The AIF Project

Rupert Lancelot COLLEN

Regimental number363
Place of birthOmeo, Victoria
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationStockman
AddressDay Street, Omeo, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation21.3
Height5' 7"
Weight158 lbs
Next of kinFather, G.A. Collen, same address
Previous military serviceMember for 2 years, Omeo Rifle Club
Enlistment date26 August 1914
Place of enlistmentBroadmeadows, Victoria
Rank on enlistmentDriver
Unit nameDivisional Train, No 1 Company
AWM Embarkation Roll number25/14/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board Transport A24 Benalla on 19 October 1914
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board Transport A19 Afric on 18 October 1914
Rank from Nominal RollLance Corporal
Unit from Nominal Roll1st Company, Australian Army Service Corps
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 18 October 1917

FateReturned to Australia 23 October 1918
Medals

Military Medal

'For continued devotion to duty and pluck under fire from 7th October, 1917 to 17th October, 1917. COLLEN has daily performed the duties of N.C.O. with convoy of wagons employed in conveying beech sleepers from HELLFIRE CORNER to ANZAC for road work. This convoy invariably works under shell fire and during this period has lost 10 G.S. wagons and casualties in horses amounting to about 18. On 17th instant the convoy was subjected to exceptionally heavy hostile shelling. Three of COLLENS teams and wagons were destroyed and his example, hard work and coolness without doubt prevented further casualties. He set about relieving the traffic congestion at once inspired the drivers and assisted in repairing the road, persevering until the traffic resumed normal. His consistant good work and his fearlessness is admired by all.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 76
Date: 23 May 1918

Discharge date21 February 1919
Other details

War service: Egypt, Gallipoli, Western Front

Commenced return to Australia on board HT 'Durham', 21 October 1918; discharged (termination of period of enlistment), Melbourne, 21 February 1919.

Medals: Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Sourcesnaa b2455 FILE 3270682

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