The AIF Project

Recommendation date: 5 October 1918

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on the 29th September 1918 in the operations between BELLICOURT and NAUROY. Both men were members of a patrol sent out to clear up the position around the village of NAUROY. Their Platoon Sergeant was killed, and the remaining N.C.O. of the Platoon wounded, and both these men [YOUNG and 2720 G.W. PITTAWAY] took charge of sections, and led them with great dash and skill in the attack on the defences in front of the village, which they succeeded in clearing in spite of determined opposition, and heavy concentrated fire of enemy machine guns. Both men displayed great skill in leading bombing parties along the trenches, inflicting many casualties on the enemy. Being allotted portions of the village to mop up by the patrol leader, they again displayed great dash, and set a fine example to their comrades, and combined captured six prisoners, and six machine guns. Pushing on through the village they rapidly established two posts to the NORTH-EAST, and although the enemy attempted to rush them twice they were well established and organised under the supervision of the two men when handed over to the relieving Unit. The magnificent dash and fine leadership displayed by both men together with their disregard of personal safety and determination is deserving of the highest praise.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919