Major
HERBERT OWEN (H O M) LAMBERT

Major
HERBERT OWEN (H O M) LAMBERT

Partager

Son of Richard Morten Lambert and Claudia Hill Lambert, of Cincinnati, Ohio, United States.

Awarded the Military Cross on Jan. 20, 1945 for bravery during operations at the canals on the north edge of Bergen-op-Zoom on the night of 28/29 October 1944. At the time, Lambert held the rank of Captain and was in command of "A" Company which was to lead the attack during this operation. They were ordered to establish a bridgehead over the canals, which proved extremely difficult as the objective lay beyond two deep canals and a steep railway embankment blocked by wire obstructions. Lambert and his Company made the crossing under heavy fire, reaching their objective despite the fact that their weapons would not fire after crossing through thick mud and freezing water. Not to be deterred, Captain Lambert decided to hold the position with only 38 grenades and 15 remaining men. The enemy attacked relentlessly beginning at approx. 0130 hours until the Company was relieved at first light the following morning. At this point they only had two grenades left, but according to reports the 36 grenades were launched with such accuracy and precision that they were able to inflict "severe casualties" on the enemy. The report reads: "There can be no doubt that the example and inspired leadership shown by Captain Lambert resulted in the establish of this bridgehead against seemingly overwhelming opposition. The courage and complete disregard for personal safety exhibited by this officer was an example and an inspiration to all ranks of the battalion."

Major Lambert was also awarded the 1939-45 Star, the France & Germany Star, The 1939-45 Defence Medal, the 1939-45 War Medal and the c.v.s.m.