APPENDIX “K.”
Extract from the Supplement dated 28th June, 1918, to the “London Gazette” dated 25th June, 1918.
The War Office, 28th June, 1918.
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. 15883, Lance-Corporal James Hewitson, Royal Lancaster Regiment (Coniston).
For most conspicuous bravery, initiative and daring in action.
In a daylight attack on a series of crater posts, L/Cpl. Hewitson led his party to their objective with dash and vigour, clearing the enemy from both trench and dugouts, killing in one dugout six of the enemy who would not surrender. After capturing the final objective, he observed a hostile machine gun team coming into action against his men. Working his way round the edge of the crater he attacked the team, killing four and capturing one. Shortly afterwards he engaged a hostile bombing party, which was attacking a Lewis gun post. He routed the party, killing six of them.
The extraordinary feats of daring performed by this gallant N.C.O. crushed the hostile opposition at this point.