The AIF Project

Recommendation date: 7 September 1918

Recommendation date: 5 and 6 October 1918

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty as Battalion runners during the attack on PERONNE on the 1st, and 2nd September 1918. During the whole of the operation the shell fire was intense, and consequently telephonic communication was frequently interrupted. Owing to the heavy casualties amongst runners these two men [BARRON and 1887 G. CLARKE] were almost continuously employed for a period of 36 hours carrying messages between Battalion headquarters and the Front Line. The approach to the Front Line was under direct enemy observation, and consequently any movement over this ground drew intense direct Machine Gun fire; notwithstanding this, these two runners volunteered on several occasions to carry urgent messages across to the Front Line and in every case succeeded in delivering their messages and bringing back the replies. The extreme bravery and utter disregard of their personal safety displayed by these two men set the finest possible example to the remainder of the runners, and they were in no small measure responsible for the excellent communication maintained throughout the operation.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919