The AIF Project

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty as one of a silent daylight raid consisting of an officer and sixteen other ranks. He led his party with conspicuous daring, and during an encounter, in which he captured a prisoner, he was wounded in the leg. In spite of this, he held his prisoner and brought him back to the lines. When his officer was severely wounded he brought him, under heavy machine gun fire, into the trench. He then remained at his post for four hours until he collapsed, and was carried to the regimental aid post. He set a fine example of courage and determination.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31
Date: 4 March 1919

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during the attack near BEAUREVOIR, east of PERONNE, on 4th October, 1918. When his Officer was killed and his platoon had suffered severe losses, this N.C.O. rallied the survivors and led them to the final objective with wonderful gallantry and dash. He headed mopping-up and bombing parties, cleaning up the whole of his portion of the position. Finding his line exposed to very heavy direct fire, he showed splendid initiative in pushing ahead and occupying the next commanding point, forcing the enemy to retire, and enabling our platoons on the flank to also improve their position. In this and the succeeding operations Sergeant STRACHAN exhibited the qualities of leadership and initiative to the highest degree.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 119
Date: 17 October 1919