Sergeant W. Bolton DCM

On 8th May 1944 No. 2 Platoon 46 Coln was occupying an important hill feature in 'Blackpool' Block. The Comd and two sections were absent on duty leaving Sgt. Bolton and two sections with one section M.M.G's on the position.

At approx 0100 hrs the position was attacked by enemy estimated at one platoon. In the ensuing battle which lasted 3 hours Sgt. Bolton controlled and skillfully organised the defence so that the attack was beaten off with estimated enemy losses of 20. At first light he took a party of men forward and recovered the bodies of a Jap Officer and man from whom valuable identifications and information were obtained.

On 11th May 1944, No.2 Platoon 46 Coln were outside the perimeter wire of 'Blackpool' Block as a fighting patrol and the enemy in dug-in positions were encountered. The Comd. and several men were wounded in the first exchange of shots. Sgt. Bolton with utter disregard fore his own personal safety rushed forward to within ten yards of an enemy L.M.G. thereby enabling the wounded to escape. He brought back a wounded N.C.O. and then coolly withdrew the remainder of the platoon. On the subsequent roll call it was discovered that two wounded men had left behind 1 L.M.G. and 1 carbine on the enemy post. Sgt. Bolton immediately organised a section and personally led it under enemy fire and recovered the weapons.

(Signed) J.Masters, Major,
A/Comnd. 'Profound'

Countersigned A.W.Thompson, Lt.Col.
O.C. Profound I.

(Signed) D.D.C. Tulloch
Brig. Major General