'Operations opposite Polderhoek, 27th November to 5th December 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During the above operations Lance-Corporal Hughes carried despatches at all hours of day and night over difficult and shell swept country, and has never failed to get through. On the night of 1st December 1917, When the Menin Road was under intense bombardment by the enemy and the road was cleared of all traffic, this NCO volunteered and delivered a special Despatch to the Division. During all recent operations at Messines and Passchendaele, he has shown great initiative, and resource in the delivery of despatches, and has carried out his duties at all times with the greatest gallantry and devotion to duty.'
Source: 'London Gazette'
Date: 13 March 1918

Regimental number	4/1051
Address	243 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch
Marital status	Single
Next of kin	Mother, Mrs Mary Hughes, Beachville, Nelson
Rank on embarkation	Sapper
Enlistment status	Volunteer
Unit name	New Zealand Expeditionary Force, 6th Reinforcements, New Zealand Field Engineers
Embarkation details	Unit embarked from Wellington on 14 August 1915
Medals	Military Medal 'Operations opposite Polderhoek, 27th November to 5th December 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During the above operations Lance-Corporal Hughes carried despatches at all hours of day and night over difficult and shell swept country, and has never failed to get through. On the night of 1st December 1917, When the Menin Road was under intense bombardment by the enemy and the road was cleared of all traffic, this NCO volunteered and delivered a special Despatch to the Division. During all recent operations at Messines and Passchendaele, he has shown great initiative, and resource in the delivery of despatches, and has carried out his duties at all times with the greatest gallantry and devotion to duty.' Source: 'London Gazette' Date: 13 March 1918
Miscellaneous details	Nominal Roll Vol. 1: Field Engineers/Sixth