1st Lieut George MacLean Hellyer MC

1st Lieut GEORGE M. HELLYER, as Intelligence Officer of 315 Troop Carrier Squadron, U.S.A.A.F. has throughout the operations with 3 Ind Div in BURMA shown outstanding zeal and ability greatly in excess of his normal routine duties.

To cite one particular instance. In order to gain first hand information of conditions at the receiving end of supply drops, and to maintain the very necessary close liaison between the ground troops and the men who fly them, he asked to spend ten days inside BURMA with troops of 3 Ind Div.

From 4 to 14 April 1944, Lieut. HELLYER was attached to an Inf Bde HQ at the 'WHITE CITY' road and rail block - MAWLU. Throughout this period the garrison was very heavily attacked by the enemy, with artillery, mortars, MMG and small arms fire from the ground and sporadic attacks from the air. Lieut HELLYER observed every supply drop made on the WHITE CITY during this period and on his return to Base, was able to make useful suggestions as to how his Squadron could improve their methods. He was also able to give to his air crew, an eyewitness account of the many actions fought on the ground by British, West African and Gurkha Troops, for whom he perceived the greatest admiration.

He thus undoubtedly helped in a very large measure, to promote the very necessary co-operation and mutual respect and admiration which the ground troops and the Air Crews who kept them supplied, hold for each other.

Lieut HELLYER's tact, quiet efficiency and extreme devotion to duty throughout the operations have been of the highest quality and materially helped the success of the operations of 3 Ind Div.

Recommended for the Military Cross