Captain William Winfred ’Tommy’ Thompson

Captain, 10th Battalion, Infantry (Army).

Distinguished Service Order (Hill 70)
Description: From the regimental diaries: On 15/8/17 on Hill 70 near LOOS, in the initial attack his company suffered 4 officer and 105 other ranks casualties. He was the senior officer arriving at the final objective of the battalion. He consolidated the position displaying gallantry of the highest degree, and in the heat of the action wrote full concise and clear reports on the situation, which he sent back to Battalion Headquarters. He was in every respect the life of the attack.On 16/8/17 the Battalion was ordered to attack again. This officer was in charge of the three attacking companies. The men were much exhausted and in need of a rest, Capt. Thompson by his personal example gave them new life. The attacking party under this officer consisting of 7 officers and 120 other ranks, succeeded in capturing the CHALK PIT which was held by not less than 20 machine guns.The enemy counter attacked on this position three times supported by an intense artillery barrage, but were beaten off every time. The splendid example and determination shown by this officer was almost solely responsible for the holding of this position.
Date of award: 1917-08-15

From the regimental diaries:

On 15/8/17 on Hill 70 near LOOS, in the initial attack his company suffered 4 officer and 105 other ranks casualties. He was the senior officer arriving at the final objective of the battalion. He consolidated the position displaying gallantry of the highest degree, and in the heat of the action wrote full concise and clear reports on the situation, which he sent back to Battalion Headquarters. He was in every respect the life of the attack.

On 16/8/17 the Battalion was ordered to attack again. This officer was in charge of the three attacking companies. The men were much exhausted and in need of a rest, Capt. Thompson by his personal example gave them new life. The attacking party under this officer consisting of 7 officers and 120 other ranks, succeeded in capturing the CHALK PIT which was held by not less than 20 machine guns.

The enemy counter attacked on this position three times supported by an intense artillery barrage, but were beaten off every time. The splendid example and determination shown by this officer was almost solely responsible for the holding of this position.