Part 12

E. of MARCOING, 3rd December, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When the enemy attacked in great force positions held by his battalion he displayed the greatest courage and ability, inspiring his men to beat off three attacks. When finally pressed back by superior numbers he reorganised the remnants of the battalion, and advancing, reoccupied the trenches from which he had been temporarily ejected.

RUSSELL, 2/Lt. Robert Tor Indian Army R/O

In MESOPOTAMIA, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in charging the enemy’s trench, which was strongly held. He then led a bombing attack and cleared 200 yards of the trench. Later, he maintained his position for four hours when reinforcements arrived.

[260

SAGAR, Capt. Arnold Leslie 8/East Lancashire (13/K.R.R.C.)

TRESCAULT, 12th September, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This officer got his company into position for the attack despite heavy shelling, then leading the front wave, he gained his objective. When held up at a strong point, he crawled out with a Lewis gun and one man to a flank, enfilading it with such success that forty prisoners, two machine guns and one trench mortar were captured. During the ensuing thirty-six hours his company beat off three determined counter-attacks with heavy loss. He also led a bombing party, clearing a trench and killing or capturing the whole of the enemy. He showed exceptional qualities as a leader.

[8072

SAVORY, Squadron-Commander Kenneth Stevens R.N.A.S.

CONSTANTINOPLE, 14/15 April, 1916. In recognition of his services on the night of 14/15 April, when he carried out a flight to Constantinople and dropped bombs upon points of military importance, returning safely to his base after a long flight in rough and stormy weather.

[2256

BAR TO D.S.O.

CONSTANTINOPLE, 9th July, 1917. In recognition of his services on the night of 9th July, when a successful attack was carried out against the Turkish-German fleet lying off Constantinople. When the Goeben, surrounded by warships (including submarines), had been located, the attack was made from a height of 800 feet. Direct hits were obtained on the Goeben and on the other enemy ships near her. Big explosions took place on board them, followed by a heavy conflagration. The War Office at Constantinople was also attacked, and a direct hit obtained.

STERNDALE-BENNETT, Commander Walter Royal Naval Division, R.N.V.R.

BEAUCOURT, 13th November, 1916. He assumed command of and handled his battalion with marked courage and ability. He personally collected a party and bombed the enemy out of part of their second line, where they might have held up the attack.

[2977

TAYLOR, Capt. Bruce Mitchell, _M.C._ 1/D.C.L.I.

Awarded 1st January, 1918.

[1932

THOMPSON, Capt. Arnold John, _M.C._ 1/Scots Guards

Awarded 3rd June, 1918.

[1225

THOMPSON, Capt. Claude Ernest, _M.C._ 2/South Lancashire

Awarded 1st January, 1918.

[1038

TRELOAR, Capt. George Devine Coldstream Guards

PILKEM RIDGE, 31st July, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on two successive occasions. He led his company across a canal under very heavy barrage, and, finding the only available bridge was broken, he personally secured a mat from the original line, and laid it down for his company to cross, thereby saving great congestion and countless lives. Later, when the regiment on his left was held up by machine-gun fire, he immediately grasped the situation, and pressed forward with another company, finally capturing the position. By his great presence of mind and personal example of gallantry and cheerfulness he kept his company going under the most adverse circumstances.

[4208

WALBY, Capt. Herbert Charles, _M.C._ 4/North Staffordshire (9/Yorkshire L.I.)

HENDECOURT, 9th September, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry during an attack. He led the support company and eventually came up with the leading waves and took the objective, where he reorganised his men under very heavy fire. In a second attack later in the day his fine example inspired those under him, and when the enemy counter-attacked he personally led forward two platoons to a position from which he could bring fire to bear on them.

[7297

WENYON, Lieut.-Col. Herbert John 8/Royal West Kent

S.E. of YPRES, 9th September, 1917. He collected a party, and led them through heavy shell fire in a counter-attack upon one of our posts, which had been captured by the enemy, and although the position was exceptionally strong, it was retaken at the first attempt. This was entirely due to Captain Wenyon’s prompt action and the determined energy which he displayed at a critical moment.

[1945

BAR TO D.S.O.

VADENCOURT CHATEAU, 21st March to 5th April, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He organised defences against heavy enemy attacks and held vastly superior numbers of the enemy at bay, inflicting heavy losses on them. He set a very fine example of courage and good leadership.

WILLANS, Capt. Harry, _M.C._ 2/Bedford

Awarded 3rd June, 1918.

