| Place | Middle East: Ottoman Empire, Turkey, Dardanelles, Gallipoli, Anzac Area (Gallipoli), Lone Pine Area, Lone Pine |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | REL/08958.002 |
| Collection type | Heraldry |
| Object type | Award |
| Physical description | Silver |
| Location | Main Bld: First World War Gallery: Legacies: Return to Civilian Life/Anzac Day |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Place made | United Kingdom |
| Date made | c 1916 |
| Conflict |
First World War, 1914-1918 |
Military Cross : Lieutenant O G Howell-Price, 3 Battalion, AIF
Description
Military Cross (Geo V). Engraved reverse with recipient's details.
History / Summary
Military Cross awarded to Captain Owen Glendower Howell-Price. Born on 23 February 1890 at Kiama, he served in the citizen forces and was commissioned second lieutenant in the 3rd Battalion, AIF on 27 August 1914. He and his five brothers served during the First World War, with all – except David Clayton Winchcombe Howell-Price – serving overseas with distinction.
He embarked for Egypt from Sydney in October, arriving there in December. During this time he was appointed assistant adjutant, promoted when the adjutant was killed on the first day of the Gallipoli landing. He was again promoted on 16 August 1915 to Captain.
He served with distinction during the battle of Lone Pine, where he won the Military Cross and was mentioned in despatches.
The recommendation for his Military Cross reads:
'For distinguished gallantry in leading an attack on the morning of 7th [August] against an enemy trench at Lone Pine. The capture of this trench enabled the line to be joined up with the section taken by Capt Scott. Lt Howell-Price further distinguished himself by rallying men under very severe fire and restoring order at a critical juncture. He personally killed three Turks during the operation.'
On 5 September he was promoted major, confirmed on 1 December, and assumed temporary command of the battalion. He was wounded on 9 September but remained on duty.
Howell-Price arrived with the 3rd Battalion in France on 28 March 1916 and was later promoted lieutenant colonel on 12 May. The battalion fought in the battles at Pozieres and Mouquet Farm and for his leadership and courage he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order and again mentioned in Despatches. However, on 3 November 1916, in action near Flers, he was shot in the head and died the following day. How last words were ‘Give my love to the battalion’. He was buried at Ancre-side Wood. The respect he held was evident when a commemorative service held at Flesselles was attended by the whole unit.