T/Major A.S. Arlington, MC

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Military Cross (MC) (Geo.VI);

1939-45 Star; Africa Star bar: 8th Army; Italy Star; DM; WM (MID); ASM 26362 A.S. Arlington

 

MC LONDON GAZETTE 14 OCTOBER 1943
1st Imperial Light Horse - 26362 - T/Major Arlington, Arthur Shrapnel. 
“For consistent gallantry, devotion to duty, and initiative during the period 23 October 1942 to 17 February 1943.”

“During the attack on the enemy positions at El Alamein in the night 23/24 Oct., 42 owing to the depleted Officer strength of the Bn. Major Arlington, Adjutant of the Battalion, displayed great courage and initiative in making several personal reconnaissances of the enemy positions, despite very heavy enemy artillery, machine gun and mortar fire and brought back vital information which enabled the Bn. to effectively wipe out enemy opposition.

Subsequently during the ensuing 10 days he repeatedly led reconnaissance parties through anti-personnel minefields into enemy territory, at times crawling up to within 15 yards of the enemy positions.

 

Information obtained by him resulted in the mopping up of an enemy strong point which had been left in the initial attack on the MITEIRA RIDGE. During this period he was continually under heavy artillery and machine gun fire but carried out his tasks with complete disregard of his personal safety and his example at all times was an inspiration to all ranks in the Battalion.” 

Arthur Shrapnel Arlington was born in Durban 23 August 1912. First attested for service with the Imperial Light Horse 5 June 1940. Served “Up North” with the ILH from 8 May 1941.

Appointed as Adjutant 14 July 1942, Temporary Major confirmed 22 June 1942. Served with distinction throughout the north African campaign with his Regiment and returned 2 January 1943.

 

Volunteered for further active service, went “Up North” with the combined I.L.H./ K.R. on 2 October 1943. Commanding “B” Company of the combined Regiment they underwent further training in Egypt as part of the new South African 6th Division.

 

Transferring from Egypt their Italian campaign commenced in April 1944.

 

Wounded on 30 June 1944 but remained on duty as second in charge to Lt. Colonel Reeves More. Promoted 2 I.C. of ILH/KR November 1944 and in February 1945 assumed Command of the Regiment while Lt. Col. More was in hospital.

Mentioned in Despatches 1945 for work during the Italian campaign. He died in Johannesburg 28 February 1960.