[1030

WRIGHTSON, Lieut. Edward 4/Northumberland Fusiliers

In ITALY, 27th October, 1918. On the Piave, in the initial attack, he was left in command of the company, all other officers being killed or wounded. This company had orders to form a defensive flank, but Lieut. Wrightson, seeing that the attack in front was held up by uncut wire, led his company forward, cut a belt of wire by hand under severe machine-gun fire and assisted in taking the first objective. He personally shot down an enemy machine gunner who was causing many casualties. Ultimately his company formed a defensive flank to the brigade, and though losing over 50 in casualties he maintained and even improved his position by enterprise and patrols. On 29th October, he led his company again in an attack over several kilometres, capturing many prisoners and machine guns. Throughout the entire operations he showed exceptional gallantry and marked powers of leadership.

[6782

YUILL, Capt. Harry Hogg, _M.C._ R.E.

Awarded 3rd June, 1917.

[3393

=D.S.C.=

_The Distinguished Service Cross, a Naval Decoration, instituted in June 1901, and formerly known as the “Conspicuous Service Cross,” has since October 1914 been awarded for services before the enemy to Officers below the rank of Lieut.-Commander, and to Warrant and subordinate Officers previously eligible. It consists of a Silver Cross with the reverse side plain, and having on the obverse side, in the centre, the Imperial and Royal Cypher, surmounted by the Imperial Crown. Bars may be added for additional acts of gallantry._

CUCKNEY, Flight-Lieut. Ernest John R.N.A.S.

ZEEBRUGGE, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and ability when taking part in a raid on the seaplane station.

BAR TO D.S.C.

On the 3rd September, 1917, he bombed an enemy submarine, and probably severely damaged her.

[Reg. No. 4360

MCGREGOR, Capt. (Acting Flight-Commr.) Norman Miers R.N.A.S.

In FRANCE, 12th December, 1917. In recognition of his skill and courage in aerial combats. Whilst leading his flight on an offensive sweep he encountered a body of Albatross scouts. In the general fight which ensued he attacked a scout which was engaging one of our machines and drove it down out of control, and it was seen to crash. Act. Flt.-Cdr. McGregor has destroyed several enemy machines, and has led his flight with great dash and judgment.

[2925

SIEVEKING, Flight-Lieut. Lancelot Giberne R.N.A.S.

In recognition of services in dropping bombs on enemy railway lines and ammunition dumps on the night of 11/12 July, 1917.

[1925

SIMPSON, Flight-Capt. George Goodman R.N.A.S.

For gallantry and able leadership in aerial fighting, notably on the following occasions:--

On 3rd May, 1917, he drove down a hostile aeroplane out of control.

On 11th May, 1917, while on offensive patrol with five other machines, he attacked six hostile aircraft. One of these he brought down out of control, and a few minutes later he attacked another at close range and brought it down in flames.

On 23rd May, 1917, he led a formation of five machines to attack at least twice that number of hostile aeroplanes. Both formations became split up, and a general fight ensued. Five times during the combat he drove off hostile aeroplanes from another of our machines, and one of those which he attacked was seen to go down in a spin.

[1090

=M.C.=

_The Military Cross was instituted as a Decoration on December 28th, 1914, to reward Distinguished Services rendered by Officers of certain ranks in the army in time of war. Bars may be added for additional acts of gallantry. Since August 1st, 1918, it has, like the D.S.O., been awarded for “services in action” only. The Decoration consists of a Cross of Silver, having on each arm the Imperial Crown and bearing in the centre the Royal and Imperial Cypher. The ribbon is white with a purple stripe. Bars are indicated (in undress uniform) by small silver rosettes on the ribbon._

ABEL, 2/Lt. James Edgar 6/Royal West Kent

LATEAU WOOD, 20th November, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When his company commander became a casualty he assumed command at a critical period and worked his men forward to a strong point, whence the enemy were developing heavy machine-gun fire, and silenced them by concentrated rifle fire. His courage and fine leadership saved many casualties, and enabled the battalion to continue the advance.

ADAMS, 2/Lt. Arthur Marston 9/Liverpool

E. of LE VERGIER, 4/5 May, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion when in charge of reconnoitring patrols and raiding parties, frequently under hazardous conditions. On one occasion he entered an enemy sap, capturing prisoners, and returning without a casualty.

