Regimental number | 3636 |
Place of birth | Sydney New South Wales |
Religion | Church of England |
Occupation | Labourer |
Address | Mitchell, Queensland |
Marital status | Single |
Age at embarkation | 28 |
Next of kin | Friend, Francis William Henry Hall, P.O., Mitchell, Queensland |
Enlistment date | |
Rank on enlistment | Private |
Unit name | 31st Battalion, 8th Reinforcement |
AWM Embarkation Roll number | 23/48/3 |
Embarkation details | Unit embarked from Brisbane, Queensland, on board HMAT A42 Boorara on |
Rank from Nominal Roll | Private |
Unit from Nominal Roll | 31st Battalion |
Fate | Returned to Australia |
Medals |
Military Medal 'For gallantry and devotion to duty. Near VILLERS-CARBONNEL on 30th August 1918 Lance Corporal SYKES led his section across the SOMME in face of heavy artillery and Machine Gun fire. He engaged the enemy, himself accounting for several, and afforded protection for rear sections to cross. Throughout he set a fine example of coolness and courage to his command.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109 Date: Bar to Military Medal 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty at VERMAND on September 9th 1918 Lance Corporal SYKES was one of a fighting patrol which came in contact with a superior enemy force. The enemy brought a fierce Machine Gun and Artillery fire to bear on patrol and patrol had to withdraw. Lance Corporal SYKES in face of very heavy fire set a wonderful example of coolness and courage in handling his section. Although severely wounded, having had half a hand blown off he fought on and go his section to a position of safety. By his wonderful courage and devotion to duty he set a glorious example to all.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109 Date: |
Other details |
War service: Western Front Medals: Military Medal & Bar, British War Medal, Victory Medal |