'This Officer left New Zealand with the Main Body New Zealand Expeditionary Force and served in Egypt and on Gallipoli and came with the New Zealand Division to France in April 1916. He commanded the 1st Battalion New Zealand Rifle Brigade during the recent fighting at Puisieux, Bapaume and Gouzeaucourt and proved a thorough and capable leader. Major Shepherd has been continually reconnoitring his line under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire helping and cheering his Officers and men. His courage and consistent devotion to duty under the most trying conditions has been a fine example to all ranks.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 1 January 1919

'Sir D Haig's despatch dated 8th November, 1918, submitting names deserving of special mention.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 31 December 1918

'Operations; Armentieres, 7th May to 7th August 1916, and Somme, 16th September to 2nd October 1916. As officer commanding a company of this battalion since its formation, Captain Shepherd has proved himself a most reliable and efficient officer. His services have been particularly meritorious during the recent operations on the Somme, when his company, in addition to holding a portion of the Switch Trench for four days under heavy shell fire, took part in two attacks, and on each occasion his company succeeded in taking its objective and holding it.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 4 January 1917