The AIF Project

James REID

Regimental number3679
Place of birthQuorn South Australia
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationLabourer
AddressBooleunda, South Australia
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation24
Next of kinFather, Thomas Reid, Booleunda, South Australia
Enlistment date1 March 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name32nd Battalion, 8th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/49/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Adelaide, South Australia, on board HMAT A70 Ballarat on 12 August 1916
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll32nd Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 3 May 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'During Offensive operations near BELLICOURT on the 30th September/1st October 1918 Private REID showed considerable gallantry, courage and devotion to duty. Consequent upon a casualty he assumed command of a Lewis Gun Section which he directed forward with great ability. His section was constantly well in advance of the platoon providing covering fire and the personal example of Private REID who operated one of the guns was very valuable to the work of the whole section. His services were particularly valuable when the platoon having reached its objective on the morning of 1st October he opened and maintained accurate and sustained fire on the enemy who shortly afterwards retreated from their positions. Later in the day the Company were moving to new positions he was wounded in the arm by a bullet but persisted in carrying his gun and remained in charge of it during the consolidation. He would not leave the line for medical aid until ordered to do so by his Platoon Commander.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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