Private Umoru Malanawa M.M.

At 0730 hrs 22 Jun 44 this man was No 2 of a Bren L.M.G. Sec, being part of a small force of two pls preparing to take a S.D. in the MOKSO valley. The party was surprised and attacked by a coy of the enemy with L.M.Gs and a heavy mortar. The No 1 of the Bren gun was killed and Pte Umoru Malanawa immediately took over the gun during the attack. Although he was twice wounded he kept the gun in action until ordered to withdraw and personally accounted for a number of casualties. As a result of his action it was possible for the remainder of the force to evacuate the posn successfully. His personal courage and fine example had a steadying effect at a very difficult moment.