Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Served as George MAIDMENT

Distinguished Conduct Medal

On 30th August 1942 'A' Coy and 'B' Coy, of which Pte Maidment is a member, were ordered to clear the ABUARI ridge where the enemy were strongly established and from which tow Coys of 53rd Bn. had been unable to dislodge them on the previous day.

The attack had to be made up a steep wooded slope against carefully prepared and camouflaged positions.

Maidment's platoon encountered a very strongly defenced Japanese position and was held up.  Casualties began to mount and Maidment's section leader was killed.

Disregardng heavy automatice rifle and machne gun fire, Maidment coolly collected grenades from the pouches of his dead section leader and dashed up the slope towards the enemy position.   He was badly wounded in the chest and lung almost at once but destroyed several of the nearer machine gun posts and continued his onslaught until all his grenades were used and he as ordered to rejoin his platoon.

The enemy immediately began to press forward.  Maidment then picked up his section leader's Tommy Gun and showing an entire disregard for cover and for his own safety, he held up the enemy with accurate fire until his ammunition was exhasuted.

This action allowed his platoon time to withdraw and reform, and was directly responsible for the infliction of severe casualties on the Japanese and the prevention of what seemed inevitable and heavy losses on our side.

It was only after all his ammunition had been expended that Maidment was prevailed upon to rejoin his comrades.

Although suffering from loss of blood and exhaustion, he refused all the assistance to the rear.  On arrival at the R.A.P. he collapsed and was evacuated to Hospital as a stretcher case.

MAIDMENT had unsurpassed courage, fortitude and devtion to duty and were an inspiring exampble. It is recommended that he be awarded the Victoria Cross.