The AIF Project

Recommendation date: 14 October 1917

Recommendation date: 31 October 1917

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. At CHATEAU WOOD, east of YPRES, at midnight on 3rd/4th October, 1917, when driving ammunition wagons up to the forward Batteries, the wagon capsized into a large flooded shell hole taking with it the six mules of the team. No. 1711 Driver G.S. HOUGH with the two other Drivers, W.B. KNOX, 5719, and E.M. LUCAS, 312, though under shell fire, worked for two hours in the water until all the mules and ammunition wagon were cleared and then continued their journey and delivered the ammunition to their Battery in time for the action on the 4th October, 1917. The gallant conduct of these Drivers not only save the team but ensured the delivery of ammunition to the Battery at a very critical time.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When delivering ammunition to the Batteries in ZONNEBEKE, on the 22nd October, 1917, under very heavy shell fire four mules were killed and one driver dangerously wounded. Driver E.M. LUCAS dressed this man's wounds and in spite of the heavy shell fire and boggy ground, commenced to carry him single handed to the nearest dressing station at ZONNEBEKE. A second shell burst close to him and knocked him down, but by sheer pluck and determination Driver LUCAS succeeded in getting the wounded man to the dressing station. Driver LUCAS has rendered most gallant, timely and sterling service in delivering ammunition to the Batteries throughout the recent operations. He was warded the Military Medal on 27th October, 1917, vide 4th Australian Divisional Routine Order No. 410, para. 1767.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918