ADAMS, Lieut. Berthold 25/Northumberland Fusiliers

POELCAPPELLE, 13th to 16th October, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in reorganising his company, having frequently to go over the top from shell hole to shell hole exposed to the enemy’s snipers. He went out and bandaged several wounded who were lying in the open, and remained with his company although wounded.

ADAMS, 2/Lt. Oliver Haynes R.G.A.

WESTHOEK, 16/17 August, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty as Forward Observing Officer. Having established an observation post, he went repeatedly through heavy barrages to get information. In addition to this he displayed the utmost gallantry and disregard of personal danger in rendering first aid to wounded infantry men and placing them in a trench for safety before sending up stretcher-bearers.

ADAMS, 2/Lt. Thomas James 12/Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers

S. of ARDICHY, 26th March, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When some of the enemy gained an entrance into the trench he rushed forward at the head of his men and drove them out, personally killing an officer and several men with the bayonet. He did splendid work.

BAR TO M.C.

GULLEGHEM, October 15th, 1918. During the attack he showed great gallantry. He led his platoon in the face of the heaviest enemy fire and showed great coolness and daring throughout the attack. In the village of Heule, when his company was held up by heavy enemy fire, he personally led an assaulting party, capturing thirteen of the enemy and himself inflicted many casualties upon the enemy. He set a fine example of courage and endurance.

ADAMS, Lieut. Wilfred Carne 2/Royal Berks

ARRAS, 17th March, 1917. During a raid on the enemy’s trenches he handled his men in a most gallant manner, and was largely responsible for the success of the raid. Later he assisted in rescuing a wounded officer.

ADDISON, 2/Lt. Roger 10/East Lancashire

Awarded 3rd June, 1918.

AINGE, 2/Lt. David Alfred Lloyd Att. 2/Royal Welch Fusiliers (S. Reserve)

LES BŒUFS, SAILLY SAILLISEL, 1st September, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and resource in controlling his company during a determined counter-attack after his company commander had been wounded. He personally held an advanced post with a few men and a Lewis gun, beating off several efforts of the enemy to force a way round his exposed flank. He stuck to his post until dark, and, having collected the rest of his company, established a good line of defence.

ALDOUS, Lieut. George James R.A.S.C.

Awarded 1st January, 1919.

ALLBURY, 2/Lt. William 18/Durham L.I.

W. of VIEUX-BERQUIN, 27th August, 1918. This officer showed great skill and determination in leading his men during an attack, over unknown ground, under heavy machine-gun fire, to an objective which was very oblique to the front of the assembly position, and was not defined by any particular feature. He accomplished his task with great success, capturing a machine gun and its whole detachment. While selecting the line for consolidation he moved about, under very heavy fire, encouraging and steadying the men by his resolute behaviour.

ALLEN, 2/Lt. Henry Cecil R.F.A.

BEAUCOURT, 13th November, 1916. He displayed great courage and determination in laying and repairing a line under heavy fire.

ALLERTON, 2/Lt. Arthur Russell 8/Liverpool

E. of YPRES, 20th September, 1917. He captured an enemy strong point with his platoon and held it in spite of continual artillery and machine-gun fire. He displayed coolness and self-possession throughout, which had the greatest influence on his men.

ANDERSON, 2/Lt. Eric Edwin Irish Guards

BROOMBEKE, 9th October, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in command of his platoon. He attacked a machine-gun position, capturing the two guns, and killed all the garrison. He was responsible for capturing two more machine guns at the first objective. He had previously carried out a very valuable reconnaissance.

ANDERSON, Capt. David Wilson 6/London

Near YPRES, 20th September, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. By his skilful leadership his company captured all its objectives. When all the other officers became casualties he exposed himself fearlessly to the enemy’s fire, and by his personal encouragement ensured the consolidation of the captured positions and repelled several counter-attacks, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy.

BAR TO M.C.

Near POELCAPPELLE, 3rd October, 1917. In spite of difficult natural conditions and the total absence of all landmarks, he led his company to within 100 yards of the barrage line before an attack. Although his men were being continually bogged, he inspired them by his personal example to push on, and succeeded in capturing a farm held by the enemy. In spite of heavy casualties he fought his way from one position to another until he had gained his objective, which he successfully consolidated and held.

ANDREW, Capt. Reginald Barrett William Goldsworthy 15/London

SHAFAT, 27th December, 1917. During an enemy attack he led his platoon through an intense artillery and machine-gun barrage over very difficult country to render assistance to a battalion at a critical juncture, which, thanks to his timely aid, was able to repulse the enemy attack. His courageous determination and initiative were most praiseworthy.

