Preparing for a counter-attack on the Western Front, British troops badly needed accurate intelligence on German dispositions. All reconnaissance attempts had failed, with several men killed in the process. Nevertheless, Private Jack Counter of The King's Regiment volunteered to make another attempt, despite the huge risk. Braving intense fire, he succeeded in returning with the information needed and the subsequent assault proved successful. Counter continued to distinguish himself, running important messages repeatedly through heavy artillery barrages, and was awarded the Victoria Cross.