Roy HARBURN

Regimental number961
Place of birthSydney New South Wales
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationBank clerk
AddressNational Bank, Kellerberrin, Western Australia
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation20
Next of kinFather, J W Harburn, Marmion Street, Cottesloe, Western Australia
Enlistment date10 September 1914
Date of enlistment from Nominal Roll31 August 1914
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name11th Battalion, D Company
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/28/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Fremantle, Western Australia, on board HMAT A11 Ascanius on 31 October 1914
Rank from Nominal RollCaptain
Unit from Nominal Roll51st Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 10 October 1918
Medals

Military Cross

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During a night counter attack by his battalion on a strong enemy position, this officer, under heavy rifle and machine gun fire, led his company against a succession of strong points, capturing forty prisoners and six machine guns. On gaining the final objective, he reorganized his own company and the men of other companies whose officers had become casualties, taking command of the whole line, and placing it in a good state of defence. He was cheerful and cool, and inspired those under him by his example.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 15
Date: 4 February 1919

Bar to Military Cross

'For conspicuous gallantry and fine leadership during an attack. He led his company splendidly under heavy fire, gained his objective and consolidated his position. In this operation his company and another made a big advance, and captured nearly 200 prisoners. He rendered most valuable service.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61
Date: 23 May 1919

Family/military connectionsBrother: 2811 Pte Jack HARBURN, 51st Bn, killed in action, 14-16 August 1916.
Other detailsMedals: Military Cross, Bar to Military Cross, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal