Fusilier to lay wreath in memory of Rochdale war hero great-grandfather

Poppy wreaths laid locally for Remembrance Sunday

A Fusilier will lay a wreath on Sunday (11 November) to commemorate his great-grandfather from Rochdale, who was awarded a Distinguished Conduct Medal during World War One.

Major Alex Mills will lay the wreath at Salford War Memorial in remembrance of not only Sergeant J. H. Moody, of the Rifle Brigade, but all those who fought a century ago.

Major Mills, a former pupil at St Andrews C of E in Rochdale, has completed three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan since finishing university.

Sgt. Moody, S.5576, of Rochdale, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for the 1918 New Year Honours on 1 January for his courage and gallantry in the face of battle.

The honours were published in the London Gazette and The Times, largely dominated by rewards for war efforts.

The official account of the conduct states: “He has been for over a year in charge of the Lewis guns of his company, and latterly for two months Lewis gun sergeant to the battalion.

“He has always afforded a magnificent example of courage and efficiency, and the heavier the hostile shelling has been, the greater has been his willingness to go to his guns and encourage his teams.

“In addition to his gallantry under fire, he has proved of incalculable value to the battalion as an instructor.”