"In Holland on 19th September, 1944, Major Cain was commanding a rifle
company of the South Staffordshire Regiment during the Battle of Arnhem
when his company was cut off from the rest of the battalion and during
the next six days was closely engaged with enemy tanks, self-propelled
guns and infantry. The Germans made repeated attempts to break into the
company position by infiltration and had they succeeded in doing so the
whole situation of the Airborne Troops would have been jeopardized. Major Cain, by his outstanding devotion to duty and remarkable powers
of leadership, was to a large extent personally responsible for saving a
vital sector from falling into the hands of the enemy. On 20th September a Tiger tank approached the area held by his
company and Major Cain went out alone to deal with it armed with a PIAT.
Taking up a position he held his fire until the tank was only 20 yards
away when he opened up. The tank immediately halted and turned its guns
on him, shooting away a corner of the house near where this officer was
lying. Although wounded by machine gun bullets and falling masonry,
Major Cain continued firing until he had scored several direct hits, immobilized the tank and supervised the bringing up of a 75 mm howitzer
which completely destroyed it. Only then would he consent to have his
wounds dressed. In the next morning this officer drove off three more tanks by the
fearless use of his PIAT, on each occasion leaving cover and taking up
position in open ground with complete disregard for his personal safety. During the following days, Major Cain was everywhere where danger
threatened, moving among his men and encouraging them by his fearless
example to hold out. He refused rest and medical attention in spite of
the fact that his hearing had been seriously impaired because of a
perforated eardrum and he was suffering from multiple wounds. On 25 September the enemy made a concerted attack on Major Cain's
position, using self-propelled guns, flame throwers and infantry. By
this time the last PIAT had been put out of action and Major Cain was
armed with only a light 2" mortar. However, by a skillful use of this
weapon and his daring leadership of the few men still under his command,
he completely demoralized the enemy who, after an engagement lasting
more than three hours, withdrew in disorder. Throughout the whole course of the Battle of Arnhem, Major Cain
showed superb gallantry. His powers of endurance and leadership were the
admiration of all his fellow officers and stories of his valor were
being constantly exchanged among the troops. His coolness and courage
under incessant fire could not be surpassed."
From Mjr. Cain's Victoria Cross citation, awarded on 2nd November, 1944.
One of many heroes from the Battle of Arnhem,
Brian
1981 Royal Mail Stamp
2006 Commemorative Coin
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