Albert Victor HALFPENNY

Regimental number19559
Place of birthMaldon Victoria
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationTelephonist
Address20 The Avenue, Windsor, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation21
Next of kinMother, Mrs A V Dorsa, Parker Street, Maldon, Victoria
Previous military service59th Infantry
Enlistment date3 March 1916
Rank on enlistmentGunner
Unit nameField Artillery Brigade 8, Head-Quarters
AWM Embarkation Roll number13/36/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A7 Medic on 20 May 1916
Rank from Nominal RollGunner
Unit from Nominal Roll8th Field Artillery Brigade
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 24 September 1917

FateReturned to Australia 23 July 1918
Medals

Military Medal

'During the operations at YPRES on 20th September 1917 he was with Lieutenant FERIA who was F.O.O. Communication by wire or visual was impossible and Gunner HALFPENNY volunteered and constantly carried messages to the Cable Head, thus keeping Group in constant touch and so enabling fire to be brought to bear on enemy lines at critical situations. These messages were carried through constant heavy shell fire, and HALFPENNY showed great coolness and an utter disregard of personal risk. Also during these present operations before "Attack Day" he has carried despatches to Batteries at all hours through Heavy shell fire.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31
Date: 7 March 1918

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal