Reginald SPARKMAN

Regimental number1507
Place of birthMelbourne Victoria
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationPlumber
Address14 Montrose avenue, Elsternwick, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation22
Next of kinCatherine Sparkman, 14 Montrose avenue, Elsternwick, Victoria
Enlistment date19 February 1915
Date of enlistment from Nominal Roll11 March 1915
Rank on enlistmentSapper
Unit name2nd Divisional Signal Company, 9th Reinforcements
AWM Embarkation Roll number22.12.2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Vic, on board H.M.A.T. A32 Themistocles on 28 January 1916
Rank from Nominal RollSapper
Unit from Nominal Roll2nd Signal Company
FateReturned to Australia 15 May 1918
Miscellaneous information from
  cemetery records
Plaque in Victorian Garden of Remembrance
Medals

Meritorious Service Medal

'During the operations in the vicinity of BELLICOURT extending over the period 17th September, to 17th October, 1918, this man performed the duties of Motor Cyclist Despatch Rider.Riding under most adverse conditions - bad roads, heavy traffic, rain and without headlight - he displayed great coolness - devotion to duty and resource in the management of the machine. In particular on the night of 8th, 9th October, 1918, when charged with the delivery of urgent barrage orders to artillery groups, he set out on the ESTREES-BELLICOURT Road which was packed with traffic subject to shell fire and an attack by enemy bombing machines. Although inured and severely shaken through having collided with a bolting ammunition wagon, he succeeded in delivering his despatches without delay. His great physical effort, courage and devotion to duty on this occasion was one of the many that transpired during the advance to the River SELLE.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 113
Date: 6 October 1919

Other detailsMedals: Meritorious Service Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death23 December 1946