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.
PAYTON, 2/Lieutenant Sidney ... ... ... ... ... 15/Tank Corps
VRAU-VRAUCODRT, 31st August, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and determination
while in command of a tank. Ahead of other tanks and without infantry support he
attacked and cleared machine-gun nests, killing several of the crews, and then,
with his corporal, he entered dug-outs and took more prisoners. Later, while
still ahead, he silenced another machine gun and took the crew prisoners. He was
in action for seven hours and set a splendid example of courage and devotion to
duty.