The AIF Project

'This non-commissioned Officer is brought under notice for his bravery and excellent work in connection with the operations against MESSINES during the period 7/13th June 1917. During the whole period he was employed as a Scout. Prior to the commencement of the operations he was in charge of a section of Scouts, who made themselves thoroughly acquainted with the whole of the Corps front and all the approaches there to. Immediately after the advance on to the MESSINES ridge was made he again reconnoitred and made himself acquainted with the frontage held by the New Zealand Division and all the approaches thereto and later when further advance was made in front of MESSINES, he again carried on a similar reconnaissance. He displayed a total disregard for danger in all these operations. His assistance and the assistance of those associated with him as guides was invaluable in connection with the several reliefs carried out by the Battalion and also as guides for Officers went forward from time to time to reconnoitre the intermediate and front line systems. On the night of the 11th/12th June 1917, when we advanced our line some five hundred yards on the left bank of the river DOUVE he was in charge of the leading patrol. He subsequently led out a portion of the consolidating party and whilst digging operations were in progress he again pushed forward with his reconnoitring patrol to protect the line whilst consolidation was in progress. he is very strongly recommended for distinction.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 219
Date: 20 December 1917