V.C. AWARDED

Grey River Argus, 23 February 1942, Page 1

V.C. AWARDED

RUGBY, Feb. 20. The Victorian Cross has been awarded to Lieutenant-Colonel A. E. Cumming, M.C. of the Twelfth Frontier Force Regiment, Indian Armv. On January 3, in Malaya, a strong force of the enemy penetrated th e position, while Brigade headquarters and the battalion were being withdrawn. Lieutenant-Colonel Cumming, with a small party, immediately counter-attacked, and prevented any further penetration of the position until the whole party became casualties, and he himself received two bayonet wounds in the stomach. By this brave counter-at-tack, Lieuitenant-Colonei/ Cumming enabled the major portion of men and vehicles to be withdrawn. Later, despite the pain and weakness from his wounds, he drove in a carrier for over an hour, under a very heavy fire, collecting isolated detachments. He then received two further wounds, after which, while attempting to collect a further isolated detachment. he lost consciousness, and the driver attempted to evacuate him. Lieutenant-Co-onel Cumming, however, recovered consciousness, and insisted on remaining where he was until he discovered that he and the driver were the sole survivors in the locality. He then decided to retire. Bv his outstanding gallantry, initiative, and devotion to duty, he was largely instrumental in the safe withdrawal of the Brigade _____