York and Lancaster Regiment.

Awarded the Military Cross in the London Gazette of 18 July1918.

The citation reads, "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during a counter attack. When the other officers of his company had become casualties he took command and reorganised the company under heavy machine gun fire. He kept down the enemy fire with Lewis guns, and when eventually ordered to retire, withdrew skilfully, moving his company without further casualties. By his promptness and resource he extricated his company from a difficult situation and saved many casualties".

Riley was a native of Burnley, Lancashire.