The AIF Project

Thomas Charles BAKER

Regimental number4250
Date of birth3 April 1892
Place of birthTatham, New South Wales
Other NamesBAKER, Thomas Charles Richmond
ReligionPresbyterian
OccupationTanner
AddressLismore, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation24
Next of kinMother, Mrs. Agnes Rayburn Baker, Codrington, via Coraki, New South Wales
Enlistment date10 February 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name31st Battalion, 11th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/48/3
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Brisbane, Queensland, on board HMAT A55 Kyarra on 17 November 1916
Regimental number from Nominal RollCommissioned
Rank from Nominal RollLieutenant
Unit from Nominal Roll31st Battalion
Promotions

2nd Lieutenant


Unit: FLY
Promotion date: 27 March 1918

Lieutenant


Unit: 31st Battalion
Promotion date: 6 April 1919

Temporary Captain


Unit: 31st Battalion
Promotion date: 30 April 1942

FateReturned to Australia 5 July 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'For gallantry and devotion to duty. Near VILLERS CARBONNEL on 29th August 1918 a platoon was advancing to establish posts on the SOMME when they were opened on with a heavy concentration of artillery and Machine gun fire which caused them to scatter. Corporal BAKER displayed great powers of leadership and courage in holding his section and getting them established in a post. Afterwards he rendered great assistance in reorganising remainder of platoon, and set a fine example of coolness and courage to all.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919

Bar to Military Medal

'During the operations between 29th September and 1st October 1918, this N.C.O. set a splendid example of courage and devotion to duty which was an inspiration to his comrades. Early in the operations his Platoon Commander and Sergeant became casualties, and he at once assumed command and displayed great powers of leadership and courage throughout. On reaching the final objective he re-organised his Platoon and showed an initiative and tactical skill of a high order. He placed his Lewis Guns in such positions that they were of great value to his Company. His conduct throughout and the handling of his men contributed in no small measure to the success of the operations.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 91
Date: 23 July 1919

Discharge date30 September 1919
Other details

War service: Western Front

Appointed Lance Corporal, 10 November 1917; Corporal, 24 December 1917; Sergeant, 10 October 1918.

Medals: Military Medal & Bar, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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