'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in charge of a Lewis gun team during an attack. A concrete enemy gun position was inflicting severe casualties on the flank of the attack, but by skilful use of his gun he accounted for all the enemy in the gun position and enabled the advance to continue. Throughout the advance, and after the objective was captured, he used his gun with great judgement and effect. He showed great courage and initiative throughout.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 26 November 1917

Regimental number	26932
Occupation	Mechanic
Next of kin	Father, William Henry Speakman, c/o Mrs Hutchison, corner Point Street and Mount Eden Road, Auckland
Rank on embarkation	Private
Unit name	New Zealand Expeditionary Force, 17th Reinforcements, Auckland Infantry Battalion, A Company
Embarkation details	Unit embarked from Wellington on board HMNZT 64 Devon on 25 September 1916
Medals	Distinguished Conduct Medal 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in charge of a Lewis gun team during an attack. A concrete enemy gun position was inflicting severe casualties on the flank of the attack, but by skilful use of his gun he accounted for all the enemy in the gun position and enabled the advance to continue. Throughout the advance, and after the objective was captured, he used his gun with great judgement and effect. He showed great courage and initiative throughout.' Source: London Gazette Date: 26 November 1917
Sources	Nominal Roll Vol. 2: Roll 41, p. 7