The AIF Project

'At BROODSEINDE RIDGE east of YPRES during the operations from 1st to 8th Oct., 1917, Pte. DEVITT was in charge of a ration party conveying rations to the Front Line. During the journey seven men of the party were wounded. Pte. DEVITT bandaged the wounds and in company with Pte. SKINNER carried the wounded to the dressing station. During the whole time heavy shell fire hindered them but with great difficulty he finished his task and eventually delivered his rations at their destination. His coolness and courage were magnificent throught.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918

'For conspicuous daring and resource displayed during operations at PASSCHENDAELE RIDGE, East of YPRES from 1st to 5th November, 1917. During an attack by the enemy Private DEVITT was detailed to visit a post that was being hard pressed. On arriving at the post he was surrounded by a party of the enemy, he attempted his escape but was immediately fired on by the enemy, sustaining three wounds. He was made prisoner and while being escorted back to enemy lines led his captors to believe they were going in the wrong direction and succeeded in getting them to move towards our lines, on nearing which Private DEVITT waved to the men in the posts, he dropped into a shell hole, when our men immediately opened fire on the escort who fled, he was then assisted to our lines.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 110
Date: 25 July 1918