APPENDIX “J.”
Extract from the Supplement dated 14th September, 1917, to the “London Gazette” dated 14th September, 1917.
War Office, 14th September, 1917.
His Majesty The King has been graciously pleased to approve of the award of the Victoria Cross to the undermentioned Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, and Men:—
No. 200717, Corpl. (L/Sgt.) Tom Fletcher Mayson, Royal Lancaster Regiment (Silecroft, Cumberland).
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty when with the leading wave of the attack his platoon was held up by machine gun fire from a flank.
Without waiting for orders, L/Sgt. Mayson at once made for the gun, which he put out of action with bombs, wounding four of the team. The remaining three of the team fled, pursued by L/Sgt. Mayson to a dugout into which he followed them, and disposed of them with his bayonet.
Later, when clearing up a strong point, this non-commissioned officer again tackled a machine gun single-handed, killing six of the team.
Finally, during an enemy counter-attack, he took charge of an isolated post, and successfully held it till ordered to withdraw as his ammunition was exhausted.
He displayed throughout the most remarkable valour and initiative.