Blair Wark

Victoria Cross citation

2nd Military District.

Major Blair Anderson Wark, D.S.O., 32nd Battalion

For most conspicuous bravery, initiative, and control during the period 29th September to 1st October, 1918, in the operations against the Hindenburg Line at Bellicourt and the advance through Nauroy, Etricourt, Magny La Fosse, and Joncourt. On 29th September, after personal reconnaissance, under heavy fire, he led his command forward at a critical period, and restored the situation. Moving fearlessly at the head of, and at times far in advance of, his troops, he cheered his men on through Nauroy, thence towards Etricourt. Still leading his assaulting companies, he observed a battery of 77mm. guns firing on his rear companies, and causing heavy casualties. Collecting a few of his men, he rushed the battery, capturing four guns and ten of the crew. Then moving rapidly forward, with only two N.C.O.s, he surprised and captured fifty Germans near Magny La Fosse. On 1st October, 1918, he again showed fearless leading and gallantry in attack, and without hesitation, and regardless of personal risk, dashed forward and silenced machine guns which were causing heavy casualties. Throughout he displayed the greatest courage, skilful leading, and devotion to duty, and his work was invaluable.

['Government Gazette Proclamations and Legislation', Commonwealth of Australia Gazette, 23 May 1919, p. 877. http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232511575]  

Companion of the Distinguished Service Order citation

Major Wark was in command of the front line near Polygon Wood east of Ypres from 27th September to 1st October 1917 during which time the enemy massed for counter attack three times and actually attacked once. Major Wark made excellent arrangements for the protection of his area and by vigorous patrolling and personal reconnaissance was able to advise the enemy's movements from time to time.  

His Company dispersed the first wave of the counter attack on the evening of the 29th September and the Artillery barrage the remainder. Major Wark again pushed out patrols and found the enemy once more massing in Cameron Covert; he dispersed them with stokes and rifle grenades. This Officer has never missed a turn in the front line and has always shown great courage and devotion to duty. He has been with the Brigade since its formation in July, 1915. The excellent arrangements made by this Officer and the splendid example set to all ranks is worthy of special recognition.  

[NAA: B2455, Wark Blair Anderson, p 44,  https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=1935407]