THE PRO PATRIA PROJECT

REESBY Gilbert Henry

44892, Sergeant, 30 Battalion

CITATION

Distinguished Conduct Medal

Gazetted 9 May 1944, Supp 36508, p2170

At Green Island on 20 February 1944 Sergeant Reesby was in temporary command of a platoon of his battalion which was engaged in liquidating an enemy post on the coast in the vicinity of Tanaherau Village. Under heavy fire and with complete disregard for his personal safety he led his platoon to within 30 yards of the enemy and killed six of them while doing so. This action enabled the remainder of the Company to encircle the enemy and to approach within assaulting distance. When the signal for the assault was given Sergeant Reesby led his platoon with great dash, was the first man into the positionand killed several more of the enemy. Throughout the operation he displayed outstanding courage and set a splendid example to the whole of the Company.

KNOWN AWARDS

Distinguished Conduct Medal

1939-45 Star

Pacific Star

Defence Medal

War Medal 1939-45

New Zealand War Service Medal

NOTES

Born: 24 July 1906, Southbridge, New Zealand

Died 1967 New Zealand