Edwards, Alfred Rawnsley

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Alfred Rawnsley Edwards
Died 25 April 1945
Place of burial	Holten Canadian War Cemetery
Allegiance	Canada
Service/branch	Canadian Army
Rank	Corporal
Awards	MM

Corporal Alfred Rawnsley Edwards, MM was a lineman who served and died in the Second World War.

Early Life

Not known at this time

Service

While serving in 5th Canadian Divisional Signals, Cpl Edwards was killed as a result of a direct hit from shelling while repairing lines on 25 April 1945.

Military Medal Citation

Corporal Edwards was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Italy.. His citation read:

Corporal Edwards is responsible for the laying and maintenance of regimental line communications. He has always shown great courage and perseverance in the carrying out of his duties, often under heavy fire. In the LIRI VALLEY operations 8 Canadian Field Regiment (Self-Propelled) was continuously moving forward in close support of armoured units. Maintenance of line communications was vital and most difficult due both to enemy shell fire and to the manoeuvering of our own tanks. On 24 and 25 May 1944 this non-Commissioned Officer was continuously out laying and repairing cable, often under very heavy fire and with no respite or rest. Due to his courage and initiative, line was never cut long enough to cause a reduction of fire support. On the night of 5 September 1944, subsequent to the breakthrough the GOTHIC LINE, the regiment was deployed near MISANO. During the night, the gun area was subjected to concentrated enemy shell fire and continued bombing and strafing attacks by enemy aircraft. Many casualties to personnel were suffered and considerable equipment destroyed. Throughout the night, signal lines were continually being out by shell fire and bombing. Completely disregarding the shells and bombs, Corporal Edwards repaired lines throughout the night and by his courageous actions communications were maintained. Corporal Edward's service has been marked by gallantry, courage and initiative. Due to his personal effort, vital regimental line communications have never failed. His distinguished conduct and devotion to duty are an example to all ranks.

Lake Edwards

Corporal Edwards has a lake named in his honour in the Northwest Territories (61°46′1″N 103°51′52″W).

Related Items

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  Edwards, Alfred Rawnsley citation MM (page 1)

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  Edwards, Alfred Rawnsley citation MM (page 2)

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  Edwards, Alfred Rawnsley grave marker