Sylvester Luke McMAHON

Regimental number2698
Place of birthCrookwell New South Wales
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationLabourer
AddressBinda, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation19
Next of kinFather, John Joseph McMahon, Binda PO, Binda, New South Wales
Previous military service43rd Infantry
Enlistment date31 May 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name55th Battalion, 6th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/72/4
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A40 Ceramic on 7 October 1916
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll55th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Distinguished Conduct Medal


Recommendation date: 4 September 1918

FateReturned to Australia 18 January 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an attack on ST DENIS WOOD, PERONNE, on 2nd September 1918. During an attempt to advance our flank beyond ST DENIS WOOD heavy Machine Gun fire was encountered. This man by his initiative and quick judgment brought his Lewis Gun into action disregarding all personal safety and engaged 2 enemy Machine Guns which he silenced, and thereby enabled the flank to go forward and capture an enemy post of 1 Officer, 9 O/Ranks and 2 Machine Guns. When it became necessary for the party to withdraw slightly to a stronger position this man covered the move until the flanks were in position, he himself being exposed to heavy Machine Gun fire. Not withstanding that one of his Lewis gun team was badly wounded he succeeded in bringing the gun and wounded man back to our line. His courage and coolness throughout the whole operation was very noticeable and he assisted greatly in the success of the attack.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal