The AIF Project

John SMITH

Regimental number263
Place of birthLithgow New South Wales
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationStation hand
AddressLongreach, Queensland
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation35
Next of kinMother, Mrs Mary Ryan, Kensington, Randwick, Sydney, New South Wales
Enlistment date14 January 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name14th Light Horse Regiment, 1st Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number10/19/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A72 Beltana on 13 May 1916
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll31st Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 10 June 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'At POLYGON WOOD on 26/28th September 1917 this man was separated from his Lewis Gun team but after searching about discovered some damaged ones. With great skill and under heavy fire he assembled a gun and kept it in action for a considerable time doing great execution among the Germans in their counter attack. His cheerful spirits were remarkable. His capture of an enemy Machine Gun and his work of collecting ammunition from casualties were other instances of his wonderful initiative.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31
Date: 7 March 1918

Bar to Military Medal

'During the attack of the 31st Battalion from WARFUSSE-ABANCOURT, East of VILLERS-BRETONNEUX on 8th August 1918, this N.C.O. displayed great bravery and tactical skill in leading his section. he overcame several small centres of resistance. During the advance he was the first of the Battalion to reach the first objective. On reaching this objective he at once cleared the ground in front to a distance of several hundred yards, killing many of the enemy and taking several prisoners. He set a splendid example of bravery and initiative throughout the operation.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61
Date: 23 May 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal & Bar, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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