John Alexander MERRILL

Regimental number3421
Place of birthTooborac Victoria
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationFactory hand
AddressGeelong, Victoria
Marital statusMarried
Age at embarkation40
Next of kinWife, Mrs M E Merrill, 105 McKillop Street, Geelong, Victoria
Enlistment date13 July 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name14th Battalion, 11th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/31/3
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A71 Nestor on 11 October 1915
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll14th Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 28 March 1919
Medals

Meritorious Service Medal

'This man is brought to notice for his splendid work during a very long period, and particularly the period 17th September 1918, to 31st December 1918. Being a man above military age he was loaned by his Battalion to the AUSTRALIAN Y.M.C.A. working with the Brigade. But his age was never made an excuse for staying in the back Areas when the Brigade was in the line he was always found, often well forward of Brigade headquarters in some place where it was possible to make and serve hot drinks to the Troops at all hours of the day or night. He has taxed his strength to the utmost in the performance of his duty, and his cheerfulness has been a constant example to those about him. Not only in the line, but when the Brigade has been in back areas and since the Armistice his work has been equally good. He is strongly recommended for distinction.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 113
Date: 6 October 1919