The AIF Project

Robert Horner FLETCHER

Regimental number2559
Date of birth19 October 1896
Place of birthArmidale, New South Wales
SchoolSydney High School; The Armidale School, New South Wales
Other trainingMedical School, Sydney University, New South Wales
ReligionMethodist
OccupationMedical student
Address'Ruahine', Jessie Street, Armidale, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation19.6
Height5' 10.5"
Weight150 lbs
Next of kinFather, Alleine Fletcher, Beardy Street, Armidale, New South Wales
Previous military serviceServed for 2 years in the Sydney University Scouts, Citizen Military Forces; still serving at time of AIF enlistment.
Enlistment date12 May 1916
Place of enlistmentArmidale, New South Wales
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name33rd Battalion, 5th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/50/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board SS Port Napier on 17 November 1916
Regimental number from Nominal RollCommissioned
Rank from Nominal RollLieutenant
Unit from Nominal Roll33rd Battalion
Promotions

2nd Lieutenant


Unit: 33rd Battalion
Promotion date: 27 September 1917

Lieutenant


Unit: 33rd Battalion
Promotion date: 8 February 1918

Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Cross


Recommendation date: 7 March 1918

FateReturned to Australia 9 March 1919
Medals

Military Cross

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in a raid on the enemy's trenches. He was in command of a party detailed to attack a strong point. He met with strong opposition but gallantry led his men forward and put the enemy to flight. He destroyed two dug outs and forces a machine gun team to retire with its gun, and was then able to cover successfully the flank of the raiding party. He inspired his men by his splendid courage and leadership.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 165
Date: 24 October 1918

Discharge date9 June 1919
Other details

War service: Western Front

Commenced return to Australia on board HT 'Kashmir', 19 March 1919; arrived Melbourne, 23 April 1919, for onward travel to Sydney; appointment terminated (discharged), Sydney, 9 June 1919.

Medals: Military Cross, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death17 March 1935
SourcesNAA: B2455, FLETCHER Robert Horner

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