12/3110 L/Cpl. Charles McIntosh NZEF
NZEF Military Medal - 12/3110 McIntosh - Auckland Regt.
The Military Medal awarded to 12/3110 Charles McIntosh for his bravery in operating a Lewis Gun by himself after all his comrades had been killed and wounded.
Charles McIntosh was born in 1882 in Lancashire, but grew up in Scotland. Son of John and Georgina McIntosh (née Mitchell). Charles enlisted in the Gordon Highlanders in October 1899 on the outbreak of the 2nd Anglo Boer War. He saw active service with the 1st Battalion from February 1901 until October 1902, and was awarded the Queen's South Africa Medal w/clasps TVL, SA01, SA02. On completion of his regular service Charles came to New Zealand in 1908. At the time of his enlistment in June 1915 he was working as a machinist with the New Zealand Railways.
Charles embarked with the 7th Reinforcements, serving in Egypt before transferring to the Western Front in April 1916. At Armentieres in July 1916 he was slightly wounded, remaining with his unit. Over the next 20 months Charles served in the field continuously other than short periods in hospital. In March 1918 during the hectic days on the German Spring Offensive Charles performed the act with saw the award of the Military Medal. The recommendation read:
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in the field on the 26th and 27th days of March 1918 north east of Mailly Mallet. Pte Mc'Intosh showed splended initiative and determination early in the attack, when his N.C.O. and No 1 of the Lewis Gun team were casualties. He took over the lewis gun section and later all became casualties, Pte Mc'Intosh being the only one left, he pushed on with his gun and four magazines, and in the attack on positions beyond the chalk pits pushed out to the flank and rendered splendid assistance and caused many casualties to the enemy when they were running away. He greatly assisted in making the operation a success.
Tragically, the following month he was killed in action. He is buried in Bertrancourt Military Cemetery.
The Military Medal is correctly impressed 12-3110 Pte - L. Cpl. C. McINTOSH. I / AUCK: R.