Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Villers-Bretonneux - April, 1918.
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Prior to a counter-attack this officer moved up and down the jumping-off position under heavy fire, assisting in the development of the battalion and starting it forward in the correct position. The next morning he went forward with three runners to ascertain the situation and deliver important orders. Two of the runners were wounded and he ordered the remaining runner to remain where he was, going forward along under heavy fire.

As Battalion Intelligence Officer from Sept 1917 to Feby, 1918. This officer has carried out his duties in a highly satisfactory manner.
On the night of 25/26th, September near ZONNEBEKE under adverse conditions, he correctly laid the jumping off tape for the Battn attack. Prior to and during the attack he did much valuable reconnaissance work which was of material assistance in bringing the attack to a successful issue.
On the 6/9th, Oct, 1917 near BROODSEINDE under heavy hostile shell fire he reconnoitred the front line previous to the Battalion going in for an offensive operation and on other occasions has ably carried out similar duties in taking over defensive sectors.
His thorough training of the Bn Scouts out of the line and skilful use of them in the line has resulted in highly efficient Patrolling.

From 26th. February 1917 to May 1917 this Officer acted as Brigade Intelligence Officer and carried out his work in a very satisfactory manner under exceptionally adverse weather conditions, during which time the Brigade did a tour in the front line North of FLERS in February 1917, and a successful attack on NOREUIL and to the North-East of NOREUIL in April, 1917.

On return of the Brigade Intelligence Officer, he resumed duty as Battalion Intelligence Officer. On 7th. June, 1917, at MESSINES he assisted in laying the jumping off tape for a Brigade attack under heavy hostile shell fire, and was wounded soon after the completion of his task.

Since then on three separate occasions he has ably reconnoitred from line positions prior to the Battalion taking over defensive sectors.
By thorough training of Scouts and Observers out of the Line and skilful use of them in the line he has been of great assistance to the Battalion and done much good work. Period covered - 26th. February, 1917, to 20th. September, 1917.