The AIF Project

Work at Vauvillers on 9 August 1918.
Recommendation date: 11 August 1918

'At the VAUVILLERS Operations on 9th August 1918, Private GILES after several hours of very strenuous fighting, in which he displayed remarkable courage and coolness, whilst under very heavy artillery and Machine Gun fire, was amongst the few of his Platoon who were not wounded when the final objective was reached. During the work of consolidating several of his comrades, whilst covering the working party, were wounded by snipers, who were operating from concealed positions at very close range. Private GILES though not a Stretcher Bearer, and in spite of the fact that he was almost exhausted, went forward and succeeded in dressing the wounds of his comrades. He organised stretcher parties and personally assisted to remove the wounded to a place of safety. By so doing he undoubtedly saved the lives of several men. Through the whole operation he displayed true soldierly courage and coolness under most exceptional circumstances. By his own efforts he did much to help his Platoon to eventual victory, and his voluntary work amongst the wounded was an act of true gallantry.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61
Date: 23 May 1919