Philip Sidney COUSINS

Regimental number40668
OccupationCoachbuilder
Next of kinMother, Mrs Hannah Cousins, Vauxhall Road, Devonport, Auckland
Rank on embarkation2nd Lieutenant
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, 31st Reinforcements, Auckland Infantry Regiment, A Company
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on board HMNZT 97 Tahiti on 16 November 1917
Medals

Military Cross

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. In the attack on the 1st October 1918 to the North of Crevecoeur this Officer distinguished himself for his fine leadership, courage and command. Early in the engagement he was the only surviving Officer of his Company. He assumed command and continued the operations most skilfully in the face of a devastating enemy fire. Subsequently during an enemy counter attack he rallied the few survivors of his Company and held his position against heavy opposition. Later again in the same operation when a withdrawal became necessary to a sunken road he very ably superintended the consolidation of his line. His magnificent example here under heavy artillery fire of great severity, did much to encourage and fortify his men. His work throughout the day was of a very high order and is deserving of great praise.'
Source: 'London Gazette'
Date: 3 June 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Cross, British War Medal, Victory Medal
SourcesNominal Roll Vol. 3: Roll 75, p. 3

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