Alfred Ernest YARRA

Regimental number2315
Place of birthNorth Melbourne Victoria
ReligionPresbyterian
OccupationBushman
Address'Bolton House', Charleville, Queensland
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation29
Next of kinMother, Mrs Annie Yarra, 249 Dryburgh Street, North Melbourne, Victoria
Enlistment date4 September 1914
Rank on enlistmentDriver
Unit nameField Artillery Brigade 3, Military District 1
AWM Embarkation Roll number13/31/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Brisbane, Queensland, on board Transport A22 Rangatira on 25 September 1914
Rank from Nominal RollGunner
Unit from Nominal Roll4th Field Artillery Brigade
FateReturned to Australia 24 September 1918
Medals

Military Medal

'During the period from 30th August 1918 to 3rd September 1918, near PERONNE, these three men [YARRA, 12538 A.M. HUME, 33928 H.J. McMICHAEL] were acting as runners for Group Headquarters to the Batteries. During this time many despatches had to be delivered to Batteries of the Group. At all times day and night these men moved forward under heavy shell fire to Batteries whose positions were frequently changing and difficult to locate. On the night of the 2nd September 1918 they were required to go through a heavy hostile gas shoot. Their despatches were invariably delivered promptly. Their gallant conduct and constant devotion to duty despite long hours and little sleep naturally assisted in the quick transit of the necessary Artillery orders providing continuous support to the attacking Infantry.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 115
Date: 10 October 1919