Victoria Cross Recipients
M-Z
MACTIER, Robert
Service No 6939 Private 23rd Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty on the morning of the 1st September, 1918, during the attack on the village of Mt. St. Quentin. Prior to the advance of the battalion, it was necessary to clear up several enemy strong points close to our line. This the bombing patrols sent forward failed to effect, and the battalion was unable to move. Private Mactier, single handed, and in daylight, thereupon jumped out of the trench, rushed past the block, closed with and killed the machine gun garrison of eight men with his revolver and bombs, and threw the enemy machine gun over the parapet. Then, rushing forward about 20 yards, he jumped into another strong point held by a garrison of six men, who immediately surrendered. Continuing to the next block through the trench, he disposed of an enemy machine gun which had been enfilading our flank advancing troops, and was then killed by another machine gun at close range. It was entirely due to this exceptional valour and determination of Private Mactier that the battalion was able to move on to its "jumping off" trench and carry out the successful operation of capturing the village of Mt. St. Quentin a few hours later.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61 Date: 23 May 1919 |
MAXWELL, Joseph
Service No 607 Lieutenant 18th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery and leadership in attack on the Beaurevoir-Fonsomme line, near Estrees, north of St. Quentin, on the 3rd October, 1918. His company commander was severely wounded early in the advance and Lieutenant Maxwell at once took charge. The enemy wire when reached under intense fire was found to be exceptionally strong, and closely supported by machine guns, whereupon Lieutenant Maxwell pushed forward single handed through the wire and captured the most dangerous gun, killing three and capturing four enemy. He thus enabled his company to penetrate the wire and reach the objective. Later, he again dashed forward and silenced, single handed, a gun which was holding up a flank company. Subsequently, when with two men only he attempted to capture a strong party of the enemy, he handled a most involved situation very skilfully, and it was due to his resource that he and his comrades escaped. Throughout the day Lieutenant Maxwell set a high example of personal bravery, coupled with excellent judgement and quick decision.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61 Date: 23 May 1919 |
Military Cross
'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. While in command of a patrol he observed a party of about fifty of the enemy entering a disused trench. He attacked them with bombs and rifle fire, and then assaulted the position and captured a prisoner. He showed splendid initiative and determination.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 165
Date: 24 October 1918
Bar to Military Cross
'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in the advance at Rainecourt on 9th August 1918. Within thirty minutes of zero he was the only officer left with his company, but kept his men well in hand, notwithstanding machine gun fire, besides fire from an anti-tank gun and a battery of 77 mm. He was close to a tank which was struck by a shell and set on fire, and, though shaken by the explosion, he rushed to the doors and opened them in time for the crew to escape. He showed a fine example of courage and presence of mind.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 67
Date: 3 June 1919
Distinguished Conduct Medal
'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This warrant officer took command of a platoon, and led it forward with great dash. On one of our strong points being heavily barraged, he went forward on his own initiative, and moved the men forward clear of the barrage, during which operations only one casualty was sustained. The action of this warrant officer undoubtedly saved many lives. Throughout the operations he carried out his duties with great skill and was a source of great inspiration by his splendid example.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918
'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. While in command of a patrol he observed a party of about fifty of the enemy entering a disused trench. He attacked them with bombs and rifle fire, and then assaulted the position and captured a prisoner. He showed splendid initiative and determination.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 165
Date: 24 October 1918
Bar to Military Cross
'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in the advance at Rainecourt on 9th August 1918. Within thirty minutes of zero he was the only officer left with his company, but kept his men well in hand, notwithstanding machine gun fire, besides fire from an anti-tank gun and a battery of 77 mm. He was close to a tank which was struck by a shell and set on fire, and, though shaken by the explosion, he rushed to the doors and opened them in time for the crew to escape. He showed a fine example of courage and presence of mind.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 67
Date: 3 June 1919
Distinguished Conduct Medal
'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This warrant officer took command of a platoon, and led it forward with great dash. On one of our strong points being heavily barraged, he went forward on his own initiative, and moved the men forward clear of the barrage, during which operations only one casualty was sustained. The action of this warrant officer undoubtedly saved many lives. Throughout the operations he carried out his duties with great skill and was a source of great inspiration by his splendid example.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918
McCARTHY, Lawrence Dominic
Service No 422 Lieutenant 16th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery, initiative, and leadership on the morning of the 23 August 1918, in attack near Madame Wood, east of Vermandovillers (north of Chaulnes). Although the objectives of his battalion were attained without serious opposition, the battalion on the left flank was heavily opposed by well posted machine guns. Lieutenant McCarthy, realising the situation, at once engaged the nearest machine gun post, but still the attacking troops failed to get forward. This officer then determined to attack the nearest post. Leaving his men to continue the fire fight, he, with two others, dashed across the open and succeeded in reaching the block. Although single handed, as he had out distanced his comrades, and despite serious opposition and obstacles, he captured the gun and continued to fight his way down the trench, inflicting heavy casualties, and capturing three more machine guns. At this stage, being some 700 yards from his starting point, he was joined by one of his men, and together they continued to bomb up the trench until touch was establishing with an adjoining unit. Lieutenant McCarthy, during this most daring advance, single handed killed twenty of the enemy and captured in addition five machine guns and fifty prisoners. By his gallant and determined action he saved a critical situation, prevented many casualties, and was mainly, if not entirely, responsible for the final objective being taken'. Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61 Date: 23 May 1919 |
The Victoria Cross is the most highly prized decoration in the British Empire, lt can be won by all ranks in the Navy, Army and Air Force, and is only conferred upon men who, by conspicuous gallantry, distinguished themselves above their comrades. In a series of articles "Repat" will deal with some of the picturesque figures who won the Cross in the Wars of the Empire. An outstanding feature of the operations on August 23, 1918, was the capture of a monster naval gun which had wrought havoc in Amiens, it was immense; its bore was so wide a man could fit into it; its'barrel was over seventy, feet long. It was estimated that the gun with its carriage, platform and concrete foundations weighed over 500 tons. It fired a projectile weighing nearly a ton a distance of more than twenty-four miles. For the transportation of the gun and its parts a railway had been built by the Germans for several miles. The gun was elevated or depressed by electricity and there was mechanical provision to load it. The original gun was installed in June, 1918, and, having fired 350 shells into Amiens, it was replaced by another gun on August 7, but the new gun fired only thirty-five rounds before ceasing fire for ever. The general desire to take the gun to Australia was impracticable of fulfilment Even if it had been possible to transport it to the coast and to ship it there was not a crane in the ports of the Commonwealth which could have handled it. As a result, it was surrounded by a fence and, later, presented to the city of Amiens as a souvenir of the Australian Army Corps.
