The AIF Project

James Henry BLEAKLEY

Regimental number6233
Place of birthNortham, Western Australia
ReligionMethodist
OccupationSaddler
AddressBurgoyne Street, Northam, Western Australia
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation23
Next of kinMother, Mrs Amy Bleakley, Burgoyne Street, Northam, Western Australia
Enlistment date3 April 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name16th Battalion, 20th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/33/4
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Fremantle, Western Australia, on board HMAT A23 Suffolk on 13 October 1916
Rank from Nominal RollCorporal
Unit from Nominal Roll16th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 17 June 1918

FateReturned to Australia 19 April 1918
Medals

Military Medal

'Is brought to notice for his great gallantry, initiative, and devotion to duty in a raid on an enemy strong point near HAMEL on the night of the 15th/16th June, 1918, when the N.C.O. in charge of his party was wounded this soldier greatly assisted him in persisting in the orders of their party, and was largely responsible for the putting out of action of the German machine and crew. During the operation 50% of his party had become casualties, but by his great coolness, gallantry, and good judgement, he succeeded in evacuating them all to our lines, himself bringing up the rear carrying the captured gun. Throughout the whole of the operation he proved himself a reliable and trustworthy N.C.O. and one capable of tackling a very difficult situation with good and clear judgement. He is strongly recommended for distinction.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 23
Date: 12 February 1919

Family/military connectionsBrother: 6234 Pte John Thomas BLEAKLEY, 16th Bn, killed in action, 11 April 1917.
Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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