HERON, John Golding

Known as: 
Chips
Rank: 
Major
Unit / Base: 
5 Commando
Regiment/Corps: 
Dorsetshire Regiment
Service: 
Army
Number: 
66815
Major John Heron 5 Commando
Lieutenant John Heron, serving with 2 Dorsets as part of the British Expeditionary Force, was awarded the M.C., for his leadership and gallantry on the 27th May 1940 [1]. 
 
Citation
On 27 May 1940 when the enemy were pressing closely with infantry and the situation was becoming serious, Lt. Heron personally volunteered to take the two carriers available and deliver a counter attack. He led the attack himself under heavy fire, drove back the enemy infantry after inflicting heavy casualties on them. Lt. Heron by his initiative and leadership completely restored the situation [2].
 
He then volunteered for the Army Commandos and was attached to No.5 Commando on its formation in July 1940 [3].  He remained in service with them for operations in Madagscar, and then India and Burma becoming Captain of 3 troop. [4].
 
Post War
  • 4 Nov. 1948 Capt. (Hon. Maj.) J. G. Heron, M.C., relinquishes his commission on appointment to a commission in the newly formed Royal Marines Forces Volunteer Reserve (R.M.F.V.R.) [5].
  • 8 June 1951 Promoted Major (Dorset Regt. TA) [6].
  • 8 May 1953 awarded the Territorial Efficiency Decoration (1st Clasp). [7].
  • 31 Mar. 1965 ceases to belong to the T.A. Res. of Officers., retaining the rank of Maj. [8].
The death of Major John Golding (Chips) Heron MC (5 Cdo) of Ashwell, Herts., was announced in Commando Association newsletter 107 issued August 1998.
 
Sources
[1] London Gazettes Supp. 35020, page 7198.
[2] National Archives file WO 373/16/392.
[3] Document of Volunteers fo Special Service ( No.5 Commando) [view].
[4] CVA Gallery entry.
[5] London Gazettes Supp. 38934, page 2826.
[6] London Gazettes Supp. 39311, page 4377.
[7] London Gazettes Supp. 39847, page 2572.
[8] London Gazettes Supp. 43611, page 3187.
 

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