Arthur AUCKLAND

Regimental number3347
Place of birthWorksop England
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationPoultry farmer
AddressBrockley Farm, Colyton near Penrith, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation31
Next of kinFather, Arthur Auckland, Brockley Farm, Colyton near Penrith, New South Wales
Enlistment date2 January 1917
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name55th Battalion, 9th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/72/4
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A68 Anchises on 24 January 1917
Rank from Nominal RollSergeant
Unit from Nominal Roll55th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 3 October 1918

FateReturned to Australia 8 July 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an attack on the Hindenburg Line North of BELLICOURT on 30th September 1918. As the attacking troops approached the trench which was subsequently captured, they were held up by heavy Machine Gun fire from an enemy strong point. Lance Corporal AUCKLAND and a comrade immediately moved forward under this fire and with great danger to themselves succeeded in bombing the enemy out of this important position, who retired leaving 2 light Machine Guns behind which were captured. The success of this prompt bombing action on the part of Lance Corporal AUCKLAND and his comrade enabled the attacking troops to move forward and assault the trench where otherwise they would have been held up. Throughout the whole operation this soldier displayed bravery and skill of a high order.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal