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.
GRIFFITHS, 2/Lieutenant William Henry ... ... ... ... 16/ Royal Warwick
ACHIET-LE-GRAND, 21st to 23rd August, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and good
leadership. He led his platoon in an attack with great skill to the final
objective in spite of heavy machine-gun fire. When the flanks were exposed and a
withdrawal became necessary, he maintained his position for two hours over a
thousand yards in advance of the new line covering the withdrawal, and then
brought back his men in perfect order. In a later attack he captured all his
objectives and took command of a large number of troops who had lost their
leaders. The success achieved was largely due to his courage and coolness.