'Oprations from 20th September 1916 to 26th February 1917. Since the arrival of this battery in France (April 1916) this N.C.O. has been in charge of the communications. During the period September/October 1916 on the Somme he displayed particular devotion to duty under the most trying conditions near Flers. His subsequent work in the north (November 916/February 1917) has been of an equally high standard.'
Awarded, and promulgated, 'London Gazette', 1 June 1917.

'At High Wood on 15th September 1916. During the attack the enemy heavily shelled Switch Trench and area back to Tea Trench. A liaison wire had been laid the night before to Tea Trench and was taken over by 1st Battery as an F.O.O. wire. This N.C.O. and others, under the officer, had by the time the fire was most intense, reached an advanced position(S5 & 2 5) running a wire and were the first to establish communication. During the day the wire was several times cut and repaired by this party under Sergt. Blackwell, whose coolness under fire had a great effect on the men under him.'
Source: 'London Gazette'
Date: 9 December 1916