'For conspicuous gallantry and good leadership near Puisiex au Mont on 21st August 1918. Corporal Patching was in charge of a fighting patrol which was sent forward to gain information. He brought back a very clear report of the position of both flanks companies; also where the enemy was holding in force. Again on 26th August near Bapaume he took charge of the Platoon when the Platoon Sergeant was killed and consolidated the position gained. Afterwards under very heavy machine gun fire he made a particularly reconnaissance of both his own and the flank companies fronts send back valuable information.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 13 March 1919