I wrote a history of 2nd R Irish Rifles in the great War and here is an extract. You can be very proud of him:
Kearns Major Michael Christopher. Born c.1878, the son of a soldier. He had been a pupil at the Royal Hibernian Military School, Dublin, from 1.2.1890 to 5.10.1892. Joined the RIR as a boy soldier, No. 3691. Served in the South African War 1899 during operations in Natal, receiving the Queen’s Medal with clasps. Address 64 Washington Tce, North Shields. He served in France with 2nd RIR as CSM and was wounded. Promoted 2/Lt., 1.10.1914, and attached to D Coy. Immortal Deeds: ‘Lieutenant Kearns went out to France as a Colour-Sergeant; he is 6 foot 2 inches high, and a noted shot. He still retains his rifle. During an attack on the British trenches he picked off the leading ten Germans himself with the ten rounds in his magazine, reserving the fire of his platoon until the enemy came within short range. His skill and coolness saved the situation.’ Burgoyne: ‘At Ypres, in November, during the attack by the Prussian Guards, he bowled over fourteen of them himself. A very cool man, a most trustworthy soldier and a fine officer.’ Mentioned in Despatches, 17.2.1915, ‘for gallant and distinguished service in the field’. Promoted Lt. 15.3.1915. Joined 1st RIR 16.2.1918 and was struck off the strength 9.8.1918, no reason being stated. At the Depot 1923. Died in hospital at Bath 21.12.1947.