John Heron

Medals are shown left to right, as per the bullet point list above.

John “Jack” Pearson Heron joined the Green Howards in September 1914. In the assault on Caterpillar Crater, part of the Battle of Messines, in 1917 he led two platoons, capturing over 30 prisoners.

He later took command of a company after all its officers had become casualties and was commended for showing great initiative in consolidating the captured position whilst under heavy shell fire and for digging fresh trenches when the original ones had been blown in by hostile artillery.

For his coolness, conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in commanding this company, despite being severely wounded himself, he was awarded the Military Cross.