Troop Sergeant Major Ferguson was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the battle for Hill 170, Kangaw, 31 January 1945 in which he was seriously wounded [1][2].

This Warrant officer was in the action fought on Hill 170 on the afternoon of 31 January 1945.

Our own troops were being hard pressed by repeated strong enemy counter-attacks. The No 2 of a bren gun was knocked out by a grenade. TSM Ferguson immediately took over, the enemy was still pressing his attack and in order to prevent a break through TSM Ferguson leapt from his trench and flung grenades returning for more and again throwing them causing the enemy many casualties. He was then seriously wounded but still made attempts to fight on until forcibly evacuated. Throughout the whole action he was cool, calm and resolute and by his fearless example he inspired the men around him [2].