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 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 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.
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