D.C.M. London Gazette 30.10.1918 'For most conspicuous gallantry when the front line trench and gas projector emplacement were being heavily shelled. About 20 direct hits were made on the emplacement, setting on fire the camouflage covering the projectors. This N.C.O., with complete disregard for his personal safety, rushed out with water to extinguish the fire, and while under very heavy shelling succeeded in overcoming the flames. His action showed a splendid example of self-sacrifice, quick decision and courage'.

M.M. London Gazette 28.1.1918.

Bar to M.M. London Gazette 29.8.1918.

Sergeant Thomas S. Purves, D.C.M., M.M., who was thrice decorated within a ten month period, would have found himself hotly engaged with the B.E.F. in 1914, when the 1st Battalion, Royal Scots Fusiliers notched up no less than ten Battle Honours, among them 'Mons', 'Le Cateau', 'Retreat from Mons', 'Marne 1914', 'Aisne 1914', 'La Bassée 1914' and 'Langemarck 1914'. For further details of the Battalion's actions and casualties, see Westlake's British Battalions in France and Belgium 1914.