LIEUT. M. F. GREGG, V.C.
“Gregg, although wounded, returned alone under a terrific fire and collected a further supply, then rejoined his party which was now much reduced. Despite a second wound he reorganized his men and led them in the most determined way against the enemy trenches, which he finally cleared. He personally killed or wounded eleven of the enemy and took twenty-five prisoners, besides capturing twelve machine guns in this trench. Remaining with the Company, despite his wounds, he again, on September 30th, led the men in attack until severely wounded. The outstanding valor of this officer saved many casualties and enabled the advance to continue.”
PTE. JOHN CROAK, V.C.
Pte. John Croak, V.C., was born in Newfoundland and came to Glace Bay with his parents at four years of age. He attended St. John’s School, New Aberdeen, Glace Bay, and afterwards worked as a miner in No. 2 Colliery, Glace Bay (the biggest in the world). He volunteered for Overseas service in the 55th Battalion and was transferred to the 13th Battalion. He died of wounds received in action on August 8, 1918. His father, mother, two sisters and two brothers are living at Glace Bay.
The official notice from the War Office announcing the award of the Victoria Cross was as follows:
“On August 8, 1918, during the attack on Amiens Defence System, after being separated from his section, Private Croak encountered a machine-gun nest in Ring Copse, which he dealt with by first bombing unassisted and then jumping into the post, taking the gun and crew prisoners. Shortly afterwards he was severely wounded in the right arm but refused to desist.
“In a few minutes his Platoon, which this soldier had rejoined, again encountered a very strong point, containing several machine-guns and they were forced to take cover. Private Croak, however, seeing an opportunity, dashed forward alone, and was almost immediately followed by the remainder of the Platoon in a brilliant charge. He was the first to arrive at the trench line, into which he led the men, capturing three machine-guns and bayoneting or capturing the entire garrison.
“The perseverance and courage of this gallant man were undoubtedly responsible for taking the strongest point in the whole day’s advance.