Lieutenant-Colonel G.M. Wilkins
6th Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment

This officer showed untiring energy and devotion to duty the during the period his company was in the line … His platoon localities were under observation and close range fire from enemy localities throughout the whole period. In addition two of his posts were subjected to continuous shell fire for long periods during which two men were killed and several wounded. Major Wilkins by continuously visiting these posts and assisting in the evacuation of wounded showed total disregard for his personal safety and set a very excellent example to his company.

(M.C. citation, 11 Jul 1940)

Born on 11 June 1901 in Bedford, Bedfordshire, Gilbert McCartney Wilkins attended Royal Military College, Sandhurst before being commissioned with the North Staffordshire Regiment in 1922. From 1926 to 1932, he was seconded to the King’s Africa Rifles, and rose to the rank of major by 1938. He commanded a company with the 2nd Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment during the battle of France. He was wounded in action on 21 May 1941 and earned the Military Cross.

Continue reading →