Leslie Graham GORDON

Regimental number23538
OccupationCarpenter
Next of kinMother, Mrs R N Gordon, 113 Belt Road, Dunedin
Rank on embarkationLance Corporal
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, 13th Reinforcements, Otago Infantry Battalion, D Company
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on 27 May 1916
Medals

Military Medal

'Operations opposite Polderhoek 27th November to 5th December 1917. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. On 4th December 1917 Corporal Gordon took command of the most forward Lewis gun Position in our new line opposite Polderhoek Chateau, and by his devotion to duty and skill in the handling of his Lewis gun, inflicted many losses on the enemy. In addition, he rendered great service by arranging the S.O.S. lines for all Lewis guns in the front posts and trenches. Moreover, at dawn on 5th December, when an enemy bomb was thrown into his post, Corporal Gordon picked it up and threw it out before it exploded. By this act of gallantry and great presence of mind he not only saved the Lewis gun but protected the lives of the men in his section. During the whole of his tour of duty in this sector, Corporal Gordon set a splendid example of courage, and of the offensive spirit in action.'
Source: 'London Gazette'
Date: 13 March 1918

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal
SourcesNominal Roll Vol. 2: Roll 33, p. 13

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