The AIF Project

John A V L COVERDALE

Regimental number495
Place of birthBroomfield Victoria
ReligionMethodist
OccupationMiner
AddressEton Park, Whittlesea, Victoria
Marital statusWidower
Age at embarkation33
Next of kinSister, Mrs E Bell, Eton Park, Whittlesea, Victoria
Enlistment date12 July 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name29th Battalion, B Company
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/46/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A11 Ascanius on 10 November 1915
Rank from Nominal RollLance Corporal
Unit from Nominal Roll29th Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 12 December 1918
Medals

Military Medal

'At MORLANCOURT on night 28/29th July 1918. Conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. This soldier was a No. 1 Lewis Gunner and during the attack an enemy strong point was holding up the advance. On his own initiative he worked his Gun round to the flank, opened fire and effectively silenced an enemy Machine gun. The strong point was then rushed and the Machine gun captured and the garrison killed. Throughout the attack this man showed great courage and skill and through his magnificent gun work considerably reduced our casualties. After the final objective had been reached he pushed forward with his gun and established a valuable commanding position. By his conduct and dash he set a splendid example to the remainder of his Platoon.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 36
Date: 14 March 1919

Other details

War service: Egypt, Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death13 March 1950
Place of burialCreswick Cemetery, Victoria

Print format    


© The AIF Project 2024, UNSW Canberra. Not to be reproduced without permission.