Sergeant Thomas Harrison was awarded the Military Medal [1] for bravery, determination and great devotion to duty during operations to establish the River Aller bridgehead 10-12 April 1945 [2].

"On 12 Apr'45, 45RM Cdo. was advancing through the woods in order to extend the Aller bridgehead. C Troop was the right hand Troop on the axis of advance. Very strong opposition was encountered from the German Marine Division.

After approximately an hour of close confused fighting, Sgt. Harrison's section was cut off from the remainder of his Troop and his Troop Commander was killed.

Harrison with great coolness continued to fight his section against impossible odds.

It became obvious to Harrison that in order to stabilise the situation and save lives he must regain contact with the main body of the unit, and with complete disregard to his own personal safety, although under heavy fire, he dashed forward with a Bren gun and engaged the enemy at close range. This action enabled the remiander of the section to withdraw. During the 20 minutes in which time his comrades were rejoining the unit, Harrison displayed amazing courage.

When his Bren gun ammunition was expended he finally engaged the enemy with grenades and TSMG taken from the body of his dead officer. Immediately on rejoining his Troop Harrison rallied his men in their new positions and finally beat off the enemy. 

His fine aggressive spirit was undoubtedly responsible for preventing the enemy from outflanking his Troop.

In this and previous actions fought by the unit Sgt. Harrison has displayed outstanding leadership, courage and devotion to duty whatever the odds. His conduct in battle has inspired great confidence in the men of his section" [2].