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.
STEVENS, Capt. William Cecil ... ... ... ... ... 1/Worcester
Near YPRES, 31st July, 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty.
During important operations he showed very quick grasp of the situation, and was
of the greatest assistance to his commanding officer. On one occasion, when no
orderlies were available, he himself carried an important message under very
heavy shell fire with the utmost fearlessness and disregard of personal danger.
BAR TO M.C.
Near ST. CHRIST, N. of SOMME, from 22nd March to 2nd April, 1918. For
conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during n days of very severe
fighting. Throughout the whole of this period, acting as adjutant, his untiring
efforts were constantly directed to the handling of the battalion, and his fine
example set a standard for all ranks, which enabled them to carry out the duties
assigned to them. After his commanding officer had been wounded he assumed
increased responsibilities with the greatest courage and resource, and the
ability of the battalion to respond to the calls made on it at critical moments
was largely due to his fine work.
SECOND BAR TO M.C.
TRESLON and SOULEUSE RIDGES, 27th May, 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and
devotion to duty during an enemy attack. He did invaluable work in keeping men
of his battalion together during severe fighting under heavy fire, when any lack
of resolution would have been fatal to prospects of success. Two days later he
was conspicuous by the way in which he helped to control the fight and
reorganise defences during a long and hard-fought fight.