This video features an attack made by the 2nd/4th Ox & Bucks Light Infantry on August 22nd 1917 and was part of the 3rd Battle of Ypres. In it Capt. Walter Moberly won the DSO:
“In an advance against enemy positions three companies reached their objectives and consolidated. The commanders of all three companies were killed, and he thereupon assumed command of the front line. The position was extremely difficult, as the troops on both flanks had failed to reach their objectives, and the enemy were consequently holding positions at and slightly behind his flanks.
Communication with battalion headquarters failed, as runners were unable to get through the machine-gun and snipers’ fire from the front and flanks. In these circumstances this officer determined to hold on to the advanced line at all costs.
He took steps to defend his flanks, and organized an effective resistance to counter attacks. By his prompt and decisive action and complete disregard of danger he inspired his men with confidence; and if it had not been for this plucky decision and courageous determination on his part, the whole of the objectives gained would have had to be abandoned.”
The account in this film is based on that written by Capt. (later Major) Geoffrey Rose.
For more information on those featured, click on the links below:
The Skipper's War 