MACINNES, 2/Lieutenant William Alexander M.C.

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.

MACINNES, 2/Lieutenant William Alexander ... ... 4/Highland L.I.

Near SERRE, 10/11 February, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He led his platoon in a most gallant manner, and inflicted many casualties on the enemy. Later, he reorganised his men and materially assisted in repulsing a hostile counter-attack.

BAR TO M.C.

NIEUPORT, 10th July, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an intense hostile bombardment of the town. He occupied the brigade observation post, which was unprotected, and at the top of a conspicuously high building, for twelve hours under intense shell fire. His work enabled the brigade commander to keep in touch with the situation, as all other means of doing so were being continually interrupted, and in spite of the shells bursting all round his post and passing through the building he declined to vacate it, except to repair his telephone wires. He set a magnificent example of fearlessness and devotion to duty.