The AIF Project

'On the 14th April, 1918, during the enemy attack on the VIEUX BERQUIN front, Sergeant SHORT did courageous and invaluable work. The post on his right flank was wiped out by artillery and mortar fire and the enemy was enabled to advance and infilade the line. Finding his post being infilated, Sergeant SHORT personally reconnoitred to the flank and found the enemy had advanced to the blown out post and were pushing on to outflank him. Though wounded when getting in touch with the enemy's movements he continued to move about close to the advancing enemy and gained a thorough knowlege of the situation. He then returned to his post and reported the situation and with a portion of the post garrison, proceeded to a point where it was necessary to place a post to deal with the altered situation. Though suffering severely from his wound he dug in and consolidated a new post under heavy rifle and machine gun fire, and was the means of preventing the enemy's further advance on our flank, thus saving a critical situation. He carried on for several hours until he was again severely wounded while repulsing an enemy attack. His conduct throughout showed the finest courage, judgment and initiative and his total disregard of danger and devotion to duty set a splendid example to all ranks. Wounded in ankle, severe.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 1
Date: 2 January 1919