The Military Cross was founded in December 1914 and may only be awarded to officers ranked Captain or below (though it would be awarded to senior ranks if their promotion was not yet confirmed and their higher rank was listed as acting / temporary) and to Warrant Officers (Sergeant-Majors) for gallant and distinguished services in action. The cross is of silver, with the Royal Cypher in the centre and the Imperial Crown fashioned onto the ends of each arm of the cross, which is hung from a purple and white ribbon.

HLI = Highland Light Infantry

Lanc Fus = Lancashire Fusiliers
RE = Royal Engineers

R Signals = Royal Corps of Signals

Bar to the Military Cross

Military Cross