In February 1943, he was promoted to brigadier and commanded the 3rd Brigade, a Militia formation, on garrison duties until April 1944. This was followed by command of the 12th Brigade until May 1945. In 1945, he led the 13th Brigade during the New Britain campaign against the Japanese, taking command of the brigade in the field after its previous commander, Brigadier Eric McKenzie, fell ill. For his services in this campaign, he later received the Distinguished Service Order (in 1947). He had earlier been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in June 1943. He also received an Efficiency Decoration.