And there is more than good reason ; believe that the people of Amiens have a kindly thought for the men who fought so gallantly in that area. Their
remembrance of those who made the supreme sacrifice has been demonstrated on many occasions. And this is the story of a Victoria Cross won on August 23, 1918. South Australia and Western Australia supplied the original personnel of the 16th Battalion, and, as it was to form part of a brigade raised throughout the Commonwealth, it was brought to Melbourne, and sent to camp at Broadmeadows, so that the brigade organisation could be completed. On December 22, 1914, the Ceramic, which was Known as "A.40" among troopships received the members of the battalion and many
other troops on board. In "C" Company of the Sixteenth was No. 422, Private Lawrence Dominic McCarthy. Being a hearty chap of "the happy-go lucky type, and carrying a good deal of weight, he was dubbed "Fat," and as Fat McCarthy his friends speak of him today. Lest the impression is left that
Private McCarthy was of the slothful type, his exploits should be kept in mind. For he was to earn a Victoria Cross which the newspapers of London were to acclaim as "the super V.C." And such it was. In the early days of service at Anzac McCarthy was employed as a "runner," which is not a task for a man who is slow in movement. The fact is that Lawrence McCarthy was a thick-set man, neither shorter nor taller than the average, but broad of shoulder. He was fortunate throughout his war service in maintaining a good sense of humour and a useful smile. Quinn's Post at Anzac was no holiday resort, and the interchange of un-pleasantries in the nature of things that kill and maim was continuous. The Sixteenth Battalion had more than its share of duty at Quinn's. Attack and counter-attack were simple if., measured by distance-Quinn's Post and the opposing trenches were only a few yards apart, and the occupants could hear the voices of their opponents, except when the din of conflict was overpowering. In one of the many hops-over, a Captain was killed, and, despite the grave risk, Private McCarthy went out and brought in his body. That was on the night of May 9, 1915, just two weeks after the historic landing had been made by Australian and New Zealand troops at this then unnamed portion of the Gallipoli Peninsula, which was to become known as Anzac.
That the Sixteenth had been called upon to attack and defend in places where fighting and danger were ever present, needs no further statement than
its casualty report. Up to May 13, 1935, 25- officers and 441 other ranks were listed as casualties by name, and those unaccounted for (that is, missing)
totalled 291-tragic figures for a battalion with less than three weeks' actual fighting.
However, the Sixteenth Battalion was none to serve for the duration of the war. How well this was done is shown by the decorations awarded to the officers, N.C.o.'s and men, namely:-3 Victoria Crosses, 2 CB'S., 1 C.M.G., ll D.SO's.. 1 M.C., and two bars, 4 MLC.'s., and one bar, .25 M.C's., 1 D.C.M. and bar, 29 D.C.M.'s, 13 M.M.'s and bar, 159 M.M.'s, 5 M.S.M.'s, and 7 foreign decorations. - Without further reference to the exploits of this battalion at Gallipoli and France, and with a passing reference to the fact that Lawrence Dominic McCarthy was wounded at Bullecourt on April ll, 1917, this story must move on to those stirring last hundred days of the Great War, and to August 23, 1918, in particular. Two Victoria Crosses were to be won that day by Australians. One was won by McCarthy. He was then a Lieutenant, and twenty-seven years of age, having been born at York, Western Australia, in 1891.
The Corps Commander (General Monash) in his book, "The Australian Victories in France," gave an outline of the action. The references to the 32nd and 47th Divisions in it relate to Imperial troops. He said: "... The great attack by the First Division, supported by the 32nd Division, which has come to be known as the battle of Chuignes. was launched at dawn on August 23, and was an unqualified success. "The main valley of the Somme in this region is flanked by a number of tributary valleys, which run generally in a north and south direction, extending back from the river four or five miles. They are broad, with heavily wooded sides, and harbour a number of villages, such as Proyart, Chuignolles, Herleville, and Chuignes, which cluster on their
slopes. "One such valley, larger and longer than any of those which, in our previous advances, we had yet crossed, lay before our front line of that morning, and square across our path. It ran from Herleville, northwards, past Chuignes, to join the Somme in the Bray bend. It was the most easterly of all the tributary valleys to which I have referred, and it was also the last piece of habitable country before the devastated area of 1916 was reached, just a mile to the east of it. "The valley afforded excellent cover for the enemy's guns, and the expectation was that some of them would be overrun by our attack. It was also ideal country for machine-gun defence, for the numerous woods, hedges and copses afforded excellent cover, and had in all
probability been amply fortified with barbed wire. It was a formidable proposition to attack such a position on such a frontage with only two brigades.
