The AIF Project

Hector Alfred RICHARDS

Regimental number2469
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationFitter
Address'Thermopoles', 1 Warrung Street, North Sydney, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation28
Next of kinMother, Mrs S A Richards, 1 Warrung Street, McMahons Point, North Sydney, New South Wales
Enlistment date17 July 1915
Date of enlistment from Nominal Roll26 July 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name20th Battalion, 5th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/37/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A75 Ballarat on 6 September 1915
Rank from Nominal RollSergeant
Unit from Nominal Roll56th Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 7 March 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'This N.C.O. led his platoon in the attack and always kept them well up under the barrage. When the Red Line was captured he at once set to work re-organising sections, displaying a very valuable coolness and skill. During the second stage of the attack he was always well forward. When the final objective was captured he took charge of all men in his vicinity and at once organised them for defence. He showed throughout an example of skill initiative and resource which was of enormous value, especially during the latter part of the day when were were so short of Officers. During the period of holding the ground won (5 days) his energy and cheerfulness under all conditions were also of very great value as an example to all.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 76
Date: 23 May 1918

Date of death15 June 1966
Place of burialEastern Suburbs Memorial Park Cemetery

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