The AIF Project

Peter Reed OLSON

Regimental number3216
Place of birthNorton Summit, South Australia
ReligionMethodist
OccupationFarmer
AddressJeparit, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation22
Next of kinMother, Mrs Elna Olson, York Peninsula, Arthurton, South Australia
Enlistment date28 July 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name21st Battalion, 7th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/38/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A18 Wiltshire on 18 November 1915
Rank from Nominal RollCorporal
Unit from Nominal Roll4th Field Artillery Brigade
FateReturned to Australia 19 October 1918
Miscellaneous information from
  cemetery records
Photo: Peter Dennis
Medals

Military Medal

'On the morning of 3rd September 1917, seven of the ammunition dumps in the gun positions of the 55th Battery, East of YPRES, were set on fire. The explosion of the ammunition also set alight the camouflage covering of three guns. By the prompt and courageous action of Corporal LAND accompanied by Corporal OLSEN and Gunner Brand in extinguishing the fires, probable loss of life and damage to material was averted. It is estimated that at least two guns and 800 rounds of ammunition were saved.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31
Date: 7 March 1918

Other details

War service: Egypt, Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death9 February 1971
Age at death78
Place of burialSwan Hill Cemetery, Victoria

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