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Lieutenant (T/Captain) J.C. Fraser M.C. |
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Transcript of Military Cross Citation |
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Brigade |
77th Indian Infantry Brigade |
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Corps |
4th Corps |
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Unit |
Army in Burma Reserve of Officers attd. The Burma Rifles |
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Date of Recommendation |
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Regtl. No. |
ABRO 74 |
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Rank and Name |
Lieutenant (temporary Captain) John Coleridge FRASER |
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Action for which recommended :- |
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Capt. Fraser served as 2nd-in-command to No. 5 Column, and as Officer Commanding the detachment of Burma Rifles with that Column. These troops excelled in all these branches of their duties, in gaining of intelligence, in foraging and in propaganda. Their success in these was due to Capt. Fraser's careful and patient training, and their invariable courage in circumstances which were often trying to his personal example. The successful crossing at TIGYAING of the IRRAWADDY River on 10 March '43, was almost entirely the work of Capt. Fraser, whose bold reconnaissance, efficiency and exemplary handling of the local inhabitants resulted in a flawless operation. During the withdrawal from Burma, Capt. Fraser's experience and advice was instrumental in ensuring success on that hazardous journey. As the only Burmese speaker with the party, his work was never ceasing. His intimate knowledge of the Burmese, and the judicious mixture of tact and firmness with which he handled them, were invaluable. From them in the course of the campaign he collected much intelligence of strategic as well as immediate value. His personal courage was of a rare standard, leading him cheerfully into situations of great danger; and his resolution, particularly in adversity, were an inspiration to all, and not least to his Column Commander. |
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Recommended By |
Major B.E.Fergusson, DSO, The Black Watch Column Commander 77th Indian Infantry Brigade |
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Honour or Reward |
M. C. |
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Signed By |
Brigadier O.C. Wingate Comdr. 77th Ind. Inf. Bde. |
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(London Gazette 16.12.1943) |
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