During the assault on Amber Beach, Map Reference D3218 South Beveland on 26 October 1944 a special detachment of 29 Canadian Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers, was assigned the task of cutting two gaps in the dyke to complete a traffic circuit on the beach, permitting LVTs [Landing Vessels, Tank] to land, discharge cargo, and return to the sea. This work was being carried out under heavy shell fire and at approximately 0800 hours 26 October 1944 the Sergeant in charge of the work was wounded. Sapper Hawkins, realizing the vital importance of completing this work without any delay, immediately took charge, rallied the men and rushed the completion of the job. Sapper Hawkins by his leadership and courage under shell fire contributed considerably to the success of the operations as a whole, which depended on rapid turn-around of the LVTs for more men and materials.