Bernard entered the war in France on 19th August 1914. In a memo dated 26th June 1915 the Deputy Director of Medical Services wrote that he wished to bring to notice the names of men, who under the guidance of the officers commanding bearers of No 1 & 2 Field Ambulances advanced in front of their new line on the night of the 18th May 1915 and under shell fire succeeded in bringing in 3 wounded to the trench - Bernard was on the list of names. On 20th October 1915, it was announced that he was to be awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal "For conspicuous gallantry from 29th September to the 1st October 1915 near Loos. While in charge of Advanced Bearer Post he displayed the greatest bravery and devotion to duty. By his initiative he rescued many wounded from the village of Loos and from the surrounding trenches, and his fine example was instrumental in keeping up the morale of the men under him. The post was under heavy and continuous shell fire." He attended 1st Brigade HQ at Lillers to receive the ribbons of his decoration from the GOC 1st Division on 21st October. On 10th January 1916 heavy shelling began at Le Rutoire Farm. Bernard was seriously wounded here, and evacuated by car to the Casualty Clearing Station.