He was awarded the Military Cross (MC)[4] in July 1943 for his outstanding service at Maungdaw during a raid on a Japanese position.

[6] A Corps HQ made up mostly of support units and muleteers reinforced with some combat troops was besieged by Japanese forces.

The citation reads as follows:[7] "In BURMA, on the 16th February, 1944, Major Hoey's company formed part of a force which was ordered to capture a position at all costs.

Although wounded at least twice in the leg and head, he seized a Bren gun from one of his men and, firing from the hip, led his company into the objective.

Major Hoey's outstanding gallantry and leadership, his total disregard of personal safety and his grim determination to reach the objective resulted in the capture of this vital position."