BAR TO M.C.

WULVERGHEM, 3/4 August, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and good leadership during an advance. After his company had relieved another battalion he made a personal reconnaissance of the front line, during which he was wounded but remained at duty, and the following night set up his patrols and took up a new line. Later, he made a daylight reconnaissance under enemy fire and obtained accurate information of the position. He showed marked courage and devotion to duty.

ANDREWS, 2/Lt. Lionel Raymond 5(4)Royal Lancaster

GIVENCHY, 9th April, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Finding that a strong party of the enemy had occupied an artillery observation post in rear of the support line, this officer took two men and bombed them out, inflicting casualties and taking prisoners. Then, finding that his company headquarters were over-run by the enemy, he organised a party of bombers and cleared them out, too. His initiative and leadership were of great value.

ANDREWS, Lieut. Stephenson Arthur 7/Royal Sussex

YPRES, 31st July and 1st August, 1917. He led his company with great gallantry and dash in the attack, gaining all his objectives, consolidating his position, and holding it for two days. He set a splendid example to his men by his coolness under heavy fire.

BAR TO M.C.

Near CARNOY, 26th August, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry. He showed great courage in bombing a strong point from which the enemy were holding up the advance by heavy machine-gun fire. He led a few men forward, captured the gun, and killed five of the crew, enabling the remainder to advance and reach their objective. Throughout the operations from 22nd to 28th August his courage and leadership inspired all under his command.

APPLETON, 2/Lt. James 4/Yorkshire L.I.

GREENLAND HILL (north of Arras), 22/23 September, 1918. He was in charge of the leading wave of the company in a night attack. The enemy shelling was very heavy during the advance, but he rallied the men and was the first to enter the enemy post. He set a fine example of cool courage under fire, and proved himself a leader of great ability. During the consolidation he personally reconnoitred his platoon front and got in touch with troops on his flanks.

ARTHUR, 2/Lt. Frederick Parle 4/Liverpool

North of LE CATEAU, 10/11 October, 1918. In command of a platoon he displayed conspicuous gallantry in wading up to his neck in crossing the Selle River. Subsequently, under heavy fire, he made three journeys to and from battalion headquarters, bringing in reports and exact dispositions of all companies, which had been previously obscure.

ASHDOWNE, Lieut. Kenneth 3/Essex (5/Leicestershire)

BOIS DE RIQUERVAL, 11th October, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry during the operations. He rendered most valuable assistance to his commanding officer throughout some fourteen hours’ continuous fighting. On several occasions he took charge of parties of his own and of another battalion, reorganising and disposing of them to the best advantage.

ATKIN-BERRY, Lieut. Henry Gordon 59/Field Coy., R.E.

PONT-SUR-SAMBRE, 7th November, 1918. He was in command of bridging operations over the river Sambre. In spite of enemy rifle fire from the opposite bank he succeeded in constructing a light pontoon bridge for the advancing infantry, showing great gallantry and determination.

ATKINSON, Lieut. Edward Arthur North Irish Horse (5th Cyclist Bn.)

LE BURGUE, 22nd August to 1st September, 1918; especially on 23rd August, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and good leadership during the advance. When the left flank of a battalion was severely threatened, realising the situation, he, of his own initiative, led forward three Lewis gun teams under heavy fire and brought them into action, nullifying the attempts of the enemy, and enabling the battalion to hold its position.

BACON, Capt. Douglas Charles 2(20)London

E. of FLESQUIERES, 27th September, 1918. For most conspicuous gallantry and resource during the attack. He led his company with great dash in the attack, capturing a battery of field guns, fifteen machine guns, and ninety prisoners. Subsequently he organised and took charge of the line held by three companies of his battalion, and two platoons of another. He kept battalion headquarters fully informed throughout the day. Although both his flanks were exposed, he held the line under heavy enemy artillery and machine-gun fire for twenty-four hours, during which period he repulsed two counter-attacks. He did splendid work.

BAILEY, 2/Lt. Herbert Packer 3/East Surrey

Near ST. ELOI, 7th June, 1917. He displayed the greatest gallantry in handling a Stokes gun, following the first line infantry up to the final objective, where he consolidated later in the day. He showed great judgment, and was instrumental in repelling an enemy counter-attack by the skilful use of his gun.

