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.
SMITHER, Capt. Samuel Thomas ... ... ... ... 10(17)London
S. of YPRES-COMINES CANAL, 7th June, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and
devotion to duty in command of a bombing party which was to co-operate with the
tanks in the capture of a position. The tanks having failed to arrive at the
right moment, he successfully took the position with a bombing party, and
established communication with the battalion on his left, displaying great
coolness and resource at a critical moment.
BAR TO M.C.
CONTALMAISON, 25th March, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty.
When the enemy were pressing their attacks down a communication trench this
officer, moving along the top of the parapet and using his revolver, himself led
two counter-attacks which drove the enemy back. His courage and the
determination with which he led his men undoubtedly produced this successful
result.
SECOND BAR TO M.C.
Near MOISLAINS, 5/6 September, 1918. During the operations he displayed great
gallantry and initiative in leading his company to the attack, and also in
assisting the other company commanders, who were junior subalterns, in the
reorganisation and consolidation. His contempt of danger set a fine example to
those under him, and his clear reports of the situation were of the greatest
assistance to his commanding officer.