"The 2nd Brigade (Heane) attacked on the right, the 1st Brigade (Mackay) on the left, and the first phase was completed to time-table, with the green objective line, located on the east side of the long valley, in our possession. The only temporary hitch in the advance along the whole front was at Robert Wood, where the enemy held out, and had to be completely enveloped from both flanks before surrendering. "Then came the second phase, and no difficulty was experienced in advancing our line 1,000 yards east of the green line, nor in establishing there a firm line of outposts for the night. "The third phase, presented a great deal more difficulty than I had anticipated. It was to have been undertaken by the 3rd Brigade (Bennett) pushing without delay through the 1st Brigade, and advancing in open warfare formation north-easterly towards Cappy, for the seizure of Hill 90, overlooking that village and on the south-west of it, and terminating at its northern extremity in the high bluff of Froissy Beacon. "There was, however, some unexplained delay in the initiation of this advance, and it was not until about 2 o'clock that the 3rd Brigade moved forward to the assault of the long slope of the Chuignes Valley, which still lay before them in this part of the field. The enemy, under the impression that our attack had spent itself, had occupied the plateau in great strength, and at first little progress could be made. "Mobile artillery was, however, promptly pushed up, and this proved of great assistance to the infantry. Garenne Wood, on the top of the plateau, into which large numbers of the enemy had withdrawn, proved a difficult obstacle, and incapable of capture by frontal attack. It, too, was conquered by enveloping tactics, and with its fall the resistance of the enemy rapidly subsided, and the 3rd Brigade had the satisfaction of hunting the fugitives clean off the plateau into the Cappy Valley. "The whole of this phase of the battle was an especially fine piece of work on the part of the regimental officers. It was open warfare of the most complete character, and the victory was won by excellent battle control on the part of the battalion commanders, by splendid co-operation between the four battalions of
the brigade, and by intelligent and gallant leadership on the part of the company and platoon commanders. "Beset as I had been by many anxieties during the early afternoon as to how the Third Brigade would fare in the difficult task which "had been given it, rendered more difficult by the delay to
which I have spoken, I had the satisfaction that night of contemplating a victory far greater than I had calculated upon. "For the 32nd Division had successfully captured Herleville, and the First Division had seized the whole country for a depth of 11 miles up to a line extending from Herleville to the western edge of Cappy. The whole Chuignes Valley was ours. By its capture the enemy had been despoiled of all habitable areas, and had been relegated to a waste of broken and ruined country between us and the line of the Somme. "We took'that day 21 guns and over 3,100 prisoners from ten different regiments. The slaughter of the enemy in the tangled valleys was considerable, for our infantry are always vigorous bayonet fighters. They received much assistance from the tanks in disposing of the numerous machine gun detachments, which held their ground to the last. "It was a smashing blow, and far exceeded in its results any previous record hi my experience, having regard to the number of troops engaged. Its immediate result, the same night, was the capture of Bray by the Third Division, north of the river, thus completing the work of that division which the failure of the 47th Division on their left the day before had compelled them to leave unfinished. The 40th Battalion took 200 prisoners, with trifling loss to themselves. "A more remote result, which made itself apparent in the next few days, was that it compelled the enemy to abandon all hope of retaining a hold of any country west of the line of the Somme; it impelled him at last to an evacuation of the great bend of the river, a process which he began in a very few days."
There was no more determined officer in the attacking force than "Pat" McCarthy, and the award of the Victoria Cross, when promulgated in the London Gazette on December 14, 1918, was couched in the following terms: "For most conspicuous bravery, initiative and leadership on the morning of
August 23, 1918, in an attack near Madame Wood, east of Vermandovillers (north of Chaulnes). Although the objectives of his battalion were attained
without serious opposition, the battalion on the left flank was heavily opposed by well-posted machine guns. Lieutenant McCarthy, realising the situation, at once engaged the nearest machine-gun post, but still the attacking troops failed to get forward. This officer then determined to attack the nearest post. Leaving his men to continue the fight, he, with two others, dashed across the open and succeeded in reaching the block.
Although single-handed, as he had out-distanced his comrades, and despite serious opposition and obstacles, he captured the gun, and continued to fight his way down the trench, inflicting heavy casualties and capturing three more machine guns. At this stage, being some 700 yards from his starting point, he was joined by one of his men, and together they continued to bomb up the trench until touch was established with an adjoining
unit. Lieutenant McCarthy, during this most daring advance, single-handed killed twenty of the enemy and captured, in addition, five machine guns and 50 prisoners. By his gallant and determined action he saved a critical situation, prevented many casualties, and was mainly, if not entirely, responsible for the final objective being taken." It is little wonder that he was termed "the Super V.C." "The Times History of the War" said "Lieutenant McCarthy's acts were of the bravest and most resolute description and they were conspicuous even amongst the many extraordinary single-handed exploits of the war." Yet few men know that he is now living quietly in Victoria, with a boy attending Wesley College. Lieutenant Lawrence Dominic McCarthy, Victoria Cross, Croix de Guerre, left Western Australia about ten years ago and since then has been engaged in business in Melbourne.
Western Mail Thursday 11 June 1936 page 10
And there is more than good reason ; believe that the people of Amiens have a kindly thought for the men who fought so gallantly in that area. Their
remembrance of those who made the supreme sacrifice has been demonstrated on many occasions. And this is the story of a Victoria Cross won on August 23, 1918. South Australia and Western Australia supplied the original personnel of the 16th Battalion, and, as it was to form part of a brigade raised throughout the Commonwealth, it was brought to Melbourne, and sent to camp at Broadmeadows, so that the brigade organisation could be completed. On December 22, 1914, the Ceramic, which was Known as "A.40" among troopships received the members of the battalion and many
other troops on board. In "C" Company of the Sixteenth was No. 422, Private Lawrence Dominic McCarthy. Being a hearty chap of "the happy-go lucky type, and carrying a good deal of weight, he was dubbed "Fat," and as Fat McCarthy his friends speak of him today. Lest the impression is left that
Private McCarthy was of the slothful type, his exploits should be kept in mind. For he was to earn a Victoria Cross which the newspapers of London were to acclaim as "the super V.C." And such it was. In the early days of service at Anzac McCarthy was employed as a "runner," which is not a task for a man who is slow in movement. The fact is that Lawrence McCarthy was a thick-set man, neither shorter nor taller than the average, but broad of shoulder. He was fortunate throughout his war service in maintaining a good sense of humour and a useful smile. Quinn's Post at Anzac was no holiday resort, and the interchange of un-pleasantries in the nature of things that kill and maim was continuous. The Sixteenth Battalion had more than its share of duty at Quinn's. Attack and counter-attack were simple if., measured by distance-Quinn's Post and the opposing trenches were only a few yards apart, and the occupants could hear the voices of their opponents, except when the din of conflict was overpowering. In one of the many hops-over, a Captain was killed, and, despite the grave risk, Private McCarthy went out and brought in his body. That was on the night of May 9, 1915, just two weeks after the historic landing had been made by Australian and New Zealand troops at this then unnamed portion of the Gallipoli Peninsula, which was to become known as Anzac.
That the Sixteenth had been called upon to attack and defend in places where fighting and danger were ever present, needs no further statement than
its casualty report. Up to May 13, 1935, 25- officers and 441 other ranks were listed as casualties by name, and those unaccounted for (that is, missing)
totalled 291-tragic figures for a battalion with less than three weeks' actual fighting.
