Captain John Philip Hanson

6th Airborne Division - 3rd Parachute Brigade - 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion - C Coy

Sword Beach

At Varaville on 6th June 1944 in an attack on a strongly fortified position this officer's company commander was killed. Captain Hanson immediately took over Command showing exceptional leadership and courage attacked the position inflicting casualties and taking 40 prisoners. He immediately consolidated this position and held it under enemy mortar fire until relieved. Captain Hanson was wounded in this action but continued to command his company.

(Source: Military Medal)