On 5 September 1944 “D” Company, 48th Highlanders of Canada after breaking through on the left of the S MARIA feature was attacking on the axis S MARIA 9288, Pt 36 9068, SIVERA 6898, to the crossover the R MARANO at 079904.  On capturing the SIERRA feature the company re-grouped and continued the attack supported by “B” Squadron 48 RTR.  As the tanks cleared the crest of the SIERRA feature two of them were hit by 88m shells.  this prevented the remainder of the squadron from moving with the company.  Close support from the tanks was continued however from the SIRRA feature by firing over the heads of the company at probable enemy MG positions.  On reaching the area 887895 between the two hill features North of SIERRA “D” Company came under very heavy MG fire at close range from the front and both flanks, the company having infiltrated to this point before the enemy opened up.

B87627 Corporal Murray Percy THOMAS was a section leader in the left front forward platoon  of “D” Company during the attack.  When the company was first fired on he was seriously wounded in the abdomen and left shoulder by MG fire. Although painfully and seriously wounded, he continued to fire at the enemy MG post about 38 yards to his front.  The fire from the enemy MG had trapped the platoon commander, behind a haystack which had been set on fire by the enemy.  Realizing the seriousness of the situation Corporal THOMAS summoned all his remaining strength, stood up and firing his TSMG charged the enemy MG position, killing two of the crew and then collapsed.  This allowed the platoon commander to reform his platoon, move it to mover advantageous position andante engage the other posts which were holding up the company.

The outstanding courage, devotion to duty and unhesitating self sacrifice of this NCO were an inspiration and example to every man in his platoon.  Through his gallant action, the platoon was able to get into a better position and remove the enemy opposition.