Joseph Maxwell

Victoria Cross citation

2nd Military District.

Lieutenant Joseph Maxwell, M.C., D.C.M., 18th Battalion.

For most conspicuous bravery and leadership in attack on the Beaurevoir-Fonsomme line, near Estrées, north of St. Quentin, on the 3rd October, 1918. His company commander was severely wounded early in the advance, and Lieutenant Maxwell at once took charge. The enemy wire when reached under intense fire was found to be exceptionally strong, and closely supported by machine guns, whereupon Lieutenant Maxwell pushed forward single-handed through the wire and captured the most dangerous gun, killing three and capturing four enemy. He thus enabled his company to penetrate the wire and reach the objective. Later, he again dashed forward and silenced, single-handed, a gun which was holding up a flank company. Subsequently, when with two men only he attempted to capture a strong party of the enemy, he handled a most involved situation very skilfully, and it was due to his resource that he and his comrades escaped. Throughout the day Lieutenant Maxwell set a high example of personal bravery, coupled with excellent judgment and quick decision.

[1919 'Government Gazette Proclamations and Legislation', Commonwealth of Australia Gazette (National: 1901-1973), 23 May, p 892, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232511575.]

Military Cross citation

Lieutenant Joseph Maxwell, D.C.M., Infantry.

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. While in command of a patrol he observed a party of about fifty of the enemy entering a disused trench. He attacked them with bombs and rifle fire, and then assaulted the position and captured a prisoner. He showed splendid initiative and determination.

[1918 'Government Gazette Notices', Commonwealth of Australia Gazette (National: 1901-1973), 24 October, p 2054, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232462692.]

Bar to Military Cross citation

Lieut. Joseph Maxwell, M.C., D.C.M., 18th Bn., Australian Infantry.  

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in the advance at Rainecourt on 9th August, 1918. Within thirty minutes of zero he was the only officer left with his company, but kept his men well in hand, notwithstanding machine-gun fire, besides, fire from an anti-tank gun and a battery of 77 mms. He was close to a tank which was struck by a shell and set on fire, and, though shaken by the explosion, he rushed to the doors and opened them in time for the crew to escape. He showed a fine example of courage and presence of mind. (M.C. gazetted 13th May 1918.)

[Supplement to the London Gazette 31 January 1919, number 31158, p 1636.]

Distinguished Conduct Medal citation

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This warrant officer took command of a platoon, and led it forward with great dash. On one of our strong points being heavily barraged, he went, forward on his own initiative, and moved the men forward clear of the barrage, during which operations only one casualty was sustained. The action of this warrant officer undoubtedly saved many lives. Throughout the operations he carried out his duties with great skill, and was a source of great inspiration by his splendid example.  

[1918 'Government Gazette Notices', Commonwealth of Australia Gazette (National: 1901-1973), 27 June, p 1397, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232464973.]