Alma Thick Holmes BLOOM

Regimental number3415
Place of birthAlbany, Western Australia
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationEngine cleaner
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation22
Next of kinMother, Mrs N Reilly, Mornington Mills, Western Australia
Enlistment date9 August 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name16th Battalion, 11th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/33/3
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Fremantle, Western Australia, on board HMAT A24 Benalla on 1 November 1915
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll16th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 14 June 1917

FateReturned to Australia 8 May 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'This man is brought under notice for his excellent work and gallantry in connection with the operations against the MESSINES RIDGE 8th to 13th June 1917 and in the advances beyond. He is a Battalion Scout and prior to the commencement of the operations made himself thoroughly acquainted with the whole of the Corps front. His work as a guide and Runner throughout was invaluable. he was in charge of one of the patrols sent out some six hundred yards in front of the most advanced line taken over by the Battalion. After the ground was cleared by the patrol he led out the digging in party and having placed them in position of consolidation pushed further forward for the purpose of covering that party. During the relief by the 82nd Regiment he was invaluable as a guide both to the ingoing and outgoing troops and under the heaviest fire he was always cool and collected. He is recommended for distinction.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 219
Date: 20 December 1917