Medal & Mortality index
The Military Cross was instituted as a Decoration on December 28th, 1914, to
reward Distinguished Services rendered by Officers of certain ranks in the army
in time of war. Bars may be added for additional acts of gallantry. Since August
1st, 1918, it has, like the D.S.O., been awarded for "services in action" only.
ABEL, 2/Lieutenant James Edgar ... ... ... ... 6/Royal West Kent
LATEAU WOOD, 20th November, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to
duty.
When his company commander became a casualty he assumed command at a critical
period and worked his men forward to a strong point, whence the enemy were
developing heavy machine-gun fire, and silenced them by concentrated rifle fire.
His courage and fine leadership saved many casualties, and enabled the battalion
to continue the advance.