On the, 6 April 1945 le Regiment de la Chaudiere was given the task of attacking Zutphen, Holland, from the northeast. The regiment was supported by tanks and it was imperative that the tanks and the Wasp flame-throwers get forward to clear the strongly held houses. The advance of these tanks was held up by an anti-tank ditch and a bridge which was destroyed. Both of these obstacles were covered by observed enemy machine gun and mortar fire.
Major Hardy Lawrence Main of 1, 6 Canadian Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers, in support of the Regiment de la Chaudiere's attack, was called forward by the Commanding Officer. It was extremely hazardous to move in the vicinity of these obstacles as both were on high ground and all movement drew additional enemy fire. Notwithstanding the intensity of the enemy fire, Major Main personally made a reconnaissance of sites for bridging and remaining in an exposed position, ignoring his personal safety, directed the bridging operation, an example and inspiration to the men working under him.
On completion of the bridging at the anti-tank ditch and as the tanks pushed forward to give fire support to the second bridging operation the enemy became fully aware of the plan to bridge this second obstacle. Notwithstanding the savagely increased fire now directed on the locality, Major Main once again remained in an exposed position and directed the bridging operation. For 14 hours this officer remained in the foremost position of our troops under intense fire and with complete disregard of the enemy, ensured the completion of the task in order that the infantry might force ahead and reach their objective. His calmness under fire and his cool example influenced his men giving them heart to carry out their task under the most trying conditions and permitted the Regiment de la Chaudiere to carry through to their final objective.