However, the Sixteenth Battalion was none to serve for the duration of the war. How well this was done is shown by the decorations awarded to the officers, N.C.o.'s and men, namely:-3 Victoria Crosses, 2 CB'S., 1 C.M.G., ll D.SO's.. 1 M.C., and two bars, 4 MLC.'s., and one bar, .25 M.C's., 1 D.C.M. and bar, 29 D.C.M.'s, 13 M.M.'s and bar, 159 M.M.'s, 5 M.S.M.'s, and 7 foreign decorations. - Without further reference to the exploits of this battalion at Gallipoli and France, and with a passing reference to the fact that Lawrence Dominic McCarthy was wounded at Bullecourt on April ll, 1917, this story must move on to those stirring last hundred days of the Great War, and to August 23, 1918, in particular. Two Victoria Crosses were to be won that day by Australians. One was won by McCarthy. He was then a Lieutenant, and twenty-seven years of age, having been born at York, Western Australia, in 1891.
The Corps Commander (General Monash) in his book, "The Australian Victories in France," gave an outline of the action. The references to the 32nd and 47th Divisions in it relate to Imperial troops. He said: "... The great attack by the First Division, supported by the 32nd Division, which has come to be known as the battle of Chuignes. was launched at dawn on August 23, and was an unqualified success. "The main valley of the Somme in this region is flanked by a number of tributary valleys, which run generally in a north and south direction, extending back from the river four or five miles. They are broad, with heavily wooded sides, and harbour a number of villages, such as Proyart, Chuignolles, Herleville, and Chuignes, which cluster on their
slopes. "One such valley, larger and longer than any of those which, in our previous advances, we had yet crossed, lay before our front line of that morning, and square across our path. It ran from Herleville, northwards, past Chuignes, to join the Somme in the Bray bend. It was the most easterly of all the tributary valleys to which I have referred, and it was also the last piece of habitable country before the devastated area of 1916 was reached, just a mile to the east of it. "The valley afforded excellent cover for the enemy's guns, and the expectation was that some of them would be overrun by our attack. It was also ideal country for machine-gun defence, for the numerous woods, hedges and copses afforded excellent cover, and had in all
probability been amply fortified with barbed wire. It was a formidable proposition to attack such a position on such a frontage with only two brigades.
"The 2nd Brigade (Heane) attacked on the right, the 1st Brigade (Mackay) on the left, and the first phase was completed to time-table, with the green objective line, located on the east side of the long valley, in our possession. The only temporary hitch in the advance along the whole front was at Robert Wood, where the enemy held out, and had to be completely enveloped from both flanks before surrendering. "Then came the second phase, and no difficulty was experienced in advancing our line 1,000 yards east of the green line, nor in establishing there a firm line of outposts for the night. "The third phase, presented a great deal more difficulty than I had anticipated. It was to have been undertaken by the 3rd Brigade (Bennett) pushing without delay through the 1st Brigade, and advancing in open warfare formation north-easterly towards Cappy, for the seizure of Hill 90, overlooking that village and on the south-west of it, and terminating at its northern extremity in the high bluff of Froissy Beacon. "There was, however, some unexplained delay in the initiation of this advance, and it was not until about 2 o'clock that the 3rd Brigade moved forward to the assault of the long slope of the Chuignes Valley, which still lay before them in this part of the field. The enemy, under the impression that our attack had spent itself, had occupied the plateau in great strength, and at first little progress could be made. "Mobile artillery was, however, promptly pushed up, and this proved of great assistance to the infantry. Garenne Wood, on the top of the plateau, into which large numbers of the enemy had withdrawn, proved a difficult obstacle, and incapable of capture by frontal attack. It, too, was conquered by enveloping tactics, and with its fall the resistance of the enemy rapidly subsided, and the 3rd Brigade had the satisfaction of hunting the fugitives clean off the plateau into the Cappy Valley. "The whole of this phase of the battle was an especially fine piece of work on the part of the regimental officers. It was open warfare of the most complete character, and the victory was won by excellent battle control on the part of the battalion commanders, by splendid co-operation between the four battalions of
the brigade, and by intelligent and gallant leadership on the part of the company and platoon commanders. "Beset as I had been by many anxieties during the early afternoon as to how the Third Brigade would fare in the difficult task which "had been given it, rendered more difficult by the delay to
which I have spoken, I had the satisfaction that night of contemplating a victory far greater than I had calculated upon. "For the 32nd Division had successfully captured Herleville, and the First Division had seized the whole country for a depth of 11 miles up to a line extending from Herleville to the western edge of Cappy. The whole Chuignes Valley was ours. By its capture the enemy had been despoiled of all habitable areas, and had been relegated to a waste of broken and ruined country between us and the line of the Somme. "We took'that day 21 guns and over 3,100 prisoners from ten different regiments. The slaughter of the enemy in the tangled valleys was considerable, for our infantry are always vigorous bayonet fighters. They received much assistance from the tanks in disposing of the numerous machine gun detachments, which held their ground to the last. "It was a smashing blow, and far exceeded in its results any previous record hi my experience, having regard to the number of troops engaged. Its immediate result, the same night, was the capture of Bray by the Third Division, north of the river, thus completing the work of that division which the failure of the 47th Division on their left the day before had compelled them to leave unfinished. The 40th Battalion took 200 prisoners, with trifling loss to themselves. "A more remote result, which made itself apparent in the next few days, was that it compelled the enemy to abandon all hope of retaining a hold of any country west of the line of the Somme; it impelled him at last to an evacuation of the great bend of the river, a process which he began in a very few days."
There was no more determined officer in the attacking force than "Pat" McCarthy, and the award of the Victoria Cross, when promulgated in the London Gazette on December 14, 1918, was couched in the following terms: "For most conspicuous bravery, initiative and leadership on the morning of
August 23, 1918, in an attack near Madame Wood, east of Vermandovillers (north of Chaulnes). Although the objectives of his battalion were attained
without serious opposition, the battalion on the left flank was heavily opposed by well-posted machine guns. Lieutenant McCarthy, realising the situation, at once engaged the nearest machine-gun post, but still the attacking troops failed to get forward. This officer then determined to attack the nearest post. Leaving his men to continue the fight, he, with two others, dashed across the open and succeeded in reaching the block.
Although single-handed, as he had out-distanced his comrades, and despite serious opposition and obstacles, he captured the gun, and continued to fight his way down the trench, inflicting heavy casualties and capturing three more machine guns. At this stage, being some 700 yards from his starting point, he was joined by one of his men, and together they continued to bomb up the trench until touch was established with an adjoining
unit. Lieutenant McCarthy, during this most daring advance, single-handed killed twenty of the enemy and captured, in addition, five machine guns and 50 prisoners. By his gallant and determined action he saved a critical situation, prevented many casualties, and was mainly, if not entirely, responsible for the final objective being taken." It is little wonder that he was termed "the Super V.C." "The Times History of the War" said "Lieutenant McCarthy's acts were of the bravest and most resolute description and they were conspicuous even amongst the many extraordinary single-handed exploits of the war." Yet few men know that he is now living quietly in Victoria, with a boy attending Wesley College. Lieutenant Lawrence Dominic McCarthy, Victoria Cross, Croix de Guerre, left Western Australia about ten years ago and since then has been engaged in business in Melbourne.
Western Mail Thursday 11 June 1936 page 10
McDOUGALL, Stanley Robert
Service No 4061 Lance Corporal 48th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty when the enemy attacked our line, and his first wave succeeded in gaining an entrance. Sergeant McDougall, who was at a post in a flank company, realised the situation, and at once charged the enemy's second wave single handed with rifle and bayonet killing seven and capturing a machine gun which they had. This he turned on to them, firing from the hip, causing many casualties and routing the wave. He then turned his attention to those who had entered, until his ammunition ran out, all the time firing at close quarters, when he seized a bayonet and charged again, killing three men and one enemy officer, who was just about to kill one of our officers. He used a Lewis gun on the enemy, killing many, and enabling us to capture 33 prisoners. The prompt action of this non-commissioned officer saved the line and enabled the enemy's advance to be stopped.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 150 Date: 24 September 1918 Military Medal 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty at DERNANCOURT South West of ALBERT on 5th April 1918 during heavy enemy attack, he took a Lewis Gun to a very exposed position where he could enfilade enemy at close quarters up to 30 yards. he maintained his gun until ti was pierced by a bullet, then crawled 300 yards, got another gun and returned to his post in "No Man's Land" where he was responsible for many dead. Later during our counter-attack he organised a platoon after the officer was killed and led them in the attack. He is absolutely fearless and his contempt of danger is amazing as right throughout his conduct has been of a similar high standard.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 185 Date: 27 November 1918 |
McGEE, Lewis
Service No 456 Sergeant 40th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery when, in the advance to the final objective, Sergeant McGee led his platoon with great dash and bravery, though strongly opposed, and under heavy shell fire. His platoon was suffering severely, and the advance of the company was stopped by machine gun fire from a "pill box" post. Single handed, Sergeant McGee rushed the post armed only with a revolver. He shot some of the crew, and captured the rest, and thus enabled the advance to proceed. He reorganised the remnants of his platoon and was foremost in the remainder of the advance; and during consolidation of the position, he did splendid work. The non-commissioned officer's coolness and bravery were conspicuous, and contributed largely to the success of the company's operations Sergeant McGee was subsequently killed in action.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31 Date: 7 March 1918 |
McNAMARA, Frank Hubert
Captain Australian Flying Corps Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during an aerial bomb attack upon a hostile construction train, when one of our pilots was forced to land behind the enemy's lines. Lieutenant McNamara, observing this pilot's predicament and the fact that hostile cavalry were approaching, descended to his rescue. He did this under heavy rifle fire and in spite of the fact that he himself had been severely wounded in the thigh. He landed about 200 yards from the damaged machine, the pilot of which climbed on to Lieutenant McNamara's machine, and an attempt was made to rise. Owing, however, to his disabled leg, Lieutenant McNamara was unable to keep his machine straight, and it turned over. The two officers, having extricated themselves, immediately set fire to the machine and made their way across to the damaged machine, which they succeeded in starting. Finally Lieutenant McNamara, although weak from loss of blood, flew this machine back to the aerodrome, a distance of seventy miles, and thus completed his comrade's rescue.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 169 Date: 4 October 1917 |
MOON, Rupert Vance
Service no 153 Captain 58th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery during an attack on an enemy strong point near Bullecourt, France, on 12th May, 1917. His own immediate objective was a position in advance of the hostile trench itself, after the capture of which it was intended that his men should co-operate in a further assault on a strong point further in rear. Although wounded in the initial advance, he reached his first objective. Leading his men against the trench itself, he was again badly wounded and incapacitated for the moment. He nevertheless inspired and encouraged his men and captured the trench. Lieutenant Moon continued to lead his much diminished command in the general attack with the utmost valour, being again wounded, and the attack was successfully pressed home. During the consolidation of the position, this officer was again badly wounded, and it was only after this fourth and severe wound through the face that he consented to retire from the fight. His bravery was magnificent and was largely instrumental in the successful issue against superior numbers, the safeguarding of the flank in attack, and the capture of many prisoners and machine guns.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 169 Date: 4 October 1917 |
MURRAY, Henry William
Service No 315 Lieutenant-Colonel 4th Machine Gun Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery when in command of the right flank company in attack. He led his company to the assault with great skill and courage, and the position was quickly captured. Fighting of a very severe nature followed, and three heavy counter attack was beaten back, these successes being due to Captain Murray's wonderful work. Throughout the night his company suffered heavy casualties through concentrated enemy shell fire, and on one occasion gave ground for a short way. This gallant officer rallied his command and saved the situation by sheer valour. He made his presence felt throughout the line, encouraging his men, heading bombing parties, leading bayonet charges, and carrying wounded to places of safety. His magnificent example inspired his men throughout.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 133 Date: 21 August 1917 Distinguished Conduct Medal 'For distinguished service on several occasions from 9th to 31st May, 1915, during operations near Gaba Tepe (Dardanelles), when attached to the machine gun section. During this period he exhibited exceptional courage, energy and skill, and inflicted severe losses on the enemy, he himself being twice wounded.' Source: 'London Gazette' No. 7673 Date: 5 August 1915 Distinguished Service Order 'For conspicuous gallantry in action. Although twice wounded, he commanded his company with the greatest courage and initiative, beating off four enemy counter attacks. Later, when an enemy bullet started a man's equipment exploding, he tore the man's equipment off at great personal risk. He set a splendid example throughout.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 62 Date: 19 April 1917 Bar to DSO Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 169 Date: 4 October 1917 Croix de Guerre (France) 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He gallantly led his company over 1,200 yards of fire swept ground. Later, he went along the whole frontage, organising the defence, encouraging the men of all units by his cheerfulness and bravery, and always moving to the points of danger. He is not only brave and daring, but a skillful soldier, possessing tactical instinct of the highest order.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61 Date: 23 May 1919 Commander of the Order of St Michael & St George Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109 Date: 15 September 1919 |
NEWLAND, James Ernest
