'Operation for the taking of the Grid Support Trench, north West of Flers, 1st October 1916. After the 2nd Canterbury Batt. had gained their objective in the Grid Support trench and were consolidating their position, Private McLachlan, on his own initiative, went out in front in the open, on the top of the rising ground with his Lewis gun and fired with great effect on the enemy in a trench at 25 yards distance, over the shoulder of another man who was subsequently killed. Private McLachlan displayed complete disregard of danger and killed numerous Germans who were endeavouring to snipe him.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 9 December 1916