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.
SAWNEY, 2/Lieutenant Leslie Thomas ... ... ... ... 7/West Yorkshire
BUCQUOY, 23/24 May, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in
charge of a raiding party against a suspected hostile post, which he had
previously located by a daring reconnaissance under heavy fire. When the raiding
party approached the post the enemy were found to be on the alert and in great
force, and his party came under heavy rifle fire.
He nevertheless rushed forward in advance of his men and engaged the enemy in
hand-to-hand fighting. Having inflicted severe casualties on them, he gave the
signal for the raiding party to retire, and was himself the last man to leave
the trench. His fine courage and leadership throughout set a fine example to all
ranks with him.