The AIF Project

Robert John THOMAS

Regimental number2467
Place of birthMaryborough Victoria
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationMiner
AddressBrunker Street, Kurri Kurri, New South Wales
Marital statusMarried
Age at embarkation23
Next of kinWife, Mrs Vera Ellen Thomas, Brunker Street, Kurri Kurri, New South Wales
Enlistment date27 September 1915
Date of enlistment from Nominal Roll13 September 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name30th Battalion, 4th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/47/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A67 Orsova on 11 March 1916
Rank from Nominal RollCorporal
Unit from Nominal Roll30th Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 2 June 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during the operations on 8th and 9th August 1918 near VILLERS-BRETONNEUX. This N.C.O. was in charge of a Lewis Gun Section in the exploitation party and was taken to the final objective in the tanks. On his Company reaching the final objective he rejoined it and shortly after went out with a fighting patrol with the object of mopping up, a large number of hutments and buildings in close proximity to the front line. The patrol came under heavy machine gun fire, being covered by enemy guns from both flanks. The patrol leader decided to withdraw and make fresh dispositions. Lance Corporal THOMAS and his No. 2 covered the retirement of the patrol, using his gun with such effect that he successfully silenced all enemy machine guns and enabled the patrol to reach our line with very slight casualties. His No. 2 was killed beside him. The great courage and splendid shooting by this N.C.O. was mainly responsible for the successful withdrawal of the patrol, and the information it gained enabled dispositions to be made which resulted in the clearing up of the area and capture of 1 officer and 21 Other Ranks.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61
Date: 23 May 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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