The AIF Project

William Stanley Cockburn SHARLAND

Regimental number26487
Place of birthHobart Tasmania
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationPublic accountant
Address'Highclere', Pymble, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation26
Next of kinMother, Mrs C H O Harris, 'Highclere', Pymble, New South Wales
Enlistment date26 April 1916
Rank on enlistmentGunner
Unit nameDivisional Ammunition Column 4, Reinforcement 5
AWM Embarkation Roll number25/111/3
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A47 Mashobra on 14 September 1916
Rank from Nominal RollGunner
Unit from Nominal RollAdministrative Headquarters
FateReturned to Australia 2 June 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'At POLYGON WOOD - East of YPRES - during operations on 26th/27th September 1917, reinforced captured position on the right flank with his Gun Detachment. This position was subjected to intense Artillery bombardment, but with great courage, and consummate skill, he placed a well directed barrage of Stokes Shells on an enemy Strong Point which slightly enfiladed the Infantry, who were consolidating. During the advance, he worked his gun and assisted the infantry in taking Strong Points which gave them some trouble.. Throughout the whole of the action he worked his detachment in a most gallant and skilful manner.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31
Date: 7 March 1918

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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