Wilfred Lawson COX

Regimental number2288
Place of birthChristchurch, New Zealand
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationStud shepherd
AddressDunmore Park via Dalby, Queensland
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation19.11
Height5' 7"
Weight144 lbs
Next of kinSister, Mrs Ethel Lauder, Willmington Street, Albion, Brisbane, Queensland
Previous military serviceServed for 5 years in the Territorial Force, New Zealand.
Enlistment date10 June 1916
Place of enlistmentToowoomba, Queensland
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name41st Battalion, 4th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/58/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Brisbane, Queensland, on board HMAT A48 Boonah on 21 October 1916
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll41st Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Distinguished Conduct Medal (awarded Military Medal)


'On the 8th August 1918, during the attack on the enemy's position East of HAMEL, Private COX, rushed up his Lewis Gun and opened fire on the gunners of an enemy battery which was firing point blank at our troops. He was successful in killing some of the gunners forcing the remainder to take cover thus enabling the men of his platoon to rush the Battery. By his brave and prompt action he was largely instrumental in the capture of the battery. Throughout the operation he set a very high example of bravery and devotion to duty.'
Recommendation date: 13 August 1918

FateReturned to Australia 25 September 1919
Medals

Miltary Medal


Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No 61
Date: 23 May 1919

Discharge date2 January 1920
Other details

War service: Western Front

Commenced return to Australia on board HT 'ort Dennison', 25 September 1919; disembarked Sydney, 17 November 1919, for onward travel to Brisbane; discharged (termination of period of enlistment), Brisbane, 2 January 1920.

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death29 August 1980
Age at death84 Nelson
Place of burialNelson City Cemetery, New Zealand
SourcesNAA: B2455, COX Wilfred Lawson