Service No 2 Captain 12th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery, and devotion to duty, in the face of heavy odds, on three separate occasions. On the first occasion he organised the attack by his company on a most important objective, and led personally, under heavy fire, a bombing attack. He then rallied his company, which had suffered heavy casualties, and he was one of the first to reach the objective. On the following night his company, holding the captured position, was heavily counter attacked. By personal exertion, utter disregard of fire, and judicious use of reserves, he succeeded in dispersing the enemy and regaining the position. On a subsequent occasion, when the company on his left was overpowered, and his own company attacked from the rear, he drove off a combined attack which had developed from these directions. These attacks were renewed three or four times, and it was Captain Newland's tenacity and disregard for his own safety that encouraged the men to hold out. The stand made by this officer was of the greatest importance, and produced far reaching results.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 169 Date: 4 October 1917 |
O'MEARA, Martin
Service No 3970 Sergeant 16th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery. During four days of very heavy fighting he repeatedly went out and brought in wounded officers and men from "No Man's Land" under intense artillery and machine gun fire. He also volunteered and carried up ammunition and bombs through a heavy barrage to a portion of the trenches, which was being heavily shelled at the time. He showed throughout an utter contempt of danger, and undoubtedly saved many lives.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 184 Date: 14 December 1916 |
PEARSE, Samuel George
Service No 2870 Private 7th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery, devotion to duty and self-sacrifice during the operation against the enemy battery position north of Emtsa, North Russia on the 29th August 1919. Sergeant Pearse cut his way through enemy barbed-wire under very heavy machine-gun and rifle fire and cleared a way for the troops to enter an enemy battery position. Seeing that a blockhouse was harassing our advance and causing us casualties, he charged the blockhouse single-handed, killing the occupants with bombs. This gallant non-commissioned officer met his death a minute later and it was due to him that the position was carried with so few casualties. His magnificent bravery and utter disregard for personal danger won for him the admiration of all troops.' — The London Gazette, 21 October 1919 Military Medal 'On the night of 18th September, 1917, this man, while on outpost duty in a post on the western edge of GLENCORBE WOOD East of YPRES, saw a light shine momentarily in a German post some distance in front and, after warning his comrades crept forward alone and dropped bombs into the position causing casualties to the enemy who evacuated the post. Normally this man is a runner, he was in the trenches from 16th to 22nd September taking part in the advance and throughout showed an utter disregard of danger in carrying messages, guiding parties and in bringing in wounded men, on every return run. From forward positions he helped to bring back wounded and undoubtedly saved many lives.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31 Date: 7 March 1918 |
PEELER, Walter
Service No 114 Sergeant 3rd Pioneer Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery when, with a Lewis gun, accompanying the first wave of the assault, he encountered an enemy party sniping the advancing troops from a shell hole. Lance Corporal Peeler immediately rushed the position, and accounted for nine of the enemy, and cleared the way for the advance. On two subsequent occasions, he performed similar acts of valour, and each time accounted for a number of the enemy. During operations, he was directed to a position from which an enemy machine gun was being fired on our troops. He located and killed the gunner, and the remainder of the enemy party ran into a dugout close by. From this shelter they were dislodged by a bomb, and ten of the enemy ran out. These he disposed of. This non-commissioned officer actually accounted for over thirty of the enemy. He displayed an absolute fearlessness in making his way ahead of the first wave of the assault, and the fine example which he set insured the success of the attack against most determined opposition.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31 Date: 7 March 1918 |
POPE, Charles
Lieutenant 11th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty when in command of a very important picquet post in the sector held by his battalion, his orders being to hold this post at all costs. After the picquet post had been heavily attacked, the enemy, in greatly superior numbers, surrounded the post. Lieutenant Pope, finding that he was running short of ammunition, sent back for further supplies. But the situation culminated before it could arrive, and in the hope of saving the position, this very gallant officer was seen to charge with his picquet into a superior force, by which it was overpowered. By his sacrifice Lieutenant Pope not only inflicted heavy loss on the enemy, but obeyed his order to hold the position to the last. His body, together with those of most of his men, was found in close proximity to eight enemy dead - a sure proof of the gallant resistance which had been made.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 169 Date: 4 October 1917 |
RUTHVEN, William
Service No 1946 Second Lieutenant 22nd Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery and initiative in action. During the advance Sergeant Ruthven's company suffered numerous casualties, and his company commander was severely wounded. He thereupon assumed command of this portion of the assault, took charge of the company headquarters, and rallied the section in his vicinity. As the leading wave approached its objective it was subjected to heavy fire from an enemy machine gun at close range. Without hesitation, he at once sprang out, threw a bomb which landed beside the post, and rushed the position, bayoneting one of the crew and capturing the gun. He then encountered some of the enemy coming out of a shelter. He wounded two, captured six others in the same position, and handed them over to an escort from the leading wave, which had now reached the objective. Sergeant Ruthven then reorganised the men in his vicinity and established a post in the second objective. Observing enemy movement in a sunken road near by, he, without hesitation and armed only with a revolver, went over the open alone and rushed the position, shooting two enemy who refused to come out of their dugouts. He then single handed mopped up this position and captured the whole of the garrison, amounting in all to thirty two and kept them until assistance arrived to escort them back to our lines. During the remainder of the day this gallant non-commissioned officer set a splendid example of leadership moving up and down his position under fire, supervising consolidation and encouraging his men. Throughout the whole operation he showed the most magnificent courage and determination, inspiring every one by his fine fighting spirit, his remarkable courage and his dashing action.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 185 Date: 27 November 1918 |
RYAN, John
Service No 1717 Private 55th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during an attack against the Hindenburg defences on 30th September 1918. In the initial assault on the enemy's positions Private Ryan went forward with great dash and determination, and was one of the first to reach the enemy trench. His exceptional skill and daring inspired his comrades, and, despite heavy fire, the hostile garrison was soon overcome and the trench occupied. The enemy then counter attacked, and succeeded in establishing a bombing party in the rear of the position. Under fire from front and rear, the position was critical, and necessitated prompt action. Quickly appreciating the situation, he organised and led the men near him with bomb and bayonet against the enemy bombers, finally reaching the position with only three men. By skillful bayonet work, his small party succeeded in killing the first three Germans on the enemy's flank, then, moving along the embankment, Private Ryan alone rushed the remainder with bombs. He fell wounded after he had driven back the enemy, who suffered heavily as they retired across "No Man's Land". A particularly dangerous situation had been saved by this gallant soldier, whose example of determination bravery and initiative was an inspiration to all.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61 Date: 23 May 1919 |
