Murray William O'CONNOR

Regimental number1477
Place of birthReefton New Zealand
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationSeaman
Address7 Stevens Street, Yarraville, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation22
Next of kinMother, Mrs O'Connor, Victoria Lane, Auckland, New Zealand
Enlistment date31 December 1914
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name14th Battalion, 2nd Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/31/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A46 Clan Macgillivray on 2 February 1915
Regimental number from Nominal Roll1543
Rank from Nominal RollLance Corporal
Unit from Nominal Roll4th Light Trench Mortar Battery
FateReturned to Australia 14 December 1918
Medals

Military Medal

'Is brought to notice for conspicuous daring and gallant conduct during operations on the 18th September, 1918, near LE VERGUIER two Machine Guns in a strongly fortified position were encountered firing on our troops to the right flank with great effect and delaying their advance. Creeping up by the left Lance/Corporal O'CONNOR with his Section Officer attempted to take the enemy unawares. Their approach was observed however, and heavy fire was directed on them. They immediately with great dash and personal disregard of danger rushed the enemy position, shooting 6 men with revolvers and forcing the remainder to surrender. The two Machine Guns together with garrison of 35 were captured, thus enabling the infantry on the flank to go forward. After his Officer had been severely wounded this N.C.O.. led the Section on to the objective. His work during consolidation and the example he set to his men were of the highest order and his outstanding ability and resourcefulness call for special comment. I very strongly recommend Lance Corporal O'CONNOR for his constant and conspicuous courage and dash and the excellent results achieved.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 115
Date: 10 October 1919

Distinguished Conduct Medal


Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette'
Date: 10 October 1919

Other details

War service: Egypt, Gallipoli, Western Front

Medals: Distinguished Conduct Medal, Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death19 November 1960
Age at death67
Place of burialTe Henui Cemetery, New Plymouth, New Zealand