The AIF Project

John McGILLEN

Regimental number19807
Place of birthSeymour Victoria
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationBlacksmith
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation38
Next of kinBrother, M McGillen, Tongala, Victoria
Enlistment date26 October 1915
Rank on enlistmentGunner
Unit nameField Artillery Brigade 8, Battery 30
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: 26 April 1918

FateReturned to Australia 11 May 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'On 24th April, 1918, east of HEILLY, between the rivers ANCRE and SOMME, this man was attached to the 8th A.F.A. Brigade Headquarters as a runner. During the heavy enemy bombardment with gas and H.E. he displayed exceptional courage, coolness, and resource in conveying despatches to batteries. He had to pass through the area which was being subjected to very heavy shell fire, and set a fine example of devotion to duty and disregard for personal safety, continuing with his work until he was wounded and evacuated.'

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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