SADLIER, Clifford William King
Service No 2858 Lieutenant 51st Battalion Victoria Cross 'For conspicuous bravery during a counter attack by his battalion on strong enemy positions. Lieutenant Sadlier's platoon, which was on the left of the battalion, had to advance through a wood where a strong enemy machine gun post caused casualties and prevented the platoon from advancing. Although himself wounded, he at once collected his bombing section, led them against the machine guns, and succeeded in killing the crews and capturing two of the guns. By this time, Lieutenant Sadlier's party were all casualties, and he alone attacked a third enemy machine gun with his revolver, killing the crew of four and taking the gun. In doing so, he was again wounded. The very gallant conduct of this officer was the means of clearing the flank and allowing the battalion to move forward, thereby saving a most critical situation. His coolness and utter disregard of danger inspired all.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 185 Date: 27 November 1918 |
SHOUT, Alfred John
Captain 1st Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery at Lone Pine trenches, in the Gallipoli Peninsula. On the morning of the 9th August, 1915, with a very small party, Captain Shout charged down trenches strongly occupied by the enemy, and personally threw four bombs among them, killing eight and routing the remainder. In the afternoon of the same day, from the position gained in the morning he captured a further length of trench under similar conditions, and continued personally to bomb the enemy at close range under very heavy fire, until he was severely wounded, losing his right hand and left eye. This most gallant officer has since succumbed to his injuries.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 28 Date: 24 February 1916 Military Cross 'On 27th April 1915, during operations near Gaba Tepe, for showing conspicuous courage and ability in organising and leading his men in a thick bushy country, under very heavy fire. He frequently had to expose himself to locate the enemy, and led a bayonet charge at a critical moment.' Source: 'London Gazette' No. 6539 Date: 3 July 1915 |
STATTON, Percy Clyde
Service No 506 Lance Corporal 40th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery and initiative in action when in command of a platoon which reached its objective, the remainder of the battalion being held up by heavy machine gun fire. He skilfully engaged two machine gun posts with Lewis gun fire, enabling the remainder of his battalion to advance. The advance of the battalion on his left had been brought to a stand still by heavy enemy machine gun fire, and the first of our assaulting detachments to reach the machine gun posts were put out of action in taking the first gun. Armed only with a revolver, in broad daylight, Sergeant Statton at once rushed four enemy machine gun posts in succession, disposing of two of them, and killing five of the enemy. The remaining two posts retired and were wiped out by Lewis gun fire. Later in the evening, under heavy machine gun fire, he went out again and brought in two badly wounded men. Sergeant Statton set a magnificent example of quick decision, and the success of the attacking troops was largely due to his determined gallantry.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 23 Date: 12 February 1919 Military Medal 'On 7, 8 and 9 June 1917 during operations south east of Messines, Belgium, for exceptional fine work and gallant conduct whilst under heavy enemy artillery and machine-gun fire. He supervised and conducted carrying parties to the advanced troops with great determination and never failed to reach the next advanced line although on several occasions the party was decimated with shell fire. He set a fine example to the members of his parties.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 219 Date: 20 December 1917 |
STORKEY, Percy Valentine
Captain 19th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery, leadership, and devotion to duty when in charge of a platoon in attack. On emerging from the wood, the enemy trench line was encountered, and Lieutenant Storkey found himself with six men. While continuing his move forward, a large enemy party - about 80 to 100 strong - armed with several machine guns, was noticed to be holding up the advance of the troops on the right. Lieutenant Storkey immediately decided to attack this party from the flank and rear, and, while moving forward in the attack was joined by Lieutenant Lipscomb and four men. Under the leadership of Lieutenant Storkey, this small party of two officers and ten other ranks charged the enemy position with fixed bayonets, driving the enemy out, killing and wounding about thirty, and capturing three officers and fifty men, also one machine gun. The splendid courage shown by this officer in quickly deciding his course of action, and his skillful method of attacking against such great odds, removed a dangerous obstacle to the advance of the troops on the right, and inspired the remainder of our small party with the utmost confidence when advancing to the objective line.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 173 Date: 7 November 1918 |
SULLIVAN, Arthur Percy
Service no 56133 Private Artillery Details Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty on the 10th August, 1919, at the Sheika River, North Russia. The platoon to which he belonged, after fighting a rearguard covering action, had to cross the river by means of a narrow plank, and during the passage an officer and three men fell into a deep swamp. Without hesitation, under intense fire, Corporal Sullivan jumped into the river and rescued all four, bring them out singly. But for this gallant action his comrades would have, undoubtedly, been drowned. It was a splendid example of heroism, as all ranks were on the point of exhaustion, and the enemy less than 100 yards distant.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 10 Date: 29 January 1920 |
SYMONS, William John
Captain 2nd Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery on the night of 8th-9th August, 1915, at Lone Pine trenches, in the Gallipoli Peninsula. He was in command of the right section of the newly captured trenches held by his battalion, and repelled several counter attacks with great coolness. At about 5 a.m. on 9th August a series of determined attacks were made by the enemy on the isolated sap, and six officers were in succession killed or severely wounded, a portion of the sap being lost. Lieutenant Symons then led a charge and retook the lost sap, shooting two Turks with his revolver. The sap was under hostile fire from three sides, and Lieutenant Symons withdrew some fifteen yards to a spot where some overhead cover could be obtained, and, in the face of heavy fire, built up a sand barricade. The enemy succeeded in setting fire to the fascines and woodwork of the head cover, but Lieutenant Symons extinguished the fire and rebuilt the barricade. His coolness and determination finally compelled the enemy to discontinue their attacks.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 28 Date: 24 February 1916 |
THROSSELL, Hugo Vivian Hope
Captain 10th Light Horse Regiment Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during operations on the Kaiakij Aghala (Hill 60) in the Gallipoli Peninsula, 29th and 30th August, 1915. Although severely wounded in several places during a counter attack, he refused to leave his post or to obtain medical assistance till all danger was past, when he had his wounds dressed and returned to the firing line until ordered out of action by the medical officer. By his personal courage and example he kept up the spirits of his party, and was largely instrumental in saving the situation at a critical period.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 28 Date: 24 February 1916 |
TOWNER, Edgar Thomas
