Francis BENNETTS

Regimental number2333
Place of birthAdelaide, South Australia
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationLabourer
AddressNew Street, Queenstown, South Australia
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation20
Next of kinMother, Mrs Katherine Bennetts, New Street Queenstown, South Australia
Enlistment date19 March 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name10th Battalion, 7th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/27/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Adelaide, South Australia, on board HMAT A61 Kanowna on 23 June 1915
Rank from Nominal RollSergeant
Unit from Nominal Roll4th Machine Gun Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 28 March 1919
Medals

Distinguished Conduct Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He took forward a machine gun to an advanced position under heavy rifle fire. He held his post until the following day, and by his skill and courage rendered most valuable service to the infantry.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 169
Date: 4 October 1917

Military Medal

'For bravery and devotion to duty in the attack on the HINDENBURG LINE Est of LEVERGUIER on 18th September 1918. he reached the first objective with his machine guns before the infantry, and a large number of Germans surrendered to him. Noticing an enemy machine gun doing much damage, he, single handed rushed the gun and captured the crew consisting of 1 officer and 4 men. Later when siting his guns under heavy machine gun fire he showed the greatest coolness, and the example he set during the whole of the operations assisted greatly towards success.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 115
Date: 10 October 1919