18.5.1917 Trenches: The following awards made to Officers and NCO for gallantry on 23rd April Fosse 3 De Lievin.

Military Cross 2/Lt Vernon Hay Armitage

Bar to Military Cross Captain Victor Owen Robinson

DCM 240513 Sergeant Frank Longson

1/6th Battalion War Diary [WO/95/2694]

Many awards were given to our Division for the brilliant work in the last big attack and for my part in the affair I was awarded the D.C.M. That in itself was great, but was more interesting when I was to leave the Battalion and proceed to England to an Officer Cadet Battalion. The last time I left the trenches was a very trying experience. I was sure the Germans were trying to prevent me getting out in one piece, perspiration rolled down by body and face, but I made it and with a sigh of relief I reached the rear area which was considered fairly safe from enemy shelling. A couple of week’s leave at home and then the usual week at the Officer Cadet Battalion. Soon after being commissioned I was posted to the Royal Flying Corps and was serving in that Corps when the Armistice was signed.

[2305 Pte Frank Longson]

To be completed

139 Infantry Brigade: Headquarters War Diary [WO95/2692]