| Citation: | CMP (I). Italy. Citation for BEM: Throughout the period 1 Apr 45 to 2 May 45 havildar BHANBIR THAPA has displayed outstanding leadership and initiative on all occasions. Whenever road movement was restricted to passing over a single bridge or through a single bottle neck, he has by his own exeptional efforts made possible the steady flow of traffic without road blocks, which was so vital during the rapid advance from the R Senio to the R Adige. During the envelopment and eventual capture of FERRARA his section was controlling PHUL BRIGES connecting Route 18 with the only route by-passing the city. Although designed for use only by the Division and sited in an extremely awkward position it became necessary to send bridging material, assault boats and "Fantails" on transporters to enable neighbouring formations to cross the R Po thus placing a quite unexpected strain both on the road and Havildar BHANBIR THAPA's Section. Undauted by the magnitude of the problem the Havildar with patience and skill accomplished the task. Havildar BHANBIR THAPA has always set an outstanding example to all under his command and to those around him. By his untiring efforts, initiative and cheerfulness he has on all occasions inspired his men to attain a very high standard of efficiency, resulting in the successful completion of the tasks allotted to them. Capt C B Baines DAPM 8 Ind Div Pro Coy. Maj Gen D Russel Comd 8 Ind Div. National Archive WO 373/75 Pt.1. |
