GEORGE JOHNSON MM PRIZE

“All I did was fix a broken track while some pesky Germans were shooting at me”

George Johnson’s modest description of his actions in Normandy on 6 August 1944 while serving with the 23rd Hussars is an example to us all about who true heroes really are. George didn’t mention that had reconnoitred a position under heavy fire, engaged a Tiger tank forcing it to withdraw, sustained damage to his Sherman 17 pounder tank’s track and rear idler, worked all night to repair the tank while under shell and mortar fire before moving forward to drive off several attempts by German tanks to overrun his Squadron’s position. His actions were recognised with the award of the Military Medal, the ribbon of which was awarded by Field Marshal Sir Bernard Montgomery, commander of all Allied ground forces during the Battle of Normandy, in December 1944. After the war, George immigrated to South Australia where he joined 3rd / 9th South Australian Mounted Rifles and served as Quarter Master Sergeant in B Squadron based at Gawler.

Sadly, George is no longer with us, however, his memory is perpetuated by the awarding of the George Johnson prize to a member of A SQN 3/9 (SAMR) by the South Australian Mounted Rifles Association (SAMRA). The prize is adjudged by the President of SAMRA and the OC A Sqn 3/9 LH (SAMR) based upon leadership skills and other KPI's.