The AIF Project

Work near Barleux on 29-30 August 1918.
Recommendation date: 17 September 1918

'For gallant conduct and conspicuously good work during construction of pontoon bridges. On night 29th/30th August 1918, Corporal HUNT was one of the N.C.O.s with the section constructing pontoon bridges across the SOMME Canal near BARLEUX. This task was one of extreme danger as the canal was 400 yards forward of the infantry front line. In addition to extreme caution the greatest speed and boldness was required to ensure the work completed before dawn. Corporal HUNT throughout showed the greatest skill and initiative in reconnoitring a track for the transport and canal bank and in the construction of the bridges. The night was intensely dark and in spite of being worn out by long marching and exertions of the two previous days, in face of constant harassing fire of H.E. and gas and the encumbrance of gas mask, Corporal HUNT worked on untiringly getting such a splendid example of energy and determination and so encouraging his party that the work was successfully completed within the extremely narrow time limit.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 115
Date: 10/10/1119