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.
University of London Officers Training Corps index
- former cadet.
Beech, Capt. Ernest Bolitho, Welch R. : Goldsmiths' College ? M.C.
MILITARY CROSS :
BEECH, Temp. 2nd Lt. Ernest Bolitho, 13th Bn., Welsh R. ? After several attempts
had been made without success to cross a canal he, with six men, succeeded in
crossing in face of severe opposition from machine guns and snipers, and secured
the crossing for the battalion. Later, when his battalion commenced to cross the
bridge, it came under severe fire from snipers and a machine gun on a spur
overlooking the bridge. He led his platoon with great courage and skill round
behind the gun, bayonetted the team, and captured the gun, and then disposed of
the snipers. His conduct was magnificent throughout the fighting. — Gazette, 11
January 1919.