CSM James Steward
Unit : Headquarters, 21st Independent Parachute Company
Army No. : 6285245
Awards : Distinguished Conduct Medal.
On 21st September 1944, the above Warrant Officer, who was acting as liaison between Company HQ and troops under command, worked continuously under fire during the nine attacks made on one position that day. Late in the afternoon of the same day he proceeded alone to ascertain whether troop movement on our left flank was our own or enemy troops. When heavily fired on by the enemy he returned with the information.
On the morning 23rd September 1944, whilst carrying out his liaison duties, he was fired on by the enemy from a house into which they had infiltrated into the Company position overnight. He at once attacked it single handed with 36 grenades and destroyed the four enemy in occupation.
On 24th September 1944, the CCS was occupied by the enemy, and the position in the Company's left flank became obscure. I sent CSM Steward to try and find out if the enemy were infiltrating through the grounds of the CCS. He entered the grounds where he met two armed sentries who told him he was a prisoner. Having neutralised this opposition he returned with the most valuable information. His complete disregard for personal danger throughout the action was a great example to all the troops under my command and the value of the information he supplied was of the utmost importance.