major)
Charles Cromwell
Martin, Canadian Infantry Corps
On the morning of 4 March 1945, "A" Company, 1st Battalion, The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada was committed to an attack on Balberger Wald at the southern end of the Hochwald Forest. In the initial stage of the attack and unknown to the platoon commanders ahead, the Company Commander of "A" Company was severely wounded. The fighting at this particular time was confused and due to the denseness of the woods, control was difficult to maintain.
Company Sergeant Major Martin, of "A" Company, picked up a Bren gun and made his way under intense enemy fire to the right flank of the company. Upon reaching the right flank, Company Sergeant Major Martin personally led the attack of his men in a daring charge at the enemy. Firing the Bren gun from the hip and constantly urging his men on he inspired the men to great heights. The enemy was completely routed and left behind 26 dead and 47 prisoners. Company Sergeant Major Martin personally accounted for 11 enemy dead.
This magnificent example of courage, coolness in action, ability to inspire men, and devotion to duty on the part of this Warrant Officer was mainly responsible for the success of "A" Company, 1st Battalion, The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada, in this attack.
