George MONKHOUSE

Regimental number5156
Place of birthAdelaide South Australia
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationElectrical engineer
Address172 Allan Street, Fremantle, Western Australia
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation20
Next of kinMother, Mrs S Monkhouse, 172 Allan Street, Fremantle, Western Australia
Enlistment date3 February 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name11th Battalion, 16th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/28/4
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Fremantle, Western Australia, on board HMAT A9 Shropshire on 31 March 1916
Rank from Nominal RollSapper
Unit from Nominal Roll3rd Divisional Signal Company
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: "17 and 27 April 1918"

FateReturned to Australia 3 September 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'On 24th April, 1918, near VAUX SUR SOMME, during an attack by the enemy when all lines were broken by enemy shell fire, this soldier, a wireless operator, working in a tent, continued to send messages without fear for his own safety although shells were falling all around him. On six distinct occasions was the aerials wire broken and each time this brave soldier pluckily climbed trees and repaired the break, always under intense bombardment, and immediately carried on with his duty of sending messages. He indeed set a fine example of bravery and devotion to duty, and it was greatly due to his pluck and initiative that messages of vital importance were transmitted. This soldier was later gassed but continued to carry out his duty bravely until relief could be obtained.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 1
Date: 2 January 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal