Ernest Leslie TOWNSEND

Regimental number2681
Place of birthBeechworth Victoria
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationRail clerk
AddressMentone, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation26
Next of kinFather, T H Townsend, Latrobe Street, Mentone, Victoria
Enlistment date29 April 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name6th Battalion, 8th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/23/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A68 Anchises on 26 August 1915
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll58th Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 21 March 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during operations North East of BELLICOURT between 29th September and 1st October 1918. This N.C.O. did excellent in running and maintaining telephone lines both to Brigade and Forward Companies, also the the Battalions on right and left flanks, thus enabling two Brigades to keep in touch with their Units. With another signaller he worked continuously during the whole of the operations repairing and maintaining the lines under heavy fire. His work was of the utmost value.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919

Other details

War service: Egypt, Gallipoli, Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal

Also served in the 2nd World War as a Lieutenant and was attached at H.2. in the Troop movements.
Date of death14 June 1973
Place of burialSpringvale Cemetery