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.
HILLYER, Lieut. William Harold ... 3rd London Field Coy. (171st Mining Coy.)
R.E.
HILL 60, near YPRES, between 2nd and 17th April, 1915. In mining operations the
task of completing and charging one of our mines was one of great difficulty and
strain. Lieut. Hillyer worked and watched long hours at the end of a gallery
165ft. long and 3ft. by 2ft. 3in. in size, knowing that the enemy was
counter-mining close by. His pluck and endurance were remarkable and resulted in
the successful explosion of the mine and consequent capture of the hill.