Cyril Bassett VC was awarded the New Zealand Efficiency Decoration in 1950. At the time he was able to claim 20 years and 150 days' service between 2.11.1909 when he joined the College Rifles, to 5.4.1948 when he was posted to the Retired List with the rank of Lieut. Colonel. A memorandum in his service record, dated 26.5.1950, records that "... the Award of the Efficiency Decoration has been approved ... but the Decoration will not be available for issue until a further supply is received from England."

Born Auckland, 3rd January 1892, Cyril Bassett enlisted as a sapper with the Field Engineers, on the outbreak of WW1. He left New Zealand with the Main Body, on 16th October 1914.

Bassett was the first New Zealander to be awarded the Victoria Cross during WW1, for gallantry during the action at Chunuk Bair, Gallipoli on the 7th August 1915. He was evacuated out of Gallipoli on 11th August suffering from an illness, and went on to serve on the Western Front where he was twice wounded. He undertook home service during WW2.

Cyril Bassett VC died on 9 January 1983.