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.
HAWKSWORTH, 2/Lieutenant Henry Charles Harold ... ... ... 10/Essex
YPRES, 31st July, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When the
two assaulting battalions of an attack were short of ammunition and it was of
the utmost importance that a fresh supply should reach them as soon as possible,
he led an ammunition party forward about two-and-a-half miles over the most
difficult country, exposed the whole time to the heaviest shell fire and without
a guide. One third of his party were knocked out, but he safely delivered the
ammunition, and hearing on his return journey that a hostile counter-attack was
probable, he turned his party about and again reported to the battalion
headquarters in case his aid should be required. His determination and devotion
to duty set a splendid example to his party.