| Regimental number | 2117 |
| Religion | Church of England |
| Occupation | Labourer |
| Address | 74 Cavendish Street, Enmore, Sydney, New South Wales |
| Marital status | Single |
| Age at embarkation | 28 |
| Next of kin | Father, S Birtles, Beechworth, Victoria |
| Enlistment date | |
| Date of enlistment from Nominal Roll | |
| Rank on enlistment | Private |
| Unit name | 19th Battalion, 4th Reinforcement |
| AWM Embarkation Roll number | 23/36/2 |
| Embarkation details | Unit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A8 Argyllshire on |
| Rank from Nominal Roll | 2nd Lieutenant |
| Unit from Nominal Roll | 3rd Battalion |
| Recommendations (Medals and Awards) |
Mention in Despatches Awarded, and promulgated, 'London Gazette', second Supplement, No. 30107, 1 June 1917; 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 169, 4 October 1917. Recommendation date: Distinguished Conduct Medal Recommendation date: Military Medal Recommendation date: |
| Fate | Returned to Australia |
| Medals |
Distinguished Conduct Medal 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He handled his Lewis gun with the greatest skill throughout the operations, and was largely responsible for breaking up an enemy attack.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 169 Date: Military Medal 'During the attack east of ZONNEBEKE on 9th October, 1917, Sergeant BIRTLES was in charge of the Lewis Guns of his Company and moved forward to attack the enemy in DAISY WOOD. He showed courage and initiative of highest order in moving from gun to gun during heaviest enemy shelling picking targets and giving covering fire. Although wounded in the arm he continued regardless of his own condition and safety to carry out the work of engaging the enemy with great accuracy of fire. His splendid example was largely responsible for the success of the operations.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 76 Date: |
| Other details |
Medals: Distinguished Conduct Medal, Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal Also served in World War II. |