Service No 1067 Lieutenant 2nd Machine Gun Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery, initiative and devotion to duty on 1st September, 1918, in the attack on Mont St. Quentin, near Peronne, when in charge of four Vickers guns. During the early stages of the advance he located and captured single handed an enemy machine gun which was causing casualties, and by turning it on the enemy inflicted severe losses. Subsequently, by the skillful, tactical handling of his guns, he cut off and captured twenty five of the enemy. Later, by fearless reconnaissance under heavy fire, and by the energy, foresight, and promptitude with which he brought fire to bear on various enemy groups, he gave valuable support to the infantry advance. Again, when short of ammunition, he secured an enemy machine gun, which he mounted and fired in full view of the enemy, causing the enemy to retire further, and enabling our infantry to advance. Under intense fire, although wounded, he maintained the fire of this gun at a very critical period. During the following night he steadied and gave valuable support to a small detached post, and by his coolness and cheerfulness inspirited the men in a great degree. Throughout the night he kept close watch by personal reconnaissance on the enemy movement, and was evacuated exhausted thirty hours after being wounded. The valour and resourcefulness of Lieutenant Towner undoubtedly saved a very critical situation, and contributed largely to the success of the attack.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61 Date: 23 May 1919 Military Cross 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. One of the first to reach the objective, he got his guns into action very quickly, thereby greatly assisting the right company in consolidating. He also brought a captured machine gun into action. When one of the infantry posts was badly blown in he went out at great risk and helped to re-organise it.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 23 Date: 12 February 1919 |
TUBB, Frederick Harold
Major 7th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty at Lone Pine trenches, in the Gallipoli Peninsula, on 9th August, 1915. In the early morning the enemy made a determined counter attack on the centre of the newly captured trench held by Lieutenant Tubb. They advanced up a sap and blew in a sandbag barricade, leaving only one foot of it standing; but Lieutenant Tubb led his men back, repulsed the enemy, and rebuilt the barricade. Supported by strong bombing parties, the enemy succeeded in twice again blowing in the barricade; but on each occasion Lieutenant Tubb, although wounded in the head and arm, held his ground with the greatest coolness and rebuilt it, and finally succeeded in maintaining his position under very heavy bomb fire.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 28 Date: 24 February 1916 |
WARK, Blair Anderson
Major 30th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery, initiative, and control during the period 29th September to 1st October, 1918, in the operations against the Hindenburg Line at Bellicourt and the advance through Nauroy, Etricourt, Magny La Fosse and Joncourt. On 29th September, after personal reconnaissance, under heavy fire, he led his command forward at a critical period, and restored the situation. Moving fearlessly at the head of, and at times far in advance of, his troops, he cheered his men on through Nauroy, thence towards Etricourt. Still leading his assaulting companies, he observed a battery of 77 mm guns firing on his rear companies, and causing heavy casualties. Collecting a few of his men, he rushed the battery, capturing four guns and then of the crew. Then moving rapidly forward, with only two N.C.O's he surprised and captured fifty Germans near Magny La Fosse. On 1st October, 1918, he again showed fearless leading and gallantry in attack, and without hesitation; and regardless of personal risk, dashed forward and silenced machine guns which were causing heavy casualties. Throughout he displayed the greatest courage, skillful leading, and devotion to duty, and his work was invaluable.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61 Date: 23/5/1919 Distinguished Service Order 'Major WARK was in command of the front line near POLYGON WOOD east of YPRES, from 27th September to 1st October 1917, during which time the enemy massed for counter attack three times and actually attacked once. Major WARK made excellent arrangements for the protection of his area and by vigorous patrolling and personal reconnaissance was able to advise the enemy's movements from time to time. His Company dispersed the first wave of the counter attack on the evening of the 29th September and the Artillery Barrage the remainder. Major WARK again pushed out patrols and found the enemy once more massing in Cameron Covert, he dispersed them with Stokes and Rifle Grenades. This Officer has never missed a turn in the front line and has always shown great courage and devotion to duty. He has been with the Brigade since its formation in July 1916. The excellent arrangements made by this Officer and the splendid example set to all ranks is worthy of special recognition.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 173 Date: 7 November 1918 |
WEATHERS, Laurence Carthage
Service No 1153 Corporal 43rd Battalion Victoria Cross 'For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty on the 2nd September, 1918, north of Peronne, when with an advanced bombing party. The attack having been held up by a strongly held enemy trench, Corporal Weathers went forward alone, under heavy fire, and attacked the enemy with bombs. Then, returning to our lines for a further supply of bombs, he again went forward with three comrades, and attacked under very heavy fire. Regardless of personal danger, he mounted the enemy parapet and bombed the trench, and, with the support of his comrades, captured 180 prisoners and thee machine guns. His valour and determination resulted in the successful capture of the final objective, and saved the lives of many of his comrades.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61 Date: 23 May 1919 |
WHITTLE, John Woods
Service No 2902 Sergeant 12th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty on two occasions. When in command of a platoon, the enemy, under cover of an intense artillery barrage, attacked the small trench he was holding. Owing to weight of numbers the enemy succeeded in entering the trench, and it was owing to Sergeant Whittle personally collecting all available men and charging the enemy that the position was regained. On the second occasion when the enemy broke through the left of our line, Sergeant Whittle's own splendid example was the means of keeping the men well in hand. His platoon were suffering heavy casualties and the enemy endeavoured to bring up a machine gun to enfilade the position. Grasping the situation, he rushed alone across the fire swept ground and attacked the hostile gun crew with bombs before the gun could be got into action. He succeeded in killing the whole crew and in bringing back the machine gun to our position.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 169 Date: 4 October 1917 Distinguished Conduct Medal 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He showed great initiative in reorganising his men and capturing an enemy strong point, which was holding up the advance.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 133 Date: 21 August 1917 |
WOODS, James Park
Service No 2344A Private 48th Battalion Victoria Cross 'For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty near Le Verguier, north-west of St. Quentin, on 18th September, 1918, when, with a weak patrol, he attacked and captured a very formidable enemy post, and subsequently, with two comrades, held the same against heavy enemy counterattacks. Although exposed to heavy fire of all descriptions, he fearlessly jumped on the parapet and opened fire on the attacking enemy, inflicting severe casualties. He kept up his fire and held up the enemy until help arrived, and throughout the operations displayed a splendid example of valour, determination and initiative.' — The London Gazette, 24 December 1918 |