'British front Neuve Eglise sector, opposite Messines 24th March 1917. Under cover of an intense artillery and Minenwerfer bombardment, lasting from 4am till 5.10am on the above date, the enemy raided a portion of our front line, about the Wulverghem/Wytscaete Road. Out of a raiding party estimated at about 90. Six of the enemy managed to make an entrance, the remainder of them being driven back by Lewis gun fire and bombs. The men of the 2nd Otago Batt. holding the line displayed the great gallantry, endurance, and devotion to duty, in sticking to their posts under severe bombardment and driving the enemy back. Lance-Corporal J.R. Clearwater was in command of a night post at the head of Durham Avenue during this bombardment. He showed great bravery and coolness when in command of his men, and when the enemy entered the trench he checked their progress and drove them back, showing an utter contempt for danger, and setting a great example to his men.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 11 May 1917