BAILEY, Capt. John Vernon Moncas Royal Army Ordnance Corps

BLARGIES, 19th to 21st May, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When the enemy aeroplanes bombed the ammunition depot, this officer voluntarily remained in the face of heavy fire to uncouple and save half an ammunition train, the remainder of which was already alight. With the aid of another officer and some men he got the salvaged portion of the train away to comparative safety. His gallantry and coolness were of great service.

BALL, Capt. Arthur Hugh R.G.A.

Awarded 1st January, 1918.

BALL, Capt. Frank Leslie 8/East Yorks

Awarded 1st January, 1917.

BALL, 2/Lt. Gerald Harman Machine Gun Corps

ARLEUX, 19th February, 1918. He was in command of a machine-gun post which the enemy attempted to raid under cover of an intense bombardment. His machine gun was put out of action by a shell, and the enemy succeeded in entering the trench. He at once engaged them, and after severe hand-to-hand fighting drove them out without any casualties among his own men. He handled a very awkward situation with the greatest coolness and courage.

BALL, Capt. Sidney Charles 5/Royal Lancaster

N.E. of POELCAPPELLE, 26th October, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in command of his company in an attack. Under difficult conditions of ground and heavy fire from “pill-boxes” he pushed forward reinforcements to the gaps caused by casualties to the battalion. When the battalion had lost all its officers he rallied the men and reorganised the line.

BALL, Capt. Thomas Harold 5/Leicestershire

Near ETROEUGNT, 7th November, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and good leadership during the advance. He led his company forward with such dash that he surprised an enemy field battery. The company captured over 20 prisoners, killed six of the enemy and captured or killed all the horses.

BALL, 2/Lt. William Arthur 5/Lincolnshire

Near ECOUST, 21st March, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when he was the senior company officer left. He was put in command of the remnants of four companies, about seventy men, and throughout the subsequent four days’ fighting displayed the greatest skill, coolness and courage in organising successive defensive positions. His own personal example inspired the men to great efforts, and to a great extent contributed to their steadfastness.

BANTING, Capt. Arthur Digby 250th Siege Battery, R.G.A.

Awarded 3rd June, 1919.

BARDSLEY, Lieut. Albert 12/Loyal North Lancashire

GIVENCHY, 9th to 16th March, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This officer handled his transport most efficiently throughout eight days’ operations. Each night supplies had to be brought up under heavy shell fire, and when water pumps were broken by shelling he quickly organised another system of supply, which necessitated his constant supervision, having to keep water carts on the move to avoid shell fire. His coolness and cheerfulness were a great asset.

BARE, Capt. Alfred Raymond 1/Loyal North Lancashire

Awarded 3rd June 1917.

BARKAS, 2/Lt. Geoffrey de 1/London

SPECTRUM TRENCH, 7/8 October, 1916. He showed marked courage and initiative during the consolidation of the position. He established a bombing post on his exposed flank and maintained his position for 32 hours until relieved.

BARKER, Capt. Rowland Francis 2/Worcestershire

E. of YPRES, 25th September, 1917. He commanded his company with great skill and gallantry during an enemy attack. His tactical dispositions were sound, and he showed great determination and initiative. He had the most responsible position, and continued to hold it, though his right flank was enveloped. He set a splendid example to his men.

BARNES, 2/Lt. Alfred Douglas 23/London

GRAINCOURT, 9th December, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in an advanced post, which was repeatedly attacked by large numbers of the enemy. Time after time they obtained a footing in it, only to be driven out. He went about calmly encouraging the men, and organising counter-attacks, and was fighting continuously for six hours. His conduct throughout was a splendid example to all ranks.

BARNES, Lieut. Reginald Charles 4/York & Lancaster

BULLECOURT, 3rd May, 1917. He twice led his men against the enemy’s trenches, and rallied men of his own and other units under very heavy fire.

BARNETT, Lieut. Raimond Austin 1/Artists

S. of MARCOING, 30th December, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He led a bombing party with great determination and drove back the enemy, who were occupying part of our lines. He inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy and re-established the position.

BARON, 2/Lt. Frank Oseland 4/South Lancashire ( /London)

NEUVILLE VITASSE, 7/8 April, 1917. When in command of a patrol he penetrated the enemy’s front line and brought back valuable information, owing to which a serious obstacle to the advance was greatly diminished.

BARRETT, Capt. Wilfrid Morris 12/London