My grandfather
My mother's father, Kenneth Foott, served in the 2nd World War leading a tank platoon of the North Irish Horse. For his service he was awarded the Military Cross. Until today, neither my mother or I knew anything about the action for which he was awarded the medal. Today I saw an scanned image of the citation.
It's the story of a skilled soldier and a leader in the finest tradition of the British armed forces. My grandfather's platoon supported an assault on a rail crossing of the Santerno River, Italy. His platoon provided able support to an Italian infantry battalion, but when it came time to cross, all the Italian officers were casualties except for one 2nd Lieutenant. Despite not speaking Italian, my grandfather dismounted, persuaded the line to hold, and personally led the assault.
At this time of year when we remember those who gave everything, I am proud to remember my grandfather in a new light.
It's the story of a skilled soldier and a leader in the finest tradition of the British armed forces. My grandfather's platoon supported an assault on a rail crossing of the Santerno River, Italy. His platoon provided able support to an Italian infantry battalion, but when it came time to cross, all the Italian officers were casualties except for one 2nd Lieutenant. Despite not speaking Italian, my grandfather dismounted, persuaded the line to hold, and personally led the assault.
At this time of year when we remember those who gave everything, I am proud to remember my grandfather in a new light.