John Hugh WILSON

Regimental number8/2184
AddressSt Leonards, Dunedin
Marital statusSingle
Next of kinFather, W Wilson, St Leonards, Dunedin
Rank on embarkationPrivate
Enlistment statusVolunteer
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, 5th Reinforcements, Otago Infantry Battalion
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on board HMNZT 24 Maunganui on 13 June 1915
Final rank2nd Lieutenant
Final unit1st Battalion, Otago Infantry Regiment
Medals

Military Cross

'For fine courage and determination. During the attack on Neuville, on the 23 October, 1918, he was in command of the leading platoon, and helped the company on his right to clear a machine gun post. He then discovered three enemy machine guns in a strong point. He brought up his Lewis gun, got his No 1 to place it on his shoulder, and enabled fire to be opened with good effect. Dropping the Lewis gun, he rushed forward, and single handed captured the guns and the survivors of their crews.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 8 March 1919

Bar to Military Medal

'Operations opposite Polderhoek 27th November to 5th December 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. On 3rd December 1917 during the attack on the Polderhoek Chateau, Sergeant Wilson displayed the utmost bravery and skill in leading his men forward. Early in the operations all the officers of his Company became casualties, this NCO immediately took command and led his men forward against heavy machine gun and rifle fire. This fire came not only from the Chateau itself, but also from some ?pillboxes? protecting it. Under these most adverse circumstances Sergeant Wilson pressed ahead until he had led his men right along side the Chateau. By this time the Company was reduced to very small numbers, and without reinforcements the capture of the objective was impossible. Sergeant Wilson however maintained complete control of his men, and managed to establish a strong point in a dominating position from which he continued to harass the enemy and assist the troops on his flank. His outstanding bravery was an effective inspiration and his brilliant leadership was a service of the greatest value to the successful conduct of the operations.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 13 March 1918

Military Medal

'On the 7th June 1917, during the attack on Messines two platoon Commanders of Sgt Wilson's Company became casualties during the advance. Sgt Wilson immediately took command of these two platoons led them forward and controlled them during consolidation of the position. While consolidation was proceeding, the line was being heavily shelled by the enemy and Sgt Wilson displayed conspicuous gallantry in the controlling of his men. Throughout the attack and consolidation he set a splendid example to all of those under him.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 16 August 1917

Miscellaneous detailsNominal Roll Vol. 1: Otago Infantry Batln/Fifth

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