The AIF Project

Recommendation date: 31 October 1917

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. On the 18th October 1917 Driver G. HOLMES, with his brother, were in charge of the rations for the 42nd Battery near ZONNEBEKE. Heavy shell fire was encountered and the vehicle was badly damaged by shell fire. They had to return twice for rations but by their courage and determination finally succeeded in getting through the heavy barrage and delivered the urgently required rations to their Battery. During the recent operations East of YPRES (10th September 1917 - 25th October 1917) the forward Batteries were frequently completely isolated by the hostile barrage on all roads and approaches. Driver G. HOLMES with his brother voluntarily undertook the work of delivering rations to them in addition to other duties. Often under heavy fire and when it has proved impossible to get ammunition and pack animals through, Driver G. HOLMES with his brother have made repeated journeys through the barrage and have never failed to deliver the rations. It is entirely due to their gallantry and devotion to duty that the 42nd Battery has been regularly supplied with food and water.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918