Albert Edward BLACKMUR

Regimental number4744
Place of birthMarch England
ReligionMethodist
OccupationLabourer
AddressRockhampton, Queensland
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation28
Next of kinMother, Mrs C Blackmur, March, Cambridgeshire, England
Enlistment date2 November 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name15th Battalion, 15th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/32/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Brisbane, Queensland, on board HMAT A73 Commonwealth on 28 March 1916
Rank from Nominal RollLieutenant
Unit from Nominal Roll15th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 1 October 1917

Bar to Military Medal


Recommendation date: 8 July 1918

FateReturned to Australia 16 June 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'While in action near ZONEBEKE on 26th September, 1917, showed great skill and initiative in the tactical handling of the Company Lewis guns throughout the attack. By personal reconnaissance at great risks he was able to select and assist in the construction of defensive Lewis gun positions. After the objective had been gained, and the Lewis guns under his supervision did most excellent work in repelling of enemy counter attacks.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31
Date: 7 March 1918

Bar to Military Medal

'Is recommended for conspicuous gallantry and clever initiative in action near HAMEL WOOD, east of CORBIE, on 4th July, 1918. This N.C.O. was Company Lewis gun N.C.O. in this attack and displayed great dash and daring throughout. He was well to the fore when the enemy front line was made good and assisted in capturing two of the enemy machine guns, one of which he immediately got into action and turned it onto a few of the enemy who had managed to get away. He carried the German gun forward with him, and as soon as the final objective was consolidated, got two more captured guns up and got them in working order. In coordinating the Lewis guns of the Company he displayed a great tactical knowledge of the guns, and greatly strengthened the position by the use of the captured guns. Always cheerful and cool, he greatly inspired all his comrades. Was awarded the Military Medal on 29th September, 1917, for gallantry at ZONNEBEKE.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 23
Date: 12 February 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal & Bar, British War Medal, Victory Medal