Charles FINCH

Regimental number3930
Place of birthYougal, Ireland
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationLabourer
AddressNewtown, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation44
Next of kinSister, Mrs Maud McElwain, 20 Wilford Street, Newtown, New South Wales
Enlistment date31 December 1916
Place of enlistmentSydney, New South Wales
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name1st Pioneer Battalion, 10th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number14/13/4
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A68 Anchises on 24 January 1917
Medals

Distinguished Conduct Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. At the commencement of the attack he was No. 2 of a Lewis gun section. Early in the advance the whole crew except this man became casualties. He took charge of the gun and carried it and the spare parts, in addition to his panniers, to the final objective, several times bringing it into action with great effect, and covering the consolidation by his fire. Finally he rushed out and bombed a machine gun killing two and capturing five of the crew, bringing them and the gun back with him single handed.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 36
Date: 14 March 1919

SourcesNAA: B2455, FINCH Charles