RITSON John Anthony Sydney Lt Col

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Surname: RITSON;

Forename(s): John Anthony Sydney;

Initials: JAS;

Rank: Lt Col;

Previous Battalion: 8 of;

Previous Regiment: DLI;

MGC Unit: Unknown;

Date abroad: 17-Apr-1915;

Theatre of War: 1;

Gallantry Notes: DSO: For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When the attack was held up by machine gun fire, he went forward to reconnoitre, reorganised the attack and led it forward successfully. His initiative and gallantry saved what might have been a serious situation.

Bar to DSO: For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in command of his battalion in a series of rearguard actions lasting for several days. During this period he displayed exceptional courage and judgements in a series of withdrawals to fresh positions and repelling attacks, causing the enemy heavy casualties. He held on to his last position repelling all attacks with severe enemy losses until ordered to withdraw, which he suceeded in doing under exceptional difficulties and heavy fire.;

Other Data: 62, Plymouth Rd, Penarth
died 15/10/1957 (see Who was Who);

Other Notes: DSO LG: 27/10/1917 (18/03/1918)
bar to DSO LG: 26/07/1918
MC
OBE (1935);

END OF RECORD.

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