The AIF Project

Geoffrey Christopher FAILES

Regimental number6699
Place of birthCoonabarabran New South Wales
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationFarmer
AddressCoonabarabran, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation20
Next of kinFather, Frederick George Failes, Coonabarabran, New South Wales
Enlistment date9 December 1915
Rank on enlistmentSapper
Unit name7th Field Company Engineers, Reinforcement 4
AWM Embarkation Roll number14/26/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A67 Orsova on 11 March 1916
Rank from Nominal RollSapper
Unit from Nominal Roll2nd DS Company
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 13 October 1918

FateReturned to Australia 20 May 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'During the operations east of the HINDENBURG Line in the vicinity of BELLEICOURT extending over the period 1st to 5th October, 1918, this man performed the duties of motor cyclist despatch rider. As such, riding under most trying conditions he displayed great coolness, devotion to duty, and resource in the management of his machine. In particular on the night of.................when entrusted with the delivery of special "urgent operation" despatches for Infantry Brigades, he set out in the dark on the "Red Road" which was packed with heavy transport, and slippery as result of rain. Upon approaching BELICOURT the road was subject to heavy shell fire, he was forced to abandon his machine, and walking across country through the defences of the HINDENBURG system although almost exhausted succeeded in delivering his despatches and returned to Divisional Headquarters at dawn. His great physical effort, courage, and devotion to duty were admirable.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 115
Date: 10 October 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal

Print format    


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