Richard BUTLER

Regimental number2090
Place of birthGumeracha, South Australia
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationCarpenter
AddressPort Pirie, South Australia
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation26
Next of kinBrother, Francis Butler, school teacher, Parilla, South Australia
Enlistment date27 November 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name9th Light Horse Regiment, 15th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number10/14/4
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Adelaide, South Australia, on board HMAT A68 Anchises on 16 March 1916
Rank from Nominal RollGunner
Unit from Nominal Roll13th Field Artillery Brigade
FateReturned to Australia 22 May 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'This gunner formed part of a Section from the 49th Battery which came into action South East of BELLICOURT on 29th September 1918. The Section on occupying the position came under close range Machine Gun and 77.m.m. gun fire, causing casualties. Where all behaved well in getting the guns into action, this Gunner by his coolness and total disregard to danger greatly assisted in getting the guns into position. On his Section being ordered to move, he again was conspicuous by his cheerful manner and example. He assisted to rapidly limber up and clear the vehicles and horses from the position, and to right a limber which had become upset. After the vehicles were clear this Gunner returned, and with the assistance of another man, carried one of the detachment who had been wounded to a place of safety. This also was done under heavy fire. This man's excellent conduct, devotion to duty and loyalty to a comrade are deserving of special recognition.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal