Wilfred Speechly THOMAS

Regimental number29792
ReligionCongregational
OccupationElectrician
Address53 Burke Road, Camberwell, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation18
Next of kinMother, Mrs M E Thomas, 53 Burke Road, Camberwell, Victoria
Previous military service48th Infantry
Enlistment date26 April 1916
Rank on enlistmentGunner
Unit nameHowitzer Brigade 119
AWM Embarkation Roll number13/136/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A60 Aeneas on 3 October 1916
Rank from Nominal RollCorporal
Unit from Nominal Roll3rd Divisional Signal Company
FateReturned to Australia 22 September 1919
Medals

Military Medal


Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 185
Date: 27 November 1918

Bar to Military Medal

'On 24th April, 1918, between the junction of the rivers ANCRE and SOMME, this Sapper did splendid work on the telephone lines. The enemy put down a very heavy bombardment of gas and H.E. and all lines between Brigade Headquarters and Batteries were immediately cut. Sapper THOMAS worked for eight and half hours, trying to get communication with Batteries, during the whole of which period he was subjected to very heavy shell fire, and for the most part worked in his gas mask. His work and grit were of such a high standard that two Battery Commanders recommended him. He displayed throughout the greatest courage and energy, a total disregard for his personal safety, and the utmost devotion to duty.'

Other details

War service: Western Front

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