The AIF Project

James Michael COLLERY

Regimental number4388
Place of birthRomsey, Victoria
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationLabourer
AddressAcheron PO, Acheron, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation21
Next of kinFather, Patrick Collery, Acheron PO, Acheron, Victoria
Enlistment date11 January 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name24th Battalion, 11th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/41/3
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board RMS Malwa on 21 March 1916
Rank from Nominal RollSergeant
Unit from Nominal Roll24th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 25 May 1918

Criox de Guerre


Recommendation date: 17 September 1918

FateReturned to Australia 4 January 1919
Medals

Croix de Guerre (France)

'Proceeding an attack on the German position in VILLE-SUR-ANCRE on 19th May, 1918, this N.C.O. incessantly patrolled No Man's Land clearing it of the enemy in preparing for the erection of bridges over the river. During one tour in line he took part in two reconnoitring patrols, and in three encounters with enemy patrols and posts. He showed great skill in leadership and set a fine example of aggressiveness. In the attack itself his Platoon Officer was wounded at the outset, this N.C.O. took charge and throughout the operation led on his men in a most skilful manner. As the fourth bridge became displaced he showed marked initiative in the siting of three posts which proved to be invaluable in the covering of the flanks of the company with the adjoining Battalion. Subsequently in broad daylight this N.C.O. launched the bridge successfully. He set a fine example of courage and determination throughout.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61
Date: 23 May 1919

Date of death15 December 1976
Place of burialSpringvale Cemetery

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