Robert Houlton Hart

The photograph is shared by the Trust with kind permission from the 11th Armoured Division Facebook Group and its Black Bull Research Team.

Remembering Robert Houlton Hart, Killed in Action, 18 August 1944.

He was awarded the MC whilst serving with the 24th Lancers in Normandy. The citation states:"Action for which commended: On 25th June, 1944, at FOUNTENAY-LE-PESNEL, Lieut. Hart who was commanding a troop of tks was asked by the infantry to remove a Panther which was holding up an advance in the village. After making a reconnaissence [sic] on foot he brought up his tank and began to shoot down an intervening wall which blocked his view, in spite of the fact that he was being watched by the commander of the enemy tk. As he was doing so two further Panthers appeared. Lt. Hart immediately engaged them destroying one and forcing the other to withdraw. This officers [sic] troop inspired by his leadership and skill has destroyed eight Panthers and although all three tks in his troop have been hit none has been out of action for more than half a day."

The 24th Lancers were disbanded at the end of July 1944 due to the heavy casualties the regiment had suffered. He was wounded at some point prior to that and then posted to 23rd Hussars on his discharge from hospital.

British Normandy Memorial - Additional Information

Unfortunately, we only have a photo Robert Hart. If you are related to Robert, or know about him and can tell us more about his life we would love to hear from you so we can add to his story.