In a quiet cemetery in rural Norman, Oklahoma, approximately 30 kilometers from the state’s capital, lies the resting place of Millard (Tex) Allison, a revered figure in the Canadian Army. The unassuming grave, marked only by a simple plaque, conceals the valorous deeds he performed on the battlefields of Europe during World War II. Allison’s courageous actions earned him a nomination for the prestigious Victoria Cross, the highest military distinction for a Canadian soldier. However, to the disappointment of Allison’s surviving family, the award was never bestowed upon him.
Allison’s daughter, Paula, a former member of the U.S. Air Force, expressed her dismay, emphasizing the need for veterans to receive proper recognition for their sacrifices. William Whalen, a historian from Allison’s former unit, the British Columbia Regiment, believes that Allison’s exceptional bravery warranted the Victoria Cross but speculates that his past as a deserter from the U.S. Army may have influenced the decision to deny him the honor.
Joining the Canadian Army in 1941 before the U.S. entered the war, Allison fought alongside Canadian forces in the Allied campaign. Despite his valor in combat, Allison faced a court-martial for desertion by the U.S. Army post-war. Advocates on both sides of the border supported Allison, but he ultimately received a general discharge under honorable conditions from the American military, rather than an honorable discharge.
Allison’s family is now petitioning authorities to upgrade his accolade to the Victoria Cross and grant him a posthumous honorable discharge from the U.S. Army. His grandson, Marc Bishop, a former U.S. Army veteran, attests to Allison’s heroism during the war, finding inspiration in his grandfather’s courageous acts on the battlefield.
Allison’s remarkable story of sacrifice and valor exemplifies the strong bond between the United States and Canada, showcasing a shared history of mutual support and camaraderie between the two nations. The legacy of Millard (Tex) Allison serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals who selflessly served their countries during times of conflict.