Lieutenant Alexis Peter Vedeniapine
Unit : Headquarters, 3rd Parachute Battalion
Army No. : 283332
Awards : Military Medal, Bronzen Leeuw.
Lieutenant Alexis Vedeniapine was the Intelligence Officer of the 3rd Parachute Battalion. For his part in the Arnhem battle he was awarded the Dutch Bronze Lion:
On 18th September 1944 at Arnhem, Battalion Headquarters of 3rd Battalion was split into two groups one of which was completely surrounded by German Infantry. Command of this group was immediately assumed by Lieutenant Vedeniapine who rapidly organised the defence of some eight houses, four on either side of the street. For two hours the enemy supported by machine guns and mortars attacked incessantly but never succeeded in breaking in. During this time Lieutenant Vedeniapine repeatedly crossed the recrossed the street in spite of machine gun fire and went from house to house encouraging the defenders. He showed utter scorn for the fire of the enemy and by setting such a splendid example to those under his command, inspired them to stand their ground for two hours when the position seemed hopeless. Personally he supervised the defence of every attack which was directed at the houses and often directed fire on the enemy as he stood in the open street. After dark he played a most energetic and enthusiastic part in the break out from the area which was completely successful. That this force remained effective as a fighting unit was entirely due to the inspiring and fearless example of Lieutenant Vedeniapine and to his splendid devotion to duty.
On the following day, Lieutenant Vedeniapine took part in the final attack of the 3rd Battalion towards Arnhem Bridge. During the withdrawal after their failed attempt to support the 1st Battalion's advance, Vedeniapine was badly injured in the back and chest by splinters from the same mortar bomb that killed Lieutenant-Colonel Fitch. Nevertheless, Vedeniapine struggled on and managed to reach the Battalion Rendezvous.