The AIF Project

Joseph STEER

Regimental number1972
Date of birth9 November 1891
Place of birthSwan Hill, Victoria
ReligionPresbyterian
OccupationFarmer
AddressYarraby via Swan Hill, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation24
Next of kinFather, Henry Thomas Steer, Yarraby via Swan Hill, Victoria
Enlistment date8 February 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name58th Battalion, 3rd Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/75/3
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A31 Ajana on 8 July 1916
Rank from Nominal RollCorporal
Unit from Nominal Roll57th Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 10 June 1919
Miscellaneous information from
  cemetery records
Photo: Peter Dennis
Medals

Military Medal

'On the night of 31st August attempts were being made to force a passage across the canal and marshes of the SOMME south of PERONNE. A fighting patrol, of which Corporal STEER was a member, attempted to cross, but was unsuccessful. Next day he volunteered for a second attempt, this time in daylight. The patrol in crossing on an improvised bridge came under heavy fire. Many were swept off the bridge but Corporal STEER kept urging his men on till it was impossible to advance further. A number of the patrol had been killed and others wounded, and Corporal STEER showed great courage and devotion to duty in getting the patrol back and carrying the wounded to safety. In these operations he was associated with Sergeant DOW whose fine work is also the subject of a recommendation for reward.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 115
Date: 10 October 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death8 November 1930
Age at death41
Place of burialBalranald Cemetery, New South Wales

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