[ London Gazette, 13 February 1918 ], Little Priel Farm, East of Ephey, France, 30 November 1917, Sergeant Cyril Edward Gourley MM, 'D' Battery, Royal Field Artillery.

For most conspicuous bravery when in command of a section of howitzers ( Little Priel Farm, East of Ephey, France ).

Though the enemy advanced in force, getting within 400 yards in front, between 300 and 400 yards to one flank and with snipers in rear, Sergeant Gourley managed to keep one gun in action practically throughout the day. Though frequently driven off he always returned, carrying ammunition, laying and firing the gun himself, taking first one and then another of the detachment to assist him.

When the enemy advanced he pulled his gun out of the pit and engaged a machine gun at 500 yards, knocking it out with a direct hit. All day he held the enemy in check, firing with open sights on enemy parties in full view at 300 to 800 yards, and thereby saved his guns, which were withdrawn at nightfall.

He had previously been awarded the Military Medal for conspicuous gallantry.

Cyril Gourley was invested with his Victoria Cross by King George V at Buckingham Palace on the 16th March 1918.

[ London Gazette, 17 September 1917 ], Near Ypres, France, 24 July 1917, Sergeant Cyril Edward Gourley, 'D' Battery, Royal Field Artillery.

For actions near Ypres on 24th July 1917 when a barrage was being fired. A German 5.9" shell hit the ammunition dump alongside his gun pit and set it on fire. He immediately began removing adjoining ammunition, including gas shells, and confined the effects of the fire. He had just retired from the dump when the burning ammunition exploded.

His courageous action saved the guns, hundreds of shells and many lives had the whole dump exploded.