Personal info
- Name: John MEIKLE
- D.O.B: 11th Sep, 1898
- D.O.A: 20th Jul, 1918
- D.O.D: 20th Jul, 1918
- Award: Victoria Cross
- Occupation at time of action: Sergeant, 4th Battalion Seaforth Highlanders (Ross-shire Buffs, Duke of Albany’s), 154th Brigade, 51st Division
- Book: The Complete History - Volume 2
Near Marfaux, France 20 July 1918
20 July 1918
The First World War 1918
On 18 July 1918 the French launched a major counter-offensive during the Second Battle of the Marne and over the following days pushed back the German salient which had reached Château Thierry and threatened Paris. On 20 July British XXII Corps entered the battle south-west of Rheims, 62nd Division attacking to the north of the River Ardre and 51st Division to the south. German resistance was much heavier than expected. 51st Division had advanced through the Bois de Courton during the previous night and on the 20th attacked the German line at Marfaux but made little progress.
Citation
For most conspicuous bravery and initiative when his company, having been held up by machine-gun fire, he rushed single-handed a machine-gun nest. He emptied his revolver into the crews of the two guns and put the remainder out of action with a heavy stick. Then, standing up, he waved his comrades on. Very shortly afterwards another hostile machine gun checked progress, and threatened also the success of the company on the right. Most of his platoon having become casualties, Sjt. Meikle seized the rifle and bayonet of a fallen comrade, and again rushed forward against the gun crew, but was killed almost on the gun position. His bravery allowed two other men who followed him to put this gun out of action. This gallant non-commissioned officer’s valour, devotion to duty, and utter disregard for his personal safety was an inspiring example to all.
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