The AIF Project

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in the operations near NAUROY from 29th September to 1st October 1918. This man is a stretcher-bearer, and with [2733] Private WHYATT, M.M., rendered untiring service in carrying wounded men under intense shell and machine gun fire. On 30th September an intense barrage fell on our front line posts, which were under direct observation from the enemy who was only 300 yards away. Two men were severely wounded by the barrage and Private SMITH with Private WHYATT immediately rushed forward from Company Headquarters passing through the barrage and in spite of heavy machine gun fire directed at them carried one wounded man back and returning a second time, again passed through the barrage and came under concentrated fire from at least 4 enemy machine guns. With the utmost determination and disregard of personal danger they stuck to their task and brought the second wounded man back. Though exhausted, Private SMITH stuck to his task, and before the Company was relieved, carried out several wounded men passing over an area which was continually under the direct fire of enemy field and machine guns.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919