Joseph Wilfred Barker

Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal (London Gazette 30 October 1918) as 18-918 Sergeant, 18th (Durham Pals) Battalion DLI.

"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in action at Becque Plate on 19th July 1918. Under galling machine-gun fire he, with an officer, drew wounded men into a shell-hole for cover, and shot two enemy who called on them to surrender. Sixteen more enemy then rushed up and threw hand grenades, one of which fell by the side of the wounded men. Sergeant Barker promptly picked it up and threw it back, killing two of the enemy. He and the officer then killed seven more of the enemy with their rifles, and drove back the remainder. This NCO by his splendid resolution and courage inspired all who saw him."

Note: place and date added.