Sergeant J.J. McQuillam M.M.

On 24 May and for the following 24 hrs, Sgt. McQuillam was Platoon Sergeant of a Platoon holding an exposed position which was under continual enemy shelling, mortar and MG fire, and was surrounded by a large Jap force.

An enemy grenade landed in the area in which he and other troops were situated. Without a thought for his personal safety Sgt. McQuillam picked up the grenade and attempted to throw it clear of our troops. Unfortunately the grenade exploded and seriously wounded this NCO. For the remainder of the 24 hours Sgt. McQuillam continued to do great work as Platoon Sergeant, and when the remainder of the platoon (2 officers and 12 men) finally broke through the enemy ring, Sgt. McQuillam rendered invaluable assistance helping a wounded man.

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