The Life Brigade Chronicle, November 1921 – The Distinguished Service Diploma was granted to Warrant Officer C. Hart of the 1st Westcliff Company, for his exceptional conduct on the occasion of the fire in the Great Eastern Goods Yard at Colchester. Warrant Officer Hart immediately after the serious explosion ran into the burning building to be quite sure that all the men had been able to get away in safety. He also distinguished himself by his strenuous efforts which were largely instrumental in preventing the fire spreading to a huge petrol dump.

The Chelmsford Chronicle of Friday 25 July 1922 – Captain Hart has the distinction of being the first member of the Brigade to receive the Cross for Courage,” for conspicuous bravery at a fire, at which he suffered personal injury.” 

The presentation was made at the Brigade festival held at Crystal Palace in 1922. The Hendon and Finchley Time, 9th June 1922 reported: The “Cross for Courage” was presented to W.O. Hart, of the 1st Westcliff Company, 2^nd Essex Battalion, who risked his life in a fire at the Hyde Station, Colchester, in August last. 

The Boys’ Life Brigade regulations allowed leaders to be eligible for the Cross for Courage. C V Hart was a Warrant Officer at the time of the rescue in 1921.