This officer has commanded ‘A’ Squadron 8th Hussars since our arrival in Korea. This squadron was first in action in the withdrawal from Pyongyang in December 50 and during this and subsequent operations he commanded his squadron in a brilliant manner and has given his utmost in courage, skill and leadership.
In the last battle 3-7 Oct 51, ‘A’ Squadron were in support of 1 KSLI who were attacking the flank of the enemy positions, south of the road with the object of capturing Pt. 210 and Pt. 227. The country along the line of the infantry advance was extremely rugged and wooded.
Before “D” Day Major de Clermont ensured the success of this operation by himself carrying out very deep ground recces almost up to the ridge Pt. 208 to Pt. 210. At the same time he was instrumental in ensuring a really close tie-up with the infantry and in leading the tanks with infantry “F” echelon stores.
During the battle when tanks were getting into difficulties on the steep hills, never once did he lose confidence that some tanks would reach the ultimate objective, and throughout the battle he was a power of strength to his squadron, encouraging them and cheering them on, so that in the end when three tanks reached Pt. 210 and two others Pt. 227, the infantry could gain their objectives with surprisingly few casualties.
At no time during day or night did the tanks withdraw from the infantry positions to be re-supplied, which says much for de Clermont’s pre-battle planning and this undoubtedly had a sobering effect on the enemy, as no counter attacks were put in.
I consider that the skill, leadership and drive shown by this officer in this attack played a great part in the success of this operation.
The presence of tanks working in close co-operation with the infantry certainly overawed the enemy and saved a great many lives.
Lt-Col Sir WG Lowther Bt
Commanding Officer
8th King’s Royal Irish Hussars
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