The AIF Project

H C FINNIS

Regimental number1581
Place of birthBoroondara Victoria
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationScholar
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation18
Next of kinFather, H C Finnis, H M Gaol, Geelong, Victoria
Enlistment date4 May 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name21st Battalion, 1st Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/38/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A35 Berrima on 28 June 1915
Rank from Nominal RollLance Corporal
Unit from Nominal Roll24th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 26 May 1918

Military Medal


Work at Mont St. Quentin on 1 September 1918
Recommendation date: 13 September 1918

FateReturned to Australia 28 March 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'During the attack on MT. ST. QUENTIN North of PERONNE on 1st September 1918 these Non-Commissioned Officers [FINNIS and 263 F.V. PARKER] went forward with the attacking troops, laying a telephone wire as they went. They selected an excellent position for a forward Report Centre and by strenuous work and personal disregard of danger they soon established communication with the Companies. The lines were continually cut, but, regardless of artillery and machine gun fire, and very severe sniping, they maintained the lines for the two following days, working day and night to do so. The excellent communications enjoyed by the Battalion throughout the operation were almost entirely due to their personal pluck and splendid endurance.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 115
Date: 10 October 1919

Other details

War service: Egypt, Gallipoli, Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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