The AIF Project

'On the 4th October 1917, at ZONNEBEKE, and during the time leading up to the operations conducted on that date, Gunner WOODFORD acted as despatch carrier between Group Headquarters and Batteries, and between Batteries. This work was often of a most dangerous and arduous character and had to be performed at a all hour of the day and night and in all weathers, sometimes under very heavy shell-fire. At all times this man has carried out his work courageously and successfully and has never failed in delivering his despatches safely and punctually. During the Operations referred to, the roads and approaches over which Gunner WOOLFORD had to ravel received almost continual attention from enemy guns, and it was often with the greatest difficulty that the Batteries were reached. This man always showed exceptional courage under circumstances of a very trying nature, and his keen devotion to duty and determination to succeed were alone responsible in many cases for the despatches reaching their destination thereby assisting in the ultimate success of Operations. I have no hesitation in recommending him for award.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918