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.
EDGHILL, 2/Lieutenant Ashley Gay ... ... ... ... 4/Lancashire Fusiliers
AYETTE, 3rd to 5th April, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty
while in command of his T.M. Battery during raids on hostile trenches. The
attacks were carried out under a Stokes mortar barrage, as artillery could not
be used, and were completely successful, resulting in the capture of three
machine guns and several prisoners, and causing heavy enemy casualties. He
carried out his programme in spite of heavy artillery and machine-gun fire,
displaying a fearless devotion to duty which greatly inspired his men.