Charles BIRTLES

Regimental number2117
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationLabourer
Address74 Cavendish Street, Enmore, Sydney, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation28
Next of kinFather, S Birtles, Beechworth, Victoria
Enlistment date9 July 1915
Date of enlistment from Nominal Roll9 April 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name19th Battalion, 4th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/36/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A8 Argyllshire on 30 September 1915
Rank from Nominal Roll2nd Lieutenant
Unit from Nominal Roll3rd 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: 3 March 1917

Distinguished Conduct Medal


Recommendation date: 14 April 1917

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 14 October 1917

FateReturned to Australia 6 May 1919
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: 4 October 1917

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: 23 May 1918

Other details

Medals: Distinguished Conduct Medal, Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal

Also served in World War II.