The AIF Project

Fisher BEARD

Regimental number3005
Place of birthAdelaide, South Australia
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationFarmer
AddressSturt Vale, Kulin via Wickepin, Western Australia
Marital statusMarried
Age at embarkation23.3
Height5' 7.5"
Weight153 lbs
Next of kinWife, Mrs Gertrude Christina Beard, Wychitella, Kulin via Wickepin, Western Australia
Previous military serviceNil
Enlistment date8 September 1916
Place of enlistmentPerth, Western Australia
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name3rd Pioneer Battalion, Reinforcement 6
AWM Embarkation Roll number14/15/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Fremantle, Western Australia, on board HMAT A34 Persic on 29 December 1916
Rank from Nominal RollLance Corporal
Unit from Nominal Roll6/3 Pioneer Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Work near Etinnehem on 22 August 1918.
Recommendation date: 28 August 1918

FateReturned to Australia 28 February 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'On the early morning of the 22nd August, 1918, between ETINEHEM and the front line immediately west of BRAY SUR SOMME, No. 3005 Private BEARD who was a runner attached to Battalion Headquarters, had to be sent with despatches from Battalion Headquarters to the Companies in the line. This work was of a very important nature, owing to heavy enemy artillery fire, communication was extremely difficult, as lines were continuously broken. On three occasions, Private BEARD made this trip, not only in the early morning, but later in the day when he was under full observation. Although subjected to very heavy artillery fire, and, on approaching the line, under direct rifle and machine gun fire, he successfully accomplished his task, showing exceptional courage and devotion to duty, and setting a fine example to all ranks. his coolness throughout, and the promptness and despatch with which he carried out his duties are worthy of the very highest praise.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 75
Date: 17 June 1919

Discharge date19 May 1919
Other details

War service: Western Front

Commenced return to Australia on board HT 'Anchises', 28 February 1919; discharged (termination of period of enlistment), Perth, 19 May 1919.

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal
SourcesNAA: B2455, BEARD Fisher

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