Fusilier James Stewart was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa in December 1942 [1][2].

Fus. Stewart was with Lt Scaramanga throughout the operation and stayed with him to ambush some A.F.V.'s which had been engaging his Troop. He stayed in an exposed position and let the A.F.V.'s come within 50 yards of him before he opened fire with A/T Rifle and obtained at least three direct hits on them. Afterwards when cut off with Lt. Scaramanga and two other men from the remainder of his Troop he showed great cheerfulness and stamina in the subsequent march across most difficult country to rejoin our forces. Throughout the operation he showed great keenness and determination in engaging the enemy [2].