Medal & Mortality index
The Distinguished Service Order was instituted by Queen Victoria, September
6th, 1886. May be conferred on Commissioned Officers who have been
specially mentioned in despatches for meritorious or distinguished service in
the field or before the enemy. Bars may be added for additional acts of
gallantry. Since August 1st, 1918, this Order has been awarded in respect of
active service for "services in action " only, i.e., for service under fire or
for distinguished individual service in connection with air-raids, bombardments
or other enemy action.
WRIGHTSON, Lieut. Edward . . ... ... ... 4/Northumberland Fusiliers
In ITALY, 27th October, 1918. On the Piave, in the initial attack, he was left
in command of the company, all other officers being killed or wounded. This
company had orders to form a defensive flank, but Lieut. Wrightson, seeing that
the attack in front was held up by uncut wire, led his company forward, cut a
belt of wire by hand under severe machine-gun fire and assisted in taking the
first objective. He personally shot down an enemy machine gunner who was causing
many casualties. Ultimately his company formed a defensive flank to the brigade,
and though losing over 50 in casualties he maintained and even improved his
position by enterprise and patrols. On 29th October, he led his company again in
an attack over several kilometres, capturing many prisoners and machine guns.
Throughout the entire operations he showed exceptional gallantry and marked
powers of leadership. [6782