Period:

First World War (1914-1918)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

“B” Flight, No. 114 (Hong Kong) Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

June 3rd, 1919

"For valuable services rendered in connection with the military operations on the North-West Frontier of India, in East Persia and South Persia, during the period April 1, 1917, to May 31, 1918."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Unit:

Octavius Steel and Company Calcutta

Awarded on:

January 29th, 1943

"Mr. Mackrell, while in charge of the elephant transport, heard that a number of refugees were attempting to reach Assam over the Chaukan pass. In appalling weather he led his elephants by forced marches over a route hitherto considered impracticable. At great personal risk and after several vain attempts he took them across the flooded river, the bed of which consisted of shifting boulders. He thus rescued 68 sepoys and 33 other persons who were facing starvation. Without medical assistance he fed and doctored them until they were fit to proceed. He fell ill with severe fever, but remained behind and was responsible for saving the lives of over 200 persons. Mr. Mackrell showed the highest initiative and personal courage, and risked hardships which might easily have proved fatal."

When considering Mackrell for a suitable award, Sir E. R. Knox, of the Treasury’s Honours Committee, in determining the percentage risk of death stated that it “could be put, very roughly, at George Medal: 50 to 80%.”

Period:

First World War (1914-1918)