Frederick Thomas RANKIN

Regimental number334
Place of birthMelbourne Victoria
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationForeman
Address104 Lothian Street, North Melbourne
Marital statusMarried
Age at embarkation30
Next of kinAnnie Rankin, 122 Rosslyn Street, West Melbourne
Enlistment date12 July 1915
Date of enlistment from Nominal Roll28 August 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name29th Battalion, A Company
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/46/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A11 Ascanius on 10 November 1915
Rank from Nominal RollSergeant
Unit from Nominal Roll32nd Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 30 July 1918

Bar to MM


Recommendation date: 4 October 1918

FateReturned to Australia 13 April 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'At MORLANCOURT on night 28/29th July 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and skilful leadership. He handled his section in a skilful manner and displayed great personal bravery and coolness under very trying circumstances. During an attack by his Company, in conjunction with the other Companies of the Battalion, on enemy trench system, and whilst following our barrage he located an enemy 'Strong Point' and with quick decision overshelmed it from both flanks, killing the entire garrison and capturing a machine gun. He personally killed three of the enemy.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 36
Date: 14 March 1919

Bar to Military Medal

'At BELLICOURT and NAUROY on 29th/30th September and 1st October 1918. For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. On 29th September during the advance down LE CATELET TRENCH he acted with great bravery in taking a Machine Gun Post. On the afternoon of 30th September during the attack, although feeling very unwell he insisted on remaining on duty and was first over the top in .........of heavy enemy shell and Machine Gun fire. He twice went over the top and brought in wounded under very heavy fire, and by his coolness and courage set a fine example.'

Other details

War service: Egypt, Western Front

Medals: Military Medal & Bar, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal